“It’s a destination that truly has it all, world class cuisine, stunning architecture, hidden natural gems and a unique mix of tradition and innovation.”
Seven-night holidays with direct flights can be found for around £1,100pp, with flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester.
Singapore is often named one of the world’s best cities, coming sixth in this year’s ‘World’s Best Cities’ report.
While it is often used a stopover by Brits heading to other destinations in Asia and Oceania, it is also the best place or a holiday in itself.
It is 30C all year round, so you are guaranteed to get some warmth no matter the month (although December is the wettest so perhaps avoid this time).
I visited the city a few years ago and squeezed a lot into just a few days – and wished I had more time.
There is the famous sidecar tours of the city, where drivers take you around some of the best spots including the artwork of ‘Singapore’s Banksy‘, Yip Yew Chong.
Fantastic bars are aplenty, with my favourite being Jigger & Pony (on the best bars list nearly every year) and Raffles Hotel’s Long Bar, home to the famous Singapore Sling.
Not only that, but it has some of the cheapest Michelin star restaurants in the world.
At Chinatown Complex Market is Liao Fan Hawker Chan, the world’s first Hawker stall to win the coveted star.
For £2 (yes, really) I gorged on the tastiest soy-sauce chicken noodles, smothered in a spicy sauce.
Near here is the Michelin Guide-recommended Hill Street Tai Hwa — where for £5 you get a huge portion of juicy noodles with tender pork liver and crispy pieces of plaice on top.
Need some green space? Singapore is also called City in the Garden for its luscious environment, so make sure to visit Gardens by the Bay.
And for some beach time, head over to Sentosa Island for stretches of white sand.
It’s here you’ll also find Resorts World Sentosa, home to huge waterparks, and a Universal Studios theme park.
Make sure to save some time for the airport too – Changi is often named the best in the world with huge waterfalls, butterfly gardens and swimming pools.
Also in Singapore are white sand beaches found at Sentosa IslandCredit: GettyThere is even the Universal Studios Singapore theme park at Resorts World SentosaCredit: GettyDirect flights from the UK are from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and ManchesterCredit: Alamy
OUR Spotlight On column looks at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as som lesser known spots.
This week, we’re looking towards more tropical climates and shining the light of the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico.
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Here’s everything you need to know about a holiday to Puerto RicoCredit: AlamyPuerto Rico has been put on the map after Bad Bunny’s performanceCredit: AFP
The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited the island and raved about it.
She said: “I don’t know why more Brits don’t visit Puerto Rico when planning a Caribbean island.
“The food and drink scene is amazing – after all, its the home of the pina colada, and you can get the local Medalla Light beer for just $2.50 (£1.84) at some bars.
“My highlight was a food tour of San Juan with The Spoon Experience, where we had amazing coffee, ice cream and snacks.
This compact Caribbean island, which is the birthplace of the rapper and musician, is full of glorious landscapes from lush rainforests to sparkling beaches.
But the top thing for the bucket list has to be a visit to El Yunque National Forest, where visitors can swim beneath waterfalls and spot exotic birds.
The island is home to three of only five bioluminescent bays in the world, including the brightest at Mosquito Bay in Vieques.
HIDDEN GEM
For a real taste of local life, head to the Piñones neighbourhood – also known as the “soul of the island”.
Afro-Caribbean heritage comes alive here through vibrant street food, such as alcapurrias, a tyoe of fried fritter made with with grated yuca and sometimes green banana.
Explorers should ditch the beach and head to Puerto Rico’s Central Mountain Region instead.
This area is known for its coffee production so sampling the freshly roasted brews is a must.
Make sure to try Creole-inspired dishes at traditional taverns while soaking up sweeping interior views.
BEST VIEW
If you don’t fancy trekking up the mountains, then Alma Hotel rooftop bar in Old San Juan is the next best thing.
You can drink in the views, which are undeniably spectacular at sunset, alongside a cocktail.
From this high vantage point you’ll be able to gaze out across the terracotta rooftops, and sparkling bay.
Knock back a plate of oysters alongside a canella old fashioned made with cinnamon-infused bourbon, rosemary syrup and orange bitters.
RATED RESTAURANT
Cocina Abierta in San Juan served a menu of reinterpreted classics like mofongo, traditionally made from mashed and fried green plantains, except here its made with peking duck.
Plates are bold, elegant and sophisticated.
A five-course tasting menu costs around £64 a head and booking is recommended.
Bacoa Finca y Fogón is another great spot that offers farm-to-table dining with a focus on sustainable cooking.
Made up of a maze of candlelit rooms, this chic bar not only serves up creative cocktails, it also hosts regular live music nights.
It’s chaotic, fun, and quintessentially Puerto Rican.
The James Beard award-winning Identidad Cocktail Bar is another top spot for cocktail lovers.
Try the whisky highball which celebrates typical Caribbean ingredients like Glenlivet Caribbean (a type of whisky) muddled with ginger, vanilla, cardamom, bitters and soda.
HOTEL PICK
Dreamcatcher by DW is a boutique vegetarian hotel with just nineteen rooms, that sits a ten-minute drive from Old San Juan.
Quirky suites feature stained-glass windows, old hacienda archways and concrete soaking tubs.
Guests can unwind on tropical terraces in breezy hammocks.
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
The latest addition to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) is, without question, one of the ugliest military aircraft to grace an apron today. With its enormous, bulged nose and other awkward protuberances, the Kawasaki EC-2 is, nevertheless, an important addition to the JASDF at a time when it faces increasing challenges from various sophisticated threats. The aircraft, which has generated much interest, took to the air for the first time today at Gifu Air Base, in the prefecture of the same name.
Derived from Japan’s indigenous C-2 twin-jet transport, the EC-2 is a standoff electronic warfare aircraft, the development of which began in 2021. Its primary role is to interfere with an opponent’s operations on the electromagnetic spectrum, from outside the range of air defense threats.
Specifically, the EC-2 is based on serial 68-1203, which was the third C-2 transport completed, before being modified for its specialist role.
As for the C-2, this military airlifter sits somewhere between a C-17 and a C-130 in terms of size and capabilities. In fact, it is probably closest in most regards to the four-turboprop Airbus A400M, but is powered by a pair of General Electric CF6 high-bypass turbofans — similar to those on many 747s and 767s, for instance.
A standard Japan Air Self-Defense Force C-2 transport aircraft. Australian Department of Defense SGT Pete Gammie
Returning to the EC-2, this aircraft is the successor to the JASDF’s one-off and now-retired Kawasaki EC-1, which was converted from an existing C-1 transport airframe and was for many years operated by the Electronic Warfare Operations Group (Denshi Sakusengun) at Iruma Air Base, in Japan’s Saitama prefecture.
A series of photos shows the now-retired Kawasaki EC-1:
Gifu is home to the JASDF’s Aviation Development and Testing Group, which will put the EC-2 through its paces before it is approved for operational service.
Before its first flight, the EC-2 became a peculiar object of interest for spotters and locals alike, with photographers taking numerous shots of the aircraft as it underwent taxi trials at Gifu.
Prior to that, the EC-2’s appearance had only been publicly known thanks to a rendering released by the Japan Ministry of Defense.
Schematic rendering of the EC-2. Japan Ministry of Defense
Back in 2022, a spokesperson from the Japan Ministry of Defense’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) told Janes that the C-2 was selected as the platform due to its ability to carry a significant amount of equipment to enable it to conduct “effective jamming” from outside of the opponent’s threat envelope.
“[The] C-2 transport aircraft has been selected as the base platform after considering such factors as its flight performance, maximum payload, and cost,” the ATLA spokesperson said at the time.
“By choosing the C-2 as the base platform, we make use of the existing infrastructure of the C-2 and thus effectively and efficiently operate the new C-2-based standoff EW aircraft,” the spokesperson added.
Compared to the C-1, the C-2 has a significantly higher payload capacity. The new transport can carry a payload of nearly 80,000 pounds for a maximum takeoff weight of 310,000 pounds, as opposed to a payload of around 26,000 pounds and a maximum takeoff weight of 100,000 pounds for the older C-1. You can look at a very direct visual comparison of the C-1 and the C-2 here.
A Japan Air Self-Defense Force C-1 transport aircraft in 2017. The last examples of these aircraft were retired in March 2025. KAZUHIRO NOGI/AFP via Getty Images AFP Contributor
Reportedly, however, at least some of the equipment previously used in the EC-1 — including the J/ALQ-5 electronic countermeasures system — has been ported over to the new EC-2.
Like its predecessor, the EC-2 has a huge bulbous nose, but it also adds two large, bulged fairings in tandem on the top of the fuselage. Meanwhile, there are two other prominent fairings mounted on either side of the rear fuselage.
Very few details of other specific equipment have been released, but imagery of the aircraft confirms that missile approach warning sensors (MAWS) are installed around the fuselage as part of its self-defense suite.
In an operational context, the EC-2 would use its powerful jamming systems to disrupt enemy sensors — especially those belonging to air defense systems and communications — on the ground and in the air, from a long distance.
The details that have been released relating to the EC-2 refer to program costs. Namely, the FY2025 Budget Request notes that around $260 million was allocated to the development of the aircraft. This is part of a total of around $3.2 billion that is being spent to upgrade intelligence collection and analysis capabilities.
Reflecting the increased emphasis on electromagnetic spectrum operations, Japan plans to buy four EC-2s, compared to having just one EC-1 in the past.
The EC-2 is the second specialized variant of the C-2, after the RC-2 signals intelligence (SIGINT) platform, first flown in 2018 and now active with the Electronic Warfare Operations Group. This aircraft was converted from the second C-2, serial 18-1202, and was officially handed over to the JASDF in 2020.
The RC-2 also has fairings on top and on the sides of the fuselage, and atop the tail. The nose radome is enlarged, and there is an extensive under-fuselage antenna ‘farm.’
According to statements from the Japan Ministry of Defense, it seems the EC-2 and RC-2 will likely work in concert. Specifically, the RC-2 is part of a wider effort to “improve capabilities to gather electromagnetic information necessary for electronic jamming and electronic protection.” This suggests that the RC-2 will conduct regular peacetime missions to gather data on locations and types of threat emitters, as part of generating an electronic order of battle, with this information then being used to ensure the EC-2 is able to target specific emitters.
As part of its fiscal 2023 budget, the Japan Ministry of Defense received a little over $25 million to explore the missile-toting C-2 concept, with a plan to continue technical research until fiscal 2024. If judged successful, full-scale development would then follow. The current status of that effort is unclear.
One factor that has stood in the way of additional procurement is the very high cost of the C-2, with around $2.3 billion plowed into the development effort and each airframe priced at approximately $176 million, as of 2017. This means Japan has been buying these aircraft at a slow rate, with the aim of fielding a frontline fleet of 16. The high cost has also contributed to a failure to win any export orders, which, if secured, would have helped to bring down the price.
The EC-2 seen on its first flight earlier today, accompanied by a Mitsubishi F-2B chase plane:
However, there is clearly a need for the EC-2, and it seems likely that the program will yield further examples of the standoff jammer.
In the past, Japanese defense officials have described the regional environment as “severe” and increasingly complex.
After all, Japan faces an increasingly challenging security environment, with the key threats provided by Chinese, North Korean, and Russian military activity. China has intensified its air and naval operations in the East China Sea and the wider Western Pacific, including deploying aircraft carriers and conducting frequent patrols near Japan’s southwestern islands. North Korea continues to test ballistic missiles capable of reaching Japan, while Russian aviation activity around Japanese airspace has also increased, including joint patrols with the Chinese military.
Outside of Japan, this type of platform is of growing interest, with a number of significant active procurement programs. In the past, we have looked in detail at the U.S. Air Force’s EA-37B Compass Call, as well as its derivative for Australia, the MC-55A Peregrine.
The second MC-55A Peregrine for the Royal Australian Air Force arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia, last week. Dsperandio dean sperandio
While its bizarre appearance might be the most obvious feature of Japan’s new EC-2, this ungainly machine will play an important role in the modernization of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, as it increasingly looks at how to dominate the electromagnetic domain.
THE world’s best airlines for this year have officially been revealed, and a British airline has made the list.
The World’s Best Airlines for 2026 by Airline Ratings have been announced with the no.1 spot going to Qatar Airways.
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Qatar Airways has been named the best airline in the worldCredit: Getty
AirlineRatings.com’s awards focus on the inflight product and passenger experience, and airlines are awarded based on the experience onboard, as opposed to public opinion or votes.
Airline Ratings stated: “Qatar Airways has again taken the top spot, driven by a consistently strong onboard offering.
“Generous meals, extensive entertainment and, most importantly, clear value for money set it apart.”
And a major British airline has also featured on the list: Virgin Atlantic featured in 13th position.
The British airline currently flies to 32 locations across five continents, including Cape Town in South Africa and Los Angeles in America.
The airline is also launching two new routes this year from London Heathrow to Seoul in South Korea, with daily flights starting on March 29.
There will also be a new seasonal service to Phuket in Thailand, beginning on October 18.
Which? named Virgin Atlantic as one of the best airlines in the world earlier this year as well, placing them third best.
The airline achieved a 79 per cent overall score for customer satisfaction.
Which? commented: “Virgin Atlantic is your best choice for a transatlantic trip – with five stars for customer service.
“Like Emirates, it won’t automatically cancel your return flight if you miss your outbound flight.
“This makes it one of only two Which? Recommended Providers for long-haul economy airlines.”
British airline Virgin Atlantic was also named in the rankings, placing 13thCredit: Getty
Airline Ratings also ranked the best low-cost carriers in the world, with easyJet ranking 8th, Wizz Air ranking 9th, Ryanair ranking 11th, Jet2 ranking 12th, TUI ranking 13th, and Vueling ranking 19th.
Sharon Petersen, CEO of AirlineRatings.com, said: “It was a tight competition at the top, but Qatar’s value proposition, combined with a superior economy product and award-winning business class, secured that top position once again.
“One of the standout movers this year is Taipei-based STARLUX Airlines.
“With strong cabin service, high-quality catering, and modern interiors, it is rapidly establishing itself as a premium competitor, particularly as it prepares to expand into Europe later this year.”
Full list of world’s best airlines
THESE are the world’s best airlines according to Airline Ratings:
BRITISH AIRWAYS is launching two exciting new long-haul routes from the UK.
The airline is launching a route to Melbourne in Australia and Colombo in Sri Lanka.
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British Airways is launching two new long-haul flights and one is to Melbourne in AustraliaCredit: AlamyThe flights to Melbourne will be daily and launch on January 9, 2027Credit: Alamy
The Melbourne route will be launching on January 9, 2027 in time for the Australian Open and the Melbourne Grand Prix.
The flights will operate year-round from London Heathrow, via Kuala Lumpur, on a daily basis.
It will take off from Heathrow at 9:10pm and land in Kuala Lumpur at 6:05pm the next day.
The flight will then take off again at 7:45pm and land in Melbourne the following morning at 6:40am.
The return leg will start on January 11, taking off each day at 4:35pm and landing in Kuala Lumpur at 9:35pm.
The flight will then take off from Kuala Lumpur at 11:15pm and land back at Heathrow the following day at 5:20am.
Return flights will cost from £1,130 and go on sale on March 17.
Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and is Australia‘s second-largest city.
It was recently named the world’s best city by Time Out, with it scoring high among younger residents as well as for its food scene, art and culture scene nightlife.
When you are there you can explore the city’s lively arts scene in Fitzroy, where there are a number of vintage shops, record stores and cosy cafes.
The city often hosts major sporting events as well, such as Formula One.
Melbourne also loves its coffee, with a large café culture including hidden bars and restaurants.
Flights to Colombo in Sri Lanka will launch sooner, on October 23, 2026.
Flights to Colombo in Sri Lanka will also launch in October, operating three times a weekCredit: Alamy
The flights will operate three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from London Gatwick to Colombo.
The route will only operate during the winter though.
The flight will depart at 5:30pm each time, landing in Colombo the following day at 9am.
And the return leg – which starts on October 24 – will depart at 11am and land back at Gatwick at 5pm.
Return fares start from £620 and also go on sale on March 17.
Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and is known as a vibrant and bustling city.
Top things to do include heading to Pettah Market, which features different ‘zones’ for specific goods, including spices and textiles.
Make sure to explore the colonial-era buildings in the Fort area as well.
British Airways is also increasing flights to a number of other destinations including Cape TownCredit: Getty
Tuk-tuks are popular in the city too and are an experience in themselves.
In addition to the two new routes, BA is also boosting capacity on several routes including Cape Town in South Africa; Tokyo in Japan; Bridgetown in Barbados; Kingston in Jamaica and San Jose in Costa Rica.
Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, said: ”We’re delighted to announce sizeable growth to our flying schedule for winter 2026, including two notable new destinations that I’m confident will prove popular with our customers.
“We’re also increasing services across several high-demand routes around the world.
“Together, these changes represent a significant investment in our long-haul leisure network, adding even more options and choice for our customers.”
Universal Orlando Volcano Bay in Orlando in Florida, Area 47 in Austria and Thermas dos Laranjais in Brazil made the rankings, but so did two UK excellent UK waterparks
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Sandcastle is the largest indoor waterpark in the UK
Two of the best waterparks in the world are in the UK.
With most waterparks set to reopen for the year this month, AttractionTickets.com has compiled a ranking of the best across Europe and the Americas.
Leading the global ranking with a 23/30 score is Universal Orlando Volcano Bay in Orlando, Florida, earning top marks for its high adrenaline rides, and the variety of its attractions. Close behind in second place is Thermas dos Laranjais in Brazil, with a score of 21/30, home to some of the world’s most daring and record-breaking slides. Rounding out the top three is Area 47 in Austria, which is known for its unique blend of high-thrill slides and relaxation.
Alongside these world-renowned waterparks are some locally-loved spots. The pick of the UK bunch is Sandcastle Waterpark. The Blackpool aquazone is indoors, with 18 water slides, including real eye-catchers such as the world’s longest indoor roller coaster water slide, the Master Blaster, and the first vertical indoor drop slide, the Sidewinder.
The future looks intriguing for the UK’s largest waterpark. It is getting a £500,000 makeover, to be unveiled just in time for the Easter break. The waterpark celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, and this long-running attraction is popular with guests year-round since it’s consistently heated at 28C. So, even if you’re not heading off somewhere sunny this Easter, you can still enjoy a tropical atmosphere.
Sandcastle Waterpark is set on the seaside town’s iconic promenade, close to the Pleasure Beach and South Pier. It boasts 18 slides, including both white-knuckle rides and gentler options for the kids. One of its main attractions is the Master Blaster, famous for being the UK’s longest indoor water rollercoaster.
The waterpark’s improvement plans include refurbishing its changing village and adding lockers with digital PIN codes for enhanced security. The rides will be repainted, and a new audio system is being installed.
Sandcastle has a whole host of great reviews online. One happy customer recently wrote on Tripadvisor: “Visited for the first time at the weekend for my son’s 8th birthday. I initially thought it was expensive for a water park, however, it was well worth the money! It was rather busy but I didn’t queue for more than 10 minutes for some slides. The place was clean and lots of staff around.”
Another added: “What an amazing day. My grandson has additional needs, and Sandcastles went above and beyond to accommodate us. It really made our day, it was a second visit and both times they have been so considerate and I can’t rate them highly enough. 100 out 10 sandcastles! Thank you.”
Coming in just behind Sandcastle on the AttractionTickets rankings is Alton Towers Waterpark. Previously known as Cariba Creek, it has a tropical lagoon theme. The park has multiple slides to ride, with Master Blaster propelling riders at high speed.
Oliver Brendon, CEO of AttractionTickets.com, said: “With waterparks reopening and excitement building amongst aqua fanatics, we set out to compile a list of the best waterparks for all members of the family. By combining our expert insight with online review sentiment, we identified the top waterpark destinations around the world that deliver family-friendly fun and heart-dropping thrills.
The results show that the most successful waterparks are those that put innovation and the guest experience at the forefront. That’s why parks like Beach Park, Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay and Area 47 remain at the very top of the list.”
“LIGHTS out and away we go!”, the famous F1 cry rang out as we were about to take off from Vegas to fly back to London.
It was a nice touch by the Virgin flight attendant and brought an approving chuckle from a plane packed with motorsport fanatics who had just enjoyed one of the most memorable weekends of their lives.
Every year, the streets of Sin City echo to the sound of F1’s elite machines roaring round a 3.8-mile circuit that takes in the iconic Strip and winds round the jaw-dropping Sphere.
Where else in the world is a more fitting home for the supercharged glam of the F1 circus?
Petrolheads may not be fans of the circuit for its racing quality, but if you want spectacle, well, this is THE place to be.
Whether you’re in one of the many stands dotted around the Sphere or watching the cars whizz by at 230mph on the Strip, it’s an experience like no other.
Those with deeper pockets can take pit lane walks and tours of the track.
For most, however, the only way to get a racer’s eye view of the circuit is at the F1 Arcade in Caesars Palace — one of several worldwide — where you can go wheel-to-wheel with your mates as you blast past all the Vegas landmarks.
If you’re lucky enough to be in town for race week, you can down a beer — or a tequila shot — at the Bellagio Hotel’s legend-ary Shoey Bar.
Named in tribute to Aussie driver Danny Ricciardo’s infamous celebration, when he downed champagne from his shoe, the pop-up bar serves drinks in footwear on a terrace overlooking the hotel’s famous fountains.
One of the best track-side points to watch race action is opposite the Sphere, Las Vegas’s enormous ball of fun that’s become a global phenomenon.
On the inside, it’s currently showing a specially adapted version of The Wizard Of Oz on its 160,000sq ft screen that makes you feel like you’re IN the movie.
As well as the expected special effects like blasts of wind when the hurricane blows in, there are animatronic flying monkeys, apples falling from the ceiling and flurries of snow.
With tickets from $104 (£78), it’s booking until the end of 2026, so there’s plenty of time for you to become the fifth member of Dorothy’s gang of misfits.
Away from the Sphere, another Vegas institution is the gravity-defying Cirque du Soleil — and there are six resident productions to choose from.
Of these, I recommend “O”. It has all the death-defying acrobatics, but with a £100million stage that transforms into a 25ft deep pool in seconds.
With a daredevil cast featuring former Olympic athletes, it’s just another way for Vegas to take your breath away.
The Sun’s Stewart Jackson with a party pair showing off their impressive headwearCredit: SuppliedEnjoy a cocktail with candyfloss at Pinky’s by VanderpumpCredit: Supplied
For a classy dinner after all this fun, head to High Steaks, atop the Rio hotel.
Fifty floors up with 180-degree views from an outdoor terrace, as well as sumptuous steaks, you can gorge on extravagant seafood towers and smoked prime rib.
For something a little more relaxed, how about Pinky’s By Vanderpump at the Flamingo?
It’s no less Instagrammable, due to its sexy Art Deco greenhouse vibe, but with more affordable food.
And I urge you to try the Daddy Issues cocktail (make sure you stir in the candyfloss once you’ve taken a picture!).
For a classier speakeasy experience, The Vault — hidden deep within the sprawling Bellagio casino floor — oozes sophistication. But make sure you book to avoid disappointment.
Then on to a nightclub? Make it Omnia in Caesars Palace. You’ll be captivated by its famous kinetic chandelier that pulsates in time to the music above a dancefloor packed with beautiful people.
Away from the bright lights of the casinos and nightclubs, there is a little gem just off the Strip in karaoke bar Smelly Cat, where you can belt out your chosen anthem with a live backing group.
The resident band can play any tune their super-duper AI gadget can find. They’d never heard of Mardy Bum by Arctic Monkeys when it was requested, but they smashed it out of the park.
You can jump the queue to get up on stage by paying a $100 fee. Depending on how much you would love to sing with your own backing band, that could be an absolute bargain.
After the high-octane fun of casinos, the Strip and all those Daddy Issues, the Arts District is the place to head.
South Main Street, a 15-minute taxi ride from the Strip, is home to chilled bars and cafes, cool vintage stores, antique markets and art galleries.
It’s like an anti-Vegas if you need to decompress, and cafe/bakery 1228 Main is the ideal place to have a relaxed lunch mid-mooch — check out the breakfast burrito. A pit stop, if you will, after all that racing around.
But in Sin City — as in a Grand Prix — pit stops are very much temporary.
Cocktails await, followed by the casino, followed by a club . . .
Lights out and away we go, people!
GO: LAS VEGAS
GETTING THERE: Virgin Atlantic flies direct from London Heathrow to Las Vegas from £835pp return.
The journey is the longest in the world(Image: Mario Gutiérrez/Getty)
The world’s longest bus journey spans 4,000 miles and has racked up a negative reputation. It takes over 100 hours to travel the route, which is roughly six days.
The journey connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans as it goes from Lima in Peru to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. It is made possible thanks to the Trans-Oceanic Highway.
The legendary Transoceánica holds the title of being the longest regularly scheduled, direct commercial bus route in the world.
It runs weekly by the Brazilian bus company and passes through coastal cities, savannas, wetlands, rainforests and the Andes Mountains.
The bus departs on Thursdays at 1pm and promises to be a ride passengers won’t forget. There are 44 regular seats and 12 sleeping berths on board. There’s also a toilet, small sink, water dispenser and Wi-Fi.
However, there are no showers on board. To be able to wash, passengers use facilities during the three scheduled stops per day at roadside stations.
The bus is driven by two alternating drivers, with one resting in a sleeping cabin while the other drives. According to Check My Bus, the ticket price is approximately R$1,300, which is around £186.
From the bus, passengers are able to see world-famous sites including the Amazon Basin, Andes Mountains, Christ the Redeemer and Machu Picchu.
Starting in Rio de Janeiro, the bus makes its way through São Paulo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Rondônia and Acre, until it reaches the border with Peru.
It then goes through the Peruvian Amazon, crosses the Andes and takes the Transoceanic Highway to Lima, the capital of Peru.
Despite the stunning scenery, some passengers have found the journey very tricky.
YouTuber Noel Phillips travelled the route and branded it “gruelling” and “absolute hell”. He said that on the bus, personal space was a non-existent concept.
In a video documenting the trip, Noel said: “Nobody has [headphones]; everyone just plays everything on full blast. And when they can’t hear it above everybody else’s, they just turn theirs up so in the end you just have 15 phones playing different things at 55,000 decibels.”
Noel admitted that by the time he reached Brazil, the journey felt repetitive. He faced a number of delays on his journey as well as a lack of heating on the bus.
It was so big it couldn’t use the English Channel, Suez Canal or Panama Canal.
The biggest ship in the world was taller than iconic buildings(Image: Cheunghyo/Getty)
The biggest ship in the world was longer than both the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building. It was known as the Seawise Giant and became one of the longest self-propelled ships in history.
The boat, later called Happy Giant, Knock Nevis and Mont, was built in Japan between 1974 and 1979. It had the greatest deadweight tonnage of a ship ever recorded.
Fully laden, it was 657,019 tonnes and was the heaviest in the world. Seawise Giant had a draft of 24.6 meters (81ft) and a length of 458.45 meters (1,504.1 ft).
Due to its size, it was incapable of navigating the English Channel, the Suez Canal or the Panama Canal.
The ship has a long history, and was created by Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, Japan, as an Ultra Large Crude Carrier.
It remained unnamed for a long time and was identified as its hull number, 1016. The ship suffered severe vibration problems during sea trials, and an unknown Greek owner refused to take delivery of it.
Eventually, the Japanese shipyard sold the ship thanks to a deal with Hong Kong Orient Overseas Container Line. Yet, they wanted to lengthen the ship by several meters and add 146,152 tonnes of cargo capacity.
Two years later, the ship relaunched as the Seawise Giant. In 1988, it was damaged during the Iran-Iraq war after fires erupted aboard the ship, and oil spread into the water.
The ship was still intact but was so damaged it was not deemed economical to repair.
However, a Norwegian investment firm bought the damaged ship. Over the next few years, it was repaired and renamed Happy Giant.
Up until 2004, the ship was owned by various Norwegian investment firms. It was then purchased by First Olsen Tankers and renamed Knock Nevis.
The ship was converted into a primarily moored storage tanker in the Persian Gulf.
However, it was then taken on by new owners Amber Development and named Mont. It had one final voyage to India where the ship was scrapped.
The ship was beached in December 2009 and due to its size, it took until the end of 2010 for it to be scrapped. The Seawise Giant’s anchor was saved and is on public display in Hong Kong.
It goes down in history as the longest ship ever constructed at 458.45 meters and is taller than many of the world’s tallest buildings. The Eiffel Tower stands at 330 meters and the Empire State Building at 443 meters.
THE world’s greatest places of 2026 have been named and there are two on the list from the UK.
TIME’s annual World’s Greatest Places list looks at everything from hotels and cruises to attractions and experiences.
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TIME’s World’s Greatest Places has included everything from hotels to attractionsCredit: APThe ew V&A East Storehouse in London was includedCredit: AlamyAn afternoon tea experience in Somerset was also namedCredit: Instagram/thenewtinsomerset
This year, this included Disney cruises, new museums and beautiful coastal regions, mainly looking at anything “new, exciting, and relevant”.
The museum’s collection is broken down into three ‘themes’ – items that have a story, items inspired by the V&A and items that show a working museum.
Having opened last years, TIME explained: “At a time when many museums’ permanent collections have so far outgrown their galleries that only a fraction of their holdings can ever be exhibited at once, the new V&A East Storehouse is taking a radically different approach.
“The real game-changer is theOrder an Object system, which lets guests search a digital catalog of more than half a million items and select up to five pieces to be pulled from the shelves and presented one-on-one by a museum staffer for up-close inspection during a future visit.
She said: “An element I loved was the lack of walls where you can see everything while standing in one spot.
“It almost reminded me of an IKEA warehouse with the simple plywood and metal structures and open concept.
“But the variation of items (of which there are 250,000) means there is something for everyone.”
It’s free to visit, with free lockers and an on-site cafe.
Also making the TIME top 100 list is The Maid of Somerset, a very fancy afternoon tea experience.
Guests enter the Creamery at Castle Cary Station, with the afternoon tea taking place in a “British Pullman style” saloon car.
TIME said: “Unlike the stereotypical snooty high tea, the Maid’s service is steeped in the good humor – and obsession with quality – that typifies Roos’ and Bekker’s projects.
“The friendly attendants prepare 11 loose-leaf teas – a mix of house blends and Prince & Sons selections – and serve finger sandwiches like cucumber and Waterlip, a tangy feta-style cheese made on site at the Creamery.
“A three-tiered sweets tower follows, featuring cardamom-scented orange cakes and scones paired with the Newt’s strawberry-rose preserves.”
The experience costs £35, or £45 with alcohol.
The experience takes place on a luxury trainCredit: Instagram/thenewtinsomersetThe Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza was also mentionedCredit: Alamy
THE top 50 cities to visit in 2026 have been revealed, and the UK hasn’t done too badly.
Time Out has teamed up with Intrepid for its annual Best Cities of 2026, speaking to 24,000 people living in cities around the world.
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Time Out’s annual Top Cities study has named Melbourne as the best in the worldCredit: AlamyLondon squeezed into the top five best citiesCredit: Alamy
A panel of 100 Time Out city experts were also asked about the most exciting cities in the world, looking at data from 44 different criteria.
This includes food and drink, green spaces, culture, sense of community and Gen Z appeal.
While Melbourne came out on top, Edinburgh came in third, followed by London in fourth.
Edinburgh was praised for its famous Fringe Festival, as well as its “cherry-blossom-lined parks, cobbled alleyways and distinctive neighbourhoods that offer hours of exploration”.
It was also one of the happiest cities in the survey, with it highly rated for both food and green spaces.
When it comes to London, its the new attractions that were praised such as the Museum of London in Smithfield.
And 99 per cent of Londoners praised its art and culture.
Bath snuck into the full top 50 at number 26, praised for its new hotels, good community feel and the celebration of 20 years of the Thermae Bath Spa.
Time Out Travel Editor Grace Beard said: “Every year, we survey locals in cities all over the planet to create our definitive annual ranking.
“Now in its tenth anniversary year. Time Out’s Best Cities with Intrepid Travel is not only a global snapshot of city living, but a celebration of the fun, culture and community that defines urban life.
“For 2026, we expanded our survey to reach 150 cities and added questions that dig deeper into the everyday lives of locals, including new categories for love, romance and community feel.
“The result is a truly diverse and exciting list of destinations, deeply informed by local insight and Time Out expertise, with smaller and second cities slotted between the world’s major metropolises.”
Outside of the UK, the highest rated city in mainland Europe was Zurich, coming in 11th place.
This was followed by Copenhagen (13), Krakow (16) and Porto (17).
Zurich was the highest rated city in mainland EuropeCredit: AlamyThe best Spanish city was Madrid, in 19th placeCredit: Alamy
Top 50 Best Cities in the World, according to Time Out
Melbourne, Australia
Shanghai, China
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
London, United Kingdom
New York, United States
Cape Town, South Africa
Mexico City, Mexico
Bangkok, Thailand
Seoul, South Korea
Tokyo, Japan
Zurich, Switzerland
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Copenhagen, Denmark
Sao Paolo, Brazil
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Krakow, Poland
Porto, Portugal
Guadalajara, Mexico
Madrid, Spain
Valencia, Spain
Sydney, Australia
Paris, France
Singapore, Singapore
Marrakesh, Morocco
Hanoi, Vietnam
Bath, United Kingdom
Bilbao, Spain
Berlin, Germany
Adelaide, Australia
Beijing, China
Antwerp, Brussels
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Naples, Italy
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Medellin, Colombia
Lima, Peru
Vancouver, Canada
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Osaka, Japan
Athens, Greece
Chicago, United States
Cairo, Egypt
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Vienna, Austria
Dublin, Ireland
San Francisco, United States
Lagos, Nigeria
Auckland, New Zealand
Lisbon, Portugal
Bogota, Colombia
The Spanish cities of Madrid and Valencia snuck into the top in 19th and 20th, respectively.
For long-haul destinations, New York, Bangkok and Tokyo all made the top 10.
Shanghai was praised for being easier to travel to this year, following the scrapping of visas until the end of 2026, while Seoul was one of the most popular with Time Out staff.
PLANS have been revealed to turn an abandoned attraction into a new leisure spot in a popular seaside town.
The Kursaal in Southend-on-Sea has stood empty for six years and during that time has fallen into disrepair.
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The Kursaal – a historic entertainment venue in Southend-on-Sea will get a new lease of lifeCredit: AlamyStar Amusements, which owns an arcades venue near the pier, will take over the buildingCredit: Alamy
But now, the once thriving attraction that had a circus, arcades, a ballroom, a dining hall and even a zoo, will be transformed into a new leisure destination.
Though the details of what the attraction will be have not been announced yet, Daniel Cowan, Council leader at Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: “The Kursaal is woven into the story of Southend and for too long the Kursaal’s future has been uncertain.
“Today we can say it has a credible local operator, a leisure vision for the building and a clear path to reopening,” reports the BBC.
The Kursaal – which translates to ‘cure hall’ and usually refers to the main hall of a spa town – opened back in 1901 and hosted famous musicians such as Queen, Black Sabbath, Rod Stewart and AC/DC.
Former attractions included bumper cars, a ski jump, a ghost train and a figure-of-eight rollercoaster.
Under the plans to reopen the historic venue that currently sits on the list of neglected sites, essential repairs will be carried out first.
Currently managed by the property group AEW, the Grade-II listed venue’s lease will be handed over to Star Amusements by the end of this summer.
Star Amusements already runs a number of attractions along the seafront, including an arcades venue close to Southend Pier.
Bayo Alaba, the Labour MP for Southend East and Rochford, said that the Kursaal is “a building of historical significance and architecture“.
He added: “Great-grandparents met in the ballroom, children have grown up laughing in its arcades and bowling alleys, and countless memories made here connect generations across our city.”
Nick Singer, the operations director at Star Amusements also shared that the new attraction would be “high quality” and that whilst there is a lot of work to do, they are “ready to move forward”.
When the venue opened over 100 years ago, it was one of the world’s first purpose-built amusement parks.
And to date, several distinctive features remain such as a dome which was even featured on a Royal Mail stamp in 2011.
Between 1919 and 1934, the Kursaal was also home to Southend United F.C.
It is unclear what the building will reopen as but previously the Kursaal had arcades, a bowling alley and a ballroomCredit: AlamyThe Kursaal is about a two-minute walk from Southend-on-Sea’s Golden Mile beachCredit: Alamy
Most of the building was then closed down in 1973, before it fully closed in 1986.
It reopened in 1998 but closed again in 2020, with just a small Tesco Express remaining open on the ground floor.
The Kursaal is about a two-minute walk from Southend-on-Sea’s Golden Mile beach and promenade, where you will find amusement arcades, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Taking to social media, many people have expressed their excitement about the news with one person commenting: “Please have ballroom facilities there to host dance competitions!”
The tiny island is home to just six permanent residents, and has more sheep than people, while its only entry and exit point takes you soaring 250m above the Atlantic Ocean
The Island is only accessible via one unusual route – in the air (Image: Chris Hill via Getty Images)
Far removed from the rest of civilisation, this tiny island has been frozen in time, with nothing but fragments of a life that once thrived and a handful of people who still call it home.
Off the coast of West Cork in Ireland sits Dursey, a charming island steeped in history but offering little else. Ever since the stunning landscape acquired a new form of transport, visitors have been able to travel across from the mainland in a distinctive way and discover a place that appears to have ceased to exist.
This tranquil island is home to approximately six permanent residents, with around 15 houses that are deemed habitable and up to seven farmers.
Their livestock stays on the island, and the owners who traditionally inherited the land continue to spend a few nights on the island but never remain. This means there are likely more sheep inhabiting Dursey than there are people.
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It’s understood that when people who live in Dursey have children, they have no option but to have a primary home on the mainland, to enable schooling and access to other facilities.
Unique attraction
Dursey is home to a rare form of transport in Ireland, and the country’s one and only cable car. It carries travellers 250m above the Atlantic Ocean, across to the island, surrounded by nothing but verdant green hills.
Starting from Ballaghboy, Cork, on Ireland’s mainland, the aerial voyage transports you to Dursey in a mere seven and a half minutes.
Throughout the journey travellers can absorb the breathtaking coastal views as the minuscule speck of land gradually grows larger before them.
Built in 1969 as a reliable and secure link between the island and Cork’s mainland, as the surrounding waters are considered far too hazardous for regular boat crossings.
The stretch of water is known as the Dursey Sound and has proved erratic over the decades, with rapid tidal surges. Beyond this, submerged rocks encircling the landmass also render it a perilous voyage and generally unsafe for travellers.
After experiencing the cable car journey, one visitor posted on TripAdvisor: “For us this was the most beautiful part of Ireland.
“We took our mountain bikes over in the cable car, and luckily for us, the weather was glorious. We saw almost all of the island and spent ages staring at the views. We just haven’t seen anything to top it despite travelling the whole way round Ireland.”
Another expressed their admiration for the island, posting: “I absolutely loved Dursey Island. It’s a stunning place, delightfully remote and serene. It is the last place in Europe that the sun sets, a cool fact for you!”.
Historic ruins
Its rugged terrain is also home to numerous equally weathered historical ruins, dating back as far as the 17th century. The most notable of these historic structures is O’Sullivan Beare Castle, which was almost completely razed during the Nine Years’ War in 1602.
Very little of it survives today, and the devastation inflicted by English forces also resulted in a massacre of local residents. One visitor claimed: “Dunboy Castle was very cool, though some information on the site would have been helpful – similar to the plaques found elsewhere. The ruins are overgrown, and you almost stumble into them. “.
Another attraction is the 19th-century Napoleonic-era signal tower. It stands quietly on the island’s highest point, originally built with the purpose of warning against French invasion.
Yet it has remained in ruins since the mid-19th century, abandoned and forgotten by history.
Commonly known as the Church of Kilmichael, it comprises the monastic church and graveyard lying in ruins on the quiet island. It’s believed that the church was established by monks from Skellig Michael but was likewise destroyed in the infamous siege of 1602 by Sir George Carew’s army.
The mammoth journey is now flown twice a week and spans three continents
The longest route in the world takes 29 hours(Image: VCG via Getty Images)
The world’s longest flight record was set last year with the launch of a new 29-hour route. It is now the longest in the world, spanning almost 20,000km, which is 12,427 miles.
The route is so long that the plane even needs to stop off to refuel. Passengers are in their seats for over a day as the plane travels from Shanghai, China, to Buenos Aires, Argentina.
It is flown twice a week by China Eastern Airlines. Due to the distance, the plane stops at Auckland Airport, New Zealand, to refuel.
Staff also get swapped around whilst at the stop, yet the passengers carry on. At almost 20,000km, the route is used to ship supplies between China, New Zealand and South America, as well as passengers.
It was launched on December 4 last year. The route from China to Argentina takes more than 25 hours, while the return leg takes an additional four.
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“This new route fills the gap in direct flights between Shanghai and major South American cities,” China Eastern Airlines said at the time of the first flight.
“It opens a ‘southbound corridor’ connecting opposite ends of the Pacific and reshapes air travel between three continents.” The staggering journey sees passengers board a jumbo 316-seat Boeing 777-300ER.
Before the launch of the route last year, the quickest available journey from Shanghai to Buenos Aires took 31 hours. It involved non-direct flights with a layover.
It is a popular route, as more than 55,000 people born in China live in the South American country, according to data from Simply Flying.
Data also showed that 96,000 passengers flew between China and Buenos Aires in the 12 months to September 2025, before the new route existed.
The flight has set the record for the longest commercial flight route in the world, yet it can’t secure the world’s longest direct flight route title because it makes a stop.
The title of the longest non-stop flight is currently held by Singapore Airlines. It takes 19 hours to travel from Singapore to New York.
However, it isn’t set to hold the record for long as Qantas is set to launch a new non-stop route next year. It is planning a 22-hour nonstop flight from Sydney, Australia, to London in 2027.
Thanks to a 20,000-litre fuel tank, the plane wouldn’t need to stop to refuel. It will travel 10,573 miles and has been labelled “the final frontier of long-haul travel” by Qantas.
BRITISH Airways is launching the world’s largest business class cabin this year.
This week, new information about British Airways‘ new business class seats was leaked.
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The new seat layout was leaked earlier this weekCredit: British AirwaysBritish Airways’ A380 will soon feature Club Suites – a new business class seatCredit: British Airways
The leak included the proposed seat plan, revealing the expected layout of the airline’s new A380 cabin.
The new Airbus A380 configuration will feature 110 Club World seats, making it the largest business class cabin on any aircraft.
BA is set to start refurbishing its A380s in the second quarter of this year and inside the refitted planes, passengers will find Club Suites – the newest business class offering.
The suites will feature a privacy screen door, a special lining that reduces noise, a 53.3cm-wide seat and a 200cm bed.
Passengers will also be able to make use of a 47cm touchscreen as well as side bins and cabinets for their belongings.
Every seat will also have direct aisle access.
The number of premium seats will increase, meaning that the total capacity of the aircraft will be lower.
According to the leaked seat plan, the main deck will feature 12 new first class suites, 84 premium economy seats and 215 economy seats.
The upper deck will be just for Club World business class, with 110 seats in total.
In comparison, this will be a 48-seat reduction compared to the current layout which features 14 first class seats, 97 business class seats, 55 premium economy seats and 303 economy seats.
Club Suites are already available on all A350s, 787-10s, and most 777s from London Heathrow Airport.
In mid-2026, British Airways is also set to introduce its new First seat.
The seats are designed to have a “modern luxury hotel feel” with “home comforts” and “thoughtful British touches”.
The new First seat will be wider and longer and will feature an 81.2cm 4K touchscreen.
The seats will feature direct aisle accessCredit: British Airways
The seats will have a ‘buddy dining’ feature as well, which will allow two passengers to dine together in one suite.
There will be a multi-purpose ottoman too, and a floor-level wardrobe.
These seats also form part of the airline’s A380 retrofit plans.
British Airways mainly uses its A380s from London Heathrow to major long-haul destinations such as Los Angeles, Miami, Boston and Johannesburg.
Holiday Village Turkiye in Sarigerme was named one of TUI’s best hotels – and I visited myselfCredit: TUIIt’s one of the best holidays I’ve taken my family onThe splash park was a hitCredit: TUI
The Magic Life property on the edge of the Aegean Sea has 253 rooms, five pools and four restaurants… and enough activities to keep guests busy for an entire month.
I visited for a week last summer with my 6 year old and was blown away by the offering.
As a Travel Editor for nearly a decade, I’ve slept in some of the world’s best places, from five-star resorts to Disney theme park hotels.
But this flagship Holiday Village property by TUI got a 10 out of 10 for many things, from food and cleanliness to extracurriculars.
I’ve been to five-star hotels with far poorer service and fewer food choices.
On my family’s trip our days were so busy I had to schedule everything.
We filled our days with Go Ape-style aerial adventures, drama classes, inflatable obstacle courses, discos, game show challenges, arcades…
There truly was something for everyone, including football and swimming lessons, or even chocolate parties.
Despite scorching temperatures in August hitting 48C, the staff were amazing.
The entertainment team were always on form, the food at breakfast, lunch and dinner was delicious, the poolside was immaculate and the rooms were spotless.
Breakfast was enormous, with every taste catered for — Turkish pastries, English favourites, about six types of eggs, continental, and a huge fruit selection.
Lunch by the pool was equally impressive, with a huge mezze selection consisting of about 40 different dishes.
But the best meal was dinner, with an even more expansive mezze selection, soups, salads and several hot food stations serving everything from pizza to gourmet to-order dishes, and a pudding buffet of dreams.
They also had themed nights, when the entire menu was changed — our favourites being the Turkish and Asian evenings.
And they had a separate kitchen for kids’ food at all meals.
There were three a-la-carte restaurants too, serving American, European and Asian dishes.
The ropes courses are just as much fun tooCredit: TUIOf course we were grateful for the huge pool to cool down inCredit: TUI
At night, most of the hotel decamped to the 500-seat amphitheatre to watch the entertainment.
One evening towards the end of our holiday, my son and ten others put on a half-hour show that was deeply impressive given the minimal six hours of rehearsals that had taken part in the run-up.
Also part of the evening entertainment schedule were DJs, dance contests, quizzes and a musical.
Admittedly, you have to be a certain type of person to enjoy this hotel.
“Never a dull moment” extends to all times of the day, with a full-on range of activities taking place by the pool during the afternoon.
But if that’s you, then the TUI Village Sarigerme really does offer everything the whole family could want from a holiday.
Seven night all-inclusive holidays at the hotel start from £655pp, with return UK flights.
WHEN you think of beautiful attractions to go to on holiday, toilets are rarely top of the list.
But a shopping centre’s bogs have been called the most beautiful in the world – and they hardly look like the ones in Westfield.
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The world’s prettiest toilets can be found on the sixth floor of the Deji Plaza Mall in the Xuanwu District, in BeijingCredit: courtesy of SFAPGuests enter through an ‘Experience Hall’Credit: courtesy of SFAP
The toilets are on the sixth floor of the Deji Plaza Mall in Nanjing in China.
Dubbed the world’s most beautiful bathroom by Architectural Digest, they opened back in 2022 and were designed by X+Living, a Shanghai-based architecture firm.
Inside, are seven relaxation areas as well as male and female toilets.
Visitors enter through what is known as the ‘Experience Hall’ with dark greens and nods to insects and plant life.
For example, black and white tiles on the floor mimic butterfly wings with touches of gold meant resemble bees.
There’s even a lounge between the men’s and women’s loos, with plush pink sofas designed to look like a ‘flower blooming’.
Guests can make use of glowing vanities too, as well as wireless charging points, with a dressing room per loo.
For mums there is a nursery room and in case of an incident, there is a medical room as well.
The same shopping mall has more themed toilets on other floors.
For example, on the second floor the toilets have a retro style, on the third floor the theme is futuristic.
The fourth floor has a Japanese theme and on the fifth floor the design is ‘extravagant’ and even features a piano.
The sixth floor toilets have several viral videos on social media with people commenting: “That’s a toilet? It looks so much better than most hotels.”
Another person said: “It’s an experience, so much outfit of the day spots.”
A third person commented: “Never thought toilets would be a public attraction but those toilets are very beautiful.”
While nowhere near as grand, London‘s has new loos as well.
Inside, there is a garden theme throughout with green tiles and flower-inside sofasCredit: courtesy of SFAPThe fifth floor has an ‘extravagant’ design and even features a pianoCredit: AlamyAnd on the third floor you will find a futuristic themeCredit: Alamy
New public toilets were unveiled at the Grade-II listed, Piccadilly Circus Tube Station this week, described as “London’s newest tourist attraction”, according to The Standard.
Inside the loos, visitors are greeted by bold blue, pink and yellow tiles.
Murals have been designed by London-based artist James Lambert, with each tile hand-painted and hand-made.
The design of the toilets is inspired by Anteros, the god of requited love and features winged-figures and an arrow motif, meant to show “energy, spectacle, and connection”.
The motif of different lines and shapes is meant to reflect the Art Deco history of the area.
New public toilets have also been opened at Piccadilly Circus Underground StationCredit: Westminster CouncilInside there are murals that have been made from hand-painted, hand-made tilesCredit: Westminster Council
This includes the redesign of the underground station in the 1920s by Charles Holden.
Other venues nearby that feature an Art Deco design include Brasserie Zedel, which has gilded columns and a lavish American cocktail bar.
To see the toilets (or actually use them) at Piccadilly Circus Tube Station, you’ll need to pay the 80p entrance fee.
The toilets are part of a £12.7million council project to upgrade a total of eight public toilets in London including at Green Park, Covent Garden and Leicester Square.
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The hotel is looking for the world’s sweetest people to stay(Image: The Social Hub & Tony’s Chocolonely)
A chocolate-filled hotel room that money simply cannot buy is being offered to the “world’s sweetest person” as part of a new campaign launched across Europe. Chocolate brand Tony’s Chocolonely has teamed up with hospitality group The Social Hub to create a chocolate-drenched pop-up suite at The Social Hub Amsterdam.
The fortunate winner will enjoy an immersive stay in the chocolate-themed rooms, as though they’ve walked straight into the world of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. However, guests won’t be expected to find a golden ticket or be able to book or pay for the room.
Instead, people must nominate the “sweetest person” they know to win a stay. Winners will then be treated to a once-in-a-lifetime chocolate sleepover alongside the friend who nominated them.
Sounds sweet? Here’s what to expect at the hotel
Within the three-room suite, guests will discover chocolate-themed décor, mismatched furniture inspired by Tony’s bars, chocolate room service and a playlist featuring artists from cocoa-producing regions.
The room will also showcase messages of connection, kindness and inspiration in every corner. Guests will also be given a special two-piece chocolate bar, including a limited-edition white and milk chocolate flavour with caramel and sea salt, exclusive to the pop-up in The Social Hub Amsterdam City.
Guests can then keep one bar and give the other away as an act of kindness. The stay also includes a “wake-up call” about exploitation in the West African cocoa supply chain.
Tony’s Chocolonely is showcasing its partnership with approximately 40,000 cocoa farmers to help them achieve a living income.
Sadira E. Furlow, Chief of Global Brand & Communications at Tony’s Chocolonely, said: “As an impact brand that makes chocolate, we’re trying to end exploitation in cocoa by showing chocolate can be made very differently.
“In taste and how we work with cocoa farmers. By launching the world’s sweetest hotel room at The Social Hub, we want to invite fans to indulge in our chocolate, connect with each other and celebrate the people who truly care about the impact their actions have on others.”
To kick off the campaign, “Missing: the world’s sweetest person” posters will be displayed throughout Amsterdam, Berlin, and Glasgow, whilst Social Hub staff will reward guests who demonstrate acts of “sweetness” with Tony’s chocolate.
A judging panel from both companies will choose one winner from each country. The room will be revealed on March 20 and available for 10 days. Enthusiasts in Amsterdam can also visit the space on March 29 from 1pm onwards.
Pre-booking through The Social Hub website will be necessary for visits, though fans won’t be permitted to stay overnight unless they secure victory in the competition. Trix van der Vleuten, Chief Marketing Officer at The Social Hub, commented: “The world feels increasingly divided. We’re more digitally connected than ever, yet loneliness is rising.
“We wanted to come together with Tony’s to showcase that sweetness – simple, human kindness – matters more than ever, and that people can enjoy our products whilst positively impacting society.”
She added: “Doing good makes you feel good. So does eating chocolate that’s produced fairly, and so does spending time in a one-of-a-kind choco hotel room with someone else.
“Like Tony’s chocolate bars, this room is designed to be shared. We can’t wait to reveal it, as there’s truly never been anything else like this before.”
THE WORLD’S first Hey Duggee themed hotel rooms are launching at a UK theme park next month.
The beloved BBC preschool series, which features a friendly dog and his Squirrel Club, will soon have its own themed rooms at Alton Towers theme park.
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The world’s first Hey Duggee themed hotel rooms are opening in the UKCredit: Alton Towers resort
Launching March 14, fans of Hey Duggee will be able to stay in rooms that bring the Duggee Clubhouse to life.
There will be one standard room and one suite, with each able to sleep up to five guests.
Each room will feature a double bed with a bespoke headboard, themed TV and furniture and even a dedicated children’s area with bunk beds inspired by the Squirrel Club.
Each space will also be full of familiar faces from the show including Betty, Happy, Norrie, Tag and Roly.
Kids will even be able to play a sensory game with elements from the series in the room.
For those with beady eyes, you’ll be able to spot characters hidden in corners too.
A one-night stay in March or April, in the Hey Duggee standard room costs from £343 a night and in the Hey Duggee suite, from £450.
Included in the room are tea and coffee making facilities, a bottle warmer, cot, iron and ironing board and toiletries.
You will also get a full-English breakfast, free parking and access to nine-hole golf.
And throughout the day and evening, the hotel hosts activities as well, such as a tots disco, stargazing and live shows.
It is worth noting though, that theme park tickets are not included in this price.
If you want to head into the theme park, standard entry which includes access to CBeebies Land costs £34 when booked in advance online.
You can also grab a £29 toddler and parent pass, with children under 90cm tall visiting for free.
Alton Towers is already home to a Hey Duggee themed interactive sensory play area in CBeebies Land, where kids can meet Duggee and collect a Big Adventure Badge.
The themed rooms will open on March 14 in the CBeebies Land HotelCredit: Alamy
There’s also Hey Duggee Live, where fans can help Duggee, Roly, Betty and Happy discover the mystery DJ in Big Fun Showtime.
The CBeebies Land Hotel is designed for young families at Alton Towers and features a number of other themed rooms, such as Bluey, Bing, In the Night Garden, Octonauts and Something Special.
Guests staying in the hotel also get to meet some of their favourite CBeebies characters.
Natasha Spence, Events Director – Live Entertainment at BBC Studios, said: “These world-first Hey Duggee themed hotel rooms bring the Duggee Clubhouse to life in a truly immersive way.
“It’s a wonderful extension of the show that allows fans and families to continue the fun, imagination and adventure beyond the screen and we’re delighted to be working with Alton Towers Resort again to create something so special.”
Howard Ebison, Vice President of Alton Towers Resort said: “What better way for fans to relax and continue the adventures after a fun-filled day at CBeebies Land than with a stay in our world-first Hey Duggee themed rooms.
“We have an exciting year ahead in 2026 at Alton Towers Resort for families and this themed addition to CBeebies Land Hotel is the latest example of our commitment to unforgettable memories and immersive experiences for families.”
The new Hey Duggee-themed rooms follow the announcement of the world’s first Bluey-themed rollercoaster which will open in CBeebies Land on March 28.
Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! will be based on the episode where Bluey and Bingo dress up as grannies called Janet and Rita, with the two characters causing chaos on the ride.
Ebison said: “Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! is all about celebrating energy, play and those everyday moments families love about the show.
“It’s playful, unexpected and unmistakably Bluey – and we can’t wait to welcome families from March 28 to experience the world’s first Bluey coaster right here at Alton Towers Resort.”
POTTERHEADS can get their robes and wands ready as a major Harry Potter store will be opening in the UK this year.
Warner Bros. Global Experiences has announced that it will be opening its first premier flagship shop in London – the first of its kind in Europe.
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A new flagship Harry Potter store will be coming to London, much like ones found elsewhere such as the Chicago store (pictured)Credit: Warner Bros. Global Experiences
Harry PotterOxford Street will open in autumn of this year and will be located at The Ribbon, at 134-140 Oxford Street.
In total, the store will sprawl across just under 2,000sqm (1,950sqm) and be on two floors – making it the joint biggest Harry Potter store in the world alongside New York.
Designs are currently underway to transform the inside of the building on the UK’s most famous street to “a wizarding emporium celebrating the beloved locations featured in the books and films”.
Whether you’re a fan of Hermione or can’t wait to ‘swish-and-flick’ your own wand, there will be plenty of photo opportunities throughout the store.
There will be a number of activities to complete as well and fans better get saving as there will be exclusive merchandise on sale too.
Little details are known about other features of the store, but if it is anything like the one in New York, fans can expect props from the films and potentially a Honeydukes corner.
The store will join the King’s Cross Shop as the only official Harry Potterretail destinations in the UK.
Karl Durrant, WB’s SVP Worldwide Retail said: “Harry Potter is deeply rooted in British storytelling, and this will give fans an exciting new way to experience this magical world in the city that features so prominently in the stories.
“Offering a completely new retail experience for Harry Potter fans which will delight and entertain, it’s going to be very special.”
There are a number of other official Harry Potter Shops around the world including in New York, Chicago in the USA and Harajuku and Akasaka in Japan.
Fans are allowed to go behind the scenes of the movies and explore costumes that were actually used in the films.
Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski recently went to the workshop and said: “Unlike the main tour, where guests just wander freely around the attraction, Mastering The Magic: Costume Creation is a 45-minute workshop that allows muggles to even create their own Potter-themed outfit.
“My small group learns that a school-aged Harry, for example, is first seen by viewers in his battered shirt and threadbare trousers, which conveys how poorly treated he is by his aunt and uncle.
The announcement comes after Warner Bros Studio Tour London recently launched a costume workshopCredit: PA
“After learning tricks of the trade, we’re talked through the lengthy process of costume creation, from initial concept, taken from scripts, through to mood boards with fabric samples and right down to the final sketches.
“Then it’s time to get stuck in – sketching our own designs and pinning scraps of fabric left over from the costumes featured in the actual films.
“I choose a ruby red and black patch of fur, pairing it with a gold satin – more Malfoy territory than Potter.
“And for a brief moment, I’ve played my part as a Harry Potter costume designer.”
Just last month, it was also announced that there will be a new experience based on the Hogwarts Express later this year.
Partnering with Rail Events Inc., Warner Bros. Discovery will launch Harry Potter: A Hogwarts Express Adventure later this year.
The magical experience will be an immersive train journey, where Potterheads can be witches and wizards heading to Hogwarts.
There will be character interactions, themed dining and even a pre-boarding experience that “nods to Platform 9 and three quarters”.
Most of the experience will actually be on a moving train as well.
The route and launch locations are yet to be confirmed.
FROM our boat chugging its way across Sydney Harbour, the tourists on top of the famous Bridge look tiny.
“That’ll be us tomorrow!” my travelling companion gleefully shouts. I gulp. I’m not a fan of heights.
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Stewart Jackson living the high life on top of Sydney Harbour BridgeCredit: SuppliedAn Aboriginal guided tour with Tribal Warrior on Be-lang-le-wool (Clark Island), SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
The splendour of the Opera House, bathed in early autumn sunshine, provides a welcome distraction as we make the short trip up the coast.
The $A8 (£4) ferry trip to the chilled beach suburb of Manly is a cheap way to get the stunning views of Sydney’s skyline from the water without shelling out for a tourist boat.
Manly is a popular spot for surfing, swimming and chilling out, and we also went to snorkel in the protected marine reserve of Cabbage Tree Bay with our expert guide from EcoTreasures.
Just a few hours earlier we’d been knocking back cocktails in the late-night bars of harbourside area, The Rocks.
But a 20-minute hop on a ferry and we were donning masks and flippers and seeing a wonderful array of exotic sea creatures in their natural habitat.
We saw green turtles, blue gropers, banjo rays and tropical butterfly fish in Manly’s welcoming waters.
A quick stop for a tasty beach-side lunch with waves crashing below us at The Pantry, and we head back into the city for a sumptuous waterfront dinner at Midden by Mark Olive in the base of the Opera House, before taking in its annual open-air show just round the corner.
That was a decent distraction ahead of the looming bridge climb.
The experience isn’t cheap, with prices from £126pp, but the views are as amazing as you’d expect.
And, for those who also get nervous around heights, it wasn’t too bad at all, given the gradual nature of the climb and the sturdy construction of the bridge!
The Romanesque interiors of the historic Queen Victoria Building, Sydney built in 1898Credit: Destination NSW
Our climb was led by an indigenous Australian guide who gave us a fascinating walk-through of Sydney’s history from an Aboriginal perspective as we ascended.
And that native Australian flavour underpinned all of our experiences as we explored Sydney – from our harbour tour with the Tribal Warrior Cruise company to a menu inspired by traditional bush food at Midden.
A guided tour around the city’s stunning (and free to enter) Botanical Gardens was a relaxing way to spend a sunny afternoon.
If you’re travelling as part of a group, I’d recommend buying a picnic box from the Botanic House restaurant to take out among the exotic trees and chattering birds.
For a less formal, more fun way to eat in the evening, try the newly opened Paddy’s Markets just a short hop from the city centre in Chinatown.
Here, you’ll find an array of vibrant street food and bars serving cocktails or whatever else takes your fancy after a day exploring.
Or if you’re celebrating – after Sydney helped you conquer your fear of heights.
This resort has a taste-tempting trick up its sleeve that Jeff never imagined seeing during a recent trip up the mountains – a McDonald’s with the world’s first and only ski-thru window
Visit to the world’s only ski-thru McDonald’s (McSki)
A Swedish ski resort has come up with an unexpectedly unique way to top up your tummy while sliding down the slopes – with the unlikely help of a fast food giant.
Everyone who has been lucky enough to give it a go knows skiing is hungry work. And in minus double-digit Scandinavian temperatures, just the shivering burns enough calories to have you scouring the wintry landscape for lunch, a warm snack or hot drink.
Of course, there are all manner of options and temptations in the cosy or cavernous cafeterias and restaurants up and down the mountain. As I found out during a recent Crystal Ski trip, Lindvallen in western Sweden has another taste-tempting trick up its sleeve that I never imagined seeing during a recent trip up the mountains – a McDonald’s with the world’s first and only ski-thru window. Yes, really.
It might not seem a natural combination, and certainly looks odd. If you didn’t know it was there, you could well do a double-take as you ski down Valletorget’s central slope, look past the Experium Express chair lift, to the right of the vast Experiumtorget base building, and spot that unmistakably familiar structure.
It’s curious enough to see the famous Golden Arches rising incongruously out of the snow, a dark wood-clad, multi-branded, single-story outlet of the worldwide chain, with full wraparound windows and the unusual addition of foot-deep snow covering the whole roof and rows of ski racks out front.
But the real surprise comes when you clock the outside service window. They’ve even given it a special, slightly tongue-in-cheek name – McSki. Opened in the resort in Sälen in western Sweden 30 years ago, even if you’re not a Maccies fan, it’s surely impossible to resist having a go.
The vast area linking several resorts has just got a lot closer after TUI launched flights direct to Scandinavian Mountains Airport, just a 20-minute transfer away. You don’t get the full drive-thru sister experience – no menu board with speaker station to place your order. But the full menu is available, seen through the glass on the left, when you ski or snowboard up to the sliding window, greeted by the familiarly uniformed McD’s employee smile from their significantly warmer surroundings.
Within minutes, you’re away with anything from just a McCafé coffee and pastry to a full Big Mac meal deal. There are outside tables, or if you don’t want to miss any more time on the piste than necessary, you can jump right back onto the heated seated lift a few yards away and enjoy your snack or lunch on your way back to the top for more.
To be honest, it’s not ideal or as attractive an option in February. When it’s minus 12 to minus 15, little is more welcome than a break indoors with your hands around a steaming coffee, tea or mug of hot chocolate.
But I’d wager a stack of McDonald’s Monopoly pieces that it comes into its own in March and April, when the weather is more suited to dining on the go.
As well as hungry work, skiing is also a pricey pastime (which reminds me, the outlet’s prices roughly match the hike at motorway services in the UK).
So when you want to squeeze every run out of your time on the slopes and not spend ages stripping off multiple layers of garb – or in fact even stepping out of your skis – to satiate your thirst and replenish those calories, a quick stop at McSki might be just the order.
Offered alongside the full normal eat-in experience, McSki certainly brings a whole new meaning to the term fast food – and the Swedes and skiers are clearly lovin’ it.
If a snow-style McDonald’s is not your thing then there are other unique chains around the world. Customers can sit at sophisticated tables by a stunning fireplace while enjoy lobster rolls and McNuggets at this McDonald’s McMansion, in the Maine.
And there is another posh McDonald’s in New York. Fans have been wowed by this old mansion that has been restored and turned into a fancy fast-food eatery with a grand staircase, a glass conservatory, and posh booths to eat in. The historic property was previously home to other restaurants and was also used as a funeral home.
Book it
Crystal Ski Holidays (020 8610 3123) offers a bed and breakfast holiday in Högfjället, Sälen in Sweden, staying at the Sälens Högfjällshotell from £818 per person when booked online. Based on two adults sharing a Superior Twin Room, including flights from London Gatwick to Scandinavian Mountains Airport, transfers and 20kg hold luggage per person.
