worlds

French Haute-Savoie has mountains, a glacier and… melted cheese, says Alastair McNeill, who was shocked to see the state of the famed glacier that sits among the peaks

When Dr Victor Frankenstein visited Evian in the French Alps, it did not end well with his young bride dramatically killed by the monster on their wedding night. However, my recent visit to the town passed without incident.

Today’s Evian, famed for its world-renowned mineral water, exclusive resort and superb location on the southern shores of Lake Geneva, bears no resemblance to the fictional world of Mary Shelley’s Gothic novel.

The small town burst on to the world stage when its spring was discovered in the late 18th century and its apparent health-giving properties were celebrated. Since then, Evian has been a favourite haunt of the rich and famous, and played host to the G8 summit in June 2003.

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Today the luxury Evian Resort can boast a clientele that has included Liverpool FC and Germany’s 2016 football team.

Set in 47 acres of lush greenery, it comprises no less than three hotels: the four-star Ermitage and La Verniaz, and the pièce de résistance, the palatial five-star Hotel Royal. My room in Hotel Ermitage had a fantastic view over the resort and the lake where a ferry links Evian to Lausanne in Switzerland.

It was decorated with a pop of colour, its bathroom replete with L’Occitane toiletries.

Later on, the terrace restaurant La Table was a delightful spot for an alfresco dinner. I enjoyed the pea tartlet as a starter followed by wild garlic risotto accompanied by red Savoy wine and praline dessert.

Fine dining can be enjoyed in a number of resort restaurants including Michelin-starred Les Fresques. There is also an organic kitchen garden, 18-hole golf course and academy, tennis courts, spas, swimming pools – including an infinity pool – and free kids’ club (from babies up to teenagers).

A remarkable feature of the estate is the theatre. La Grange au Lac, within a forest, constructed entirely from wood in the style of a Russian Dacha which hosts a range of cultural events during the year.

And a must-see is the Cachat spring – where the Evian water phenomenon originated – sited within an ornate Art Nouveau porch. Don’t forget to bring your own bottle to taste the refreshing water – it’s taken around 15 years to filter through Alpine rocks.

Visitors can use the free Edwardian funicular railway which serves the town and resort.

Taking a break from the high life, I headed out to the great outdoors of the Haute-Savoie region. One of the highlights was a visit to the Mer de Glace (sea of ice) glacier above Chamonix.

It was here the monster pursued Dr Frankenstein “advancing towards him with superhuman speed” and “bounding over crevices in the ice”,

Now global warming has made today’s glacier a modern horror story. It has been receding at an alarming rate. Since the mid-19th century it has lost more than 1.5 miles in length – and 560ft in depth since the 1990s.

To get there I took the Montenvers mountain railway from Chamonix. The glacier, the longest in France, lies 985ft below the mountain railway station. From there a cable car took me downhill before a further descent on foot along metal gangways and steps to the entrance of an ice cave.

Once inside there is a plunge in temperature. Lights guided me around tunnels of thick ice creating an eerie blue light. It was a fascinating experience to view such a force of nature up close, especially since shrinkage continues at pace and it remains under threat.

Glaciers on the slopes of Western Europe’s highest mountain Mont Blanc (15,766ft) are visible from the town of Chamonix itself. From the outdoor pool at my hotel in the town, the four-star Les Aiglons, the captivating sight of the Bossons glacier was clearly visible.

Like Chamonix, nearby Saint- Gervais-les-Bains is served well by mountain transport. It can be reached using a gondola cable car (Le Valléen) as well as an inclined lift (L’Ascenseur Des Thermes) from the famed thermal baths (Les Thermes) beneath the town.

The story of the conquest of Mont Blanc is told at Saint-Gervais’ mountaineering museum which is housed in the 13th century Maison Forte de Hautetour. It highlights the first woman to climb Mont Blanc, Marie Paradis in 1808, and the famous Saint-Gervais mountain guide company.

There are also displays of mountain equipment and clothing down the centuries, photographs, and footage of a recent climb of Mont Blanc showing the high Alps in all their grandeur.

And I got to check out the Bon Voyage exhibition at La Cure beside the town’s striking baroque church. The classic vintage posters currently on display date back to early 20th-century Alpine tourism.

A great mountain stop at any time of year is the ski resort of La Clusaz nestled in the Aravis range. During the summer months hiking and mountain biking replace winter sports. It also home to the soft cheese Reblochon which has received the accolade of quality geographic area accreditation.

I stayed in the stylish Hotel St Alban with its eye-catching book-lined walls in the reception and dining areas.

Its spa with swimming pool, sauna and ice room was a welcome opportunity to rest and relax. A group of us ate out at the village’s La Ferme restaurant which specialises in raclette, the tasty Alpine culinary favourite which, unlike fondue, involves scraping melted cheese on to potatoes and other vegetables.

Along with some more red Savoy wine, we rounded things off with dessert and the spirit Génépy made from Alpine flowers. The amount of cheese consumed could have led to some monstrous dreams, but I woke untroubled and refreshed the next morning.

From La Clusaz the historic and picturesque town of Annecy is a short journey by car.

But an alternative approach by motorised boat across the azure waters of Lake Annecy offers a rewarding vista of the surrounding mountains and shoreline dotted with mansions and castles, including the imposing medieval Chateau de Menthon-Saint-Bernard which stands on a commanding position overlooking the lake.

In just four days my visit had packed in some of the many gems of Haute-Savoie – a mountain glacier experience with truly breathtaking landscapes, history and culture, excellent food and drink, as well as a luxury resort and spa hotels.

Looking back I had to conclude it was certainly one monster of a trip.

Book the holiday

• Flights to Geneva are available from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Heathrow, Leeds Bradford, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted.
• Rooms at the Hotel Ermitage at the Evian Resort in Evian-les-Bains, Haute-Savoie, start at £420 a night. evianresort.com
• More info at hautesavoiemontblanc-tourisme.com

One UK city was named the “world’s most beautiful city” last year, and it’s not just the golden ratio of its architecture that makes it a must-visit.

Last year, a British city was crowned the “world’s most beautiful city” by research that analysed the golden ratio of architecture in cities across the globe. Not only did it triumph over domestic favourites like London and Edinburgh, but it also surpassed Venice, Italy to secure the number one position.

The research, carried out by Online Mortgage Advisor, scrutinised over 2,400 buildings throughout the UK using Google Street View, assessing how closely their architecture adhered to the ancient mathematical principle of the 1:1.618 golden ratio.

The results showed that structures following this ratio are more aesthetically appealing to the human eye, and nowhere demonstrates this more effectively than in Chester, which achieved a remarkable 83.7%.

That’s superior to Venice (83.3%), London (82%), and every other city examined worldwide, reports the Express.

However, there’s more to this historic treasure than flawless proportions – particularly during the Christmas period.

If you’re seeking a winter break that offers traditional festive appeal without the chaos and crowds of bigger city centres, Chester’s Christmas Market could be exactly what you need.

Situated beneath the spires of its 1,000 year old cathedral and the impressive Victorian Gothic town hall, this market has secured its reputation thanks to a laid-back atmosphere and scenic backdrop.

According to a survey about the finest UK cities involving over 4,000 British participants conducted last year, Which? discovered that Chester’s Christmas Market ranked amongst the premier choices due to its appeal and relaxing experience.

The report suggested: “For a peaceful festive day out, consider Chester’s Christmas Market.

“Though it was pipped to the post for the title of best medium-sized city by Bath, it scored higher for its ease of getting around, parking and lack of crowds.”

Despite its modest size – with approximately 70 carefully selected stalls – the market offers everything a Christmas enthusiast could desire.

From fragrant candles and artisan liqueurs to upcycled cutlery and locally crafted items, visitors can anticipate finding high-quality, thoughtful presents.

Last year’s record heat led to prolonged droughts and extreme floods across the globe.

Climate change is making the Earth’s water cycle increasingly erratic, resulting in extreme swings between deluge and drought across the world, the United Nations has warned.

The UN’s World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said in a report released on Thursday that the global water cycle was becoming ever more unpredictable, with shrinking glaciers, droughts, unbalanced river basins and severe floods wreaking havoc.

“The world’s water resources are under growing pressure and, at the same time, more extreme water-related hazards are having an increasing impact on lives and livelihoods,” WMO chief Celeste Saulo said in a statement accompanying the release of the annual State of Global Water Resources report.

The international group of scientists assessed freshwater availability and water storage across the world, including lakes, river flow, groundwater, soil moisture, snow cover and ice melt.

Last year was the hottest on record, leading to prolonged droughts in northern parts of South America, the Amazon Basin and Southern Africa.

Parts of Central Africa, Europe and Asia, meanwhile, were dealing with wetter weather than usual, being hit with devastating floods or deadly storms, said the report.

At a global level, WMO said, 2024 was the sixth consecutive year where there had been a “clear imbalance” in the world’s river basins.

“Two-thirds have too much or too little water – reflecting the increasingly erratic hydrological cycle,” it said.

While the world has natural cycles of climate variability from year to year, long-term trends outlined in the report indicate that the water cycle, at a global scale, is accelerating.

Stefan Uhlenbrook, WMO director of hydrology in the water and cryosphere division, said scientists feel it is “increasingly difficult to predict”.

“It’s more erratic, so either too much or too low on average flow per year,” he said.

As global warming drives higher global temperatures, the atmosphere can hold more water, leading either to longer dry periods or more intense rainfall.

Uhlenbrook said: “The climate changing is everything changing, and that has an impact on the water cycle dynamics.”

The WMO also flagged how the water quality in vital lakes was declining due to warmer weather, and glaciers shrank across all regions for the third year in a row.

The meltwater had added about 1.2mm to the global sea level in a single year, contributing to flooding risk for hundreds of millions of people living in coastal zones, the report warned.

The WMO called for more monitoring and data sharing across the board.

“Understanding and quantifying water resources and hydrological extremes … is critical for managing risks,” the report said, flagging the dangers of droughts, floods and glacier loss.

The world’s first cruise ship for solo travellers is set to sail in 2027 with a series of glamorous European sailings – and bookings have already opened

Solo travellers who want to book cruise holidays often have to face the likes of single supplements as cruise ships often have cabins that are designed for at least two people.

However, a new offering from Riviera Travel could be the answer to their problem, as the brand is launching the world’s first river cruise ship aimed exclusively at solo travellers.

MS George Eliot will set sail in 2027 on a series of European itineraries along the likes of the Rhine and Danube, with eight-day itineraries from £2,449pp, as well as two brand new 15-day itineraries.

The move comes after Riviera Travel saw a 66% year-on-year increase in solo river cruise bookings. In fact, solo travellers now make up nearly 13% of all bookings, with half of guests being repeat travellers.

Research from the travel firm also found that 64% of solo travellers preferring a solo-exclusive trip, as they embrace the freedom of exploring alone while also having the option to travel with like-minded adventurers.

To celebrate the new launch, the company is offering holidaymakers a free upgrade from middle to upper deck on European river cruises departing in 2027 (excluding long-haul). You’ll need to book by the 31st October 2025, and travellers will need to use the code ‘Upgrade 27’. You can find out more on rivieratravel.co.uk.

It’s not the only new launch for the brand. Riviera Alba will also sail in 2027, and will be the first-ever ship outside Europe for the cruise brand, with itineraries along the Mekong River in Southeast Asia.

In the meantime, there are plenty more cruise ships to get excited about. Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises have all revealed plans for new ships in 2027, although you’ll need to watch this space for updates on the names and exactly what passengers will get to enjoy onboard.

For those who can’t wait to sail, there’s more good news as Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and TUI Cruises are all set to welcome new ships in 2026. In fact, Royal Caribbean celebrated a milestone for its upcoming mega ship Legend of the Seas, as the vessel was floated out earlier this month ahead of its summer 2026 maiden season.

Legend of the Seas will be the third of the cruise line’s Icon Class ships, with the world’s biggest cruise ships Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas being the other two. It will be the first of this ship class to offer sailings around Europe on itineraries from the likes of Barcelona and Rome. Meanwhile with a passenger capacity of up to 5,628, this huge ship will boast the largest waterpark at sea, a 40ft-long FlowRider surf simulator, dazzling theatre shows, epic dining venues and plenty more for passengers to enjoy.

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The quintessential English village is renowned for its idyllic stone cottages along the River Coln, which captivated Victorian poet William Morris

For those seeking a peaceful and enchanting UK getaway, the quintessentially English village of Bibury should be at the top of your list. It has named as the world’s most beautiful village by Forbes magazine, beating other stunning locations across the globe.

Found in the heart of Gloucestershire, Bibury is renowned for its picturesque stone cottages that line the River Coln. It was this very charm that led Victorian poet William Morris to proclaim it the “most beautiful place in England”, enchanted by its honey-coloured houses and tranquil rural backdrop.

The village’s allure has not only captured the hearts of poets but also artists. Arlington Row is a famously beautiful road where historic cottages sit beside the river against a backdrop of verdant foliage and bright blooms.

Working with experts the Unforgettable Travel Company, Forbes said: “Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Bibury unfurls like a watercolor dream—where honey-slicked cottages line Arlington Row; their mossy roofs whispering tales of 14th-century weavers.”

“The River Coln murmurs gently here—weaving through golden buttercups and forget-me-nots, while plump ducks paddle lazily beneath canopies of willow. Nearby, Bibury Trout Farm invites visitors to feed fish or enjoy a riverside picnic, and St. Mary’s Church offers a moment of stillness amid ancient stone—while the air carries the smell of blooming lavender, mingling with freshly-baked scones.”

Visitors can bask in the village’s tranquil vibe and discover its array of attractions, making it a perfect spot for a delightful winter retreat.

Attractions include the oldest trout farm in Britain, where guests can feed the fish and buy fresh goods from the local farm shop, cosy tearooms, and classic pubs like the historic The Swan situated by the river, which stands out as the most notable, reports the Express.

This cosy pub doesn’t just serve up hearty meals and pints, but also offers a place to lay your head after a day exploring. Tucked away in the countryside, Bibury is an idyllic location for scenic strolls through the Cotswolds and has become a favourite among snap-happy photographers.

Over on Tripadvisor, one tourist recounted their visit to Arlington Row with friends, saying: “Visiting Arlington Row with friends was like stepping into a peaceful, timeless postcard. The enchanting cottages charmed us with their historic allure.”

“We wandered the serene surroundings, snapping photos and soaking in the tranquil vibes. A perfect spot for a chill day out together!”

Despite the beauty, Bibury is struggling with the throngs of tourists. Residents have shared their frustration about visitors being brought in by the coach-load.

One local told the Guardian earlier this year: “We have such a beautiful place that we want to share, but the level of tourism and the hordes of people that come has just made it entirely unpleasant, and the infrastructure doesn’t really cope with it.

“All they want to do is come and take a photograph. They don’t stay in the village. They don’t linger enough to really ingest the beauty and historic value of the place. It’s literally, I think, to take a selfie.”

The Residence is a three-room, 125-square-foot suite designed to feel more like a private luxury apartment than an aircraft seat

While most of us are accustomed to shelling out less than £100 for a Ryanair flight, the world’s wealthiest individuals enjoy an entirely different level of air travel. There are your run-of-the-mill flights, and then there are those that become legendary tales.

One ticket stands head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to sky-high luxury, so opulent that it makes business class seem pedestrian. Picture this: your own personal flat soaring thousands of feet in the sky, complete with a private living room, separate bedroom, mid-flight shower facilities, and a personal butler at your beck and call.

Throw in some customised gourmet dining — think succulent steak instead of microwaved pasta — access to a lounge before take-off, and even Armani pyjamas to slip into when you’re ready to hit the hay.

The price tag is enough to make most of us choke on our peanuts. If you fancy flying like the crème de la crème, you’ll be paying a pretty penny. You’ll need to cough up as much as £50,000 for “The Residence” experience aboard one of Etihad Airways’ A380s, reports the Express.

“The Residence” is far from your average cabin. It’s a three-room, 125-square-foot suite designed to feel more like a swanky private flat than an aeroplane seat. Etihad describes it as a “bespoke journey above the clouds”.

The service is just as lavish. Each guest has a personal butler, trained at the prestigious Savoy Butler Academy in London, to handle everything from meal service to unpacking luggage to keeping your champagne glass brimming.

Whilst the luxurious service isn’t offered on every route, The Residence operates from the UK, primarily on journeys to New York or Abu Dhabi.

The premium travel experience commences well before boarding, featuring a bespoke airport welcome and dedicated escort to guarantee a smooth airport journey.

Whilst most passengers switch their devices to flight mode, those travelling in The Residence can access complimentary onboard Wi-Fi with unlimited data.

The second room of your airborne suite is the sleeping quarters, featuring a generous double bed to guarantee you reach your destination fully refreshed. Cabin crew will serve meals at your convenience, including a special breakfast in bed arrangement if desired.

Experiencing one of the services from London to Abu Dhabi, travel vlogger Walk With Me Tim shared his thoughts on YouTube. He commented: “Wow, what an experience from start to finish. The service is impeccable. The food, I cannot fault. They walked me to where I got my case, and then escorted me to where I got my car.

“They took my case the whole way there. I didn’t even have to get it off the belt. That bedroom, though, as something else, the whole thing was an experience, I don’t think I’ll ever forget.”

The switch in the ranking came after a blockbuster earnings report from Oracle, powered by multibillion-dollar orders, sent Oracle stock shooting up.

Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison has wrested the title of the world’s richest person from longtime holder Elon Musk.

On Wednesday, as stock in Ellison’s software giant rocketed more than a third in a stunning few minutes of trading, Ellison’s net worth surpassed the Tesla CEO, according to wealth tracker Bloomberg. As of 3pm in New York (19:00 GMT), Oracle stock is up 34.4 percent for the day.

Ellison, 81, is now worth $393bn, according to Bloomberg. That is several billion more than Musk, who had been the world’s richest person for four years running. Stock in one of Musk’s biggest holdings, Tesla, has been moving in the opposite direction of Oracle’s, dropping 14 percent so far this year as of Tuesday.

The switch in the ranking came after a blockbuster earnings report from Oracle, powered by multibillion-dollar orders from customers as the AI race heats up.

Ellison’s net worth is largely derived from his 41 percent stake in Oracle.

Another news organisation with a long history of tallying the world’s richest, Forbes, still has Musk at the top, at $439bn. Bloomberg put his net worth at $385bn. The difference is in how the two estimate the value of Musk’s rocket company SpaceX, among other private holdings.

It comes as Tesla shareholders have offered Musk a $1 trillion compensation package.

With Ellison’s surging fortune on Wednesday, he could fund the lifestyles of five million US families for a year, about the entire population of Florida, allowing them to all quit their jobs, assuming the US median household income.

An explorer who finds his thrill from visiting abandoned places ventured to one of the most haunted islands in the world – and managed to capture some pretty sinister footage from his visit

A thrill seeker has shared his experiences on his latest travel adventure, as he visits one of the worlds most haunted islands. Explorer Adam Mark always manages to dig out remote and unknown locations, which has now become an ‘addiction’ and explores mysterious and abandoned locations.

He shares his adventures on his YouTube channel @AdamMark, and recently the 36-year-old from North Wales visited the islabd of Poveglia, an 18-acre island located just off the coast of Venice.

The island comes with an eerie and dark history as it’s nicknamed the “Island of Ghosts” after being used as a quarantine station for people suffering from the plague in the 1700s and it’s thought there are 160,000 bodies buried there.

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It then housed an asylum before being abandoned completely and declared out of bounds, according to the Daily Mail. To visit the island, it proved a struggle, as the island is closed to visitors due to the dangerous condition of some of the buildings. Adam spend three hours on the creepy island with is partner, exploring what he thinks was a ‘derelict’ housing block with a clock tower.

He likened the remains of the island to “something you’d see off Tomb Raider” and said the area was completely overgrown. Adam also came across a “huge prison” that he said was camouflaged with all the ivy and vines. He recalled how he saw the original beds and shower blocks, as well as a section where the floor had fallen through.

During his visit, he also managed to venture into an abandoned hospital that he recalled had “metal beds on chains, so they’re on the floor, and then you pull them up and they become bunk beds,” calling it something he’d never seen before.

“I didn’t realise it was bad as it was, because I’ve been to Chernobyl, and in Chernobyl, you can still see the buildings and everything, but this is just completely taken over,’ he explained in regards to the overgrown nature growing over the once used buildings.

While it still felt haunted, Adam said it was “pretty cool” but was also surprised by the beds in the prison. “That was quite shocking, because I didn’t know they were there. To be fair, I don’t like to do too much research on a place before I go – it’s like spoilers, isn’t it?”

However some of the more sinister encounters happened on camera, which left the pair “spooked out” in the housing block. “When we was recording, you could actually hear footsteps, they were so clear and the way I had the camera, you could see that me and my partner were just both stood there, and then you can just hear these footsteps run through the room. When we were walking through the housing block, you can actually hear a scream on the video, and we didn’t hear it at the time, so that was pretty weird.”

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The Mediterranean island is a perfect holiday destination for many reasons – and we don’t just mean the beaches

The Mediterranean island of Sardinia, boasting a perfect mix of scorching weather, delectable cuisine, rich history, city life and stunning beaches, is surprisingly not even in the top ten islands most frequented by British holidaymakers. This list is dominated by Spanish destinations like Tenerife, Majorca and Lanzarote, as well as Greek islands such as Santorini, Corfu and Rhodes, reports the Express.

However, those in the know would argue that this Mediterranean gem outshines them all. One of its major attractions is the staggering number of gorgeous beaches dotted along the coast every few miles.

Sardinia, nestled halfway between the coasts of Italy and Spain in the Med, is far less popular and less well-known than the tourist hotspots of Spain and Greece. These locations are now so overrun with tourists each year that locals are pushing back against over-tourism.

Sardinia is an ideal holiday destination for numerous reasons: it’s a vast island, offering plenty of space, meaning you’re not forced to cram into one or two overcrowded tourist spots.

It boasts a large city, Cagliari, on its southern tip, allowing you to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of city life, complete with a vibrant restaurant and bar scene. At the opposite end of the island lies Alghero, a reasonably large town also teeming with a lively dining scene.

The island is a haven of luxury, with its north-eastern shore attracting well-heeled European tourists to Porto Cervo. Here, you can spend your time admiring the heavily-guarded yachts and guessing their owners.

As expected from any Italian destination, the food scene is sensational with a plethora of dining options. Despite being less touristy than Majorca, many of Sardinia’s restaurants cater mainly for locals, ensuring high-quality cuisine.

But perhaps the jewel in Sardinia’s crown is the extraordinary number of stunning beaches. Each one could be considered a national treasure if located in another European country.

In fact, two Sardinian beaches made it onto a recent list of the world’s 50 most beautiful beaches, with one securing second place.

The best beaches in Sardinia

Choosing the “best” beaches in Sardinia is almost impossible due to the sheer number of worthy contenders scattered around the island. Here are just a few suggestions, but you may discover your own favourites through personal exploration.

Besides the main island, the Maddalena archipelago, a group of islands off Sardinia’s north coast, also boasts a collection of beautiful beaches.

1. Cala Mariolu
2. Siaggia della Pelosa
3. Spiaggia del Pirata
4. Spiaggia Rena Bianca
5. Cala Corsara, La Maddalena

Sardinia can, naturally, become crowded during the peak months of July and August, when numerous Italians take their own holidays there. Costa Smeralda ranks amongst the most sought-after destinations. It’s also rather a celebrity magnet and the part of the island where affluence is most apparent.

If you fancy some celebrity-spotting, this is certainly the spot to visit, with Spiagga del Principe being the top beach to potentially glimpse a Hollywood star, music mogul or business leader. Lonely Planet said: ” A number of beautiful coves necklace the fabulous swoop of coastline where Gallura’s wind-whipped granite mountains tumble down to fjordlike inlets in the emerald sea.

“One of the finest is the Spiaggia del Principe, a stunning crescent of pale sand snuggled among low cliffs named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, who has given it his seal of approval.”

Where to stay in Sardinia

Where you decide to base yourself in Sardinia hinges on the type of break you’re after. Cagliari stands as the island’s biggest population centre, a thriving city offering an ideal blend of historical and contemporary elements.

It isn’t particularly a tourist hub, so the eateries here serve primarily Italians, ensuring you can trust their standard.

Even Cagliari boasts a gorgeous beach of its own, the enormous Poetto, just a brief journey from the city centre, where locals escape whenever possible. At the other end of the island, you’ll find Alghero, a cosy town boasting several beaches and nearby attractions, including stunning country villages.

From here, you can hop on a boat to Neptune’s Cave, a breath-taking seafront cavern where stalactites dangle above the water.

On the east coast, you’ll discover the luxury hotspots of Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda, a playground for the rich and famous. If rubbing shoulders with high society isn’t your cup of tea just yet, then Cannigione, a modest small town nearby, offers plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars.

Similarly, if you’re after a location that’s close to the city but also boasts a good selection of beaches, give Villasimius in the south a go. It’s just a short drive from Cagliari.

Where to eat in Sardinia

The choices are virtually limitless, with all the major towns and cities offering an array of authentic options that cater more to Italians than tourists.

But one dining experience you simply can’t miss is the agriturismo. This Italian concept sees traditional farms adapt to accommodate visitors looking to eat or stay (or both). The menus are extensive and fantastic, leaving you stuffed with the finest locally-produced food. There’s nothing quite like it.

How to get to Sardinia

Sardinia’s main airports are located at Cagliari on the south coast and Olbia on the north-eastern coast. Regular flights to either are available from UK airports.

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MOST holidaymakers love a tipple, and one destination in Europe has been crowned the best for boozy breaks.

The Telegraph declared Portugal to be the best destination for drinking as it’s not only “amongst the higher per capita drinkers of wine in the world, they also have some of the cheapest prices”.

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Weighing up the stats like annual alcohol consumption, cheapest capitals for pints and cities with the most bars per capita, Portugal came out on top.

In particular, the country landed in second place when it came to the annual consumption of wine – which was 52.3 litres per person.

Writer Lauren Clark who has relocated to Lisbon added that you can get a glass of wine “for the price of a UK coffee” in the country’s capital.

And the reason that wine is so affordable is because Portugal is covered in vineyards – around 4,700 of them.

Portugal is widely known for producing its very own Port wine in the Douro Valley.

It’s a sweet wine typically served with dessert, and has a high alcohol content usually ranging between 19 and 22 per cent.

When it comes to bagging affordable booze, Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, is especially well-known for it.

According to HikersBay, the price for a domestic beer in the city is €3 (£2.61) and a glass of wine at the table might set you back €5.50 (£4.78).

If anyone decides to pop into McDonald’s for a bite to eat, you can even order a can of Sagres beer to have with your burger and it’s priced just over €2 (£1.74).

Earlier this year, Drinks Merchants even revealed Portugal to be the cheapest place to buy a bottle of wine.

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The average bottle of wine is just £3.91 with the cheapest being as little as £2.53 – in the UK buying a bottle of wine in the supermarket averages £9.36.

You can regularly find cheap bottles of wine in Portugal for under €5 (£4.35) at the supermarket, including Esteva, Evel, and Porca de Murça.

Around the country, there are even attractions dedicated to telling the story of its alcohol production, in Porto, the World of Wine museum even holds free tastings.

The venue has seven museums, 12 restaurants, a bar and café, a wine school and shops.

The seven themed museums in the Wine Experience take guests on an “extraordinary journey from grape to bottle”.

And a new addition called the Pink Palace immerses visitors in the concept of rosé wine.

Time Out described World of Wine as ” basically a big theme park for those who like a tipple (or three)”.

A few years ago, Lisbon was named the best ‘party city’ in Europe thanks to its plentiful number of bars and pubs.

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One of the most famous in the capital is ‘Bar A Parodia’, one of the oldest cocktail bars in Lisbon which visitors have described as “a real treasure”.

Another unique bar in the city is well-known for its live shows and events – and it used to be a brothel.

The bar is called Pensão Amor and is found on one of Lisbon’s promenades and is tucked inside an 18th century building spanning across five floors.

It’s decorated with vintage posters from burlesque shows and punters can enjoy a drink on velvet sofas and armchairs.

It regularly holds events like burlesque presentations, themed parties and even poetry meetings.

Cocktails include a Pornstar Martini which is priced at €11 (£9.57).

Of course, Portuguese pubs and restaurants outside major tourist destinations like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve will be generally cheaper.

One example of this is Silves in Portugal that used to the be capital of the Algarve.

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Last year, it was revealed as being the most affordable spot in Portugal with the average price of a hotel was around £73, while a beer costs as little as £2.50.

Flights from the UK were under £50, on average – and it’s very pretty too with cobbled streets, cafes and independent shops selling handcrafted gifts and ceramics.

As for getting to Portugal, it’s not that expensive, Sun Travel found return flights to Lisbon from £38 in October – and the flight time is two hours 50 minutes.

A trip to Porto takes even less time at two hours 20 minutes – and you can fly directly from Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, London and Edinburgh.

Plus, here’s more on an underrated Portuguese city an hour from Lisbon – and it’s known for its amazing wine.

And discover the secret side to Portugal crowned one of the best places in Europe to visit this year.

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WHETHER it’s fish and chips, a fry-up or afternoon tea and cake, British diets are pretty calorific.

And all that fat, sugar and salt is having a serious impact on our waistlines, with almost one in three of us considered obese.

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That might seem pretty high, but it’s actually considerably lower than the 43 per cent obesity rate in the United States.

Even Australia trumps the UK at 32 per cent, and these figures don’t even account for the people who are simply overweight. 

Around the world, each country has its own way of eating; some contain lots of processed foods, while others enjoy more vegetables or have a focus on fish and meat. 

Often, these diets have a huge influence on the population’s body mass index (BMI) – a way of measuring if you’re a healthy weight. 

A score between 18.5 and 24.9 is healthy, 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and 30-plus is obese. 

Many of us think of obesity as just being fat, but it’s actually increasingly being recognised as a chronic, complex disease. 

It can have a huge, negative impact on your health, increasing your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and even some types of cancer. 

Thankfully, you can tailor your diet to help keep the number on the scales down. 

But which one is best?

Follow in the footsteps of these countries, which all have a lower obesity rate than the UK…

If you can’t face giving up cheese… eat like the French 

Obesity rate: 11 per cent 

CHEESE is big business in France. In fact, the French consume an average of 60lbs (27kg) of the stuff per person every year, according to Statistica. 

Instead of turning to low fat cheeses and spreads to stay slim, eat like the French and go for full fat.

“Fat is what gives a sense of fullness in a meal,” says Lucia Stansbie, registered nutritional therapist.

“When we eat fat, hormones telling the brain to stop eating are released, making a full fat yogurt more satisfying that a zero per cent one, so you end up needing to eat less. 

“Many low fat foods have added sugars and emulsifiers to recreate the same texture of full fat foods, making them ultra processed foods (UPFS).”

Research published in the journal Current Nutrition Reports identified UPFs as being a key driver of obesity.

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In France, all-day grazing is a no-no – so much so, that snack products often contain a warning on the packet which says, “for your health, avoid snacking between meals”. 

“Snacks can be the downfall of all diets as they can be very calorie-dense,” says Lucia.

“And if they’re sugar-rich, they can lead to a sugar high followed by a crash so more snacks are needed to pick yourself up.

“Eating a proper meal that fills you up until your next one is the best strategy.”

Instead of having a plain, low-carb, low-calorie vegetable salad for lunch to manage your weight, enjoy a meal with a source of protein, some carbs and healthy fats to keep you full until dinner time.

“This is better than being really hungry a few hours after lunch and craving a high calorie snack,” says Jess Hillard, nutritionist at Warrior. 

Try some spicy chicken with sweet potato mash, avocado and a vinaigrette.

If you like wine… eat like the Italians

Obesity rate: 22 per cent 

ALTHOUGH alcohol can pack in some serious calories, you don’t have to go teetotal to lose weight. 

Instead, go for quality booze, in moderation, alongside food. 

“In Italy, people don’t drink on an empty stomach,” says Lucia.

“Doing so leads to sugar spikes and then sugar crashes, so we eat quick-release carbs such as crisps or sweets to get our energy back.”

One way to flatten this spike is eating a decent meal. 

The size of serving plates in Italy are also smaller than the standard UK plates so smaller portions are eaten

Lucia StansbieNutritional therapist

Lucia adds: “In Italy, there is a big focus on quality and taste. 

“People don’t drink a cheap bottle of wine to get drunk. Instead, they match a nice glass of wine with the meal they are having. 

“Culturally, getting drunk and excessive drinking are frowned upon. 

“This makes a massive difference in the amount of alcohol that is consumed.”

Italian mealtimes are also leisurely. Rather than wolfing down lunch at a desk while frantically working on a deadline, Italians eat mindfully. 

“Mindful eating leads to eating slower and feeling fuller sooner, while eating while distracted – such as while working or watching TV – will lead to less satisfaction and mindlessly eating bigger amounts of foods or looking for snacks,” says Lucia.

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Don’t forget to add olive oil – the main fat used in Italy – to your meals too.

A study published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that fat loss was approximately 80 per cent higher for participants who included 25ml of extra virgin olive oil in their diet compared to those who didn’t. 

Lucia adds: “The size of serving plates in Italy are also smaller than the standard UK serving plates, so smaller portions are eaten.”

Why not try swapping your dinner plates for side plates or pasta bowls? You’ll be forced to reduce your portion!

If you love carbs… eat like the Japanese 

Obesity rate: 5 per cent 

DESPITE popular belief, carbohydrates are certainly not the devil when it comes to weight loss. 

Not only could they actually help you slim down, they could even help you live longer.

Japan is home to Okinawa – a ‘blue zone’, where many people live to 100 and beyond. 

Their diet? An estimated 10:1 carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, according to a study in the journal Age and Ageing – yes, that’s 10 times as much carbs as protein!

While you definitely shouldn’t turn your back on protein, you shouldn’t fear carbs. 

But Lucia says the type of carbs you choose will make a huge difference.

“Wholegrains have a higher fibre content, which means that the sugar spike won’t be so high, while white carbs are devoid of all fibre,” she adds.

“The body can manage a maximum of 4g of sugar in the blood at a time; the excess will be stored either in the liver as glycogen or as abdominal fat.

“Eat slow release carbs – such as wholegrains – and pair them with fibre (such as vegetables), proteins (such as meat, fish and eggs) and fats (such as avocado, olive oil and nuts) to ensure a slow release of sugar in the blood system for sustained energy and weight management.”

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Tuck into seafood and cut back on red meat.

“Fish and seafood are excellent sources of protein,” says Lucia.

“Just 100g of fish has, on average, the same amount of protein as 100g of meat but fewer calories.

“Oysters are the richest source of zinc. People with diabetes, which is often linked to obesity, tend to have lower zinc levels.  

“Plus, fish and shellfish are sources of iodine, a mineral essential for thyroid function, and suboptimal function can lead to increased weight and fatigue.” 

If you love chocolate… eat like the Swiss

Obesity rate: 14 per cent 

LINDT, Toblerone, Nestlé – some of the best chocolate in the world comes from Switzerland. 

So how can such a chocolate-filled nation remain so slim?

Along with an active lifestyle, Jess says that listening to your body is key. 

“Ignoring cravings makes you want them even more and binge on them eventually,” she says.

“Have a balanced meal before the chocolate you’re craving. 

“If you still want some chocolate, break off a few squares and put the rest of the bar away.” 

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Depriving yourself will only make you want it more and make you more likely to scoff the whole bar! 

The Swiss also love their oily fish.

“Oily fish contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA,” Jess says.

“These are excellent for brain health and they’ve been found to reduce the risk of heart disease.

“Aim for two portions of fish per week. One of these should be oily, such as salmon, mackerel or sardines.”

Aim for two fists of vegetables, one palm full of carbohydrates and one palm of protein. Any fats should be thumb-size

Jess HillardNutritionist

Omega-3s have been found to potentially help with fat loss.

In a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, adults given 4g of fish oil per day lost 0.5kg of body fat and built more muscle than those who were not given fish oil.

Plus, research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that incorporating fish into one meal a day as part of a weight loss regime was more effective than the regime on its own. 

“Fish’s high oil content keeps you fuller for longer as well as helping to decrease inflammation in the body,” says Jess.

Inflammation can lead to health problems, including chronic inflammation, which can even cause the body to hold onto fat, especially visceral fat which sits around your organs.

If you struggle to eat your five-a-day… eat like the Vietnamese 

Obesity rate: 2 per cent 

NOODLE soups, grilled meats, broths and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables are the order of the day in Vietnam, which boasts an incredibly low obesity rate.

Most dishes are delicious, yet nutritious – so you don’t even notice how much veg you’ve eaten.

“Vegetables are filled with fibre which will keep you fuller for longer,” says Jess.

“They also contain few calories as well as high levels of vitamins and minerals, particularly non-starchy vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, peas and leafy greens.

“Having a nutrient rich diet won’t just ‘stop cravings’ for high fat and/sugary foods.

“You will feel fuller after meals, meaning you won’t feel the need for these foods as much.”

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She recommends filling half your plate with veg at every meal, and to make sure your veggies retain their nutrients, choose steaming over boiling or frying.

Research published in the journal Nutrition & Food Science found that when steamed, vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and lettuce lose nine to 15 per cent of their vitamin C content.

The Vietnamese way of eating is an easier way to get these veggies into meals – you can buy noodle soup kits in supermarkets to try at home.

Compared to many western countries, Vietnam’s portions are also fairly moderate. 

Practising portion control is simple and can be done using just your hands. 

“Aim for two fists of vegetables, one palm full of carbohydrates and one palm of protein,” says Jess.

“Any fats, such as oils, butter and cheese, should be thumb-size.”

Ted Lasso fans are going wild as one of the show’s biggest stars is taking on a brand new role that’s worlds away from the plucky football comedy

Ted Lasso star Brett Goldstein is nothing like his iconic grumpy footballer Roy Kent in a heartwrenching trailer for an upcoming sci-fi drama film.

Helmed by one of the directors of Black Mirror, William Bridges, who co-wrote the film with Goldstein, All Of You is led by the star opposite Imogen Poots in a decades-spanning romance for the ages.

Set in the not-so-distant future, the AppleTV+ film follows two best friends from college who drift apart when one of them takes a test that promises to find your soulmate.

Their lives still cross over the years and they’re forced to confront their unspoken feelings.

An official synopsis for the film reads: “Best friends since college, Simon (Goldstein) and Laura (Poots) drift apart when she takes a test that finds her soulmate despite years of unspoken feelings between them.

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“Over the years, as their paths cross and diverge, neither can deny the feeling that they’ve missed out on a life together.

“Faced with the uncertainty of changing the course of their lives, are Simon and Laura willing to risk everything to experience the love that had been between them all along, or should they accept their fate?”

The trailer, released this week, has already received a rave response from fans who are eager to see the Ted Lasso favourite taking on a new role.

One fan predicted a stellar performance from the leading man: “Brett Goldstein’s ‘face acting’ is next level.

“He can perform an entire, silent dialogue with just one look. It’s so good to see him in a role like this.”

While another quipped: “It’s so weird to see Roy Kent be friendly and not growl every 5 seconds.”

For those still not quite convinced by the tear-jerking trailer, the film has already received critical acclaim after its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival last September.

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It currently stands at an impressive 83 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics warning fans to have tissues at the ready.

Entertainment Weekly called it a “weepie of the highest order”, adding: “It’s familiar fodder for romantic drama, but it’s of the highest caliber thanks to its sharp script and devastating central performances.

“Watching All of You is like pressing on a bruise, and ooh, baby, it hurts so good.”

Awards Buzz declared: “Goldstein and Poots are both terrific and would certainly be deserving of Golden Globe nominations.”

While Matt Neglia raved: “ALL OF YOU just emotionally soothed and wrecked my heart.

“An aching adult drama about the choices we make, the regrets we feel, and whether or not we actually have soulmates out there for us in the world.

“I adore adult romantic dramas where the conflict doesn’t feel manufactured & the characters behave like adults. I got plenty of that here with two heartfelt & endearing performances from Brett Goldstein & Imogen Poots.”

Are you ready to get your heart broken by All Of You? There’s just a few more weeks to wait before this devastating drama hits screens.

All Of You premieres Friday, 26th September on Apple TV+.

ONE of the busiest train stations in the world is set to receive a huge £5billion facelift – with the glow-up finally coming after decades of delays.

Construction for the long-awaited overhaul will begin in two years – transforming the iconic station into a more passenger-friendly hub with an eye-catching interior.

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America’s busiest railway station maekover will get rid of the maze-like design that has confused commuters for years – replacing it with a much simpler layout.

Penn Station will be fitted with a 250,000 square-foot single-level facility – which will boast brighter concourses, actual amenities, new retailers and even built-in housing above.

The iconic New York transport hub which welcomes over 650,000 riders daily will be given a dazzling new design – scrapping its outdated and confusing interior.

Penn Station Mark II has already kicked off – a £1.2billion renovation restored the Farley Building which sits opposite the station.

It came with a central atrium featuring a glass roof, as well as shopper-friendly retail space and a huge 320-seat waiting area.

The Penn Station revamp is also set to tear up the old low ceilings and labyrinth-like corridors.

The station’s current design seriously lacks enough coffee stands, retail space or commuter-friendly walkways.

Amtrak is leading the charge for the ambitious megaproject – with a £32million federal grant to kick-start permitting, design and the hunt for a developer.

Penn Station is in an ‘unacceptable’ state

US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said: “Crumbling infrastructure, bleak and dirty architecture, unnavigable hallways, and no inviting spaces for families with kids – the current state of Penn Station is unacceptable.

“Under President Trump’s direction, we will transform Penn Station into a world-class transit hub that is beautiful, safe, and clean.

“The aggressive schedule we’ve outlined will ensure we are back on track to deliver a gleaming monument worthy of New York City.”

Meanwhile, an Amtrak spokesperson said: “The transformation of New York Penn Station is underway, and USDOT and Amtrak are strongly committed to beginning construction by the end of 2027.”

The firm’s spokesperson thanked Trump for “bringing urgency and clarity” to the station’s renovation which has long been plagued by delays and cancellations.

Disruption expected…

The project is being billed as a long-overdue transformation of one of New York’s busiest transport hubs – but the construction will not come without disruption.

Travellers should expect re-routed journeys, temporary closures and fresh signage across the station.

While officials insist the impact will be “minimal,” many commuters remain sceptical.

Delays, cancellations and sudden changes to train schedules are likely during the works.

The overhaul is expected to take two years to complete, with major construction beginning in 2027.

For now, passengers will still have to contend with the crowded, outdated station until the long-awaited facelift finally arrives.

Penn Station revamp timeline

THE US Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Amtrak have revealed next steps for the long-awaited transformation of New York’s iconic Penn Station.

Here is the scheduled timeline the project is aiming to deliver by the end of 2027:

August 2025: Master developer solicitation advance notice

Fall 2025: Contracting industry stakeholder engagement

Late 2025: Master developer solicitation release

May 2026: Master developer selection

Summer 2026 to End of 2027: Preliminary design and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) activities

End of 2027: Construction initiation

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JAPAN has released a terrifying AI-generated video showing residents what could happen if Mount Fuji erupted.

The footage, created by Tokyo’s Metropolitan government, warned locals that their city could one day be buried under ash as it urged them to remain vigilant.

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If Mount Fuji erupts, the ash is estimated to start pouring down on Tokyo within one to two hours, building a layer up to 10cm thick over the city.

Volcanic ash is formed during explosive eruptions when dissolved gases expand in magma and escape into the atmosphere.

The AI clip shows a huge grey cloud engulfing the sky as it mushrooms over the capital’s high-rise buildings.

Thick black ash spreads over the city covering cars, houses and roads.

A voiceover over the clip says: “The moment may arrive without any warning.

“Volcanic ash is made up of fine, jagged particles. Its unique qualities pose many hazards to health and society.”

Covered in smog, Tokyo appears at a standstill with planes and trains grounded as thick soot blankets train tracks and runways.

Video shows locals holding umbrellas and wearing masks, while cars sit parked in heaps of the volcanic cinders.

In a bid to educate Tokyo’s locals on how to prepare for the colossal event, the clip shows a family opening up a store cupboard full of provisions.

It comes as the government’s cabinet office released a separate video on Tuesday in which it urged residents to “visualize specific scenarios” so they could be better prepared.

And in March, the government issued recommendations suggesting residents keep a two-week supply of essentials in their home.

Officials have stepped up their warnings to locals amid ongoing fears the country is due an environmental disaster.

Estimates suggest eruption damages would cost over $16 billion as areas are plunged into darkness and houses collapse under the ash.

The video has sparked fear among locals who say the prospect of an eruption is “terrifying”.

One resident said: “The thought of volcanic ash causing transportation chaos in the Tokyo metropolitan area is terrifying.”

Some experts have criticised the video for stirring up irrational worry and potentially deterring tourists from visiting.

Japan is no stranger to volcanic eruptions though, as seen in 2022 when plumes of ash spewed into the air after mount Sakurajima burst into life.

And about ten per cent of the world’s active volcanoes can be found in Japan as it lies inside the ‘Ring of Fire’ – one of the most active seismic zones in the world.

A chain of six volcanoes were set off in the perilous zone earlier this month with explosions sending ash as high as 5.28 miles above sea level.

Klyuchevskaya Sopka, the largest volcano in the region, exploded at three miles with a stream of scalding lava.

This was followed by four other volcanoes in the region – the Krasheninnikov, Shiveluch, Bezymianny and the smaller, Karymsk – which each spewed colossal columns of ash.

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Travel blogger Ben Morris decided to visit a city that has been dubbed ‘the rudest in the world’ but ended up having mixed feelings after his first day on the ground

A travel blogger visited the “rudest city” in the world but was left confused by what he found. The French capital Paris is often dubbed the rudist place to visit as a tourist.

Its locals have often been described as “snooty”, “surly” and “unwelcoming” for visitors. That is despite the fact around 50 million tourists each year head to the city to see sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Arc de Triomphe.

Ben Morris, who boasts 870,000 followers on YouTube, decided to head to Paris to find out if the stereotypes were true. On his first day, he received a mixed reaction tourists walking the Parisian streets.

One woman said: “They are rude. French people are so rude, they are so mad at everything.”

Other tourists however told Ben they had no negative experiences in the huge French city. One said: “Nobody’s been rude to me, but I’m good vibes.”

Ben’s experience in Paris left him unsure about its reputation. In a video, he explained : “After a full day of talking to strangers I was feeling confused because everyone was giving mixed opinions.

“We were told if we wanted to better understand why Parisians are labelled rude, we needed to experience the morning commute to La Défense.”

The travel blogger decided to head to La Défense – the city’s business district – on the second day of his trip to see if it lived up to its name. While Ben encountered a “direct” waiter in the bustling district, he felt as though it “wasn’t quite rude”.

Ben’s mission to discover the true Paris found him encountering more positive reactions when he donned a blue-striped shirt and red beret. “More nice French people, they’re everywhere,” he told the camera.

He later met up with Lucile Hernandez Rodriguez, a Parisian blogger who explained how to behave in Paris. She said: “You have to say merci (thank you), bonjour (hello), [and] look people in the eye or people will think you’re rude. That’s like the rule of Paris.

“They [tourists] come and they’ve seen the movies and they think like they’re going to meet a pretty French girl and fall in love but they take the subway and people are p****d because they have to go to work.”

Lucile however feels the stereotype about Paris is “kind of true”. She however says a lot of the attitudes towards the city comes from interactions with people heading to and from work.

Ben admitted he had met “so many nice people” on his trip, confessing it was “ironic” since he travelled to the city in search of rudeness. He signed off the video by experiencing the Fête de la musique (World Music Day) in the capital.

The world’s most beautiful beaches are synonymous with fine sands and crystal-clear waters so one writer went to see if one of the top 100 deserves its accolades

When it comes to Australia you think of beaches, miles of golden sand, surfing and sunshine. So when you get the chance to visit somewhere that’s been voted one of the top 100 beaches in the world you jump at it.

The Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island, just 75 minutes on a boat from Brisbane city centre, is a little spot of paradise away from the hustle and bustle.

And, as Moreton is the third biggest sand island in the world (the other two are in Oz too) there’s certainly plenty of beachfront to choose from – around 25 miles in total. No sunbed wars worthy of the Hunger Games here.

You can choose to spend the day sunbathing and visitors can come to stay or simply for a day trip to experience the island. I did the latter and seeing the white-lined coastline to the lush green island from the boat was spectacular and only improved as we arrived to be greeted by a flock of enormous pelicans bobbing alongside the beachfront jetty. There are special talks to learn about the birds as staff feed them and you can also attend a daily Kookaburra feeding.

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Despite visiting in Australia’s winter, the temperatures in this part of Queensland were remarkably similar to a British summer, regularly in the 20s, and even if you’re unlucky enough to have a chillier day, there’s plenty to keep you occupied.

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, hop on one of the ATV quadbike tours. I’ll admit I was expecting something small but these things are beasts and a little intimidating at first glance. I soon got used to them however and roaring along the beach (loudly but slowly) was wonderful.

Once away from the other sunworshippers you go off on a specially designed trail through the bush and sand dunes. Whizzing round banks and corners you gradually climb the island which lets you see the ocean from a different perspective and the views as you ascend are spectacular.

Peckish after all that activity, I returned to the four star resort which boasts a range of restaurants. Wanting to try something different that I wouldn’t get at home I opted for the grilled barramundi – also known as Asian sea bass. It was one of the best fish dishes I’ve had and was absolutely delicious.

Happily fill you can choose to chill out at the beachfront bars or cafes, watching the waves lap the shore, or partake of one of the other activities on offer.

There are plenty of choices for the whole family, whatever takes your fancy. Whale watching, a glass bottom boat, sand tobogganing and surfing are all available too but people flock here to hand feed a pod of wild bottlenose dolphins that visit the resort at sunset.

It’s a tradition that started in 1986 when a dolphin that the owning family named Beauty began to regularly visit and soon take food from guests.

Now two family groups regularly come to take herring from the hands of visitors – though a very small amount to ensure it doesn’t affect their ability to hunt in the wild.

Book the holiday

• Find out more about Tangalooma Island Resort at tangalooma.com.
• You can also get further information on Brisbane and Queensland at queensland.com.

Do you have a holiday story that you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

THE world’s first smartphone test for type 2 diabetes has launched in the UK.

The app-based check is designed to make it easier for people to spot their risk and could help cut complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease, which are often linked to diabetes.

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Patients place a drop of blood from a finger-prick onto a chip, which is then scanned by the PocDoc app to give results almost instantly.

NHS trusts in Cumbria and the North East are the first to roll it out, with a nationwide launch planned later this year.

The Government has hailed the app as a “potential game-changer” in the fight against diabetes as results come in within minutes, instead of the days or weeks it can currently take.

Around 5.2 million people in the UK have type 2 diabetes, with cases still rising – and a further 1.3 million thought to be undiagnosed.

“Enabling screening for type 2 diabetes risk including blood biomarkers via a smartphone app is something that has never been done before,” said PocDoc chief executive Steve Roest.

Professor Julia Newton, medical director at HI NENC, said the test could reach people who struggle with conventional health checks.

“Most people over the age of 40 are invited for an NHS health check every five years, but depending on where you live a large chunk don’t attend,” she said.

“One of the reasons we’ve found is accessing a health check in a conventional setting.

“So if those tests are made more easily available, which this test does, then we have the opportunity to reach far more people.”

She added: “If you consider the number of people with diabetes who go onto have heart attacks and strokes, if we can manage their risk before it becomes a problem that will reduce admissions to hospital, reduce mortality, and reduce complications from diabetes, such as kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke disease.”

The HbA1c finger-prick test is considered the gold standard blood test. This is because it shows average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, giving a clearer picture than daily checks.

Steve said the app fits directly with Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s 10-year NHS plan, spotting illnesses earlier, tailoring care, and shifting more testing and diagnosis into homes and communities.

“There’s a huge gap in screening for preventable diseases,” he said.

“Right now, the system, not just in the UK but worldwide, cannot find, assess, and diagnose enough people to make a dent in tackling heart attacks, strokes, and type 2 diabetes.”

Health minister Stephen Kinnock told The i Paper that the app rollout was important because type 2 diabetes is on the rise across England.

“This is a potential game-changer and exactly the type of technology we want to see in the NHS as part of the 10 Year Health Plan – bringing our health service firmly into the 21st century and care directly into people’s homes.

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“We will make using the NHS as simple and convenient as online banking or shopping, while helping companies bring new technology into the health service more quickly.”

The seed of the device was planted 30 years ago when Steve was a teenager and witnessed his father having a catastrophic stroke in his early forties, due to undiagnosed cardiovascular disease (CVD).

“Using smartphones to deliver diagnostics is exactly what could have saved my dad from having so many [health] problems. He’s cost the NHS a fortune,” Steve said.

Around £9bn is spent on treating complications arising from diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.

Studies suggest that the annual cost of the disease could increase to £16.9 bn in the next 25 years.

The app’s launch comes 24 hours after the Government announced the biggest shake-up of diabetes care in a decade.

Around 750,000 patients with CVD or early-onset diabetes would benefit from fat jabs sooner, rather than keeping them for the later stages of treatment, new guidance states.

Tom Pike, 28, from Hackney, London had been on holiday in Menorca with a friend earlier this month when he came across an extremely small armrest on his Jet2 flight home

A holidaymaker was left in stitches on board a Jet2 flight back to the UK from Spain after he was given “the world’s smallest armrest”.

Tom Pike could not believe what he was seeing when he took his seat on the Menorca to London Stansted Airport flight on Sunday, August 10. The 28-year-old, who was perched next to the window, buckled his seatbelt and went to get comfy but immediately noticed the size of the armrest on his right hand side.

The passenger was left puzzled at the size of the armrest, with Tom reacting by simply bursting into laughter. Along with his friend Isabella Michel, the pair concluded that they had never seen one “this small” before.

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In hilarious footage captured on board the flight, which was due to last two and a half hours, Tom attempted to use the “1.5-inch” armrest. The holidaymaker, who paid £200 for the flight, flipped the armrest down – but it made little to no difference.

Tom’s arm engulfs the armrest with it essentially only big enough for his elbow. “Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday,” Isabella can be heard saying in the footage, in reference to the company’s well-known slogan.

Fortunately for the pair they had a whole row of three seats to themselves on the flight back home. This allowed Tom to move into the middle seat and make use of the extra space.

“I have never had one this small before,” Tom, a financial services worker from Hackney, north London, told Luxury Travel Daily. “It was maybe 1.5 inches long.

“We immediately burst into laughter. I didn’t make a complaint on the flight; luckily, I was able to move to the middle seat. I can think of a lot that beats a Jet2 holiday.”

Jet2 has been in the headlines quite a bit in recent months, largely due to the virality of its ads. To the soundtrack of Jess Glynne’s hit song Hold My Hand, potential customers are told “nothing beats a Jet2 holiday” and that phrase has gained lots of momentum this summer.

So much so that the sound has featured as part of a number of spoof remakes, including one posted by the White House promoting deportation. The video shows people being handcuffed and escorted on to a plane, alongside the caption: “When ICE books you a one-way Jet2 holiday to deportation. Nothing beats it!”

Jet2 responded by saying it does not endose the video, while Glynne said the social media post made her feel “sick”. A spokesperson for Jet2. said: “Our branding has become something of a viral phenomenon this summer and we are pleased to see how many people have used it in good humour.

“This has put a smile on many people’s faces, just like our holidays do. We are of course aware of a post from the White House social media account. This is not endorsed by us in any way, and we are very disappointed to see our brand being used to promote government policy such as this.”

The hotel can be easily accessed by taking the train from Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen

Ever fancied a quick nap in one of IKEA’s cosy display bedrooms? Turns out, you can do just that. Travel influencer Chelsea Dickenson, known online as the ‘Holiday Expert’, recently visited the furniture store’s world-first hotel and shared her verdict on its facilities.

Aptly named IKEA Hotell, this accommodation is situated in Älmhult, Sweden, but can be accessed easily by taking the train from Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen. It boasts a lounge area, cinema, restaurant and even a museum, which hotel guests can enter for free.

“I went to the world’s only IKEA HOTEL with @thismorning,” Chelsea wrote on Instagram. “…What’s even better is that you can catch a direct 1 hour 45 min train from Copenhagen Airport for just £22.

“Plus, you could stay the night and then catch a direct train to Stockholm in three hours and make it into an epic Scandi train trip!” In general, Chelsea said that staying in a cabin costs £45 per night, while double rooms cost £100 and family spaces are priced at £125.

Various perks come with a stay at the hotel, too, including free laundry facilities, a gym, and a kids’ play area. Breakfast is also included in the price.

However, one aspect in particular blew Chelsea away. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this was the food, with meatballs and even a ‘luxury hotdog range’ available at different spots around the premises.

Chelsea continued: “Meatballs available at the hotel and the museum restaurant – but expect fancier fair at their ‘Grillen’ restaurant, though they have a luxury hotdog range!!”

She later added: “Honestly, I know I was there for work but I BLOODY LOVED IT and thought it was great value for what you got! Plus, I was blown away by the food at Grillen. It was really, really good and not as ££ as I thought it would be for Sweden!”

Chelsea’s review was quickly showered with intrigued comments from viewers. Some even confirmed personally that the IKEA hotel exceeded their expectations, describing it as far nicer than they had imagined.

One person wrote: “We have just returned from a Scandinavian holiday and we stayed here. We made a detour especially. It was so much better than we thought it would be.” Meanwhile, another person said: “I had a reservation there for autumn 2020 (so that never happened!) and it’s still on my bucket list.”

Someone else added: “This sounds like such an incredible adventure!” For those interested in learning more about Chelsea’s stay at the IKEA hotel, you can watch her full review on ITVX here.

Additional information is available at the IKEA Hotell website here.

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Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is the world’s biggest cruise ship alongside sister ship Icon of the Seas and we got a first look onboard

The world’s biggest and newest cruise ship set sail on her maiden passenger voyage – and I was lucky enough to be on board. Star of the Seas is a giant floating city with 20 decks crammed with top-notch attractions for the whole family, including a water park, swimming pools, crazy golf, theatres, an ice skating rink, 14 shops and 40 bars and restaurants.

It is so big, it feels quite odd as it will take you a few days to find your way around this monster which set sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Wednesday night. But after dashing around the decks, here’s a few highlights of the Royal Caribbean ship that you won’t want to miss. Thrill Island is the largest waterpark at sea with SIX record-breaking water slides.

The biggest is not for the faint-hearted but a must for the adventurous. One of its most daring features is Crown’s Edge, part skywalk and part ride 154ft above the ocean. Adrenaline-seekers navigate a suspended walkway and experience a controlled freefall before gliding down a zipline to the deck below. It is meant to test the bravery of the thrill-seeker – and it certainly does that. After all, it’s the sister ship to Icon of the Seas which is also a hit with adventurous holidaymakers.

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There’s no need to leave the ship if you fancy a bit of surfing, either. The Flow-rider is a wave machine which allows you to go “boogie boarding” and simulate real Surfing USA. Incredibly, 30,000 gallons of water a minute rush under the rider at 30mph creating a five-foot wave. Watch out for the height restrictions of 4ft 10in for stand-up surfing or 4ft 4in for boogie boarding.

If you’d rather chill than thrill head to the adults-only area at the rear of the ship – or the aft as we rookie seafarers call it. There you can relax in the suspended infinity pool and enjoy vast ocean views with a cocktail in hand while grooving to the beat of an Ibiza-style DJ. There’s also a shady bar nearby and a terrace with whirlpools.

Don’t worry about dashing to the bar for a refill. The efficient waiters will attend to your needs and keep your glasses well topped up. Chill Island is a three-deck area for holidaymakers to kick back at four pools, including the Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea. Guests can enjoy live bands while they sip on tropical cocktails from the swim-up bar called The Swim and Tonic.

The bags of entertainment for the kids and sporty types, including a spectacular mini golf course and a sports court offering five-a-side football and basketball on the top deck. Don’t worry about the ball going overboard, either, as it’s entirely covered by netting.

If you’re travelling with a young family, head for Surfside. It’s THE place to stay and play all day, however old the children are. Younger kids and toddlers will have great fun at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay, while parents can relax nearby. There are plenty of lifeguards, constantly on full alert, so no reason to worry about their safety.

There’s a multi-level playground called Playscape, which includes a rock climbing wall, with safety harnesses provided. Just like Star of the Seas they can take cruising to another level.

You can find out more about Star on the Seas including rates and itineraries on royalcaribbean.com.