Amy Jones

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has updated guidance for British travellers to China. Standard British passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 30 days until 31 December 2026 for tourism, business, family or friend visits, and transit, but visas remain necessary for longer stays or purposes such as paid work, journalism and study. Travellers may face medical screening, must register their residence within 24 hours unless staying in a hotel, and may have biometric data collected. Passports must be valid for at least six months after arrival and contain two blank pages.

Stratford-upon-Avon is presented as one of England's top destinations, recognized by Lonely Planet for its Shakespearean heritage, Tudor architecture and lively theatre scene. A 48-hour visit found the compact town highly walkable, with scenic River Avon walks, independent shops, markets and free views from the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre. The review also highlights the town's strong food and drink offering, including Box Brownie Coffee, Hooray's Gelato Kitchen, Loxleys Restaurant & Wine Bar and Tempest Caffè.

Blackpool Sands in Devon has been named the UK’s prettiest beach in research conducted by DFDS, which analysed Google reviews and positive descriptive keywords. The beach was praised for its sheltered bay, clear blue water, pine-tree setting, shingle shore and Blue Flag status, as well as amenities including paddleboard and kayak hire, a café and a seasonal seaside sauna. It ranked ahead of Sandbanks Beach in Dorset and Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall, with visitors highlighting its beauty, cleanliness, space and Mediterranean-like atmosphere.

A travel writer recommends packing a low-cost sleep mask for hotel stays to block intrusive light from corridors, curtains, electronic devices and safety equipment. Sleep expert Hannah Shore explains that darkness supports sleep-promoting hormones and advises using an eye mask as a backup even in hotels with blackout curtains. She also recommends electrical tape for covering small indicator lights and checking room switches to avoid disrupting melatonin production.

Mousehole, a small fishing village on the south coast of West Cornwall near Penzance and St Ives, is praised for its double-breakwater harbour, honey-coloured cottages, narrow lanes, beaches, swimming spots, shops, galleries and cafés. Its picturesque character has led to Dylan Thomas’s description of it as the “loveliest village in England,” while visitors regard it as a quieter alternative to St Ives. The village also has historical links to Mount’s Bay, is associated with The Mousehole Cat, and is known for its annual Christmas Lights display.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea in North Yorkshire saw a 133 percent surge in Trainline bookings, making it the UK's top summer holiday hotspot. The town is highlighted for its sandy beach, Victorian pier, and historic cliff tramway, with affordable fares and family-friendly attractions. Additional popular destinations include Ilkley, Didcot Parkway, Morecambe, Arundel, St Erth, Bolton, and Warwick. Trainline notes families are increasingly opting for rail-connected attractions, supported by a partnership with Yoto to keep children entertained during journeys.

Eight UK airports now allow passengers to carry up to two litres of liquids through security thanks to new CT scanners, while many others still enforce the 100ml limit. Travellers are advised to check rules at both departure and return airports, as restrictions vary and some exemptions apply for baby food, medicines and duty-free purchases.

Morecambe has become the UK’s fastest‑rising summer travel destination, with Booking.com reporting a 106 percent increase in interest. The Lancashire seaside town is highlighted for its long promenade, beaches, scenic views and family‑friendly attractions, though some visitors note limited activities. Recent travellers share largely positive impressions, and Booking.com attributes increased interest to travellers seeking new and meaningful experiences.

A visit to Malmesbury in Wiltshire highlights its strong community spirit, thriving independent shops and cafés, and active local events, reflecting why it was named the best place to live in the South West. Residents describe a close-knit, family-oriented atmosphere supported by numerous community activities, vibrant public spaces and well-maintained high streets. The town’s historic abbey, independent businesses and engaged locals contribute to its appeal as a charming and welcoming place to live.

Etiquette expert William Hanson describes having his reservation at a small independent hotel in southwest England abruptly cancelled after he asked about late check‑in options ahead of a wedding. He believes staff assumed he would return intoxicated. Forced to find alternative accommodation at short notice, he ultimately stayed with a major hotel chain. He later shared hotel etiquette advice through a partnership with Hotels.com, emphasizing courtesy, responsible behaviour and respect for staff.

Bourton-on-the-Water attracts large numbers of visitors for its river, bridges, shops and attractions, but local shopkeepers say many tourists miss excellent independent shops and scenic residential areas located across the river. Locals encourage visitors to explore both sides of the village, wander lesser-known paths and consider nearby destinations like Lower Slaughter and Stow-on-the-Wold for additional scenery, shopping and dining.

Bourton-on-the-Water attracts large numbers of tourists drawn to its picturesque setting, but locals frequently receive questions from visitors who mistakenly assume the village charges an entry fee or has set opening hours. Residents express pride in living there and acknowledge that tourism supports the village’s many shops, pubs and cafés. Locals highlight lesser‑known independent businesses and encourage visitors to explore beyond the main riverside area. Nearby spots such as Lower Slaughter and Stow‑on‑the‑Wold are recommended for those looking to extend their visit.

Rome’s Fiumicino and Ciampino airports are considering waiving EU biometric Entry/Exit System requirements during peak summer months to avoid severe travel delays that have already caused long queues and missed flights. Greece remains the only country to formally suspend the rules for UK travellers, but Frontex confirmed that member states may temporarily lift biometric registration through the end of summer to prevent airport congestion. The UK’s foreign office has updated guidance to reflect Greece’s exemption, while travellers are reminded that Ireland and Cyprus are not part of the EES scheme.

A London woman’s spontaneous move to Croatia led to emotional challenges, cultural adjustment and a series of personal tragedies, including the loss of close family members and her dog. Despite difficulties navigating unfamiliar surroundings, language barriers and a medical emergency, she gradually adapted, built friendships and launched a boat tour business called Island Discovery. Rising local costs and rapid development have changed Croatia since joining the EU, but she now considers it home and credits the experience with reshaping her identity and resilience.

A detailed account of a stay at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Springs highlights its expansive grounds, indoor boat dock, resident flamingos, multiple pools, golf courses, dining options, and luxury rooms with mountain views. The resort’s amenities, including restaurants, recreational facilities, shops, and scenic surroundings, contribute to its appeal as a premier desert getaway, with travel packages available through various providers.