Amy Jones

Barmouth has been named Wales's best seaside town for independent businesses and ranked sixth among 50 UK seaside towns, receiving a 100% rating for independently owned cafes and pubs and an overall score of 79.1. The Gwynedd town's attractions include a wide selection of independent cafes, pubs, shops and the long-established Mermaid fish-and-chip shop, as well as a sandy beach between Eryri National Park and the Mawddach Estuary. Its traditional, relatively uncrowded seaside character is presented as a major draw for visitors.

New EU regulations expected to take effect in 2027 would require fares for European flights to include a cabin bag in addition to one small personal item measuring 40cm x 30cm x 15cm. Airlines must display fares including hand-luggage allowances before booking begins, reducing hidden charges, although the exact implementation date is unknown. UK airlines such as easyJet, British Airways and Jet2 may only need to comply on flights returning from the EU, so British travellers could still face charges on the outbound leg. Aviation expert James Doyle warns that low-cost carriers may raise standard fares to offset lost baggage-fee revenue, meaning the financial benefit will vary by passenger.

Obzor Beach in Bulgaria is presented as a cheaper, quieter alternative to Turkey’s Aegean Coast, offering a 10-kilometre golden-sand beach, clear waters, mountain scenery and a lively promenade. UK flights to nearby Burgas Airport are reportedly available from £16 one-way, while a seven-night First Choice package from Cardiff starts at £338 per person. The resort also offers restaurants, hotels, public beach areas and historical attractions, with First Choice describing it as more affordable and closer than classic destinations such as Greece and Turkey.

Port Isaac in Cornwall has been named the UK's top destination dupe for Italy's Amalfi Coast in a Travelodge poll of more than 10,000 UK residents. The village is praised for its cliffside setting, pastel cottages, turquoise cove, narrow historic lanes, fishing harbour and local restaurants. Its links to the ITV series Doc Martin and the folk group Fisherman’s Friends add to its appeal. Other UK destinations were also matched with overseas locations, including Derwentwater with Lake Como and Llandudno with the French Riviera.

British tourists visiting Greece are warned that collecting shells, pebbles or stones from beaches or archaeological sites can lead to fines of up to €1,000 (£856.80). Wearing high heels at some ancient archaeological sites is also prohibited and can incur fines of up to €900. Confused.com advises travellers to research local laws and customs, noting that travel insurance generally will not cover fines or additional expenses arising from detention.

Trento in northern Italy is presented as a quieter alternative to heavily visited destinations such as the Amalfi Coast, Portofino and Rome. Set in the Adige River valley beneath the Dolomites, the city offers a blend of Italian and Austrian heritage, a Renaissance-era Piazza del Duomo, historic landmarks, museums and scenic mountain surroundings. With no local airport but connections via Verona, Bergamo, Innsbruck and Venice, Trento is recommended as a romantic and less crowded summer destination.

Marlborough in Wiltshire is praised for its wide, historic high street, independent shops, cafés, restaurants and twice-weekly market. The town was named one of the UK's best high streets by The Times in 2024 and ranked England's second-best place to shop by Harper Dennis Hobbs. Its shopping scene, historic Merchant's House museum, Georgian architecture and Marlborough College have also contributed to its recognition as one of the best places to live by the Sunday Times.

Greater Palm Springs is presented as a glamorous celebrity retreat with striking desert landscapes, mid‑century architecture, and diverse experiences ranging from jeep tours and historic film sets to national‑park stargazing and spa escapes. Recommendations include luxury resorts such as the JW Marriott and Hilton Palm Springs, vibrant shopping areas, scenic adventure tours, cultural sites, hot springs, and a wide selection of notable restaurants and bars. The region’s Hollywood heritage and natural beauty shape a trip filled with dramatic views, unique history, and upscale dining and relaxation options.

Bourton-on-the-Water, a Cotswolds village known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” attracts thousands of tourists who support its businesses and local economy. Residents express appreciation for visitors, noting that shops, pubs and employment opportunities depend on tourism. Locals describe the village as beautiful and welcoming, with business owners and workers crediting tourists for sustaining the community’s vibrancy.

Malmesbury in north Wiltshire is portrayed as a picturesque, historic town known for its traditional high street, independent shops, vibrant floral displays and welcoming atmosphere. The Old Bell Hotel and Malmesbury Abbey serve as major landmarks, while cafés, pubs and community events contribute to its lively yet peaceful character. Recognised as one of the best places to live in the south‑west, the town offers scenic views, rich history and a strong sense of community.

Sardinia is highlighted as Europe’s best island for 2026, praised for its clear turquoise waters, white‑sand beaches and dramatic landscapes comparable to Caribbean destinations. Easily reachable from the UK with affordable flights, the island offers beaches, boat excursions, cycling routes, archaeological sites and Italian cuisine. A three‑day visit included exploring beaches near Chia, cycling to Capo Spartivento and enjoying local hospitality. Warm summer temperatures and accessible travel options make Sardinia an attractive alternative to long‑haul tropical holidays.

Florence was named Europe’s best city for 2026 by Travel and Leisure, earning high marks for its artistic heritage, walkability and culinary scene. The city’s Renaissance architecture, renowned galleries and celebrated local cuisine contributed to its top ranking. Florence’s accessibility from the UK, with flights starting around £30, further boosts its appeal. Local expert Mary Gray highlighted its compact layout and rich cultural offerings, recommending notable attractions and accommodations for visitors.

A new UK travel rule allows children aged eight and over who meet a minimum height requirement to use eGates at 13 major airports, including Cardiff, speeding up border processing for families. Officials and industry leaders say the change will reduce queues and improve the travel experience, while experts note increasing reliance on biometric technology and remind families to check passport validity ahead of summer travel.

Usk is highlighted as the best place to live in Wales for 2026, praised for its strong community spirit, scenic riverside setting and award‑winning floral displays. The town’s historic sites, independent shops, dog‑friendly pubs and frequent cultural events contribute to its appeal. Long‑standing wins in Wales in Bloom and Britain in Bloom, along with active community groups and local festivals, reinforce its reputation as a vibrant and picturesque small town.

Stow-on-the-Wold is praised for its historic architecture, independent shops and cafés, and cultural landmarks such as the ‘Tolkien Door’ and the Porch House. Despite its picturesque character, the town’s central market square is dominated by parked cars, which detracts from the otherwise idyllic setting. Quieter side streets and courtyards offer more scenic views, and numerous cafés, pubs and antique stores contribute to the town’s charm, though the heavy presence of vehicles limits its postcard appeal.

Hotel etiquette expert William Hanson says guests improve their chances of a free upgrade by displaying good manners from the moment they arrive, as staff quickly form impressions and share feedback internally. He recommends marking every stay as a special occasion when booking and using hotel loyalty schemes such as Hotels.com Rewards to gain additional perks. His wider etiquette guide highlights respectful behaviour toward staff, quiet conduct in shared spaces, responsible room use and adherence to common‑sense hotel norms to enhance service quality and overall stay experience.

Updated UK travel advice warns that terrorists are likely to attempt attacks in Greece following recent incidents involving explosives and automatic weapons. British travellers are advised to stay vigilant, hold appropriate travel insurance and ensure passports meet Schengen requirements. Greece has waived biometric collection under the EU Entry/Exit System, though residents must show proper documentation.

Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds attracts large numbers of visitors who liken its riverside setting and village green to a seaside experience despite being far from the coast. Locals note a surge in tourism since the pandemic, with families gathering along the River Windrush and exploring the village’s independent shops and cafés. Long‑time ice cream seller Allan Hymers contributes to the village’s charm, reinforcing its appeal as an accessible alternative to the beach for day‑trippers from nearby cities.

An etiquette expert explains how hotel guests can increase their chances of receiving free perks such as upgrades or complimentary items by marking their stay as a special occasion during booking and signing up for loyalty programs. He emphasizes that courteous behaviour and good first impressions significantly influence staff decisions, and provides a detailed guide on hotel etiquette aimed at improving guest experience and boosting service quality.

Travel insurance purchased at the time of booking is recommended as the most effective way to protect holiday spending, ensuring coverage for cancellations and unexpected disruptions. Package holidays are highlighted as providing stronger consumer protection through regulations and ATOL coverage, especially in the event of flight cancellations. Bulgaria, Montenegro, and Turkey are identified as offering reduced prices on summer travel packages.

Summer holiday package prices to Bulgaria, Montenegro, and Turkey have dropped significantly, with a travel expert highlighting opportunities for affordable seven‑night breaks despite high seasonal demand. Price reductions include notable average cuts per person, driven partly by wider shifts in global travel patterns. Each featured destination offers strong cultural and scenic appeal, from Bulgaria’s beaches and historic cities to Montenegro’s dramatic landscapes and Turkey’s architectural and geographic diversity. Travellers seeking budget‑friendly holidays are encouraged to search based on price to find the best deals.

Highlights Marloes Sands in Pembrokeshire as a quiet, scenic alternative to crowded UK beaches, praised for its golden sand, blue waters and rugged cliffs. Notes its remote location, lack of facilities and a steep walk from the National Trust car park, while also mentioning its use as a filming location for Snow White and the Huntsman. Recommends planning visits around tide times to ensure safe access and a relaxed experience.

Britons are warned that poor manners toward hotel staff can negatively affect their stay, with etiquette expert William Hanson highlighting that first impressions influence upgrades and service quality. Research from Hotels.com shows declining hotel etiquette, including untidy rooms and misuse of kettles. Hanson advises respectful interaction with staff, keeping rooms reasonably tidy, avoiding disruptive behaviour, and understanding hotel norms such as proper use of amenities and queuing etiquette. His guide emphasises that courteous behaviour results in better service and long‑term travel benefits.

Barmouth in North Wales is highlighted for its expansive golden-sand beach, clear waters and dramatic mountain scenery, remaining largely unchanged for decades. The seaside town offers traditional attractions and ample space even during peak times, with visitors praising its unspoilt charm. The Mermaid fish and chip shop, established in 1964, is celebrated as one of the best in the UK, drawing consistent queues and strong reviews. Panoramic views across Cardigan Bay, the Barmouth harbour and the wooden viaduct further enhance the area’s appeal for travellers.

Three beaches in Wales—Barafundle Bay, Traeth Mwnt, and Dunraven Bay—rank among Europe’s top 25 according to a Holidu review analysis, with Barafundle placing second overall. The list highlights the UK’s strong showing with nine beaches featured, underscoring the appeal of Welsh and other British coastlines as the summer season approaches.

British travellers will be required to obtain ETIAS pre-travel authorisation from late 2026 for short stays in 30 European countries, adding a new step to post-Brexit travel rules. The system links directly to passports and may lead to denied boarding if details are incorrect or expired, with most applications processed quickly but some requiring additional checks. Saga Travel Insurance research shows confusion among travellers regarding both ETIAS and existing passport rules, including the 10‑year passport validity requirement that has already caused denied travel for some passengers. Travellers exceeding 90 days in the Schengen area risk fines or re-entry bans and will need a Schengen Visa for longer stays.

Tenby in Pembrokeshire is highlighted as a scenic seaside destination with golden beaches and clear waters that visitors frequently compare to Mediterranean locations. Its well‑known Castle, North, South and Harbour beaches, award recognition from The Sunday Times, pastel‑coloured harbour and pedestrianised streets contribute to its popularity as an accessible summer getaway without the need to travel abroad.

British travellers to Spain may be required to present additional documents at border control, including return travel details, proof of insurance, sufficient funds and accommodation confirmation. Passports must be issued within the last ten years and valid for at least three months beyond departure from the Schengen area. The EU’s Entry/Exit System now requires biometric registration on first entry, remaining valid for three years. Visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, with overstays potentially resulting in bans of up to three years.

Cardiff is identified as the UK’s cheapest city for a weekend break, with research from Post Office Travel Money estimating a two-night stay for two at £377.64, including accommodation and typical food, drink and sightseeing costs. The analysis places Cardiff 21st among Europe’s most affordable cities, with Sarajevo ranked first overall. Cardiff’s attractions, walkability and green spaces are highlighted as further reasons to visit, while cost comparisons show wide price differences across Europe.

A heatwave forecast of up to 32C is expected to draw visitors to Pembrokeshire’s Blue Lagoon, a former quarry known for its vivid turquoise water and cliff‑diving spots. Ranked by The Telegraph as one of the UK’s best wild swimming destinations, the lagoon attracts swimmers and walkers drawn to its dramatic coastal scenery. Visitor reviews praise the views and unique setting, while the wider Pembrokeshire area offers beaches, clifftop landscapes and extensive coastal paths for outdoor exploration during the warm spell.

The Forest of Dean on the Welsh border is highlighted as an exceptional natural destination, praised by forest ranger Gerry O’Brien, who calls Symonds Yat Rock one of his favourite places for its panoramic views, wildlife and historic Iron Age hill fort. Additional attractions include Puzzlewood, celebrated for its fairy-tale scenery and frequent use as a filming location, as well as King Arthur’s Cave and Darkhill Ironworks. Several local accommodation providers offer stays for visitors exploring the region’s landscapes and cultural landmarks.

Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire is frequently compared to Caribbean destinations due to its golden sand, turquoise water, and secluded setting. Accessible via a short cliff walk from Stackpole Quay, the beach lacks commercialisation, contributing to its reputation as one of the cleanest and most beautiful in the UK. Visitors praise its scenery while noting it can become busy in peak periods. Travel authorities advise checking tide times and planning visits accordingly, with nearby facilities available in Stackpole Quay.

A Wizz Air pilot describes the unseen work behind operating commercial flights, highlighting extensive pre‑flight preparations, automation in modern aircraft and the support teams involved. He also shares personal reflections on cockpit views and his airport ritual of buying a vanilla latte and almond croissant before every shift.

EasyJet warns British travellers heading to the Schengen area to expect longer passport control waits due to the EU’s Entry/Exit System, which now requires biometric registration. The airline advises passengers to arrive early, have correct documents and prepare for possible delays at both arrival and departure airports. Greece has temporarily exempted UK travellers from biometric collection, prompting updated guidance from the UK Foreign Office. The rollout has caused delays of up to several hours, and travellers are urged to plan accordingly.

Surging jet fuel costs driven by the Middle East conflict and Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz have forced airlines worldwide to cancel more than 13,000 flights in May, including nearly 1,500 from major UK airports. Eighteen carriers have reduced schedules, with significant cuts from Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Air Canada, KLM, Delta, Qantas and others, affecting routes across Europe, Asia, and North America. Regional airports such as Heathrow, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Manchester have seen substantial disruption, and further cancellations may continue into summer as fuel shortages persist.

Llanrhian, a small village in Pembrokeshire with fewer than 900 residents, is highlighted as the home of Game of Thrones actor Jerome Flynn. Its rural charm and proximity to coastal attractions make it a gateway to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with nearby destinations including Porthgain, Abercastle and St Davids. The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi Bay, known for its striking blue waters and popularity among swimmers, is a key local highlight. Visitors also frequent nearby historical and coastal attractions such as Porthgain Harbour, Carreg Samson and activities offered by Celtic Quest Coasteering.