Joanna Whitehead

Burgas, Bulgaria, has been selected to host the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest from 12 to 15 May, beating Sofia in the selection process. The Black Sea city will stage the competition, including rehearsals, semi-finals and the final, at Arena Burgas. The guide highlights Burgas’s beaches, Sea Garden, wetlands, birdwatching, museums, music scene and nearby Atanasovsko Lake, while recommending central accommodation and outlining flight and rail connections from the UK and Sofia.

More than 1,500 Arriva North London bus drivers are taking repeated strike action over inadequate cooling and extreme heat in bus cabs, which Unite says can exceed 40°C and pose serious health risks. The strikes affect dozens of routes from eight garages across north and east London, with further action scheduled through October and some dates coinciding with Piccadilly line closures. Arriva says it has introduced breaks and welfare checks and is investing in upgraded air-conditioning systems and new buses, while urging Unite to resume negotiations. TfL apologised for the disruption and advised passengers to allow extra time and check travel updates.

A Southern train travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed near Lewes on 13 August, injuring two people seriously and 18 others less seriously. The next morning, all lines between Lewes and Haywards Heath remained closed and services were cancelled, with disruption also affecting routes to Eastbourne, Hastings, Seaford, Brighton and London. Replacement buses and acceptance on other rail, Underground and bus services were arranged, while passengers were advised to allow at least 60 minutes of extra travel time. Separate signalling and points failures caused further Southern disruption near Streatham Common, Selhurst, Three Bridges and Horsham.

The launch date for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has been removed from its official website, which now says the system is not operational and is accepting no applications. The European Commission says preparations remain ongoing and that a start date will be set once all conditions are met, while a 2027 launch is reportedly the most likely outcome after a September 2026 eu-LISA board meeting. ETIAS will eventually require visa-exempt travellers from countries including the UK, US, Australia and Canada to obtain authorisation before visiting 30 European countries, at a reported cost of €20 for most applicants. The delay comes amid criticism of the separate EES biometric border system, which has caused long queues and significant disruption at European checkpoints.

Almeria Airport in Andalusia will close for six days during the second half of February 2028 for runway renovations, requiring scheduled flights to be cancelled, rescheduled or diverted. The closure is part of a wider €29 million, 19-month airport upgrade beginning in 2027, with additional potential disruption from overnight construction. Airlines including Ryanair, easyJet and Iberia have been notified, while Granada-Jaén and Malaga are identified as alternative airports. The announcement follows plans for Charleroi Airport in Belgium to close for nearly three months in 2028.

Hotel prices have risen sharply in European destinations along or near the path of an upcoming solar eclipse as tourists seek prime viewing locations. Reykjavik prices are up 98 per cent, while prices in several Spanish cities have increased by between 24 and 135 per cent. Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected in Spain, while parts of southwest England and Wales will also have strong viewing conditions. The article also previews a longer total eclipse in 2027 crossing southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

East Midlands Railway and West Midlands Railway have reduced, suspended or replaced several services amid an amber Met Office extreme-heat warning, with temperatures expected to reach 38°C in parts of England. East Midlands Railway advises passengers to travel only if essential on Thursday and, where possible, to make journeys before midday. Passengers delayed by at least 15 minutes may claim compensation through the Delay Repay scheme.

Mount Etna’s ongoing eruption and volcanic ash have disrupted flights at Catania Airport in Sicily, where arrivals and departures were suspended and only about 10% of flights were operating. Malta International Airport also reported cancellations and delays, particularly affecting services to Edinburgh and Paris. Diverted traffic has placed pressure on Palermo Airport, causing transport shortages and delays, while Comiso Airport has resumed normal operations. Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology continues to report effusive activity, with the aviation warning remaining at its highest red level.

East Midlands Railway suspended or reduced several services during a period of extreme heat, advising passengers to travel only when essential and preferably before midday. West Midlands Railway also introduced replacement buses and reduced timetables on selected routes around Birmingham and the West Midlands. The Met Office issued an amber warning for parts of England, with temperatures expected to reach 36C. Both operators urged passengers to check journey updates, while West Midlands Railway said eligible delayed passengers could claim compensation.

Jet2 has identified scheduled flights from destinations including Ibiza, Faro, Tenerife, Agadir, Alicante, Málaga, Palma de Mallorca and Zakynthos that may provide passengers with views of the solar eclipse over Spain and Portugal. The quality of the view will depend on weather, aircraft routing and passengers' seats. Jet2 chief customer officer David Hills described the event as a potentially once-in-a-lifetime experience. Iberia also plans to livestream the total eclipse from a chartered flight at 10,000 metres, although that flight will not be open to the public.

Saltmoore is a newly redeveloped coastal hotel near Sandsend and Whitby in North Yorkshire, offering a serene, stylish setting focused on rest and wellness. The property has contemporary rooms, professional service, a well-equipped Sanctuary Spa, accessible accommodation, pet-friendly options and family facilities. Its Michelin Guide-recommended Brasserie serves well-executed Yorkshire-focused food, alongside more casual dining venues. The hotel is best suited to couples or friends seeking relaxation rather than lively group holidays.

Farlam Hall is presented as an elegant, adults-oriented country house retreat in Cumbria, offering comfortable rooms, attentive service, spa treatments and access to rural activities near Hadrian’s Wall. Its main attraction is The Cedar Tree, where chef and patron Hrikshikesh Desai serves inventive Michelin-starred cuisine using garden produce and Indian spices. The hotel is considered especially suitable for food enthusiasts and less suitable for families with young children, although accessibility provisions and limited dog-friendly accommodation are available.

A ranked selection of 12 European resorts offering kids’ clubs and family-friendly facilities. The recommendations span beach and island resorts in Greece, France, Spain, Italy, Croatia and Portugal, with options ranging from watersports and waterparks to skiing, nature activities, creative workshops and teen programmes. Standout choices include Le Dune Resort for its extensive activities and beaches, Sani Beach and Creta Maris for all-age childcare and pools, and Ikos Olivia for luxury all-inclusive services. Prices range from about £126 to £686 per night, with some resorts priced by weekly stay or membership.

A guide to 22 family-friendly activities in London during the Easter holidays, covering seasonal egg hunts, immersive children’s entertainment, museums, zoos, parks, swimming venues, theatre and distinctive attractions. Highlights include Hampton Court Palace’s Lindt bunny hunt and tulip festival, London Zoo’s egg hunt, a free Baby Shark experience, the Aardman exhibition at Young V&A, the Science Museum’s new Space gallery, Kew Gardens’ Octonauts trail, the Harry Potter studio tour, the West End and the London Wetland Centre. Prices, dates, access details and booking requirements are provided for many activities.

The guide highlights 15 Christmas activities in London for 2025, including The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum, Christmas at Kew, ice skating, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, festive film screenings, Santa experiences, decorated pubs, pantomimes, carol singing, the Serpentine Christmas Day swim, indoor winter attractions, Christmas lights, curling, markets and a London Eye Santa experience. It provides dates, prices and venue information, with options ranging from free walks and spectacles to ticketed family entertainment.

A Jet2 flight from London Stansted to Fuerteventura diverted to Faro after the crew reported an irregular indication and requested a priority landing. The Boeing 737 landed safely with emergency services on standby, and Jet2 sent a replacement aircraft so passengers could continue their journey. The incident comes as Jet2 reports record passenger numbers and revenue, partly attributing increased brand awareness to a viral TikTok trend featuring its advertising slogan and Jess Glynne’s song “Hold My Hand”.

Uttlesford District Council has approved plans for a £1.1bn expansion of London Stansted Airport, which could increase annual passenger capacity from nearly 30 million to 51 million by 2040 and make it the UK’s second busiest airport. The project involves accommodating larger aircraft and expanding terminal facilities without building a new runway or increasing permitted flight numbers. It is expected to create around 4,500 jobs and improve road and rail links, although Hertfordshire County Council has objected over traffic, transport and noise concerns. Stansted managing director Gareth Powell said the growth would be delivered sustainably, including through decarbonisation and greater use of public transport.

The UK’s first Universal theme park has received planning permission for construction in Kempston, Hardwick, Bedfordshire, through a special development order approved by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Scheduled to open in 2031, the park is expected to attract more than eight million visitors a year, create 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 operational roles, and deliver a projected £50 billion boost to the British economy. The project also includes £500 million in public investment in rail and road infrastructure and may feature attractions based on Minions, Jaws and Jurassic Park.

Paris has unveiled the C1, or Paris Téléphérique, described as Europe’s longest urban cable car. The €138 million, 2.8-mile service connects Créteil with Villa Nova in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges, serving southeastern suburbs with limited transport links. Its 105 gondolas are expected to carry more than 11,000 passengers daily, with journeys taking around 18 minutes, and the service operates from early morning until late evening using Navigo passes or €2 tickets.

The 2025 Global Peace Index ranks Iceland, Ireland and New Zealand as the safest countries for 2026 travel, followed by Austria and Switzerland, while Russia, Ukraine and Sudan are ranked the most dangerous, followed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Yemen. The assessment finds that global peacefulness has declined every year since 2014, with 59 active state-based conflicts, increased political instability and growing geopolitical fragmentation. The Middle East and North Africa are the least peaceful region, while Western and Central Europe remains the most peaceful despite rising social tensions and distrust in institutions. Azerbaijan recorded the largest improvement, while Bangladesh experienced the largest decline due to civil unrest and a deadly government crackdown.

UK authorities are investigating a sharp rise in shigella infections among travellers returning from Cape Verde. Of 137 confirmed UK cases since early October, 109 involved recent travel to the archipelago, with symptoms including bloody diarrhoea, cramps and fever. The outbreak has been linked particularly to all-inclusive hotels in Sal’s Santa Maria region and is thought to spread through contaminated food or water or poor hygiene. Most people recover within a week, but the infection can be serious for young children and people with weakened immunity; medical facilities in Cape Verde are described as limited.

The UK’s first Universal Studios theme park has received planning permission through a special development order from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The 700-acre attraction in Kempston, Hardwick, Bedfordshire, is expected to open in 2031, attract more than eight million visitors annually and create 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 operational roles. The project will receive £500 million in public funding for supporting road and rail infrastructure, including a new East West Rail station and expanded capacity at Luton airport. Planned attractions are expected to draw on Universal franchises such as Minions, Jaws and Jurassic Park, with rides and structures potentially reaching 115 metres.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is investigating a sharp rise in shigella infections among travellers returning from Cape Verde. Of 137 confirmed UK cases, 109 involved recent travel to the archipelago, with many cases linked to five-star all-inclusive resorts in the Santa Maria area of Sal. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control says the outbreak is recurrent and that the transmission source remains unclear, although contaminated food or water and poor hygiene are possible causes. The FCDO warns that medical facilities in Cape Verde are limited and medicines may be unavailable. Most people recover within five to seven days, but the infection can cause serious complications in young children and people with weakened immunity.

Paris has unveiled the C1 cable car, Europe’s longest urban cable car, linking Metro Line 9 in Créteil with Villa Nova in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges. The 2.8-mile route cost €138 million, took 17 years to develop and is expected to carry more than 11,000 passengers daily, cutting the journey to about 18 minutes compared with at least 35 minutes by bus. Operated by Transdev, the accessible service will accept Navigo passes and provide replacement buses during closures, high winds, breakdowns and annual maintenance.

European Sleeper has launched a €2.3 million (£2 million) crowdfunding campaign to finance the expansion of its European night-train network. The Dutch-Belgian operator plans to restore the Paris-Berlin connection in March 2026 and launch a Brussels-Amsterdam-Milan service in June 2026. Investments start at €140, while investors contributing at least €2,000 receive a 20 per cent discount on services. The cooperative sharefunding round had reached nearly 84 per cent of its target, and funds will also support accessible holiday packages following the acquisition of GreenCityTrip. The campaign comes amid wider growth in European sleeper services, including Poland’s EN Carpatia route and a planned Swiss Federal Railways connection between Basel, Copenhagen and Malmö.

Boston is the most in-demand city among travellers planning to attend the 2026 World Cup, with searches rising 1,000 per cent after the tournament draw, particularly among English and Scottish fans. Dallas follows with a 900 per cent increase, driven largely by Japanese supporters, while New York and Miami also rank highly. Mexico City and Monterrey offer the lowest average hotel rates among host cities at £179 per night, whereas Vancouver is the most expensive at £475. Travel searches to the United States by British fans have risen 290 per cent, and Colombian supporters recorded the largest national increase at 305 per cent.

ICEHOTEL 36, a hotel built entirely from ice harvested from Sweden’s Torne River, has opened in Jukkasjärvi for the winter season. The 2,800-square-metre property features ice suites designed by 33 artists from 12 countries, including a playable grand piano, an ice cinema, a restaurant serving Nordic ingredients and Arctic activities such as Northern Lights tours, dog sledding and sauna rituals. Guests can also stay in heated cabins, while the hotel’s ice structure will melt back into the river in spring. The team behind ICEHOTEL plans to open an ice bar in London next year.

China Eastern Airlines has completed a 12,400-mile commercial flight from Shanghai to Buenos Aires, with a refuelling and crew-rotation stop in Auckland. The 29-hour service, operated twice weekly year-round on a Boeing 777-300ER, is now described as the world’s longest commercial flight and is intended to serve Argentina’s growing East Asian diaspora. The route surpasses Singapore Airlines’ previous 19-hour New York–Singapore service, while Qantas is planning potentially longer direct flights.

China Eastern Airlines has completed the inaugural Shanghai–Buenos Aires service, a journey covering about 12,400 miles and taking more than 25 hours each way, with a refuelling and crew-change stop in Auckland. The route will operate twice weekly year-round using a 316-seat Boeing 777-300ER and is intended to serve Argentina’s growing East Asian diaspora while improving connections between China and South America. It is now considered the world’s longest commercial airline route, surpassing Singapore Airlines’ New York–Singapore service. Qantas’s planned Project Sunrise flights could eventually offer longer nonstop routes between Australia, Europe and North America.

The Scottish Government has advised Highland Council to pause its proposed five per cent visitor levy on holiday accommodation, which was expected to raise about £10 million annually. Accommodation providers and Chambers of Commerce warned that a percentage-based charge could deter visitors. Planned legislation in early 2026 is expected to give councils more flexibility to use fixed rates or vary charges by location, season and accommodation type, building on the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act passed in May 2024.

A new 188-mile circular Roof of England walking route has opened across the North Pennines, covering parts of Cumbria, Northumberland, County Durham and the Yorkshire Dales. The challenging trail can be completed in around two weeks or divided into four public-transport-accessible sections, with shorter day walks also possible. It features waterfalls, gorges, historic sites, high upland landscapes and Cross Fell, while passing through important habitats that support abundant birdlife. The route was developed by the North Pennines National Landscape team with local partners to promote access to and enjoyment of the region.

Strike action is expected to disrupt Christmas travel across the UK, Italy, Portugal and Spain. SAS cabin crew at Heathrow, easyJet check-in and baggage staff at Luton, Italian ferry, rail, port and airline workers, Portuguese transport workers and Spanish airport baggage handlers are scheduled to strike at various points in December. Travellers are advised to check operator updates, allow extra time and carry essential supplies. Compensation for delays caused by strikes may not be available because industrial action is often treated as an extraordinary circumstance.

A €1 billion Dracula-themed attraction called Dracula Land is being planned near Bucharest, Romania, with a possible opening as early as 2027. The development is expected to include six themed areas, 40 attractions, hotels with 1,200 rooms, an aqua park, thermal spa, racing track and 22,500-seat arena. Developers estimate it could create more than 5,000 jobs and generate around €5 billion in economic impact over the next decade.

The Scottish government has advised Highland authorities to pause plans for a five per cent visitor levy on holiday accommodation, which was estimated to raise about £10 million annually. The recommendation follows concerns from accommodation providers and local chambers of commerce that a percentage-based charge could deter visitors. Proposed legislation, expected in early 2026, would allow councils to choose between percentage-based and fixed-rate levies, vary charges by location, season and accommodation type, and clarify rules for bookings made through third-party platforms. Councillors are due to consider the recommendation, under powers created by the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024.

Dracula Land, a proposed €1 billion theme park near Bucharest, would feature six themed areas, 40 attractions, hotels, an aqua park, a spa, a racing complex, retail outlets and a 22,500-seat arena. The 780,000-square-metre development is expected by its promoters to create more than 5,000 jobs and generate about €5 billion in economic impact over a decade. An opening could take place as early as 2027, although ticket prices have not yet been announced.

A British Airways engineer fell approximately 20 feet onto concrete while examining the auxiliary power unit of a stationary aircraft at Heathrow Airport. Emergency services arrived shortly after 2am, treated him at the scene and took him to a major trauma centre. His condition was unknown, while British Airways said it was supporting him, his family and colleagues and assisting authorities. The Health and Safety Executive confirmed that it was making enquiries.

Martin Lewis has urged customers to book early during easyJet’s sale of more than 25 million seats for travel from 19 October 2026 to 31 January 2027. Destinations include the Balearic and Canary Islands, Spain, Italy, France, Malta and Sharm el-Sheikh, including flights over Christmas. Because easyJet uses dynamic pricing, fares may increase as demand rises, so travellers are advised to compare prices and secure bookings promptly.

China Eastern Airlines has completed a 12,400-mile commercial route from Shanghai to Buenos Aires, lasting about 29 hours including a refuelling and crew-rotation stop in Auckland. Operated twice weekly year-round on a Boeing 777-300ER, the service is now the longest commercial flight route and is intended to improve connections between China and South America, particularly for Argentina’s growing East Asian diaspora.

easyJet has released more than 25 million seats for travel from 19 October 2026 to 31 January 2027, including flights during the Christmas period. Martin Lewis advises travelers to book early because prices can rise as demand increases, although fares may fall later on substantially under-booked flights. Example fares include one-way flights between the UK and Geneva or Basel for roughly £23–£29.

The French Senate has backed a proposed €15 tax on cruise passengers for each port call in France, which could raise an estimated €75 million annually for coastal conservation. Sponsored by Republican senator Jean-Marc Delia and justified through the “polluter pays” principle, the measure faces opposition from President Emmanuel Macron’s government and must still be approved by the Assemblée nationale as part of the 2026 budget. The proposal comes amid rising cruise tourism and growing local restrictions in Cannes and Nice, as environmental campaigners criticize the industry’s emissions, waste and greenwashing.

British Airways will increase the Avios points and cash charges required for Reward Flight Saver flights from 15 December. Examples include a rise from 9,250 to 10,000 points for a one-way standard-class London–Geneva flight and from 160,000 to 176,000 points for a return business-class London–New York flight, with corresponding increases in cash charges. BA attributes the roughly 9% increase to higher air passenger duty, third-party charges, market conditions and inflation; existing bookings will not be affected. The changes follow above-inflation increases in air passenger duty announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, prompting advice for travellers not to hold frequent-flyer points indefinitely because they may be devalued.

Planning officials have recommended approval for a £450 million Center Parcs village near Hawick, which would include 700 lodges, a swimming complex, forest spa and other activities. The development is expected to create year-round employment and attract hundreds of thousands of visitors, although objections cite farmland loss, pollution, traffic and visual impact. The proposal is due to go before the Planning and Building Standards Committee for final approval on 8 December.

Scotland’s first Center Parcs village, a planned £450 million development near Hawick, has advanced after planning officials recommended approval. The project would include 700 lodges, indoor and outdoor activities, restaurants, a spa, swimming facilities, lochs and woodland trails, and is expected to open in 2029. Supporters say it could attract hundreds of thousands of visitors and create year-round employment, while opponents have raised concerns about farmland loss, pollution, traffic and landscape impacts. The proposal is due to be considered by the Planning and Building Standards Committee.

Twenty-two British restaurants have been added to the Michelin Guide as regionally notable establishments worthy of recommendation. The new entries include restaurants in Bray, Royal Leamington Spa, London, Belfast, Loch Lomond, Sevenoaks and Salford. Michelin inspectors assess ingredient quality, flavour, cooking technique, consistency and value for money through anonymous visits, with additions made monthly.

Twenty-two restaurants across the UK were added to the Michelin Guide in November 2025, including venues in London, Scotland, Belfast and other locations. Featured restaurants include The Crown in Bray, The Warwick in Royal Leamington Spa, Singburi in London, Beau in Belfast, LOMA by Graeme Cheevers at Loch Lomond and Shwen Shwen in Sevenoaks. Inclusion signifies regional recognition and a recommendation from Michelin’s anonymous inspectors, but is distinct from receiving a Michelin star; new guide additions are made monthly, while stars are awarded annually.

Imber, an abandoned village on Salisbury Plain whose 150 residents were evicted in 1943 to support wartime military training, will reopen to the public from 29 December through 1 January. Visitors will be able to see historic buildings, St Giles church and disused military equipment, although access remains restricted because the village is controlled by the Ministry of Defence.

Travelodge is offering members of the public free 75-minute hotel-room bookings on 10 December so parents can wrap Christmas presents privately. The rooms include wrapping supplies, refreshments and a mince pie. The initiative follows Travelodge research suggesting that many UK adults lack privacy for gift wrapping and a viral social media post about renting a hotel room for the same purpose.

The Musée Bonnat-Helleu in Bayonne, France, has reopened after a 14-year, €35 million renovation. Nicknamed the “Little Louvre,” the museum now has 3,000 square metres of exhibition space displaying around 7,000 works from Antiquity through the 20th century, including pieces by Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Rubens and Goya. It aims to increase annual visitors to between 60,000 and 80,000 and plans to prioritise acquiring works by female artists.

Imber Village on Salisbury Plain, whose population was evicted in 1943 to allow military training, will reopen to the public from 29 December through 1 January 2026. Visitors will be able to explore the historic village, including St Giles Church, while viewing its abandoned buildings and disused military equipment. The Ministry of Defence continues to control the site, which is normally accessible to civilians only a few days each year. Recent events include the Imberbus charity gathering and the 2023 funeral of former resident Ray Nash.

The Musée Bonnat-Helleu in Bayonne, France, has reopened after a 14-year, €35 million renovation. Nicknamed the “Little Louvre,” the museum now displays around 7,000 works spanning Antiquity to the 20th century, including pieces by Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Rubens and Goya. Its expanded facilities include restored historic features, exhibition and study spaces, a café and gift shop. The museum aims to attract 60,000–80,000 visitors annually and is prioritizing female artists in future acquisitions, while offering free or reduced admission to several groups.

A LOT Polish Airlines Embraer 170 flying from Warsaw slid off the taxiway while taxiing after landing at Vilnius Airport in snowy conditions. All 63 passengers and four crew members disembarked safely, with no injuries initially reported, but the runway was temporarily closed and the return flight to Vilnius was cancelled. The incident occurred amid wider weather-related disruptions and recent airport closures caused by balloons allegedly used by smugglers and linked by Lithuanian authorities to Belarus.

A LOT Polish Airlines Embraer 170 carrying 63 passengers and four crew skidded off the runway while taxiing after landing at Vilnius airport from Warsaw on 26 November. All passengers were safely taken to the terminal without injuries, but the runway was temporarily closed amid heavy snow and freezing conditions. The incident follows earlier weather-related closures linked by Lithuanian authorities to weather balloons allegedly associated with cigarette smugglers and Belarus.

Italy has introduced a law requiring all skiers and snowboarders to wear CE-certified helmets, with violations punishable by fines of up to €200 and suspension of lift passes. The mandate also requires third-party liability insurance and prohibits skiing or snowboarding under the influence of drugs or above a blood-alcohol limit of 0.5 per mille. The rule is intended to reduce serious head injuries and makes Italy the first European country to adopt such a requirement; it takes effect ahead of the winter sports season and the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.

The Scottish government has approved an entry fee for the 5,000-year-old Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis. Historic Environment Scotland says the revenue will fund jobs, improve the visitor experience, and support long-term conservation, while local residents will retain free access. The exact fee has not yet been announced.

The Scottish government has approved an admission fee for the 5,000-year-old Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis, although local residents will retain free access. Historic Environment Scotland says the charge will fund conservation, new jobs and improvements to the visitor experience as tourism to the site is expected to grow. A charity will operate a redeveloped visitor centre, while research from VisitScotland highlights Outlander’s significant role in increasing interest in Scottish locations.

All Nippon Airways is offering British and European travellers up to two free domestic flights within Japan when they purchase an international ANA flight to the country. The offer runs from 24 November through 31 January 2026, although taxes and visa fees may still apply. The initiative is intended to direct visitors toward lesser-known regions and help ease overcrowding as Japan responds to a record 36 million tourists in 2024.

All Nippon Airways is offering eligible British and European passengers up to two free domestic flights when they book an international flight to Japan for travel during or around the winter promotion period. The scheme covers standard-class travel, though taxes and visa fees may still apply, and is intended to encourage visitors to explore regions beyond heavily visited Tokyo and Kyoto. The initiative comes as Japan responds to record tourism numbers and concerns about overtourism, crime and disorderly conduct involving some foreign visitors.

Egypt is preparing to launch a 2,000-kilometre high-speed rail network linking 60 stations, including Cairo and the New Administrative Capital. Siemens Mobility Velaro trains, designed for extreme heat and sandy conditions, will reach speeds of up to 250 km/h. The network is expected to cut journey times by as much as 50 percent and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 70 percent compared with road travel, with the Ain Sokhna–Alexandria line expected to begin operating soon.

Bali is advancing legislation to ensure that beaches remain accessible to the public. Governor I Wayan Koster submitted a draft law on 17 November after criticism that hotels and villas were restricting residents’ access and disrupting religious ceremonies. The measure is intended to reinforce a 2016 presidential regulation declaring beaches public state property, with debate and passage planned before the end of 2025.

Siemens Mobility has unveiled its eight-car Velaro high-speed train for Egypt at the TransMEA 2025 show in New Cairo. Capable of reaching 250kmph, the train is designed for extreme heat, sand and dust and will operate on a new 2,000km network linking 60 stations across the country. The network is planned to include 41 trains and connect major destinations such as Cairo, the New Administrative Capital, Ain Sokhna and Alexandria, cutting journey times and expanding freight capacity. The project is being developed with Arab Contractors and Orascom Construction, while Egypt’s existing diesel network undergoes upgrades.

An amber Met Office warning for snow and ice in North East England is expected to cause significant accumulations, road delays, public transport cancellations and possible power cuts through Thursday 20 November. Yellow warnings and cold health alerts are also in effect across much of the UK. National Rail advises passengers to check journeys and allow extra time, while ferry services in western Scotland and the Western Isles face cancellations and delays. Temperatures could fall to -11°C in rural Scotland before conditions gradually become milder and drier for many areas on Friday.

Portugal’s National Civil Aviation Authority has instructed Ryanair to continue accepting printed boarding passes from passengers who have checked in, despite the airline’s move toward app-based digital passes. Ryanair must waive reissue fees and cannot deny boarding because of smartphone problems such as a flat battery. CEO Michael O’Leary had previously said that paper passes would be reissued free at airports.

Bali Governor I Wayan Koster has submitted draft legislation to protect public access to the island’s beaches and prevent hotels and villas from restricting access. The proposal responds to growing complaints that commercial development is blocking local residents and tourists from shorelines used for religious ceremonies and social activities. Although Indonesian law already defines beaches as public spaces that cannot be privatised, enforcement has been inconsistent. Bali aims to debate and pass the new regulation before the end of 2025.

Portugal’s National Civil Aviation Authority has instructed Ryanair to accept printed boarding passes, waive reissue fees and ensure passengers are not denied boarding if they lack a digital pass or their phone battery fails. The directive responds to Ryanair’s plan to require passengers to use boarding passes in its smartphone app. Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary said passengers who check in online would still be able to receive a paper pass at the airport or board if their phone became unavailable.

France has introduced fines of up to €10,000 for disruptive air passengers, rising to €20,000 for repeat offenders, alongside flight bans of up to four years in serious cases. The rules cover prohibited electronic-device use, obstructing flight crew and refusing safety instructions. A French Civil Aviation Authority database will allow airlines to report harmful behaviour. Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said the measures prioritize passenger and crew safety, while Simon Calder endorsed strong penalties as a deterrent, despite questioning whether the maximum fine could be excessive for minor violations such as forgetting airplane mode.

Ciel Dubai Marina has opened in Dubai as the world’s tallest hotel, standing 377 metres high with 1,004 rooms and suites across 82 floors. The IHG-associated property includes restaurants, a rooftop infinity pool, family facilities, a beach-club partnership and a spa scheduled to open in February 2026. It takes the tallest-hotel title from Dubai’s 356-metre Gevora Hotel. Guinness World Records distinguishes this category from the tallest hotel in a mixed-use building, held by Rosewood Guangzhou, and the highest-altitude hotel, located in Bolivia.

The Frattini Bivouac, a red art installation and emergency shelter located 2,300 metres above sea level in Italy’s Orobie Alps, requires a six-to-eight-hour hike to reach. Designed with nine beds, solar-powered lighting, insulation and no heating or running water, it is open year-round without staffing or tickets. Created by GAMeC and the Bergamo section of the Italian Alpine Club for the Orobie Biennial, it also serves as a scientific outpost collecting data on the alpine ecosystem and replaces earlier shelters destroyed or rendered unsafe.

European Sleeper will launch a Paris-Berlin night-train service on 26 March 2026, operating three times weekly via Brussels and offering one-way fares from €59.99. The route is intended to replace Nightjet services being discontinued by SNCF after French state subsidies ended. Ticket sales are due to open on 16 December 2025, with European Sleeper highlighting its community-funded ownership model and plans to coordinate with ÖBB and SNCF Voyageurs. The announcement comes alongside plans for new sleeper routes linking Poland with central Europe and Basel with Copenhagen and Malmö.

Officials in Bibury, a Cotswold village known for attracting thousands of visitors, are consulting on a permanent ban on tourist coaches because of severe congestion and passenger safety risks. Temporary restrictions introduced in May closed parking bays and added bus-stop clearways. The proposals, supported by the Bibury One group, also include loading bays and disabled parking, with the consultation open until 3 December.

Bibury in Gloucestershire is consulting on permanently banning tourist coaches after severe congestion, unsafe manoeuvres and visitor-related incidents during periods when up to 20,000 people visit in a weekend. Temporary restrictions introduced during the summer closed central parking bays and added safer bus-stop clearways. Proposed permanent measures also include a loading bay, disabled parking spaces and extended yellow-line restrictions. The plans are supported by Bibury One, a group representing residents, councillors, transport operators, the county council and police, with the consultation running from 10 November to 3 December.

The Mundo Pixar Experience, described as the world’s largest Pixar-themed attraction, is scheduled to open at Wembley Park in London on 13 February 2026. The 3,500-square-metre immersive exhibition will feature 14 Pixar-themed areas, more than 25 sculptures, interactive activities and a London-exclusive room. Tickets will start at £18 for children and £24 for adults, with presale registration available.

The Mundo Pixar Experience, described as the world’s largest Pixar-themed attraction, will open at a purpose-built venue in Wembley Park, London, on 13 February 2026. Spanning more than 3,500 square metres, it will feature 14 Pixar-themed environments, including settings from Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Cars, Up, Coco and Inside Out, alongside sculptures, sensory effects and a treasure hunt. The attraction has previously appeared in Brazil, Mexico, Belgium and Spain, attracting more than 3.2 million visitors. UK ticket prices will start at £18 for children and £24 for adults, with presale registration available through the Mundo Pixar website.

Thailand’s new Alcohol Control Act, effective 8 November 2025, makes both venues and individuals responsible for complying with alcohol restrictions. Unlicensed premises cannot sell or allow alcohol consumption from midnight to 11 a.m. or from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., with fines of up to 10,000 baht for violations. Pubs, bars, hotels and international-airport departure lounges are exempt from these time limits. Smaller businesses and tourism groups have criticized the lack of clarity and are seeking revisions.

Thailand’s Alcohol Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568 makes individuals, including tourists, responsible for buying, selling or drinking alcohol during restricted hours at unlicensed premises. The restrictions apply from midnight to 11am and from 2pm to 5pm, with fines of up to 10,000 baht. Licensed pubs, bars, hotels and international airport departure lounges are exempt. Restaurant and nightlife groups say the law is confusing and unfairly harms smaller businesses, and are seeking clarification and removal of the afternoon sales ban.

Catherine Shockley and William Maycock, passengers from Maryland, are suing Carnival Cruise Line after allegedly suffering more than 30 bed bug bites in a cabin aboard the Carnival Horizon in February. Their complaint claims they found live bugs, fecal spotting and eggs, and that Carnival crew failed to address the problem despite allegedly fumigating other cabins. The passengers accuse the company of negligence and seek damages and a jury trial. Carnival declined to comment on the pending lawsuit but highlighted its sanitation, inspection and bed bug treatment procedures.