Portia Jones

Summit queues for photographs at Yr Wyddfa have created hostility between hikers, with visitors booed and criticised for bypassing an unofficial line to touch the summit marker. Portia Jones argues that social-media-driven bucket-list tourism is turning wild landscapes into theme parks, contributing to overcrowding, litter and environmental damage. Mountain leaders say the queues are unnecessary because they are not safety-related, while Llanberis Mountain Rescue warns that prolonged waiting in hot, changeable conditions can cause illness and discourage hikers from descending. The article calls for visitors to value the climb and landscape rather than staged summit selfies.

Conwy is presented as a picturesque North Wales destination combining medieval walls, Conwy Castle, a lively harbour, boat trips and attractions such as the Smallest House in Great Britain. The feature recommends local dining at Dylan's and Michelin-recognised The Jackdaw, highlighting their use of Welsh ingredients and culinary traditions, and suggests the Quay Hotel and Spa in nearby Deganwy for accommodation. The town's history, UNESCO heritage, ghost stories and coastal setting are key parts of its appeal.