Ruth Lawes

Research suggests children often experience boredom by the third week of summer break, prompting teacher and podcast host Jake Harris to offer low‑cost ways to keep them engaged. His suggestions include giving children purposeful responsibilities like preparing meals, creating a home snack shop to encourage independence and basic maths, spending time outdoors through simple games and exploration, using audio content for screen‑free entertainment, reinventing classic games with creative twists, and turning public transport trips into small adventures. These activities aim to foster creativity, independence and family connection while remaining budget‑friendly.

Advice from personal finance expert Andrew Hagger outlines ways for travellers to protect their money abroad, including using hotel safes, carrying only calculated daily cash amounts, paying in local currency to avoid costly conversion fees, choosing cards with no foreign transaction charges, using credit cards for large purchases to secure Section 75 protection, keeping valuables in slim and concealed wallets, and checking ATM fees before withdrawing. These steps aim to reduce theft risks and unnecessary charges during holidays.

New regulations taking effect on 15 July bring major consumer protections to Buy Now Pay Later services, placing providers such as Klarna and Clearpay under the oversight of the Financial Conduct Authority. The rules introduce mandatory affordability checks, clearer information for borrowers, and access to the Financial Ombudsman Service for unresolved complaints. Agreements made before the implementation date remain unregulated. Missed payments may affect credit scores as lenders formalize their collection practices. Experts say the changes should reduce the risk of consumers taking on unmanageable debt and advise shoppers to track their BNPL commitments and seek free debt advice if needed.

A selection of global cycling holidays offers immersive experiences from Sri Lanka’s cultural landscapes to South Africa’s coastal routes, France’s Loire Valley, the Balkans’ multi-country journey, and Uzbekistan’s Silk Road heritage. Each trip provides varied scenery, cultural highlights, and guided or self-guided options, appealing to travellers seeking adventure and deeper connections with their destinations.

Warmer weather and celebratory summer events can lead to increased alcohol consumption, with dehydration and heat raising associated risks. Warning signs of problematic drinking include losing track of intake, feeling unable to refuse drinks, obsessing over drinking opportunities, and concerns raised by others. Struggling to abstain for a month is another indicator of an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, and taking such breaks can offer notable health benefits.

A health charity warns that summer can trigger excessive drinking due to social events, heat and seasonal habits. Signs of problematic consumption include losing track of alcohol intake, difficulty refusing drinks, frequently thinking about drinking, concerns raised by loved ones and being unable to take a month off. Expert advice encourages tracking habits, taking alcohol-free days and seeking medical help if worried about consumption.

Several Norfolk villages offer scenic landscapes, historic sites and strong culinary options, including Shotesham, Stoke Holy Cross and Trowse. Attractions range from medieval churches and woodland walks to Michelin-starred dining and craft breweries. Heydon stands out for its period charm, while Binham combines ancient heritage with modern quirks such as a cheese vending machine. Travel and accommodation options from Norwich provide accessible routes for visitors exploring the region.