TRAVEL

The country tops the list for travellers looking for top-quality healthcare abroad, with an overall healthcare score of 78.72. The UK didn’t make the top 10 and ranked 27th out of 110.

Almost half of Brits are planning a winter getaway, with one in six jetting off to Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, according to Scott Dunn Travel. However, health concerns while abroad are a worry for some holidaymakers.

New research from 1st Move International Removals has delved into healthcare options overseas. The study evaluated factors such as medicine availability and cost, government readiness, and medical infrastructure and professionals.

Shockingly, the UK didn’t even make it into the top 10, coming in at 27th out of 110 countries. The UK scored 47.15 out of 100 on the Healthcare Index, but did best in the Medical Infrastructure and Professionals category with 78.03, reports the Express.

So, which country offers the best healthcare for travellers?

Taiwan takes the top spot for those seeking high-quality healthcare abroad, boasting an overall score of 78.72.

With an impressive infrastructure rating of 87.16, Taiwan’s efficient medical system ensures easy access to top professionals and facilities. Its highly praised National Health Insurance (NHI) system caters to both nationals and expats, making Taiwan an ideal destination for health-conscious travellers.

South Korea takes the second spot, providing peace of mind for tourists with a robust healthcare score of 77.7. Renowned for its state-of-the-art hospitals and skilled staff, South Korea’s infrastructure scores 79.05, ensuring dependable care for visitors.

The nation’s healthcare system, which operates on a national health insurance model, also benefits expats who are eligible to enrol after six months.

Australia ranks third, offering reliable healthcare to tourists with an overall score of 74.11. With an infrastructure rating of 90.75, the country boasts some of the world’s top hospitals and professionals.

Australia offers comprehensive medical coverage for its residents through Medicare, including GP appointments and hospital visits. For expats, a two percent Medicare Levy is applicable.

Here are the top 10 countries offering the best healthcare for travellers:

1. Taiwan – 78.72

2. South Korea – 77.7

3. Australia – 74.11

4. Canada- 71.32

5. Sweden – 70.73

6. Ireland – 67.99

7. Netherlands – 65.38

8. Germany – 64.66

9. Norway – 64.63

10. Israel – 61.73

A far-flung holiday destination is stealing the limelight due to its white sand beaches, lush jungle and volcanic landscapes – and it’s hot in Autumn.

The volcanic island chain of Cape Verde, nestled in the central Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa, epitomises the idyllic island life – boasting year-round warm temperatures, sandy beaches, lush, mountainous areas and a volcanic landscape, reports the Express.

Cape Verde -also known as Cabo Verde- enjoys glorious weather for most of the year. In September, typically the hottest month, temperatures can climb up to a sizzling 35C. By October, you can still expect balmy weather with temperatures hovering between 26 and 28C, peaking at around 30C. Even in the cooler months of January and February, temperatures rarely dip below a pleasant 21C.

This cluster of 10 islands lies hidden in the eastern Atlantic, directly opposite the small African nation of Senegal.

Cape Verde secured independence from Portugal in 1975, though the islands’ heritage endures today through landmarks like the Monumento de Diogo Gomes – a monument to the Portuguese explorer – and the Presidential Palace, constructed during the 19th century for the Portuguese governor.

Cape Verdean culture is a rich blend of Portuguese and West African influences.

The republic boasts its own distinctive music and dance, collectively named Morna – which is most often sung in Cape Verdean Creole, a language that is commonly spoken throughout the islands, in addition to the official language of Portuguese.

Fogo Island stands as the clearest testament to the archipelago’s volcanic heritage, with Fogo meaning “fire” in Portuguese.

The cone-shaped peak of Pico do Fogo soars to 2,829 metres and last erupted in 2015 – though this doesn’t appear to concern the nearly 36,000 residents. Chã das Caldeiras, a settlement of roughly 700 people, sits within the volcano’s crater.

Visitors can explore the hauntingly deserted Esperadinha Airport, situated on the south-westernmost island of Brava. The airport is situated on the only flat pieces of land, a precarious location on a narrow promontory near the water’s edge.

The terminal opened its doors in 1992 but had to cease operations in 2004 due to the strong winds that made it perilous for planes to land.

Nowadays, one can wander across the abandoned tarmac and inside its dilapidated buildings. There are two other defunct airports in the archipelago – Agostinho Neto Airport, in Santo Antão and Mosteiros in Fogo.

Flights are between five and a half to six hours long, with direct connections from the UK to Sal or Boa Vista primarily operated by TUI Airways and easyJet from various UK airports like London Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester, and Bristol.

Those willing to make the trip to this far-flung paradise, however, will be rewarded with sun, sand, fascinating culture and stunning views.

Europe’s most beautiful cities have a strong contender in the form of one underrated spot that has epic coastal views and yet doesn’t have tourist crowds like other hotspots

You’d be forgiven for thinking that a beautiful European city rivalling Santorini with whitewashed buildings and postcard-worthy sea views would also be crammed with tourists.

However there’s one breathtaking spot in Italy which offers just that, but it’s often overlooked by tourists who flock to hotspots such as Amalfi, Positano and Rome when it comes to Italian getaways.

Ostuni isn’t necessarily a hidden gem, but it’s not a classic spot for city breaks despite offering some incredible restaurants and hotels, charming beaches and a hilltop location that means you can get unrivalled views of those crystal-clear waters in the Mediterranean Sea.

Of course there’s more to Ostuni than just gorgeous views. The city is packed with antique shops, hidden eateries serving up that world-famous Italian cuisine, quirky shops and hotels to suit a wide array of budgets. It’s also a great base for exploring the rest of Puglia as it’s within driving distance of plenty of spots such as the likes of Valle d’Itria. (If you are going to drive, take note that the city’s historic centre has strict rules around which cars are allowed in, and often it’s not those available to tourists).

Ostuni boasts balmy weather all through summer, but you can enjoy temperatures of approximately 26C well into September if you do want to avoid peak holiday season crowds in the rest of the region.

As for the beaches, expect pebbled and rocky shores rather than pristine sandy beaches (although you can find a few such as Lido Onda Blu), but they all boast picture-perfect clear waters. Top-rated beaches on Tripadvisor including Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle and Spiaggia Costa Merlata are popular with locals thanks to those unrivalled views.

The lack of overtourism has seen Ostuni named Europe’s ‘most peaceful’ destination, in a recent study conducted by the travel insiders at Omio. They analysed over 500 destinations to identify the top 100 least crowded spots, and then examined the likes of top-rated Tripadvisor attractions in each location. According to the data, Ostuni ranked as the best overseas destination in Europe. Nancy in France took the second spot, closely followed by the Greek island of Santorini.

The latter may come as a surprise considering this year has seen tourists needing to queue up to get to some of the best viewpoints, restaurants being crowded and prices being hiked up as peak holiday season hit. However, it’s worth noting that these are in concentrated areas on the island, such as the village of Oia. There is actually a quieter side to Santorini including hidden hot springs, and black sand beaches such as Mesa Pigadia and White Beach.

The island is also taking steps to combat the large numbers of tourists that come to its shores. This has included recently upping tourist fees for cruise passengers. Visitors who arrive on cruises between June to September face costs of €20 per night, which will need to be paid at the port.

Meanwhile on the mainland, tourists can expect to pay a tourist tax of €8.00 per night between April and October, or €2.00 per night outside of this peak season. This is compared to the previous charge of €0.50, making for a huge jump. The new charges have been brought in to reportedly help fund efforts against climate change, as well as improving infrastructure and disaster prevention.

Do you have a travel story you’d like to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

THE family of a fairground worker who died after being “hit in the head by a ride” have paid tribute.

Corrie Lee Stavers, 28, tragically died in the accident at the Spanish City Summer Fair in Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear, on Saturday afternoon.

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The dad-of-one suffered fatal injuries after a ride hit his head while he was trying to retrieve his jacket, his family said.

Speaking to MailOnline, Corrie’s dad Lee Stavers, 50, paid tribute to his son as an “amazing father”.

He explained that Corrie’s son Lennie had been “left without a father”, saying: “He absolutely doted on that child. He was an absolutely wonderful father to him.”

Lee said he believed Corrie enjoyed his work, saying he was “happy” in pictures at fairground sites.

Describing his late son, Lee said: “He was just a very kind, loving lad. He would do anything for anybody, if anybody asked him to do anything, he would just do it regardless.

“He was always one of them lads who just wanted to please. He just wanted to be loved. He was a brilliant father.”

The 50-year-old also explained how the police had spoken to them about the “absolute tragedy”, saying they understood Corrie had been operating the ride when he was hit.

They believe he may have gone to grab his jacket or another item but had then been hit by the ride.

Lee, who does not use social media, tragically revealed that he only found out about his son’s death after a colleague told him to urgently contact his family. 

A GoFundMe page has also been setup in honour of “our beloved Corrie” by his family.

The fundraiser states: “It’s with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our beloved Corrie has passed away.

“He was tragically taken from us in an accident while working on a fairground ride. None of us were prepared for this, and the pain of losing him so suddenly is impossible to put into words.

“Our lives will never be the same without him, but his memory will live on in our hearts forever.

“We love you endlessly Corrie, and we miss you more than words can ever say. Your with your mam now. Rest in peace Corrie.”

The family added that any donations would be “highly appreciated”, since the family were “not financially ready for this”.

They continued: “Any donation towards giving our beloved Corrie the send off he deserves our family will be ever so grateful.

“We know he was a much loved young lad,any donations left over after the funeral costs will be put in a trust fund for Corrie’s five-year-old son Lennie-Lee.”

Lee revealed that Corrie used to be a very keen boxer but had been forced to stop after suffering a nose injury.

Almost £3,000 of the £4,000 target has already been raised, at time of writing.

Northumbria Police is working alongside the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) to investigate the tragedy.

ALMOST 150 miners were trapped underground in eastern Ukraine after Russia bombed a coal facility, killing one worker.

The terrifying ordeal comes as details about the security guarantees Trump is prepared to offer Ukraine begin to emerge – namely big guns and intel, according to officials.

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One miner was killed and three injured by the shelling on the coal mine – while 146 were left stuck inside the dark labyrinth.

The mine belongs to DETK, Ukraine’s largest energy company.

A spokesperson for them said: “The attack damaged the company’s buildings and equipment and caused a power outage.

“At the time, 146 miners were underground, and efforts to bring them to the surface are ongoing.”

The precise location of the trapped miners was not revealed by the firm, but a union leader reported they were stuck in the Dobropillia community in Donetsk.

It was reported later in the day that all the miners had been rescued and brought back to the surface.

Donetsk, one half of the Donbas region, has mostly been overrun by Russia – but its famous “fortress belt” is still clinging on.

Donbas is Ukraine’s industrial powerhouse and holds rich reserves of coal and metal underground.

Russia has demanded Ukraine hands over the remaining land in exchange for peace – a proposal Zelensky screwed up and threw out.

Meanwhile, details have finally emerged about the security guarantees the US could give to Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

Trump first confirmed the US would be involved in Ukraine‘s long-term safety during the White House summit with European leaders – but did not specify what they would look like.

We learned they would definitely not include American boots on the ground – though Trump suggested other willing nations would send manpower.

Now, the US has said it is willing to provide intelligence and battlefield leadership to Ukraine‘s army as part of a deal, reports the Financial Times citing four briefed officials.

Senior US officials have reportedly told European leaders in discussions since the summit that Washington would offer “strategic enablers” to the brave defenders.

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These would include intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, command and control, and air defence weapons.

The objective of these helping hands would be to deter any future Russian attacks.

Members of the Coalition of the Willing – including the UK and France – are expected to take more active roles in Ukraine’s defence.

It’s not clear which countries, if any, would commit to sending troops to the frontline.

Nations have admitted that any deployment of boots would only happen under robust US support.

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This package of military aid offered by the US is dependent on European countries committing to sending tens of thousands of troops to Ukraine.

It could be retracted if that requirement is not fulfilled, the officials warned.

Nonetheless, the promises now firmed up with details mark a major shift in America’s attitude towards the future protection of Ukraine.

Just earlier this year, Trump had ruled out the States having any part in it.

First, however, a peace deal must be reached.

Trump and European leaders have pushed hard for a head-to-head meeting between Zelensky and Putin, but the Kremlin has once again stalled.

Concern is rising that the Alaska summit will turn out to have been fruitless.

The EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, even warned that the red-carpet event even gave Putin “everything he wanted” without demanding a single concession from him.

A MUM who swindled more than £75,000 in benefits to pay for a boob job and luxury holidays then turned to running an illegal puppy farm to make more cash.

Tammy Hart, 48, made at least £35,000 from her criminal farm after being released from jail for wrongly claiming tax credits to fund her plush lifestyle.

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Hart had also lied that she was single – when she was secretly married to the father of her two children.

A court heard she and her husband Neil Hart, 53, lived a “lavish” lifestyle after wrongly pocketing taxpayers’ money.

After being jailed for two years, she then turned back to crime, becoming an unlicensed dog breeder following her release.

Hart’s illegal puppy farm was busted, and the benefit swindler was ordered to pay more than £40,000 as a result.

The mum-of-two – then going by the name of Tammy Gunter – had already been ordered to pay back £23,358 from her benefits fiddle.

At the earlier hearing seven years ago, prosecutor Nuhu Gobir said Hart was granted tax credits by saying she was a single mother – and also made false claims for student finance and a £2,000 NHS bursary to train as a nurse.

Overall, Hart was handed £76,008.63 in tax credits between 2007 and 2016, the court heard.

The couple splurged the money on holidays to Las Vegas and Florida in 2011 and 2013.

She also took out a loan of £22,000 at one point for a holiday home in the US.

Mr Gobir said: “They were already in a relationship and had been living together as a family since 5 December, 1997.”

He said Hart claimed tax credits for nine years when she was working part-time in a shop and a garage.

Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court heard Hart even forged a letter purporting to be from HMRC.

Mr Gobir said: “Tammy Gunter made a claim that she was a single person working at least 16 hours per week.

“She stated that she had two children and no other income. The defendant dishonestly maintained she was single. She enjoyed a lavish lifestyle.”

Describing her false claim, Mr Gobir said: “She stated that she was separated and was a single parent with two dependent children.

“Neil Hart lied about his address to assist Tammy Gunter with the application. The total loss to the public purse in effect is £87,450.”

The DWP, HMRC and the HS Counter Fraud Service Wales began a joint investigation in January 2015 and the couple were arrested.

Hart admitted being knowingly concerned in fraudulent activity undertaken with a view to obtaining tax credits, one count of forgery and four counts of fraud.

Byron Broadstock, defending Hart, of Blackwood, South Wales, said the couple had a “tumultuous” relationship.

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He said: “Many of the purchases that have been described as extravagant, they are out of the ordinary. They were often gestures in reconciliation.”

He said the plastic surgery “wasn’t simply for purely cosmetic reasons. It was psychological reasons.”

Hart was jailed for two years, while her husband was jailed for six months.

But when she was released she set up her dog breeding business.

Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court heard between September 2021 and May 2022 Hart had advertised 17 litters for sale, with puppies sold at upwards of £1,500 each.

She was found with 29 dogs cooped up in pens which were covered in faeces and urine. The animals were found to have serious health conditions with one puppy suffering from deformities.

Hart was given a suspended prison sentenced for unlicensed dog breeding and has been ordered to pay back the money in a Proceeds of Crime hearing.

She was sentenced to a 16-week custodial sentence suspended for 52 weeks for charges including causing unnecessary suffering to one of the 29 dogs.

She also admitted three counts of a banned practiced under The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 for not declaring selling puppies in course of business, two counts of unlicensed dog breeding and three counts of failing to look after the needs of animals.

Hart was also disqualified from dealing in all animals for a period of seven years under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Hart was ordered to pay a Confiscation Order of £35,639.43, to be paid within three months or face a custodial sentence of 12 months at Cardiff Crown Court.

She was also ordered to pay costs of £8,000, to be paid within three months after the confiscation order is paid.

Cllr Philippa Leonard, Caerphilly council’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “Unlicensed dog breeding is a serious matter, and it is hoped that the outcome of this case will serve as a strong deterrent to those who operate illegally.

“This case serves as a reminder of the importance of adherence with dog-breeding regulations and the necessity to obtain the required licences so that we as a council can monitor and safeguard animal welfare at dog breeding establishments.”

“Whenever possible Caerphilly County Borough Council will use the provisions of the Proceeds of Crime Act to deprive convicted unlicensed dog breeders of their ill-gotten gains.

“If anyone is concerned or suspicious of illegal dog breeding, please contact our Trading Standards or Licensing teams. Your information will help us tackle illegal puppy breeding in Caerphilly and will help stop animals being exploited by unscrupulous breeders.”

Plans for Nigel

IN typically ferocious style, Nigel Farage yesterday laid down the gauntlet to Labour on immigration.

How the Government responds may well end up deciding whether it wins a second term.

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Farage speaks ordinary Brits’ language and understands their “total despair”.

His cure for the crisis was plenty of harsh medicine:

1. Deportation flights starting immediately and ultimately booting out up to 600,000 illegals.

2. Bringing back Rwanda-style deals with third countries — the only proper deterrent to the small boats we ever had, and foolishly scrapped by Labour.

3. Ripping up European human rights laws and quitting the ECHR, which will also go down well with voters.

Labour will never do it and the Tories have dithered. But can Farage actually deliver it?

How will he achieve returns deals with rogue and failed states such as Iran and Afghanistan?

Many Brits will be wary of his idea of giving taxpayers’ cash to the vile Taliban regime.

The Tories tried for years to bring in a British Bill of Rights and failed.

Where does Northern Ireland and the complicated rules around the Good Friday Agreement fit in?

If he wants to be Prime Minister, Farage will have to provide some serious answers.

In dole-drums

A STAGGERING 6.5million people are now jobless and on benefits.

That’s up 500,000 in just a year since Labour took office.

Numbers of working-age adults on welfare payments have now risen by 79 per cent since 2018.

Unemployment — made worse by the “Jobs Tax Budget” is now on course to be its highest since the Covid pandemic.

Soaring welfare payments are not only totally unaffordable and a drag on growth, it is also morally wrong to demand working people bail out those who cannot or will not work.

Having ditched its modest welfare reforms — and with the Government now paying a “moron premium” on the UK’s debt mountain — what is the plan?

Unsafeguard

VICTIMS of domestic abuse are regularly failed by the system.

More than 100 women a year in England and Wales alone are murdered by current or former partners.

Many were let down by the DASH questionnaire used by police, social services and healthcare workers as an initial assessment of danger.

Minister Jess Phillips says it doesn’t work and is working out how to replace it.

That cannot come soon enough for those suffering now.

But it’s tragically too late for those who have already lost their lives needlessly.

CONOR MCGREGOR has drawn the ire of UFC fans with his latest training footage.

The promotion’s former poster boy is slowly but surely ramping up training ahead of his long-proposed return to the octagon.

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McGregor, 37, has been putting in the work on the Thai pads during his recent stay in Italy and has since started sparring.

Footage of the former two-division champion trading heavy leather with two young sparring partners started doing the rounds on social media last weekend.

McGregor didn’t take it lightly on his training partners for the day, throwing some full-pelt shots their way.

The Dubliner’s apparent refusal to take it easy on the youngsters annoyed several MMA fans, one of whom wrote on X: “Hmmm. Not a good look for McGregor.”

Another said: “Still an embarrassing show. He is such a shell of his former self.”

And another said: “Bullying young fighters.”

One remarked: “Embarrassing, TBH.”

Another chimed in: “McGregor beating up 12-year-old kids – what a downfall.”

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Several fight fans, however, believed McGregor was giving the youngsters some invaluable experience, with one saying: “He is doing them a favour.”

Another said: “He’s a great teacher ’cause nobody will take it easy in them in the octagon.”

And another said: “Great training opportunity!”

McGregor hasn’t set foot inside the octagon since breaking his left leg in his trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier over four years ago.

He was set to make his grand cage comeback last June against Michael Chandler but withdrew from the Sin City showdown after breaking his left pinky toe.

McGregor took a major step towards returning to the cage late last month by re-entering the UFC‘s drug testing pool.

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He submitted random samples to drug testers earlier this month, both of which came back negative for any banned substances.

If McGregor fights again, his next outing will be his first since he was found civilly liable for having assaulted Nikita Hand at a Dublin hotel in December 2018.

McGregor appealed the verdict turned in at Dublin‘s High Court but lost his bid to overturn the civil verdict in July.

MILLIONS of mobile phones across the UK will be sent an emergency text alert next weekend.

Phones will emit a loud siren as part of the second test of the national emergency alert system.

This will be the first time it is tested nationwide since 2023.

Devices connected to 4G and 5G networks will emit a siren sound for up to 10 seconds at around 3pm on Sunday, September 7.

Mobile phones will also vibrate during the test, and users will be sent a message to make clear that the alert is a drill.

More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

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Drew Binsky, who has visited all 195 countries in the world, has returned to a war-torn state widely regarded as the most dangerous place to visit – and says it’s “scary and unpredictable”

A fearless globe-trotter, who has explored all 195 nations across the world, has made a return journey to a conflict-ridden territory widely considered the planet’s most perilous destination.

YouTuber Drew Binsky ventured to Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital in East Africa, where he claims there are “no rules” in the bustling metropolis, which is regularly monitored by heavily-armed militants.

Whilst filming a piece for his channel at Mogadishu’s scenic Lido Beach, he outlines how firearms are omnipresent: “There are so many AK-47s around me, I’m not joking you when I say this.

“There’s six guys on that side of the beach, there’s a pocket of six guys right there on the ground, there’s a dude walking towards me in a blue shirt. I feel like I’m just going to be stuck in crossfire.

“All eyes are on me right now and we should probably get the f*** out of here. The longer we stay here, the more attention we get.”

It’s a sensible measure, as in August 2024, the Al Qaeda-linked terrorist organisation Al-Shabaab executed a devastating assault on the beach that claimed 56 lives and wounded over 200 people.

In the UK, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office recommends against all journeys to Somalia.

However, the locals Drew encounters on the beach maintain that the gravest threats are behind them, and that “everyone should come to Mogadishu.”

Dozens can be seen enjoying themselves, with young men playing football and many women in full traditional Islamic dress paddling in the crystal-clear waters while surrounded by AK-47-toting men.

The well-travelled Arizona teacher describes Mogadishu as “one of the most intense places I’ve ever been,” saying it’s “scary and unpredictable,” and quite possibly “the most dangerous city on Earth.”

Drew explained how, during his initial journey to Mogadishu, he was flanked by an enormous security detail.

“Every time I left my hotel,” he said, “I was accompanied by eight soldiers with AK-47s and I was hardly able to leave the car and explore.”

During his second visit, he travelled with a far more discreet protection squad, carrying handguns instead of assault rifles.

Yet Drew emphasises that the capital remains in a constant state of vigilance.

Checkpoints appear every few miles along each main thoroughfare, whilst the impact of more than three decades of conflict has reduced whole streets to little more than debris.

Five years following his initial visit, he notes that the security circumstances on the ground remain unchanged: “All the checkpoints, all the barricades, to enter buildings, the barbed wire fences. Just the hostility that you feel on the streets.”

Conservative estimates place the fatality count from Somalia’s numerous intersecting wars since 1991 at beyond 500,000.

The wounds of perpetual warfare are visible throughout Mogadishu, Drew observes: “Bombings, kidnappings, and street battles have turned everyday life into a battleground.

“To make matters worse, Mogadishu’s lawlessness extends offshore, where Somali pirates hijack ships along global trade routes.”

Despite the risks, Drew found his time in Somalia exhilarating: “Nothing gets my adrenaline rush going than being in a place like Mogadishu,” he says.

MAJOR budget airline Ryanair could be returning to a European airport that it recently axed flights to after 20 years.

Ryanair recently scrapped all of itswinter flights to Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport in France following rising airline taxes in the country.

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The small town in the southwest of France is known for its historic charm, with an old town full of half-timbered buildings.

Ryanair made the announcement back in June, where it also scrapped winter flights to other French destinations including Brive and Strasbourg.

Since the announcement, the president of the Dordogne Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), who represent the airport, has shared with The Connexion that the airline is likely to return to the airport in summer 2026.

Following the news, French media began to speculate that it could result in the closing of Bergerac Airport.

President of the CCI, Christophe Fauvel, told the publication that this could not be the case.

He explained: “We have to understand that Ryanair only announced the suspension of its London Stansted service during the winter months.

“Our traffic is very seasonal, with the majority of our passengers flying between April and October.”

He added that the route’s winter suspension would only impact around 18,000 passengers and that the airport is planning to carry out works on the runway between January and February at the airport anyway.

He then confirmed that “at the present moment, everything suggests that Ryanair will be at Bergerac for the summer of 2026″.

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The president continued to explain how it is the economic sector that is concerned about the airport’s future, particularly because Bergerac Airport generates between €60million (£51.8million) and €100million (£86.3million) each year for the region.

As a consequence, if the airport was forced to close, some of the surrounding areas such as Dordogne, south of Gironde, some of Lot-et-Garonne and also Lot, would be impacted.

In addition, the French region has a long-standing relationship with the UK, with many Brits choosing to live in the area as well as having direct flights since 2003.

The president assured that he is confident this key link will continue in the future, despite Ryanair cancelling winter flights.

In regard to other airlines, a few have eyed up creating a route between the UK and the French region including Vueling and Volotea.

Ryanair currently runs flights from several UK airports to Bergerac, including Bournemouth, Bristol, East Midlands, Liverpool, Edinburgh and London Stansted.

British Airways also operates flights to the airport from London City and Southampton and Jet2 has flights from Leeds Bradford Airport and Manchester.

These airlines dominate routes to and from the airport, with the only other routes coming from Rotterdam with airline Transavia and Brussels Charleroi with Ryanair.

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Bergerac is a pretty town to explore, including the Musée de Tabac, which tells the history of tobacco and a popular spot that shows the region’s wines – Maison des Vins.

Narrow cobbled streets and a bustling main square make the town the ideal spot for a quieter French holiday in comparison to popular city spots like Paris.

And there are a number of river cruises in the region too, down the Dordogne river.

The town is also around an hour and 20 minutes from Bordeaux and two and half hours from Toulouse.

Sun Travel has contacted Ryanair for comment.

There is also a little-known French town that’s been likened to Cornwall with riverfront cottages and new UK flights.

Plus, there is a French town that looks more like Italy – with Roman buildings and huge music festival.

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The Strand Lido in Gillingham, Kent, is the only riverside tidal salt water pool in the UK – and it’s been a hit with visitors for more than a century.

A treasured lido in Kent has been compared to a Mediterraen resort by experts who say it resembles a Greek holiday resort.

The Strand Lido in Gillingham – a treasured destination amongst residents for nearly 130 years – features on the Historic Pools of Britain register. It earns its place as the sole riverside salt-water pool in the UK.

Initially opened in June 1896, The Strand Lido has remained a cherished location for countless families. With water sourced straight from the River Medway and treated with chlorine for secure bathing, it’s a beloved location for a sunny day out.

For fitness enthusiasts, the lido provides six 25-metre swimming lanes. There’s additionally a paddling pool for toddlers, alongside a 300-metre gentle current river, elephant-themed slides and water fountains to keep young guests amused, reports MyLondon.

With its pristine white surfaces and azure-painted aquatic zones, the entire venue resembles a Mediterranean holiday destination rather than a location beside the River Medway, according to experts writing for The Lido Guide. The review reads: “Nothing about the exterior gives away what lies within.

“What lies within is a riot of Mediterranean-resort-style colour and fun. Any children in the party will be completely unable to contain their excitement.

“The whole thing is a freeform riot of bright white painted concrete, edged in royal blue, that gives the treated river water that fills the pool a hue that is more reminiscent of Greece than Kent.”

The entertainment factor wasn’t overlooked either, with the guide noting: “It takes a special sort of curmudgeon not to grin like a loon while hurtling down a pink elephant’s trunk into brilliant clear water.”

Catering to all needs, the venue boasts sunbathing areas, an on-site café (though you’re welcome to pack your own picnic), changing facilities, loos, poolside showers and a shop selling inflatables, but you’ll have to hurry to enjoy it – it’ll soon closes until next year.

The pool remains unheated, meaning it only opens its gates during warmer months, from May 25 to September 1. Advance ticket booking is essential, with two daily sessions running from 10:30am to 1:30pm and 2:30pm to 5:30pm.

One delighted visitor shared their praise on Tripadvisor, writing: “So impressed with this place and feel lucky to have it in Medway. Very clean, love that the water is sourced and filtered from the Medway, not too much chlorine as lots of natural salt!

“Could easily spend the day here sunbathing and slipping in and out of the water at own pleasure.”

Another visitor dubbed it a “hidden gem” whilst recounting their visit. They said: “What a great place to go. Went for the first time this summer and was pleasantly surprised.

“It was very clean and well maintained. The parking was super cheap and the numbers were controlled so it never felt overcrowded which was lovely.”

Close by, the Strand Park features a delightful miniature railway, an open-air fitness centre, a parkour course, tennis facilities, picturesque waterside strolls, and children’s playground areas.

Another fan remarked: “This place is full of great things to do. Walk along the river, Crazy Golf, a mine railway and, of course, the wonderful Strand Lido Swimming Pool. Something for all really.”

Ibiza is already famous for its incredible beaches and parties but there’s one part of the island where you can enjoy the views without having to deal with the crowds

Ibiza is a firm favourite with Brits who flock to the Balearic Islands to make the most of the hot weather, beautiful beaches and epic party scene.

However the island’s popularity does mean that during the summer months it can get crowded, as masses of tourists descend on its picture-perfect shores. The good news is that there are quieter parts to the island, and in some cases they can be a little bit trickier to reach, meaning you can easily escape the masses (or just get a day away from the constant hustle and bustle).

For example, intrepid explorers have been known to head to little-known Cala d’en Serra, a beautiful cove tucked away amongst dense greenery. Although it’s not a huge tourist destination, there are some facilities on offer such as sunbeds and a small snack bar if you want some refreshments, as well as an abandoned hotel that’s become a hub for graffiti and street art. Take note that it is a nudist-friendly beach though!

READ MORE: Lesser-known Greek island has 27C weather in September and beautiful beachesREAD MORE: Underrated UK seaside town has picturesque sandy beaches and no crowds

Meanwhile Playa Galera is renowned for offering up some of the island’s most beautiful sunset views, but because it doesn’t boast the likes of a bustling promenade and plenty of bars, it’s not necessarily a go-to for holidaymakers during the summer months. If you aren’t tied to school holiday dates, you may want to consider a trip in September and October when the island still boasts temperatures of around 23C-27C, and plenty of sunshine too.

For hikers, Cala Llentrisca has always been popular destination as it’s tucked away amidst some impressive cliffs, and you’ll need some sturdy shoes for the trail that leads to the thin strip of beach. Although it’s known to locals, it tends to be overlooked by holidaymakers as it’s the type of beach for adventurers rather than sun-seekers who also want a cocktail while they bask in the balmy weather.

READ MORE: Lesser-known national park has turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and no crowds

One way to reach these hidden coves is by boat. In fact, boat rental platform SamBoat has recorded a 75% increase in bookings via its UK site in the last year, as an increasing number of Brits opt for day trips across Europe.

The insiders have flagged Ibiza as one of the destinations where you can find plenty of hidden gems away from the crowds too. They explained: “Beyond the party scene lies an Ibiza few tourists ever see, sailors are heading out to the island’s lesser-known spots such as Cala Llentrisca, Atlantis, and Cala d’en Serra, all best reached by water. Renting a small motorboat for the day lets you hop from one secret cove to another, anchoring up for beach picnics or snorkelling in gin-clear waters. No skipper needed, just a sense of adventure and some ice-cold drinks.”

Ibiza isn’t the only popular island where you can find quieter, lesser-known spots away from the hordes of visitors. Despite this summer seeing queues of tourists at the prettiest viewpoints, Santorini is another hotspot where you can actually find plenty of peaceful locations from which you can take in those postcard-worthy sunset views, or enjoy the spots where you’ll find locals rather than tourists.

Do you have a holiday story you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

Footage shows cars parked in the Cornish seaside town of Polzeath as the tide rises around their tyres, with visitors rushing to rescue their vehicles before they are submerged.

Holidaymakers visiting the Cornish seaside town of Polzeath were left stunned to discover their cars slowly disappearing beneath the waves over the bank holiday weekend.

Video footage captures vehicles parked in the town on Cornwall’s north coast as the tide creeps up around their wheels, with panicked visitors scrambling to save their cars before they vanished underwater.

Dramatic scenes showing a 2010 Subaru Outback in danger were filmed by 34-year-old Sam Peters, who witnessed the mayhem as good Samaritans rallied to help the motorist retrieve their vehicle.

He said: “Everyone was panicking and it caused much distress. Many onlookers were surprised and concerned, and some tried to help.

“Several cars got caught in the rising tide and became stuck on the beach. The car finally got pushed out by many supporters on the beach.”

This marks yet another occasion that tourists and residents have witnessed cars stranded by the waves at Polzeath, reports Cornwall Live.

Further footage, filmed in May, revealed a Mini falling foul of the tide on the same stretch of sand. The clip, recorded by the Polzeath Beach Ranger Service, depicted the vehicle parked and encircled by water.

In a Facebook post, they cautioned drivers about the perils of parking on sand. They said: “If you drive over seaweed to get to your parking space, consider how the seaweed might have been delivered.”

Despite the cheeky comment, the service confirmed that the owner managed to rescue their car before it was carried off during one of the May bank holidays.

A spokesperson for the service, speaking to Cornwall Live, offered some advice to drivers on how to avoid a similar situation.

They explained: “On this occasion, the tide was at its highest that day, but we do sometimes have higher spring tides. Many factors affect the height of the tide, including sun and moon phases, wind, waves and atmospheric pressure.

“It’s a beach car park – one of the last in the region – and it serves as a valuable resource for tourism and the community. It also helps to raise money to pay for necessary services like lifeguards, beach cleaning, road sweeping, bin emptying and toilets.

“As with all coastal destinations, there are risks associated with tides, weather and the landscape, and we encourage visitors to be aware of that. There are visible warning signs.”

SOME people enjoy netball or cross-stitch, but my hobby is booking holidays – and I’m really good at it.

I know a lot of people hate searching for a family holiday, working out what resort is best and whether it’s good value for money, but I enjoy it and it can save you A LOT of money.

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I treat it like a sport, and as a family of four, with two children aged 8 and 5, we have been on some brilliant budget breaks.

There is no better feeling than getting a really great deal for a week in the sun, and I’ve got some great tips to help you do the same.

I go through the flights, hotels and dates with a fine-tooth comb, working out little ways to save. 

It’s even easier to do this at the end of the school holidays or in the shoulder season, such as the October half term, because there are some great deals around.

I have been doing this since my early 20s, after picking up the habit from my dad – back then, the best bargains were on last-minute deals.

We used to pack our suitcases, and my dad would be on the phone to Teletext Holidays, nabbing a same-day bargain. 

His greatest achievement was booking a flight that had already started boarding. Although we’d never be able to do that now. 

However, it’s still a thrill when you lock in a trip for a bargain price. It makes the holiday instantly better. 

Sometimes it’s a small saving, like finding a cheaper airport transfer and saving £20, but sometimes my research pays off, saving hundreds, and nowadays it all adds up. 

Getting a package deal

Last year, I got my biggest saving yet on a family holiday to Greece. 

By booking everything individually, instead of going for a package deal, I saved over £1000 – which was a third of the price. 

I couldn’t believe it!

Having just moved house, we hadn’t booked anything for the summer, hoping to utilise the garden. 

But the end of term was approaching, and after months of grey skies and drizzle, I decided we needed a proper holiday. 

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Heading first to a popular holiday provider, I browsed the best deals across all six weeks of the kids’ school break. 

I didn’t have a set departure airport or destination in mind, and I kept the dates and length of time we’d be away flexible, which meant I had a wide range to choose from. 

At the time, Greece was coming up as the cheapest, and I narrowed it down to the Louis Apostolata Island Resort in Kefalonia.

The deal was pretty good. Flights from London, a week’s half-board in a four-star resort, a suitcase each and transfers to and from the airport in Greece for £3400.

But, since we hadn’t planned on a summer holiday, it was still over budget. 

That’s when I started looking into each aspect separately. I discovered that instead of flying with the designated airline, we could fly with Ryanair for half the cost. 

Flights were £140 return on the budget airline.

Since we didn’t need four suitcases, we just booked one between us for the week, immediately saving another £150 on the Ryanair flights. 

Going onto the hotel’s own website, I noticed that I could book directly with them, and the price was coming up a lot less.

They also had an offer on a room upgrade if you signed up for the mailing list. We actually ended up with a nicer room while paying less. 

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The only thing that wasn’t covered was transfers. On the package deal, a coach transfer was included, but it also stopped at a number of other hotels. 

When I looked it up, a taxi to the resort was only £80 return. 

However, even with this on top, we still saved a whopping £1001 on the whole trip, which in total cost £2300.  

We used the money we saved to book a weekend in Disneyland Paris in October.

Again, I booked everything separately, using the Eurotunnel to drive to France and booking a hotel close to the theme park with 2-day tickets for just £440 for all of us. 

Our trip only cost £1300. 

After saving money on our Greece trip, I told people that Disneyland only cost us £300! 

Book carefully

My advice would be to always book with reputable suppliers, because you could end up forking out more if they are not legitimate. 

If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

I do like DIY holidays, but I am not against booking a package deal, and sometimes they are so good, I can’t beat them.

Our favourite places to shop for a package holiday are Jet2holidays and TUI.

Booking a package means you get extra protection for your holiday through regulators like ABTA, ATOL and ABTOT. 

This means you’ll get your money back on all aspects of the package in the event of any holiday disasters, like flight cancellations or issues at the hotel – which I wouldn’t have had with my DIY version.  

For peace of mind, some people prefer to pay extra and not have to think about that, but massive holiday disasters are rare so I am happy to take the risk. 

It has a name that’s hard to forget, and the quaint village tucked away in the South West of England certainly lives up to it.

Hidden away in the heart of South Devon sits the enchanting village of South Pool, a genuine gem boasting idyllic rural beauty, ancient architecture, and easy access to the area’s spectacular coastline. CN Traveller named it Britain’s most stunning village in 2023, noting its serenity feels like ‘another world’ compared to the hustle and bustle of Salcombe just a few miles downstream.

The settlement has seen a surge in digital fame, mainly thanks to the jaw-dropping beaches on its doorstep. Within just thirty minutes by car, Bantham Beach has been praised by one holidaymaker as the “most beautiful beach without leaving the UK”, for example.

Yet some locals would rather maintain South Pool’s secret status, with one resident cheekily remarking: “Shhh, don’t tell anyone! We locals want to keep it a secret!”

South Pool captures quintessentially English appeal: time seems suspended along its winding, slender roads whilst its period stone houses create a perfect postcard vista, reports the Express.

Amongst its most treasured features stands the Church of St Cyriac and St Julietta, a Grade I listed building dating from the 13th century.

This place of worship is celebrated for its stunning medieval architecture, boasting an exquisite Norman font and an elaborately designed rood screen.

Local watering hole The Millbrook Inn also lies at the heart of South Pool’s charm, providing cosy welcome and an outstanding selection of regional ales and ciders.

The pub’s cosy interior, complete with open fires and wooden beams, offers a warm atmosphere where locals and tourists alike can enjoy a hearty meal or a pint.

Perched at the head of South Pool creek, which extends all the way to Salcombe Estuary, the village is a hub for outdoor activities such as sailing, kayaking and fishing.

Its picturesque surroundings of rolling hills and lush fields also make it a paradise for walkers and nature enthusiasts.

South Pool’s prime position makes it an ideal base for exploring other attractions in the South Devon region.

Nearby towns like Salcombe, Kingsbridge, and Dartmouth offer a range of shops, eateries, and cultural experiences that are a hit with holidaymakers.

Whether you’re after a peaceful retreat, outdoor adventures, or a slice of traditional English village life, South Pool has something to suit everyone.

It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK and has become a hotspot for tourists in recent years – but locals say the town is now unbearable.

Whitby, the charming seaside town on the North Yorkshire coast, has become one of the UK’s top tourist hotspots in recent years.

With its breathtaking views and links to literary greats like Bram Stoker’s Dracula, it’s no surprise that tourists are drawn to its quaint cobbled streets.

However, this boom in tourism is putting the very essence of the community at risk. A study by HeyDiscount placed Whitby among the UK’s most congested tourist locations.

In a town with a mere 12,500 inhabitants, there are now over 1,800 holiday rentals, a staggering figure that underscores the profound effect tourism has had on housing availability and affordability, reports the Express.

“You can’t walk down the street without bumping into someone with a camera or a bag of fish and chips,” says Alan Cuthbert, a lifelong Whitby resident and fisherman. “For us locals, it’s a nightmare. Traffic’s worse, parking’s a joke, and the peace we used to have is long gone.”

The influx of tourists and second-home buyers has pushed property prices to such an extent that many locals can no longer afford to live in their own town.

According to Rightmove data, the average property price in Whitby now stands at £266,917, significantly above the regional average. This surge has left many residents in a precarious situation.

Mr Cuthbert observed: “Houses that used to be for families like mine are now being snatched up as holiday lets or second homes. Prices have gone through the roof. I’ve got friends who’ve had to move out of Whitby altogether because they can’t afford to live here anymore.”

The effect of second homes isn’t merely about housing; it’s about community.

Former Mayor Linda Wild told MailOnline: “Where I live, 90 percent of the neighbouring houses are holiday lets or second homes. Every Friday night, I can hear the rattle of suitcase wheels on the pavement.”

This has transformed Whitby into a town where most properties remain vacant for large portions of the year, threatening its character as a tight-knit community.

Despite these difficulties, tourism undoubtedly delivers advantages to local enterprises.

Sarah Bennett, a café proprietor in the town centre, admits that tourism has proved vital for her venture. She said: “My café gets more visitors, which helps keep the business going year-round, not just in the summer.”

Nevertheless, she also acknowledges the drawbacks, especially the burden on local services. She added: “Tourism has definitely put pressure on local amenities. It can be harder to get a doctor’s appointment or find a spot in local schools. The challenge is making sure that the benefits of this investment reach everyone, not just the tourists.”

This split in viewpoints underscores a wider problem in Whitby and comparable tourist destinations. Whilst some locals profit from the tourist boom, others are left dealing with the fallout.

Neil Swannick, a Labour councillor for Whitby Streonshalh ward, sums up this split, saying last year: “there are certainly people that have done well out of tourism in Whitby, but that benefit hasn’t been evenly spread across the residents of the town.”

Tackling the mounting crisis, Whitby locals voted in 2022 to ensure all new-build properties in the town become full-time primary residences, a strategy designed to halt the surge of second homes.

Whilst this ballot was mainly symbolic, it highlights the rising frustration amongst residents.

There’s also a wider campaign for more eco-friendly tourism approaches and affordable housing schemes to guarantee the town stays habitable for its inhabitants. North Yorkshire Council chose to double the council tax for second home proprietors in the area.

Discussing the need to find a balance, Ms Bennett said: “We should welcome tourists, but not at the expense of those who live here. Finding that balance is key to Whitby’s future.”