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FAILED asylum seekers and foreign offenders are being left in Britain for up to a year because their governments are dragging their feet over travel papers, a Home Office file reveals.
The official guide, published by the department, shows deportations are crippled by delays from overseas embassies.
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Anti migrant protesters at the Holiday Inn in SolihullCredit: SWNS
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Protesters raised St George’s Cross and Union flags outside some of the 210 hotels being used to house migrant
Egypt, Guinea and Burkina Faso are among the worst offenders — taking six to 12 months to issue the documents needed to put its citizens on a plane home.
By contrast, Italy, Belgium and Sri Lanka can turn the paperwork around in less than two weeks, while India averages one month.
But the file also shows no reliable timescale is available at all for dozens of countries — leaving removals at the mercy of slow or unpredictable foreign bureaucracies.
The delays mean some migrants remain in Britain long after their claims have failed, with taxpayers footing the bill for hotel rooms, benefits and legal fees while they wait.
Yesterday, fed-up protesters raised St George’s Cross and Union flags outside some of the 210 hotels being used to house migrants — as PM Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to overhaul the failing asylum system.
Among those targeted was the Castle Bromwich Holiday Inn in Birmingham.
Outside the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf, East London, a group of protesters gathered with one holding a banner that read: “Enough is enough protect our women and girls.”
Another said: “Tower Hamlets council house homeless Brits first.”
There were also protests outside the Holiday Inn in Solihull, West Midlands, and the Manchester South Hotel.
At least 15 people were arrested at protests relating to migrant hotels on Saturday.
Migrants to be kicked out of hotel at centre of protests in landmark ruling after asylum seeker’s ‘sex attack’
Following the release of the Home Office file, Reform UK demanded ministers get tough.
Deputy party leader Richard Tice said: “Foreign countries know Starmer’s Britain is a pushover, so it’s no wonder they are dragging their feet when it comes to accepting deportations.
“Britain needs to start using its diplomatic and economic power.
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Failed asylum seekers are being left in the UK for up to a yearCredit: AFP
“Countries that refuse to take their criminals back should not get off scot-free but instead face serious sanctions.
“Unfortunately, with this meek Labour Government, we will continue to be seen as a meek nation on the global stage.”
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp also hit out, saying: “Countries that do not fully and promptly co-operate should suffer visa sanctions — where we don’t give visas to citizens of those countries to come here.
‘TOO WEAK’
“Then, they would pretty soon fall into line.
“The legal power exists to do that but this Labour Government is too weak to use it.”
There is currently a 106,000-strong backlog of asylum claim cases, including at least 51,000 appeals.
Last week, official statistics showed a record 111,000 people applied for asylum in the UK during the first year of Labour coming to power.
The Government has said its latest plans would introduce independent panels to hear appeal cases to speed up the process and deport failed asylum seekers quicker.
A new commission will prioritise cases of those living in costly asylum hotels and foreign national offenders.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “We cannot carry on with these completely unacceptable delays in appeals as a result of the system we have inherited, which mean that failed asylum seekers stay in the system for years on end at huge cost to the taxpayer.”
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Protesters outside The Bell Hotel in EppingCredit: Reuters
She added: “Overhauling the appeals system so that it is swift, fair and independent, with high standards in place, is a central part of our Plan for Change.”
But the new scheme could take months to implement and record numbers of people continue to cross the Channel on small boats.
Tory Mr Philp said: “The Government is too weak to do what’s really needed — such as repeal the Human Rights Act for all immigration matters and deport all illegal immigrants immediately upon arrival.”
The Home Office said: “For some countries receiving returnees from the UK, establishing their identities and nationalities can take time.
“Where that is the case, we work with their respective governments closely to drive timings down to the minimum possible.”
THERE was a party atmosphere at an anti-migrant protest in Epping yesterday — with at least 150 dancing and cheering as drivers hooted their car horns in support.
Some shouted at police who stood outside the Bell Hotel, the focus of demonstrations but now set to stop housing asylum-seekers.
One man yelled: “Unfortunately Starmer has turned you into stormtroopers — or rather Starmtroopers.”
Other protesters held banners reading “deport foreign criminals” and chanted the name of the far-right’s Tommy Robinson.
Residents across the UK are hoping they will see their own asylum hotels shut after the High Court granted the Essex town’s council a temporary injunction.
Bruno Fernandes’ horrific missed penalty in the first half seemed to have been redeemed when Leny Yoro‘s header deflected off Rodrigo Muniz’s back and into the net.
But Emile Smith Rowe poked home an equaliser soon after with one of his first touches of the match, just minutes after being introduced off the bench.
Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim insists that there may yet be a future of any of his infamous ‘bomb squad’ that don’t make it out of Old Trafford
JACK GREALISH marked his full Everton debut with two assists as the Toffees won the first match at their new stadium.
Goals from Iliman Ndiaya and James Garner led David Moyes men to a 2-0 win over Brighton.
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Jack Grealish bagged two assists on his full debut for EvertonCredit: PA
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The Toffees were in top form as they beat Brighton 2-0Credit: Getty
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It was Everton’s first match at their new Hill Dickinson stadiumCredit: Getty
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The home fans were in fine form at the magnificent arenaCredit: PA
Jordan Pickford also starred as he saved a penalty from Danny Welbeck.
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..
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As temperatures start to drop across the UK, many Britons will longingly begin contemplating warmer destinations.
Greece remains a beloved holiday retreat for British travellers – and one petite island enjoys glorious weather with September temperatures averaging a pleasant 25C and peak daytime highs reaching 27C.
However, what the charming island of Skiathos in the northwest Aegean Sea is truly renowned for is serving as the backdrop to the enormously successful film Mamma Mia!, reports the Express.
Skiathos features an incredible 60 beaches with sparkling azure waters alongside dense pine woodlands. There’s also a vibrant nightlife scene offering a wealth of culinary hotspots, pubs and nightclubs.
Thanks to its proximity to the airport, beach visitors on the island can also watch commercial aircrafts soaring mere metres overhead.
Greek tourism platform Visit Greece described the island as “paradise on earth” and stated: “Skiathos [is] the most cosmopolitan island in the Northern Sporades.”
Skiathos is the perfect holiday break(Image: Boarding1Now via Getty Images)
The tourism website also noted: “The island is picturesque, unspoilt and blessed with more than 60 beautifully crystal clear waters and beaches.
“The most famous is Koukounaries, which is considered as the third most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean. When you add in its bustling nightlife, it is only natural that the island attracts thousands of young visitors every year!”
Travel bloggers are equally smitten with the destination, with one delighted visitor describing the island as “postcard perfect”.
The island is “postcard perfect”(Image: clu via Getty Images)
Lynsey from travel blog lynseysnotebook.co.uk said: “For my first introduction to Greece, Skiathos could not have been more perfect.
“I took ages to decide where I wanted to visit for my first trip to Greece – Rhodes and Zante both looked beautiful – but Skiathos has an authentic charm that I couldn’t resist.”
She added: “While Mamma Mia certainly put Skiathos on the map, it still retains its authenticity and simplicity.”
Meanwhile, travellers have flocked to review website Tripadvisor to rave about this breathtaking destination. One declared that Koukounaries beach has “got to be the best beach in Greece”.
Going through airport security can be stressful and time consuming but if you carry one item in particular it can get a whole lot worse as you risk ruining it forever
Don’t let airport checks ruin your memories (Stock Image)
A fresh wave of travellers are swapping high tech and digital devices for the nostalgic charm of disposable film cameras, creating spontaneous memories and old-school shots. However, this can all be lost by one mistake at the airport.
This summer, the trend for retro-style photos has taken off, with TikTok hashtags like #DisposableCamera and #DisposableCameraSummer garnering nearly 900,000 views combined. Meanwhile, Google searches for “disposable camera” have also reached 389,000 worldwide in just the past month.
TikTok creators have been sharing dreamy holiday photo dumps with the caption: “This is your sign to take a disposable camera on holiday this summer.” Think white sand beaches, film grain, and perfectly imperfect snapshots that feel straight out of the ’90s.
The retro use of a disposable camera on holiday is making a comeback – but beware of security checks
It’s all about capturing the moment without the pressure of perfection. The unpredictable outcome of the photos, due to not being able to check how you look and delete, delete, delete, makes them genuine moments that capture honest emotions, spontaneity, and the story behind each shot.
But not every story ends well. One TikTok video came with a warning after a traveller’s excitement turned to heartbreak when her film was ruined after going through airport security scanners. Captioned, “crashing out but lesson learned”, the video was a painful admission that her 39 grainy memories were gone forever.
It’s likely that radiation from the high-powered X-ray scanners at airport security fogged or overexposed the undeveloped film, leaving it streaked, cloudy, or completely blank.
While disposable cameras offer effortlessly cool and authentic vintage photos, all-inclusive holiday provider Travel Republic (www.travelrepublic.co.uk) warns there are some crucial dos and don’ts to keep in mind when taking one on your travels. From dodging airport X-ray damage to mastering the lighting, making the most of your analogue shots takes more than just pressing the shutter.
3 common mistakes to avoid when using a disposable camera
Putting your camera through airport X-ray scanners
Disposable cameras loaded with film are sensitive to X-rays, and newer CT scanners at many airports can be even harsher on film. These scanners emit higher doses of radiation, which can penetrate the camera casing and react with the unprocessed film inside.
Frequent exposure, especially on multi-flight trips and checked baggage scanners (which emit stronger rays), can fog or degrade your images, leaving your holiday memories blurred before you even get home.
To help prevent this, the holiday experts at Travel Republic recommend: “Rather than carrying your disposable camera in checked baggage, have it easily accessible in your hand luggage. You can also request a hand inspection at airport security instead of putting the camera through the X-ray scanners. Lead-lined film bags can also help to shield your camera against X-ray exposure if needed.”
Shooting in the wrong lighting
Most disposable cameras have weak built-in flashes that only work well within a few metres. While bright daylight delivers crisp photos, it often leads to overexposure (images that appear washed out or unnaturally bright), especially with pale skin tones or reflective surfaces. On the flip side, indoor or nighttime shots without proper flash use often come out blurry, dim, or underexposed.
Expecting digital-quality images
Disposable cameras are simple by design. They often produce grainier photos with unpredictable colours and limited contrast, especially in low light, so don’t expect the sharpness and clarity of your smartphone or digital camera.
“To get the clearest images, stick to shooting in bright, natural daylight. If you decide to use the flash indoors or at night, get close to your subject when taking pictures to avoid blurred imagery. Avoiding strong backlighting will also help to stop the camera from confusing exposure and causing silhouettes,” says a Travel Republic expert.
CRYSTAL Palace welcome Nottingham Forest to Selhurst Park for a huge Premier League clash TODAY.
The match comes after Palace‘s bitter European battle with Forest, which saw the Eagles demoted to the Conference League and the Tricky Trees promoted to the Europa League at their expense.
More drama came off the field this week as Nuno Espirito Santo said his relationship with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is “not the same” – fueling speculation over a potential departure.
Passengers travelling from Spain to Italy were screaming in fear as their Wizz Air flight was hit with severe turbulence and was forced to make an emergency landing
13:15, 24 Aug 2025Updated 13:15, 24 Aug 2025
A Wizz Air plane was forced to make an emergency landing after it was hit with severe turbulence(Image: Getty Images)
Passengers on a flight returning from Spain were left screaming in fear as their plane was thrown around in terrifying turbulence, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing.
The Wizz Air flight was travelling from Alicante, Spain, to Fiumicino Airport, Rome, this week when it encountered severe turbulence. In a shocking video posted to social media, petrified passengers could be heard shrieking on the Airbus A321 as it battled the bumpy conditions.
The seatbelt signs were on while the majority of the cabin lights were turned off, only adding to the fearful moment for travellers on board. In the video shared on TikTok, the user added the caption, “Attimi di terrore sul volo”, translating to “Moments of terror on the flight.”
A passenger on the Wizz Air flight shared a shocking video on social media of the turbulence(Image: TikTok)
Content cannot be displayed without consent
Passengers in the video can be heard shouting, “Oh God”, and “No, no, no!” while others remained quiet with heavy breaths. Outside through the windows, the plane’s red lights can be seen amid the grey and dark sky.
Italy has faced extreme weather this summer, and Rome was given a severe thunderstorm warning. The bad weather is what impacted the Wizz Air flight, which attempted to land at Fiumicino, the country’s busiest airport.
After several attempts, the pilot aborted the plan and was redirected to Bologna, over 250 miles away, to make a safe landing. The flight from Alicante to Rome typically takes under two hours, but due to delays and severe turbulence, it landed in Bologna at 3:53am – almost three hours after it was due to arrive in Rome.
Wizz Air said: “Wizz Air flight W4 6038 from Alicante to Rome Fiumicino on August 20 was diverted to Bologna Airport after it was unable to land safely due to adverse weather conditions at Rome Fiumicino Airport.
Passengers could be heard screaming on the flight as it was rocked by turbulence(Image: TikTok)
“The aircraft landed safely and without incident in Bologna at 3:57 a.m. local time. Passengers were provided with ground transportation from Bologna to Rome.”
The airline added that passengers who “had independently arranged ground transportation” would be entitled to a refund. Wizz Air also said: “Weather conditions are beyond the airline’s control, and safety remains Wizz Air’s top priority.”
They also added that aborting a landing is a “standard procedure in the event that conditions are not ideal for a safe landing”. The airline thanked the pilots and cabin crew for “ensuring everyone’s safety during the turbulence and for making the right decision to divert the flight to Bologna.”
An experienced flight attendant has revealed the one thing to avoid doing on airplanes if you don’t want to risk sharing other people’s bodily fluids and germs
Flight attendant has warned against using a freebie onboard(Image: Getty Images)
A flight attendant who shares her adventures in the sky on social media has provided some insider advice on what passengers should definitely avoid while onboard.
Natalie Magee has been flying for 20 years so certainly knows what she’s talking about. She’s seen the good, the bad and the very ugly during her time looking after airline travellers.
However, there’s one particular freebie that Natalie recommends refusing, especially on shorter flights because the risk of getting up close and far too personal with other people’s germs is horribly high.
Zooming through the clouds can often mean that it gets a bit nippy at times in the cabin, particularly if flying at night when the sun has gone down. So passengers may need a blanket to keep warm and cosy.
Children may need some extra comfort to sleep(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Complimentary blankets used to be provided by airlines on most flights for chilly customers but these days because of cost-cutting and environmental concerns it’s usually only international, long-haul and first-class passengers that they are available too.
You could be snuggling up with more than you bargained for(Image: Getty Images)
You may not think that’s such a bad thing though when you discover what could be found on them either. According to Natalie, hair, food, bodily fluids and mould could all be lurking in the folds of the material.
She says travellers use them to wipe their nose, clean up spills and even to catch their toenail clippings but that’s not all. “Probably one of the grossest things I’ve seen is someone using blankets to change their baby’s diaper,” Natalie, who is from Colorado, US, told Travel + Leisure.
That wouldn’t be such a problem if they were laundered after every use but that doesn’t always happen, according to the expert. “Most airlines have contract cleaners that take the blankets off after international flights and wash them in hot water, then seal them in plastic bags to be reused,” she explained. “However, on domestic flights, I’ve had blankets on my flights that we are instructed to just refold and put back in the bin.”
Natalie Magee has been a flight attendant for 20 years(Image: Instagram)
As a general rule she says if they aren’t in a sealed bag, they aren’t sanitary. So if you are someone who feels the cold when flying or needs to be covered to have a snooze, she recommends taking your own blanket. This way you know it’s clean and you won’t be snuggling up with someone else’s germs or illnesses.
Natalie has previously shared some of her many in-flight “peeves” and the most annoying things that passengers do. Along with parents changing babies on tray tables, people walking to the toilet barefoot and clipping their toenails while on board, she reveals one of her biggest pet hates is also hygiene related.
In a TikTok video she said she hates it, “when people don’t shut the bathroom door or leave the bathroom a mess. Also when you can hear it flush but not the sink so you know they didn’t wash their hands.”
Despite the niggles of life in the air with total strangers in a confined space, she reckons most flight attendants think of the aircraft as their own domain, which is why they want people to treat it well. “We would love it if people treated the space as their home and were tidy and respectful,” she said.
Natalie also believes it makes such a difference when passengers are polite and kind. “Honestly, when people say ‘thank you’ when they are getting off the plane (it is really great),” she reveals. “Or when they take the time to look at us when we are doing the beverage service and say please and thank you, we really appreciate it. I also like people who help others with their bags, especially mums and the elderly as we can’t always help everyone when boarding.”
BROADCASTER Nick Ferrari has married his partner of ten years in front of celebrity guests on the French Riviera.
Myleene Klass played the harp as the This Morning star’s bride Clare Goodwin walked down the aisle during the stunning ceremony.
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Clare Goodwin married Nick Ferrari on Saturday
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Christopher Biggins, Myleene Klass and Piers Morgan were among the guests
Nick, 67, wed his long-term parter in Nice yesterday in front of Piers Morgan and Christopher Biggins.
Sharing photos of their special day, Nick’s employer Global, which owns LBC radio, wrote: “Sending huge congratulations to our very own Nick Ferrari & Clare Goodwin who married yesterday, celebrating 10 years together having met at Global – perhaps the beautiful Bride’s ‘something blue’?!
“We wish you every happiness together.”
Myleene said: “I’ve just arrived at this incredible place in Nice and I’m playing the harp.
READ MORE ON THIS MORNING
“This is my present to Clare and Nick for their wedding.
“What an honour to play your friends down the aisle.”
Another girl was even snapped all smiles in a toothpaste tube outfit.
The lads were also dressed up for the Bank Holiday bonanza as James Bond and The Joker with others wrapped in St George flags wielding swords as English knights.
Others were kitted out in lederhosen with one even spotted with a traffic cone on his head – but that might just be the booze talking.
Pirates, princesses and policewomen alike were also spotted in the excited crowds as they enjoyed the three-day weekend.
Participants begin at Woodies before swilling snifters at 15 other watering holes during the challenge, which takes place several times a year.
Drinkers sip a final brew at the aptly named Dry Dock – a narrow boat-turned-pub.
The list of boozers you’re supposed to stop at has changed over the last few years but still stands at 17 strong.
Punters are tasked with a drink at every stop in their best fancy dress with themes ranging from the simple to the outlandish.
It’s particularly popular among students and locals in Leeds and is often a vibrant and chaotic journey through some of the city’s most beloved watering holes.
Revellers often opt for superheroes, animals, or film characters but, honestly, anything goes.
It can often make for hilarious encounters as multiple themes and characters all mingle in one pub.
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Cowboy hats were all the rage this yearCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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Hundreds of rowdy drinkers take to the streets this weekendCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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The booze trail is seen as a rite of passage for manyCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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Some outfits had some interesting additionsCredit: NB PRESS LTD
The 65-year-old has been found guilty of abusive sexual contact after he allegedly started to touch a fellow passenger’s breast and thigh and now faces jail time
William R. McKelvy, 65, is due to be sentenced on 8 September(Image: justice.gov)
A man has been convicted after groping a woman onboard a Southwest Airlines flight.
William R. McKelvy, 65, from Texas, was found guilty of abusive sexual contact after a brief jury trial and is now facing up to three years in federal prison.
The incident took place in April 2023 when McKelvy was traveling on a Southwest flight from Tulsa to Dallas. He assaulted the woman next to him on four occasions – including touching her breast and inner thigh – despite being told to stop by the victim. It comes after a plane passenger punched a flight attendant after she made a simple request.
The victim testified about her ordeal at the trial, according to a news release from the Department of Justice, telling prosecutors that she initially thought that the man had inadvertently touched her and his actions were accidental.
When McKelvy tried again minutes later, she pushed him away forcefully and told him to keep his hands to himself, federal authorities said.
McKelvy touched the woman again a third and fourth time, at which point the victim yelled, “Get your (expletive) hand off me, or I will break your (expletive) hand,” according to the statement.
The man claimed to have no recollection of the incident(Image: justice.gov)
Prosecutors said that her reaction gained the attention of fellow passengers, who notified flight attendants of the situation. The flight attendants then moved McKelvy to the back of the plane and called ahead to have police meet the plane when it arrived at Love Field.
Upon meeting the police, McKelvy said that he had been vaping on the plane, and made a vile comment when speaking about his actions with the female passenger, saying he had “flirted with this chick”.
During the trial, McKelvy claimed to have no recollection of the incident because he consumed alcohol and marijuana gummies prior to boarding the plane.
“Sexual assault aboard an aircraft is a federal crime investigated by the FBI,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “It is because of fellow passengers and the flight crew that the defendant was detained and charged for assaulting the victim multiple times.”
The jury deliberated for just 30 minutes before returning with a verdict, and McKelvy is now due to be sentenced on 8 September.
It comes after a British passenger was removed from an aircraft at New York’s JFK airport after reportedly engaging in lewd behaviour and causing the flight to be delayed by several hours.
According to fellow travellers, he had approached a complete stranger with the crude proposition, “Ever had a hand job on a plane?” and, following rejection, allegedly exposed himself and began openly pleasuring himself, even displaying explicit images of himself on his mobile and attempting to touch the passenger seated next to him.
Notting Hill carnival takes over the West London streets again this weekend, but with major tube closures and road blocks in place – here’s everything you need to know before commuting
Everything you need to know before carnival(Image: AFP/Getty Images)
Notting Hill Carnival returns this weekend, bringing a burst of Caribbean culture to the streets of West London – and as always, millions are expected to turn up to enjoying the soca music and food.
But with road closures, station shutdowns and crowds packing out the area, it’s important to plan ahead. Whether you’re jumping on the tube, bus or walking in from nearby, here’s everything you need to know about the Notting Hill Carnival route and which transport options are still running.
There’s also a Notting Hill Carnival map available to help you visualise the road closures and walking routes – you can find this on the official carnival or TfL website.
There’s plenty of maps for people to follow(Image: TFL)
Latimer Road – Closes at 11.30pm, but may shut temporarily to manage crowds.
Notting Hill Gate – No entry from 11am to 6pm. District and Circle lines won’t stop, and no interchange with Central line all day. Expect temporary closures throughout.
Westbourne Park – No entry from 11am. Expect serious crowding during peak times.
Holland Park – No entry from 11am to 3pm. Fully shuts at 3pm.
Royal Oak – No entry from 11am to 6pm. Fully shuts at 6pm.
Shepherd’s Bush – Expect it to be extremely busy from the afternoon onwards.
Kensal Green – A queueing system will be in place when heading home.
With the large crowd its best to plan ahead(Image: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
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Bus
Due to road closures, daytime and night buses will be diverted. Services will start from the Prince of Wales pub on Harrow Road (north) and Notting Hill Gate (south).
148X to Victoria – Runs between Shepherd’s Bush and Victoria (10am–5.30pm), then Notting Hill Gate to Victoria (until 10pm).
Stops: Shepherd’s Bush, Notting Hill Gate, Marble Arch, Victoria.
7X to Paddington – Runs between East Acton and Paddington (12pm–9.30pm).
Stops: East Acton to Wood Lane, then Shepherd’s Bush, Notting Hill Gate, Lancaster Gate, Paddington.
Expect something exciting from TFL(Image: AFP/Getty Images)
Beyond the travel time table, TfL has partnered with Metroline and local community group Phoenix Rising to unveil a specially-wrapped Carnival bus. The bus will feature in the parade, with Metroline staff, TfL employees and live steel pan performances onboard.
“For many years Notting Hill Carnival has represented London’s diverse culture and strong Caribbean links – a community which is an integral part of TfL’s history,” said Emma Strain, TfL’s Customer Director.
“That’s why we’re excited to partner with Phoenix Rising to showcase Caribbean-inspired steel pan music on one of our iconic buses,” she added, “Stations around the Carnival are likely to get extremely busy, so please plan journeys in advance using the free TfL Go app or our dedicated travel advice page.”
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EXCLUSIVE: Mark Wolters, who runs the successful YouTube channel Wolters World, explained that he felt compelled to provide “honest” advice to travellers after seeing numerous “misleading” blogs and videos
Mark Wolters runs the successful YouTube channel Wolters World(Image: Wolters World/YouTube)
He explained that he was driven to create his videos after noticing many “misleading” blogs and felt it “wasn’t right” for families to “waste their hard earned vacation time”. He previously shared the “least friendly” country he’s visited for tourists. But, in an exclusive interview, he had no hesitation in naming his five favourite countries by continent.
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro city view with Christ the Redeemer Statue(Image: Pintai Suchachaisri via Getty Images)
Mark explained: “My favorite place to visit in South America is Brazil. I lived there and have family there and it is just such a wonderful place with the food, the nature, and the crazy fun times you can have there.”
Brazil is the largest country in South America and one of the world’s biggest democracies. It boasts diverse landscapes including the Amazon, the world’s largest jungle, and is synonymous with world-class football, being the home of Pelé.
The nation boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, featuring a staggering 600 mammal species. Rio de Janeiro (pictured above) ranks among its most sought-after tourist hotspots.
France
Paris cityscape with Eiffel Tower in the distance (Image: Alexander Spatari via Getty Images)
Mark revealed: “In Europe, it is a toss up between France and Italy. They both have great food and if you speak a bit of the local language you can make so many friends there. So I can never pass up going to either of them.”
Famous for its cuisine and culture, France stands as a significant force globally and maintains membership in NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation). Located in Western Europe, it shares borders with Germany, Belgium, Italy and Spain.
Boasting legendary sites including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe, France serves as a European cultural capital and an enormously popular holiday destination.
Italy
Buildings reflected along the Grand Canal in Venice(Image: Gary Yeowell via Getty Images)
A major attraction for visitors and amongst Mark’s top picks, Italy represents another country celebrated for its gastronomy and heritage. Many of history’s most famous artistic figures originated from Italy, including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Caravaggio.
This Southern European country also houses some of the globe’s most recognised monuments, including the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Roman Forum. Beyond the capital, Rome, holidaymakers flock to other remarkable destinations like the stunning cities of Venice and Florence.
Rwanda
Mount Karisimbi in Musanze, Rwanda(Image: Ari Beser via Getty Images)
Mark explained: “In Africa we love visiting Rwanda. It was such an incredible adventure when we visited the first time. We fell in love with it.”
Rwanda, a landlocked nation in East Africa, is known as the “land of a thousand hills”. It’s a small yet densely populated country that borders Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Home to the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups, Rwanda boasts rainforests, majestic mountains, volcanoes, and even the endangered mountain gorilla.
China
The Great Wall of China(Image: zhaojiankang via Getty Images)
Mark said: “In Asia, I think my wife would say Japan, but I loved teaching and traveling in China. So much history and so much food!
China, one of the world’s most populous nations and a leading industrial powerhouse, has a rich history spanning 4,000 years. The modern People’s Republic of China was established in 1949 following the Communist Revolution.
Tourists flock to see the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army. Not to mention, it’s famously home to the Giant Panda.
You may dash for your morning commuter train, but you won’t want to rush for the sleeper to Vienna. The Nightjet train to the Austrian capital is the most illustrious departure of the day from Amsterdam. There is an art to conducting the perfect departure and the perfect arrival, the bookends of a thrilling overnight journey.
There are four major hubs for sleeper services across western and central Europe: Amsterdam, Berlin, Vienna and Zurich. Then there are secondary nodes at Budapest, Brussels, Milan, Munich, Paris and Prague. Most of the region’s night trains start or end in one of these 10 cities. Whatever your departure point, savour the moment by going for an aperitif and a relaxed dinner before boarding. And upon arrival, don’t just dash on – linger over a coffee and let the morning, and the city, develop around you.
Don’t miss the excellent Grand Café Restaurant 1e Klas in the former first-class waiting room (entrance via platform 2B). It opens at 9.30am, so the perfect spot for breakfast after decanting from a Nightjet (or an early-morning Eurostar from London), and stays open till late evening, so also ideal for pre-departure supper. It serves fairly priced Dutch staples in a space that oozes retro flair. The Guardian, no less, has called it one of the “finest station eateries in Europe”.
An alternative pre-departure option for drinks and dinner is Bistro Berlage in the undercroft of the former Beurs (stock exchange), seven minutes walk from the station.
The Grand Café Restaurant 1e Klas in Amsterdam Centraal. Photograph: Greg Balfour Evans/Alamy
This can be a frustrating station, with fierce ticket barriers guarding platform access (luggage lockers in the east wing from €10 per day). It gets another black mark for the lack of showers for passengers arriving on overnight trains, but a big plus for being at the very heart of the city it serves – its enchanted canal network is right outside the station.
Just head south from the station to hit the main sights. If, like me, you prefer to cut away from the crowds, then leave the station on the north side and hop on the F4 ferry for a free 15-minute ride to the NSDM Wharf, an old shipyard that is now a creative and cultural hub with many alt-vibe cafes.
Berlin Hauptbahnhof
A stroll by the Spree River is an ideal prelude for a long distance train journey from Berlin. Photograph: John Kellerman/Alamy
For ÖBB Nightjets to Basel, Graz, Paris, Vienna and Zurich; SJ/RDC or Snälltåget to Stockholm; MÁV Euronight to Bratislava, Prague and Budapest; European Sleeper to Amsterdam and Brussels; and, from later this year, PKPIC night sleepers to Chelm and Przemyśl in eastern Poland
A multi-level essay in glass with a striking vaulted roof, the station is on five levels, with level 0 in the middle and trains departing/arriving on levels -2 and +2 – all utterly confusing for a first-timer. The station isn’t the most relaxing spot to linger, but for the exalted few, Deutsche Bahn’s premium (first-class) lounge is an oasis of calm.
For an extraordinary breakfast in a stunning setting, book a table at Käfer on the roof terrace of the Reichstag (900 metres from station, open daily from 9am). For a posh pre-departure dinner, Paris-Moskau at Alt-Moabit 141 (open from 6pm) is a traditional Berlin restaurant in a half-timbered building just 400 metres away.
Breakfast at Käfer on the roof terrace of the Reichstag. Photograph: Thomas Rosenthal
With time on your hands, catch the vibe of the German capital by wandering along the banks of the River Spree, passing the Reichstag en route to the Brandenburg Gate.
Leave luggage at the DB Gepäck lockers (levels -1 and +1, from €2 for two hours or €4 a day). Shower for a fee at the “rail and fresh” facility on level 0.
Vienna Hauptbahnhof
A visit to Vienna’s stunning Amelienbad pool will help compensate for the lack of showers at the city’s railway station. Photograph: Viennaslide/Alamy
For ÖBB Nightjets to Amsterdam, Berlin, Bregenz, Brussels, Cologne, Dresden, Hamburg, Hanover, Milan, Paris, Venice and Zurich (also until late September, additionally with ÖBB Nightjets to Florence, Rome and Verona); for Euronight to Kraków, Stuttgart and Warsaw; and other operators to Bucharest, Braşov, Kyiv and Lviv, plus summer-season overnight trains to Rijeka and Split
Fully opened 10 years ago, Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof rates as one of Europe’s most efficient transport hubs and boasts a greater range of destinations than any other station in Europe.
For a relaxed breakfast, skip the fast-food options in the station and head for Café Goldegg, with its elegant wood panelling and art nouveau style (on corner of Goldeggasse and Argentinierstrasse). Ask nicely and they’ll even knock you up a full English.
For evening eats, I recently followed the advice of Mark Smith, the legendary Man in Seat 61, and tried the excellent Ringsmuth at Johannitergasse 1 (closed Sun and Mon), a traditional Viennese restaurant with schnitzel galore as well as fish and veggie options.
Vienna Hauptbahnhof is south of the city centre. Three stops north on the U1 metro is Stephansplatz, where you can cleanse your soul at the lovely St Stephens Cathedral. Or go two stops south on the U1 to Reumannplatz to cleanse the body in art deco elegance at the wonderful Amelienbad indoor pool – a triumph of progressive socialist design. A visit will help make up for the lack of showers at the railway station for those arriving on night trains (but there are luggage lockers aplenty, from €2).
Zurich Hauptbahnhof
A colourful angel floats over the concourse at Zurich Hauptbahnhof. Photograph: eFesenko/Alamy
For ÖBB Nightjets to Amsterdam, Berlin, Bremen, Cologne, Graz, Hamburg and Vienna; and Euronight to Budapest, Dresden, Ljubljana, Prague and Zagreb
Zurich’s main station is a place for grand arrivals – check out the colourful flying angel pivoting over the concourse. Then freshen up with a shower (mezzanine level, €12). And now it’s time for breakfast …
My go-to spot is Roots on Lintheschergasse, just two minutes from the platforms. Power porridge and avocado toast go down a treat after a night on the rails, as do all sorts of shakes and juices. For pre-departure supper, try Maru, a little oasis of Japan on level 2 of the shopping complex under the station serving matcha and “Japanese comfort food”.
I love Zurich for its small-town feel. Having arrived on a night train and lingered over breakfast, I usually wander down pedestrianised Bahnhofstrasse and make for St Peterhofstatt, a haven of calm in the historic heart of the city.
London
The Caledonian Sleeper chugging through the Highlands
Paddington station for the GWR Night Riviera for 11 destinations in Cornwall;Euston station for Caledonian Sleeper trains to 40-plus stations in Scotland
Let’s not forget London. The last direct night sleeper service to the continent stopped 45 years ago (that was the Night Ferry to Brussels and Paris, which for a spell even conveyed a through sleeping car to Switzerland) but you can slip between crisp, clean sheets in sleepers departing the UK capital for the Cornish coast or Scottish Highlands.
Arriving passengers can benefit from posh arrival lounges with free showers at both Paddington and Euston, although the facilities at the latter are only for those who booked en suite accommodation on the train.
Passengers departing Euston should board early and head straight to the Club Car (seats are limited) for dinner for a taste of Scotland and a wee dram as they head north. Those departing from Paddington to Cornwall should take a chilled bottle of champagne to enjoy in the GWR lounge (the former royal waiting room) on Platform 1.
The Lake District route passes by some of the national park’s most beautiful villages and stunning landscapes
The UK’s top road trips have been revealed(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Summer is the ideal season for a road trip, and what better place to explore than the stunning landscapes right in the north-west of England?
The UK’s top five road trips have been unveiled, with a breath taking route in the Lake District clinching third place. It was only outdone by Scotland’s North Coast 500 and a coast-to-coast loop in Cornwall. Digital car finance lender Carmoola has teamed up with renowned travel expert Gemma Logan of The Brighton Bucket List to reveal the best road trips in the UK.
The beautiful Lake District route showcases some of the national park’s most picturesque villages, as well as offering views of the region’s majestic fells and stunning lakes.
The Lake Distict route offers vies of the regions lakes and fells (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Covering approximately 80-100 miles depending on the chosen route, it begins in Windermere and takes you through Grasmere, Keswick, Coniston and Borrowdale before looping back to Windermere.
While it can be completed in three to four hours of continuous driving, it’s best savoured over two to three days, allowing ample time to fully explore the area.
This road trip is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, but it also offers a fantastic opportunity for people to appreciate the beauty of the Lake District from the comfort of their car. Gemma commented: “We’ve seen a major shift towards slower, more meaningful travel.
“Road trips offer freedom, flexibility, and the chance to uncover hidden gems along the way – all while travelling on your own terms. They’re no longer a backup plan – they’re the way people want to travel.”
Another road trip easily accessible from Greater Manchester that made it into the top five is a scenic route through the stunning Yorkshire Dales and Moors.
This 120-mile journey begins in Skipton, taking you through Grassington, Malham, Hawes, Helmsley and back to Skipton, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Equally, if you want to explore more of Wales, the Coastal Way is a fantastic chance to see some of the country’s more beautiful scenery. The Coastal Way runs for about 180 miles down the entire length of Cardigan Bay.
Driving by, you can glimpse the peaks of Snowdonia and expanses of blue ocean. There is Michelin-starred food found along the way, making it the perfect drive for food-lovers.
Even better for those who don’t have a car or who would prefer to go without – much of this road trip can actually be done on foot or by cycling.
A pest expert issued an urgent warning for people travelling home from their summer holidays
The pest expert says to check the inside and outside of your luggage (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
With the end of the summer holidays in sight, many holidaymakers will be packing up their bags and preparing to head home. While people might put lots of care into their packing, it’s common to spend less time unpacking – and simply dump the contents of your suitcase straight in the wash.
It’s always a good idea to chuck your clothes in the wash as soon as you get home. However, there is another important step everyone’s being advised to complete when they unpack their luggage.
A pest specialist is urging holidaymakers to check their suitcases carefully in case of any unwanted guests. James Rhoades, who owns ThermoPest, has warned that bed bugs flourish in warm, humid conditions and that summer travellers could unknowingly introduce the pests into their home when returning from a trip.
Explaining why summer is associated with a heightened risk, James said: “During hot weather, bed bugs become more active and need to feed more frequently. They get all their hydration from blood, so a warm, humid summer gives them the perfect opportunity to bite. With people wearing lighter sleepwear or using thinner sheets, there’s less of a barrier between the bugs and their food source – us.
“There’s also typically a rise in cases after holiday periods, as bed bugs can easily be brought back hidden in suitcases or laundry. Once inside, they spread quickly, so early detection and prevention are key.”
The expert issued a warning for people travelling home from holidays (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
Thankfully, there are steps people can take to minimise the risk when they arrive at their holiday and when they return home. James says people should ‘be vigilant’ when travelling.
He explains: “Hotels, guest houses, and short-term rentals can become hotspots for bed bugs during peak travel periods. Before unpacking, check the seams of the mattress, headboard, and upholstered furniture for telltale signs such as tiny rust-coloured spots or shed skins.
“Keep luggage elevated on racks rather than placing it directly on the floor to reduce the chance of bed bugs crawling into your belongings. You could also store clothes in sealed bags inside your suitcase for added protection and to make it harder for bugs to hitch a ride home.”
It’s helpful to unpack directly into the washing machine (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
When it is time to return home, it’s recommended that you unpack your clothes straight into the machine and carefully inspect your suitcase. James explains: “Returning home is one of the most common times for bed bugs to be introduced into your living space. As soon as you arrive back, unpack directly into the washing machine and wash everything on a hot cycle.
“Visually inspect your suitcase inside and out, paying close attention to pockets, seams, and linings for any signs of bed bugs such as dark spots, shed skins, or live insects. If you travel frequently, making this a routine step can help you spot potential issues early before they spread.”
Motorists are flocking to Amazon to get their hands on a smart bit of car kit that’s seen a dramatic tumble in price.
The gadget is the second-generation Echo Auto, and it’s been picking up some proper rave reviews from blokes and lasses who have snapped it up.
1
The Echo Auto will introduce hands-free Alexa control to your car
Amazon Echo Auto (2nd gen), £19.99 (was £59.99)
Originally fetching a hefty £59.99, the nifty Echo Auto is currently on sale for just £19.99 on Amazon.
That’s a cracking deal and a perfect time for anyone looking to introduce some smart tech into their motor – and crucially, without splashing out a fortune.
This little gizmo is designed to be your co-pilot, letting you command Alexa while you’re busy at the wheel.
Hands-free control: You can talk to Alexa to play music, make calls, or set reminders without ever touching your phone.
Navigation: Get directions from apps like Google Maps just by asking Alexa where you want to go.
Play music: Listen to your favourite songs and podcasts from services like Spotify or Amazon Music.
Smart home control: You can ask Alexa to turn on your house lights or adjust the heat while you are driving home.
Hear your voice: It has special microphones that can hear you clearly over car noise, like the radio or air conditioner.
The 2nd-gen Echo Auto is a small and discreet piece of kit that slots right into your car.
It hooks up to your phone and your car’s speakers to bring a whole new level of voice control to your ride.
Getting it all set up is a doddle too. You just plug it into a spare USB slot, link it to your phone’s Alexa app, and you’re sorted.
This brilliant bit of kit has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with thousands of happy drivers raving about how it’s transformed their motors.
One buzzing punter, who slapped a 5-star rating on it, wrote: “Highly recommend this. Works in my 23-year-old Nissan Micra.
“Voice activated, can listen to a music playlist or podcasts, can make hands-free calls, listen to LBC, etc. Works brilliantly.”
Another shopper commented: “Works seamlessly… very useful as just a Bluetooth pass through to car speakers.”
Another chuffed buyer said: “Great piece of tech, [I] love Alexa at home.
“Now she comes on the road with us and, unlike my phone, she hears very well and plays whatever I want. Terrific.”
A proper ringing endorsement came from a verified customer who simply put: “This is an amazing piece of kit, highly recommend.”
Whether you want to listen to tunes, get directions, or just stay connected on the go, the Auto is a simple and cheap way to do it.
At that sale price, it’s a bit of a no-brainer.
Amazon Echo Auto (2nd gen), £19.99 (was £59.99)
For more savings on other smart gadgets, head to our Amazon device deals round-up.
This picturesque seaside town in England dates back to Victorian times, and whilst it might be more low-key than other resorts, it has one of the UK’s best beaches
The seaside town’s popularity has lasted for centuries(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
But this kind of scene is just not everyone’s cup of tea, and if you have been longing for a trip to the coast, minus the loud attractions – then this picturesque town in Devon that is rich with history is well worth considering for your next family holiday.
Especially if the quality of the beach is your number one priority, then this idyllic seaside town is definitely somewhere you need to check out. It’s also a firm favourite with some very famous faces.
Sidmouth’s beach has been dubbed one of the cleanest in the UK, so it’s a great choice for people who insist on taking a dip in the sea when they are on their holidays.
Sidmouth’s esplanade is traditional and scenic as it overlooks the pebbled beach(Image: Getty)
On the stunning and historic Jurassic Coast, Sidmouth is picturesque, and its pebble beach has been awarded a Blue Flag for an impressive six years in a row.
From hiking in the unbelievable landscapes to relaxing on the beach itself, you’ll never forget the scenery on this beautiful stretch of coastline – Jacob’s Ladder beach is also well worth a visit.
But there is plenty to do beyond the beach itself, including visiting the town’s museum or the local donkey sanctuary.
The day out is ideal for animal lovers(Image: The Donkey Sanctuary)
For the youngsters, there is the Model Toy Museum, and for anyone looking to browse in the shops, they will find themselves supremely well catered to with independent retailers.
Connaught Gardens is a beautifully landscaped place to relax – but if you’re after a bit more action, consider going out on the water in a canoe, paddleboard, or kayak.
The Sun reports that TV star Stephen Fry loves Sidmouth after staying near the idyllic town while filming Jeeves and Wooster. Meanwhile, Jeremy Vine has also been open about his affection for the seaside town.
“What I love most about Sidmouth is that it feels like a town going places. It’s chintzy in places, drab in others, but it feels real. “And real by the sea is a different kind of beauty,” Vine said.
Sidmouth Beach has won a Blue Flag six years in a row(Image: Getty Images)
There’s so many famous people who have holidayed or spent time in Sidmouth that there is even a Blue Plaque Trail you can walk to explore all the places notable figures loved most, from literary icons to the Royal Family.
Queen Victoria, when she was still a baby Princess, came to stay in Sidmouth, and it was the sight of a major historical moment. She was staying in the Woolbrook Cottage in 1819 when her father suddenly became ill and died.
Woolbrook Cottage is now the Royal Glen Hotel, and while it wasn’t a happy moment in the young royal’s life, it shows just how rich with history the area is, and also how longstanding Sidmouth’s popularity has been.
Literary legends like Beatrix Potter, JRR Tolkein – who is said to have written the first sections of Lord of the Rings in the town – and Jane Austen, all used to holiday in Sidmouth, going back as far as 1801.
The spa waters, good climate, and chilled out atmosphere have long been part of the appeal.
A small quaint seaside village may be the perfect place for those looking to escape the bustling city life – and the charm comes from the narrow paths where cars and bikes aren’t even allowed
The secluded village doesn’t have roads as it’s so close to the water edge(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
If you’re after some peace and tranquillity, this remote Scottish village may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Crovie, nestled in the north-east of Scotland on the coast of Aberdeenshire is one of the most quaint seaside communities in the country. The slow-pace sleepy village is home to picturesque narrow streets, chunky cottage walls and lots of fishermen – but what makes Crovie so spectacular is there are no roads leading through the cliff-foot village located right on the waters edge.
Cars are to be left outside it and even bikes aren’t allowed in. You can only access the row of some 60 houses on foot, with a steep cliff behind them. Only accessed by a steep hill, the residents of Crovie transport their groceries with wheelbarrows, adding to it’s quaint and secluded charm.
The village is so narrow cars aren’t allowed to pass through(Image: UIG via Getty Images)
Visit Aberdeenshire call it Europe’s best-preserved fishing village, as Crovie boasts the narrowest space between shore and cliff in Scotland. It is characterised by it’s unique layout, with many houses built with their backs to the sea to protect them from the quick changing weather patterns on the coast, but still offer a sight found nowhere else on earth.
According to the Scotsman, Crovie is no stranger to visitors. One Aberdeenshire local, who owns a holiday cottage for him and his wife, said there are just five permanent residents in the village as the rest are holiday homes. You can explore holiday homes and self-catering accommodations adorned with brightly painted pebbles and maritime art.
The village was once a fishing village, until 1953, when a storm washed away some of it and made it impossible for the fishermen to carry on working from there. This led to many fishermen moving along the coast to the larger village of Gardenstown.
There are only 60 houses in what used to be the fishing village(Image: Getty Images)
For visitors hoping to explore Crovie, there is a car park at the viewpoint overlooking the village and further parking by the final bend as you head towards the village. Drivers are discouraged from driving all the way down and once parked, there is a steep walk down to the houses or you can choose to take the stairs.
It’s an incredibly small place, and those taking the trip to Crovie have shared their thoughts. One visitor took to TripAdvisor and wrote: “Finally made the journey of 9 hours from my hometown. The place is in the middle of nowhere with no shops, cafe, pub etc so you need to take lunch with you[…]Very secluded and no one about.
You get a good view from the viewpoint. It’s a steep walk down and obviously steeper going back up. At the bottom there’s a stoney beach that you can only access at the end!”
Residents have to transport their items via wheelbarrows to their houses(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
While another penned: “Scottish village directly on the sea. Wonderful even just for a visit. You have to walk a very short distance because the cars stop a little further up. There is a small car park, but it’s absolutely worth it. Mandatory stop.”
