Time Out has revealed the 20 best cities in the world for nightlife, with one UK city making the cut – and it’s not the nation’s capital
The UK city that’s one of the best in the world for nightlife – not London(Image: Getty Images)
The crème de la crème of global nightlife destinations has been disclosed, and Brighton has flown the flag for the UK by securing a spot in the top ten, ranking seventh. Topping the charts overall is none other than Las Vegas, renowned for its glittering array of bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
TimeOut has unveiled the rankings, showcasing the top 20 cities worldwide for those seeking the ultimate nocturnal experiences. They surveyed thousands across hundreds of leading cities globally, asking participants to judge their local nightlife scene, including clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.
After analysing the responses, the experts compiled the definitive list of the top 20 nightlife hotspots around the globe.
Brighton stands as the UK’s lone entry on the list, building on its reputation from Time Out’s previous accolade as one of the world’s top 50 cities.
The coastal city is a magnet for diverse crowds, all in search of a memorable night on the town, reports the Express.
Brighton was the only British city to appear on the list(Image: Getty)
With offerings ranging from seafront clubs and sophisticated wine and cocktail bars to cabaret performances in historic ballrooms, Brighton caters to every taste.
Among the city’s gems is The Tempest Inn, a seafront establishment with a unique cave-like interior that has garnered glowing reviews on TripAdvisor.
A patron shared their experience: “Came here for Forro dance (upstairs) … really lovely venue and enjoyed a few drinks. Great central location, really nice internally, really top quality venue.”
Las Vegas took the top spot(Image: Getty)
Meanwhile, one patron of the cocktail and wine bar Bar Medusa penned: “I recently visited this bar and was left with a gorgeous impression.
Everything was wonderful, from the friendly and welcoming staff to the delicious cocktails. ‘Picasso’ was stunning and become my favorite cocktail. I will definitely come here again.”
Additionally, a review of Brighton’s Haus of Cabaret states: “Went for our anniversary not sure what to expect but had a great time was very funny Ruby our waitress was great kept us topped up with food and drink will definitely be going again.”
One mum took to TikTok to share her disappointment with the accommodation at the Skegness Butlin’s holiday park, sharing clips of the filthy room – including a dead bug on her bed
11:00, 26 Jul 2025Updated 12:24, 26 Jul 2025
One woman and her daughter had to move rooms on holiday at Butlin’s in Skegness (Image: Alamy Stock Photo)
Mum Jasmine took to TikTok to share her disappointment with the accommodation at the Skegness holiday park, sharing clips of the filthy room with her 19,000 followers.
“I could make a 10-minute video on all of the issues in here but here’s some of them,” she captioned the clip. “Even walking up to the room I felt grimy. This is the Butlin’s comfort room. This is my sign to not blindly book something hahaha.”
She went on to give a tour of the room – which they couldn’t stand to sleep in for more than one night – showing dirt throughout, including in the shower and the bin.
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In her voiceover, Jasmine said: “I was meant to book the apartment but I didn’t realise. When I first walked in there and I saw there’s only two rooms and one bathroom in the middle, I thought, ‘Where’s the rest of it?’.
“I am going to emphasise that was not Butlin’s fault at all though to be fair – it was my fault. So anyway I don’t know if the videos can do it justice because the smell when I walked in there was just absolutely wild.
“This isn’t the cleaner’s fault or anything like that – it’s the turnover rate is the issue. These rooms need massive deep cleans because a quick once over is not going to help.”
“I didn’t even want to shower in there – in fact, I didn’t shower in there. I ended up going to the swimming pools to have a shower.
“We spent one night in this room and the beds were so damp – my daughter even woke up asking why the bed was so wet.
“I can’t explain the smell. I know I keep saying it but it was horrific. The mould was over the windows, there were cobwebs up the walls… This was a dead bug on our bed and then our daughter got poo on her hand walking out and I was like ‘nah, that’s it, 100% I am going.’
“The stuff kids can do here is amazing though – I will not fault Butlins for that. It is just a shame about the room.”
When The Mirror contacted Butlin’s, a spokesperson for the holiday park said: “We’re sorry and disappointed to see the cleanliness issues the guest experienced with their accommodation. This certainly isn’t the high standards we expect our guests to receive when they holiday with us. We carried out a full reclean and offered a gesture of goodwill which was accepted.”
Others shared similar experiences in the comments, with one person writing: “This looks so much cleaner than our room [laughing emoji].”
Another person said: “Skegness I had the most horrible room haven’t ever gone back. It was a hot year window broke couldn’t open it, bedding didn’t get changed stuff left under the bed etc was horrible.”
However, another visitor insisted they had only ever had positive experiences at the holiday park, writing: “Which Butlin’s is this?? We’ve always been to skeg one and never had a room like this. That’s grim.”
Reporter Lucy Marshall felt like she went back in time as she rode the Northern Belle train last week. She shared her experience after paying a hefty price for the luxury experience from Yorkshire to Edinburgh
09:05, 26 Jul 2025Updated 13:08, 26 Jul 2025
Lucy covers lifestyle and social news for the Daily Mirror and other Reach PLC sites. She is passionate about sharing real life stories and is always on the hunt for the latest viral story. Lucy is particularly interested in women’s issues, health, relationships, internet trends and unique lifestyles.
The proud Yorkshire-born reporter previously worked as Life Writer at Hull Live, as well as a News Reporter for Yorkshire Live and Leeds Live.
Reporter Lucy Marshall spent the day on the Northern Belle, travelling from Yorkshire to Edinburgh and back(Image: Lucy Marshall)
It’s 8am on a Thursday morning and bag pipes can be heard around Wakefield Westgate station as a sea of mothers, daughters, grandparents and loved up couples could be seen dressed up to the nines on the platform awaiting the Northern Belle train.
Steam bellows out of the train before coming to a halt. Passengers beam as train staff, dressed in smart, traditional railway uniform roll out branded red carpets and greet guests as they board the luxurious carriages named after British castles or stately homes around the UK. I feel like a Royal Family member and can’t wait for my first sip of champagne.
As a regular train traveller – who more than often ends up with cancelled journeys, rowdy passengers or delays – I couldn’t wait to get a taste of this luxurious experience that I often see celebrities and influencers raving about on social media. So what better time than for my sister’s 30th birthday to enjoy such a treat. Loved ones had also shared stories of how “amazing” the train is and insist it is a must-try. But while I was excited, priced at a whopping £550 per person, my expectations were high.
The deluxe train takes passengers on rides to racecourses, castles, seaside towns, and more. We were travelling from West Yorkshire to Edinburgh, where we would also experience a tour of the Royal Yatch Britannia. The train picked up passengers from Huddersfield, Wakefield and York. It was due to also stop at Leeds but due to a fault [shock] this stop was taken off the pick up list.
After a wonderful greeting, I was seated in the Harlech carriage – the last one. If you are with a group, you will be put in a four booth seat, while couples were sat at a two-seater table at the other side.
The fancy set up for breakfast on the Northern Belle train(Image: Lucy Marshall)
The cocktail drinking began from an early hour(Image: Lucy Marshall)
We enjoyed a yogurt and fruit breakfast to start(Image: Lucy Marshall)
We also loved that a magician came round and performed tricks which left us totally baffled and wowed. The views from the train up to Scotland were amazing to see and I also observed the toilets were clean and enjoyed the White Company hand cream and luxury of using cotton hand towels instead of tissue or a dryer.
Four-hour stop in Edinburgh
I can’t believe the late Queen also stood here on the Royal Britannia(Image: Lucy Marshall)
After arriving at Edinburgh station, stuffed with champagne and delicious food, we got on a a private transfer from Waverley Station to Leith, before our tour of the Royal Britannia.
For some 40 years, the magnificent Royal Yacht Britannia cruised round the world carrying the late Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh on 968 State visits. They sailed more than a million miles, entertaining impressed prime ministers, presidents and foreign monarchs, while keeping the flag flying for Great Britain, before it stopped sailing in 1997.
It was also used for a pre-wedding party in July, 2011 as the extended Royal Family joined Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall for a cocktail party on board.
I loved seeing the staff quarters on board and we could not get over the size of the bed that the Queen and Prince Phillip would stay in. The beds looked like they were made for children. It was totally fascinating and we had a hand held phone which provided informative information. I loved hearing about the Queen’s favourite places on board and seeing the dining room where they held important dinners.
I loved visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia(Image: Lucy Marshall)
If you are a royal fan, keen sailor or love history, you will really enjoy it. Those on board the Northern Belle who weren’t keen on this spent the four hour break from the train exploring Scotland’s capital city instead.
Six-course meal and evening experience
The Northern Belle looks even more beautiful at night time as the lamps inside make it look magical.
We got back on the train for more champagne before a sumptuous six-course dinner with fine wines on our memorable journey home.
Then we ordered our three main courses at the start of the journey, as well as selecting the bottle of wine we would share to accompany each course and our selection of port to go with the cheese course. I opted for the Lishman’s of Ilkley Ham, Hock Terrain, followed by the Terroir et Saisons slow-braised daube, and finished off with Eton Mess of Annabel Strawberries.
The selection of canapes served onboard(Image: Lucy Marshall)
While waiting for a main course we enjoyed a selection of canapés – including Yorkshire Asparagus Donut, British Raj Chicken, and Royal Siberian Baerii Caviar. The caviar canape was by far my favourite; it was salty and delicious.
I couldn’t quite believe how amazing the quality of food was on a train. Haven eaten in plenty of high end and Michelin-starred restaurants, this meal was up there thanks to the fantastic presentation, incredible flavours, and quality.
But the star of the show was yet to come – the cheeseboard. Oh my, the size of the board was as big as the tables. It was simply a cheeselover’s dream. We had the choice of Batch Clothbound Cheddar, Duke of Wellington Blue, Flat Capper Brie and Sheffield Forge. Of course I tried them all. There was also a choice of different crackers, jams and chutneys.
I was in cheese heaven(Image: Lucy Marshall)
Around this time, a two-man band came around and played music at each seats. This was super fun and got everyone clapping together on the train which was really sweet. While fabulous, they only did one song at each seat. Throughout the rest of the journey both travelling to and from Edinburgh there was no music. So I think considering it is listed as part of the experience, the band could have played for longer or some classical music could have been put on in the background.
The evening was finished off with us ordering espresso and porn star martinis. I was shocked that not all drinks were including within the price. While it was great to share a bottle of wine, and that is enough, throughout the rest of the long journey if you want a drink you have to pay extra for it. To be honest I think this is pretty appalling when you are paying £550 I think the price should cover all drinks for the day.
Overall I absolutely loved this experience and was totally wowed. It has also made me want to try other fancy train rides too. It’s a brilliant way to not only enjoy luxury, spend a long period of time having fun with friends, a partner or family, but it also allows you to see new places.
While I think it is totally justified it’s an expensive experience, I do think £350-£400 would be a more appropriate amount for what we got on the day. If they included all drinks and provided more entertainment I believe it would be worth the full price.
But would I ride it again? Absolutely.
Would you pay this much to ride a train? Comment below.
Twisting along roads flanked by cherry trees, granite boulders, vines and wildflower-flecked pastures, I wind down the windows and breathe in the pure air of Portugal’s remote, historic Beira Interior region. The motor is silent, the playlist is birdsong and occasional bleating sheep; all is serene. “This is easier,” I say to myself with a smile, recalling my previous attempt to visit the Aldeias Históricas – a dozen historic hamlets bound by a 1995 conservation project – using woeful public transport. Revisiting this unspoilt pocket of Portugal, 155 miles (250km) north-east of Lisbon, near the border with Spain, is going to be effortless in an EV. And, best of all, the transport doesn’t cost me a penny.
An hour before, I arrived in Castelo Novo, a four-hour train ride from the capital, and currently the sole hub of the Aldeias Históricas’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Scheme. It was launched in 2022 to address local transport issues by providing five free-to-hire electric vehicles, alongside other community-supporting projects. It sounded too good to be true, but I booked the maximum three-day rental – enough time to see at least nine of the villages. I was informed that if I arrived by train, someone would meet me at the station.
Sure enough, Duarte Rodrigues welcomes me like an old friend. “The project’s main focus is tourism to the historic villages, but some of the cars are used for the community, to take elderly people to the market or distribute meals,” he says on the gorgeous drive to the medieval hamlet of Castelo Novo, 650 metres up the slopes of the Serra da Gardunha. Take-up was nearly equal between tourists and residents, he adds.
A few minutes later, outside the romanesque town hall, Duarte hands me the keys to my Megane E-Tech with a wave. It’s worth staying for a night at Pedra Nova, a gorgeously renovated boutique B&B, but it needs to be booked well in advance and I am keen to make the most of my time in the EV. Having decided to skip popular Piódão and Monsanto – now a House of the Dragon jet-setting destination – my first stop is Belmonte. Like all 12 aldeias, this hazy hilltop town played a pivotal role in Portugal’s identity. A Brazilian flag flutters behind a statue of local legend Pedro Álvares Cabral, the first European to “discover” Brazil. I stroll through the old Jewish Quarter’s single-storey granite houses to Bet Eliahu synagogue, built 500 years after King Manuel I’s 1496 decree expelling Jews from the kingdom.
Centum Cellas, a Roman villa near Belmonte. Photograph: Luis Fonseca/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Continuing to 12th-century Linhares da Beira, I wander the leafy slopes of the Serra da Estrela – mainland Portugal’s highest range. Similar to much-loved Monsanto, the hamlet lies between and atop giant granite boulders. From the largest rocky outcrop, where the castle’s crenellated walls rise, the Mondego valley’s panorama is endless. Other than an airborne paraglider and a man hawking hand-carved magnets in the car park, there’s not a soul in sight.
I walk a stretch of slabbed Roman road that once linked Mérida in Spain to Braga, north of Porto, and remember why I adore these villages. History is bite-size, hushed and unhurried, the antithesis of my home in the Algarve. After a brief drive, I park up and plug in outside the medieval defences of the most populated aldeia.
Founded in the ninth century, handsome Trancoso hides behind hefty, turret-topped walls that have witnessed royal nuptials and numerous skirmishes. Today, walking beneath weathered porticos and streets lined with hydrangeas, it feels like the calmest place in the world. As does Solar Sampaio e Melo, a palatial 17th-century guesthouse – repurchased by a descendant of the original owners in 2011 – with an honesty bar and a pool shaded by turrets.
Following a late breakfast of sardinhas doces, Troncoso’s sardine-shaped, almond-stuffed sweets, I make for Marialva. The satnav states 30 minutes, but with back-road detours to gawp at giant granite mounds around Moreira de Rei, I reach the massif-mounted castle well after lunch. Occupied by the Aravos, a Lusitanian tribe, then the Romans and Moors, this was a crucial site for the advance of the Christian Reconquista.
An old chap in a checkered shirt sits hammering almonds from their shells outside his home. I buy a bulging bag for €7 and gobble a handful inside the semi-ruined citadel, where Bonelli’s eagles soar and cacti reclaim the stone. The flavour transports me to my Algarvian childhood holidays, when I’d hide from the sun (and my parents) under almond trees. For a second, it feels like Portugal hasn’t changed in 30 years. Perhaps here, far from the coast, little has.
The castle at Marialva. Photograph: Vitor Ribeiro/Alamy
The journey to Castelo Rodrigo is filled with awe, particularly around the craggy valley sliced by the Côa river. Just upstream is a unique collection of rock art etchings from three eras – prehistory, protohistory and history – and Faia Brava, Portugal’s first private nature reserve, co-founded by biologist Ana Berliner, her husband and others. In 2004, the couple renovated Casa da Cisterna into a boutique guesthouse, and on its wisteria-draped terrace, Ana welcomes me with sugared almonds and fresh juice. I enquire about Faia Brava (Ana guides guests on excursions to the reserve and the prehistoric rock art) and whether they’re concerned about tourism growing.
“These small villages benefit a lot [from tourism] because there aren’t many people living here or many opportunities, so people are moving to the big cities,” she tells me. “If you retain your people, and your young people spend those days living here, it’s very good.”
As I poke around the castle ruins, I mull over how the Portuguese writer José Saramago described Castelo Rodrigo in Journey to Portugal (1981): “desolation, infinite sadness” and “abandoned by those who once lived here”. I’m reassured that Ana is right. Lisbon’s tourism boom has created Europe’s least affordable city for locals. Yet, in these hinterlands, the right tourism approach could help preserve local customs.
Unlike most of the aldeias, Castelo Rodrigo was founded by the Kingdom of León. It became Portuguese when the 1297 treaty of Alcanizes defined one of Europe’s oldest frontiers. Reminders of Spain linger, such as the Ávila-style semicircular turrets and ruined Cristóvão de Moura palace, constructed under the Habsburg Spanish kings. Portuguese locals later torched it.
With no charging station in Castelo Rodrigo (work is under way to expand the project to other villages, including the installation of chargers and the opening of new bases with additional cars in 2026), I drive to Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, the modern town below. At Taverna da Matilde flaming chouriço scents the dining room, and the pork loin – bisaro, an indigenous part-pig, part‑boar – is perfect. I sleep like a prince at Casa da Cisterna.
Breakfast is a casual, communal affair of buttery Seia mountain cheese and pão com chouriço, followed by a quick stop at Castelo Rodrigo’s wine cooperative to collect a case of robust Touriga Nacional (tours and tastings €18pp). In Almeida, a star-shaped military town, I roam the grassy ramparts before continuing south. Swallows soon replace eagles, and granite fades into gentle farmland.
Approaching Castelo Mendo. Photograph: Daniel James Clarke
I breathe in the silence, standing by Castelo Mendo’s twin-turreted gate. It feels like the world has stopped. I tiptoe across the ruined castle keep and am transfixed by the endless panorama of olive groves, cherry trees and occasional shepherd’s huts.
In search of coffee, I step into a dimly lit stone room below a sign that reads D Sancho. Inside is an old-world retail marvel. Photos of popes, boxes of wine, retired horseshoes, mounds of old coins and “mystery boxes” that I’m tempted to spend a tenner on. A hunched woman with a smile gifts me a shot of ginjinha, the local cherry liquor, and signals me to sit with her on the bench outside. We don’t speak, yet I somehow feel a connection to her land. I buy a bottle in the hope of taking that feeling home.
My final stop, Sortelha, comes with high expectations – Saramago promised a perfectly preserved medieval town. Hulking walls cradle a 16th-century cluster of stone houses dominated by a castle that crowns an outcrop. Almost on cue, fog and showers shroud it all in mystery. I retreat to O Foral, where plates of bacalhau (salted cod) are bathed in pistachio-hued local olive oil.
Parking back in Castelo Novo with a panic-inducing 7% charge showing on the dash, I am grateful to return the keys, and use the time before my lift to the station to survey the Knights Templar’s former domain from the 12th-century castle.
Stopping outside the red door where Saramago reportedly once stayed, I ponder how he would describe these villages 44 years later. Hopefully, he’d recount that, for the traveller, timeless magic remains, but those returning and reviving have vanquished any melancholy.
Johnny Seifert, 32, from Borehamwood, has spent years perfecting the art of sunbathing and has shared his top unwritten rules for bagging the best poolside spot
Layla Nicholson Senior Features Writer and Sarah Tulloch Senior Lifestyle and Features Reporter
06:00, 26 Jul 2025
The ‘King of sunbeds’ has perfected the art of sunbathing(Image: Johnny Seifert / SWNS)
The self-proclaimed ‘King of sunbeds’ has spilled the beans on how to secure a prime poolside spot this summer, revealing his top holiday sunbathing secrets.
Johnny Seifert, 32, a veteran holidaymaker from Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, has gathered a treasure trove of tactics to maximise his time soaking up the rays.
The showbiz journalist and content creator has built quite a name for himself with his clever guidance on bagging the best sun lounger.
Now, he’s revealing everything about becoming the ideal sunbather – without causing any upset.
Johnny Seifert, 32, is a well-seasoned holidaymaker and has gathered all the tricks to make the most of sunbathing time.(Image: Johnny Seifert / SWNS)
Should all the sunbeds be reserved by towels yet remain empty, Johnny recommends waiting an hour before moving the towels aside, reports the Daily Star.
He also maintains that demolishing a full-sized pizza – or any food requiring cutlery – whilst lounging is an absolute no-no.
For families or large groups, he recommends claiming clusters of sunbeds rather than a row, to reduce disturbance to fellow guests.
Johnny explained: “I’d keep an eye on the clock for an hour, and if nobody shows up, sorry – it’s my sunbed now. You can always play innocent and say you didn’t realise it was taken.”
“As for food, I’ve got no issue with you munching on breadsticks, or perhaps a slice of pizza. But a whole pizza, anything pungent, or if you’re scoffing a salad with mayo dribbling down your chin, do us a favour and find a table.
“Anything that needs a knife and fork, keep it away from the pool. Drinks, on the other hand, are absolutely fine!
“And for groups, take a circle, not a row – so you’re not shouting down a line. It’s just about finding ways not to disturb everyone else.”
Johnny is a veteran holidaymaker(Image: Johnny Seifert / SWNS)
Johnny suggested that brief calls around the pool using headphones are acceptable. However, anything on loudspeaker, such as music, is strictly prohibited, and video calls are a definite no-go. He advised to listen to music or conduct long phone calls in a private place away from your fellow sunbathers.
Johnny also quipped that he doesn’t want to hear someone’s ‘life story’ while they’re on a deckchair. While others might want to listen to music, Johnny said that most people want some peace and quiet.
He recommended that at hotels with multiple pools, parents should ensure their children stay within the designated children’s pool area and avoid venturing into the adult section.
Even adults who opt for a swim in the adult pool should refrain from causing any disturbance or splashing.
Johnny says there should be no splashing(Image: Johnny Seifert / SWNS)
Johnny stated: “I want peace and quiet – when I’m ready for kids, I’ll sit by the kids pool. And no matter which pool, if you can see people lay down with books, don’t splash around too much.”
He also advised careful use of umbrellas to ensure they only shade the user and not others.
His final rule, which he stressed should never be broken, is against wearing skimpy speedo swimming briefs around the pool. While he acknowledges their appropriateness for sporting activities, he maintains they’re unsuitable for relaxing beside the hotel swimming area.
He stated: “No men should be wearing those. We don’t need to see everything! Especially when they bend over to pick up their flip flops. On holiday, by a hotel pool, there’s no need for that.”
A stunning seaside town that has turned its reputation around and is experiencing a ‘second wind’ of tourism has been crowned the cheapest coastal resort in England
Who says moving to the coast has to break the bank?(Image: Getty Images)
Moving to the coast doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially in this charming seaside town. Demand for coastal properties has spiked by a staggering 115 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels, with swathes of Brits ready to ditch the city for a more laid-back life filled with golden sands and fish and chips. However, the sudden demand combined with limited availability has led to house prices skyrocketing in certain areas.
Take Sandbanks, for example – a stunning neighbourhood in Poole, Dorset with crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, that’s become somewhat of an A-list magnet in recent years. Here, average house properties cost a whopping £965,708 – more than triple the national average.
The charming town was crowned the cheapest coastal resort in England(Image: Getty Images)
If the near-million price tag is slightly out of budget, don’t worry – as the Co-Operative Bank has analysed recent data to find the most affordable UK coastal towns for both buying and renting. In England, Morecambe came out top, with average house prices at just £194,295.
“This Lancashire gem captures the essence of the English seaside, offering panoramic views over the seafront – as well as some of the most affordable house prices in the country,” the bank said. “The average house price here is actually lower than in Oban at £194,295, working out as 7.44 times the average annual income.
“However, rent prices in Morecambe are slightly higher, at an average of £821 per month. That’s 37.7 per cent of the average monthly income.”
Average house prices in Morecambe are below £200,000(Image: Getty Images)
Top 20 seaside locations in UK – full list
Oban
Morecambe
Blackpool
Troon
Filey
Scarborough
Whitby
Southport
Sunbar
Swansea
Portsmouth
Torquay
Eastbourne
Weymouth
Hastings
Ramsgate
Deal
Aberystwyth
Margate
Newquay
Boasting five miles of soft golden sand and an award-winning seafront promenade that looks out onto the stunning Lakeland Fells, Morecambe was once branded one of the worst seaside towns in the country. Now, it hopes to take on the hyped-up coastal resorts of Cornwall and bring its glory days back.
“Morecambe offers you the chance to enjoy the many pleasures of the seaside, whether it’s flying kites, building sandcastles or enjoying the views across the bay,” Hails Visit Lancashire. “Stroll along Morecambe’s promenade with an ice cream or have fun seeing it on two wheels, before grabbing a picnic and heading on down to the beach for a spot of sandcastle making or kite flying.”
Stunning sculptures are scattered around the town(Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)
Must-see attractions include the TERN project, which features a series of sculptures situated along Morecambe’s seafront – from steel cormorants, gannets and razorbills to the statue of Eric Morecambe, which was unveiled by the late Queen in 1999. The Art Deco Midland Hotel has also undergone restoration in recent years – making it one of the town’s most impressive structures.
Featuring four modern 30s-inspired rooms, six rooftop suites, a top-notch restaurant and ultra-stylish bar, Midland is a great base for exploring Morecambe, or for splurging out on a fancy afternoon tea while soaking in the views. Prices start from £145 per night.
*Prices based on Booking.com listings at the time of writing.
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Despite playing girl’s football for years, watching England vs Italy in the Euros semi final was my first ever women’s game, and it was not what I expected
17:06, 25 Jul 2025Updated 17:06, 25 Jul 2025
I felt more included in a football crowd than ever before
I played football way before it was even a professional sport for women in the UK, and yet shamefully had never been to watch a single game of women’s football.
So, when Geneva Tourism presented the opportunity to go to Geneva and watch the Lionesses play in the Euro’s semi-final, it was a no-brainer.
It’s rare you get to watch a football game set against the backdrop of the French mountains, whilst standing in Switzerland, but that was the beauty of seeing the lionesses play at Stade de Genève. A beautiful stadium for the beautiful game.
Seemingly now football fans, including myself, are realising the Lionesses have so much to offer to lovers of the sport and the team are certainly giving them plenty to celebrate.
I went into the stadium with an open mind, a buzz in the air, and an excitement to get to know how it feels to support a team that has a high chance of walking away with a win.
England won 2-1 against Italy on Tuesday July 22
I must admit, I didn’t expect there to be as much atmosphere from the spectators in the crowd as there was but as stands packed out with fans of all genders, flags hung high, drums banging, and trumpets blaring there was a different kind of ambience.
This crowd was far less rowdy, less cruel to the opposition—seemingly less drunk too—but by no means did they lack that very same passion that drives any English football club.
When it came to the game itself, the standout thing I couldn’t help but notice, and albeit could just be down to the intensity of this semi-final, is these players love to get handsy. The women on the pitch couldn’t help but foul left, right, and centre, and that goes for both sides.
I’ve never seen so many near yellow cards, hands being grabbed and players being shoved, sneaky pulls on shirts, and cheeky tripping over than I have in any other game of football.
It proved these Lionesses have just as much, if not more grit, aggression, and daring streak than the male players I’ve been watching my entire life. Although it did have me cringing anytime a corner was taken – hoping and praying that we wouldn’t foul inside the box.
The crowd went wild when Michelle Agyemang scored for England
For years, as a fan of football, I did feel a sense of awkwardness within me, in both the pubs and at the games, feeling I couldn’t fully involve myself in the chaos.
It almost felt as though this was a game that belonged to the men and I was just merrily passing through. I didn’t feel welcome to join in with the celebrations and the cheering because often, I didn’t feel safe to.
But standing there in Geneva watching the Lionesses, it really did feel like it was everyone’s game and one that I could be a part of. I hugged the woman I just met when we watched a fresh-on-the-pitch 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang score that first goal.
We collectively drank wine (yes, outside in the stands, can you believe it) and talked game play with fellow fans and it felt like a place where my version of football belonged.
While I won’t be there to see the Lionesses take on Spain in the Euros final, I will be standing firmly in a pub, wine in hand, cheering along.
There’s no doubt I will also be guilty of screaming ‘REF’ at the TV even when it’s clear we did in fact foul, because let’s face it, there was a lot of that happening.
The days of being charged additional fees for your hand luggage on flights could soon be a thing of the past – at least in the EU
Good news: charging for cabin bags might soon be over
UK holidaymakers have been warned of a significant change to hand luggage rules on flights to Europe. The BBC has highlighted a considerable shift in hand luggage regulations for European Union flights. The era of being slapped with extra charges for your cabin baggage on flights may soon be over – at least within the EU.
On June 24, 2025, legislators voted in favour of a proposal that would allow passengers to bring a small carry-on bag weighing up to 7kg (15.4lbs) onto their flight free of charge, even on budget airlines. This development comes as Ryanair‘s chief, Michael O’Leary, has fired back at ‘unimplementable’ proposals that could permit each plane passenger to bring two free cabin bags on board.
Cabin bags up to 7kg to be free of charge, even on low-cost airlines(Image: Getty Images)
This development comes as Ryanair‘s chief, Michael O’Leary, has fired back at ‘unimplementable’ proposals that could permit each plane passenger to bring two free cabin bags on board, reports Birmingham Live.
During Ryanair’s earnings call for the first quarter of 2026, its CEO vehemently criticised the ‘impractical’ move. As per Travel Weekly, he stated: “The idea that everyone is entitled to two free bags on board is unimplementable – they don’t fit in the aircraft.
“There’s not room on largely full aircraft for one small carry-on bag and one large trolley bag. About 50 per cent of the passengers can bring a trolley bag and we do that using the priority boarding service.
“Any rules that would alter that would be infringing EU rules guaranteeing the freedom of airlines to set pricing and policies, and we don’t believe that will happen.”
Ourania Georgoutsakou, managing director of Airlines For Europe, Europe’s largest airline association, expressed her concern: “Europe’s airline market is built on choice. Forcing a mandatory trolley bag strips passengers of that choice and obliges passengers to pay for services they may not want or need,”.
She further questioned: “What’s next? Mandatory popcorn and drinks as part of your cinema ticket? The European Parliament should let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don’t.”
Meanwhile, Mr O’Leary announced his consideration to increase the incentive to “eliminate the scourge of passengers with excess baggage. I think it’s unlikely to play out but there’s clearly going to be some kind of negotiation between the parliament and the commission on passenger rights.”
By eliminating carry-on baggage fees, airlines will make travelling abroad easier. Even better, it will save them from spending hundreds of pounds to send off a small piece of luggage.
Margate is known for its sandy beaches and charming seaside attractions – but it’s also a hotspot for celebrities and has one of the UK’s ‘coolest’ neighbourhoods
Margate Main Sands boasts perfect golden sand(Image: Getty Images)
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect weekend getaway, then Margate is a hidden gem that ticks all the boxes. With its stunning beach, vibrant atmosphere, top-notch eateries and refreshing sea breeze, it’s an ideal spot for families or couples seeking a romantic mini-break.
While Margate has long been recognised as a seaside retreat, the town of today offers so much more. It’s home to a remarkable food scene and a bustling arts community. But fear not – while embracing modern trends, Margate hasn’t lost its classic coastal charm. Nowadays, it manages to blend being trendy and artistic with maintaining a traditional British holiday feel.
Margate Main Sands boasts 19 miles of breathtaking Kentish coastline(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
And we can’t forget about Margate Main Sands – boasting some of the softest, golden sands spread across 19 miles of breathtaking Kentish coastline. The town’s Cliftonville district has been dubbed one of the ‘coolest’ in the UK, and TimeOut has listed the town among the top places to visit.
It’s no surprise that Margate has become a hotspot for celebrities and Londoners, leading to a boom in property prices. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot famous faces such as Lilly Allen, Sam Mendes, Olivia Coleman, and even some cast members from EastEnders.
For unique sights, Margate is the destination, with standout attractions including the Margate Museum, the quirky Crab Museum, the enchanting Shell Grotto, and the underground wonders of Margate Caves.
Margate Old Town serves as a charming centre for boutique museums and a diverse collection of shops ranging from vintage to contemporary. Staying true to its heritage as a coastal resort, Margate offers all the classic seaside attractions: plenty of fish and chip establishments, ice cream vendors dotting the seafront, beachside pubs, and opportunities for mini golf.
Dreamland, merely a brief stroll from the shore, stands as the retro theme park cherished by families. It boasts classic funfair attractions, stages musical performances, and houses the Scenic Railway – Britain’s most ancient wooden rollercoaster.
Dreamland, a theme park suitable for all ages(Image: Publicity Picture)
For visitors wanting fish and chips following a beach day, Peter’s Fish Factory at 12 Royal York Mansions in Margate comes highly praised. Yet for those desiring a more upmarket meal, Margate also shines with venues like Angela’s and Bottega Caruso, plus emerging favourites including Sargasso and Fort Road Hotel.
Selecting standouts proves challenging, yet Sargasso distinguishes itself with its stunning ocean panoramas and recently earned recognition in SquareMeal’s Top 100 UK restaurants for 2023, a compilation highlighting the “highest calibre of restaurants” across the country.
Alternatively, you might be drawn to the authentic Italian atmosphere at Bottega Caruso, where you can not only relish cuisine from the proprietor’s native Italian village, but also buy fresh pasta, house-made tomato sauce, and other Italian delicacies. They also run pasta-making classes and organise Supper Club nights for a taste of Italy in Britain, reports Cambridgeshire Live.
Those seeking a cultural adventure should make the Turner Contemporary gallery a priority, featuring diverse art exhibitions that rival London’s cultural scene. Guests can join guided tours and activities or unwind in the café whilst taking in harbour vistas.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, don’t miss Margate’s spectacular four-acre tidal pool, located just 1.4 miles from Margate Main Sands. The Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, beloved by swimmers and families year-round, is Britain’s largest and also boasts “fresh water springs rising from the beach” within its boundaries.
It’s an ideal spot to soak up the sea air and enjoy a dip or simply lounge beside the water.
Flight attendant Megan Homme shared her top tips for selecting the perfect suitcase for your travels – and it’s all about keeping your belongings safe in the hold.
An airline worker shared her top tips for selecting the perfect suitcase for your travels (Image: Xavier Lorenzo via Getty Images)
A flight attendant has shared her top tips for choosing the ideal suitcase for your next holiday to guarantee your possessions remain secure in the aircraft’s cargo hold.
Megan Homme, who works for an American airline and shares clips on TikTok under the handle @meganhomme, has gained 360,500 followers thanks to her popular travel advice.
In a recent clip, she detailed her own luggage selection process after being compelled to “learn the hard way” through various blunders she’s experienced previously.
The initial consideration is your suitcase’s construction material. Whilst soft-shell cases might be simpler to handle, they can create difficulties if another passenger’s luggage spills or splits open in the cargo area.
If you want to keep your things safe, get a hard shell suitcase(Image: Getty)
“You never know what is going to be in someone else’s bag, or what is going to be underneath the plane, and what could leak on your bag,” Megan explained.
Baggage handlers have previously disclosed that travellers frequently pack liquids in their carry-ons, which can lead to complications.
Writing on a Reddit forum, the unnamed baggage handler stated: “Please don’t pack food or drinks in your bag. They rot, break, leak, open. It smells. Especially alcohol. Then I smell all day after picking up a bag that leaked on me.”
However, it’s not merely liquid spillage you should consider when choosing luggage – colour represents another crucial factor.
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Megan suggested opting for a dark coloured case to reduce the likelihood of visible damage when it reappears from the hold.
“If your bag is going under the plane it is going to be scuffed up very quickly. I learned that the hard way.”
The third consideration is ensuring your suitcase has wheels. Another baggage handler also took to Reddit, according to Express.co.uk, to explain why having four wheels is crucial to prevent your bag being hurled into the hold by staff.
If your luggage has at least two, but ideally four functioning wheels, this means handlers can wheel it down into the hold which will keep your belongings secure.
If you lack wheels, then your bag will almost certainly need to be lobbed into the hold. The baggage handler said their “absolute least favourite” bags to load were ones with wheels that had jammed up.
POUNDLAND has confirmed the full list of 12 more store closures amid a massive restructuing.
Sites across Canterbury, Coventry and Brigg have been named as destinations due to shut.
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Poundland has revealed the locations of more stores facing closureCredit: Alamy
Poundland’s retail director Darren MacDonald said:“While our anticipated network of around 650-700 stores remains sizeable, it is of course, sincerely that we’re closing a number of stores to allow us to get us back on track.
“We entirely understand how disappointing it will be for customers when a store nearby, closes but we look forward to continuing to welcome them to one of our other locations.
“Work is underway to with colleagues through a formal consultation process in stores scheduled to close, exploring any suitable alternative roles.”
You can check out the full list of closures here:
Brigg: Cary Lane, Brigg, DN20 8EY
Canterbury: Unit 2A, Marshwood Close Retail Park, Canterbury, CT1 1DX
Coventry: 63 Hertford Street, Coventry, CV1 1LB
Newcastle: Unit 15-18, Killingworth Centre, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE12 6YT
Kings Heath: 74-76 High Street, Kings Heath, B14 7JZ
Peterborough: Unit 19, Orton Gate Shopping Centre, PE2 5TD
A former bustling resort loved by affluent holidaymakers now lies as a forsaken and crumbling ghost town.
Isabelle Rodney and Liam Ryder Digital Production Editor
12:57, 25 Jul 2025
One town was left abandoned by rich tourists decades ago(Image: ehrlif via Getty Images)
Elkmont, Tennessee, was once a thriving town and popular holiday destination for wealthy tourists. The town now stands as an abandoned and derelict site within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Famed for its countless walking paths, the spectacular 80-foot Laurel Falls, and the yearly synchronous firefly display that illuminates the mountains, Elkmont is most celebrated as the “abandoned town of the Smokies”.
Initially called “Little River”, the US region covered 86,000 acres of terrain and was bought in 1901 by Colonel Wilson B. Townsend, who established the Little River Lumber company.
The building of a railway for his timber operations led to a surge of visitors and transformed this location into a sought-after holiday spot for well-heeled travellers, reports the Express.
Eventually, this weekend retreat developed into a permanent home for residents from Knoxville, and the settlement became recognised as Elkmont.
But when the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was formed in 1934, property owners faced an impossible choice.
They were forced to pick between selling their homes and moving away immediately, or disposing of their assets at a reduced price to the National Park Service in return for a lifelong lease. Homeowners continued to reside and negotiate lease renewals until the late 80s.
The town is hidden deep in the Great Smoky Mountains(Image: Getty)
However, by 1992, most leases had expired, forcing residents to vacate their homes. This resulted in 70 historic buildings being abandoned, and the once bustling town of 1500 residents earned the eerie nickname Elkmont Ghost town.
With the decision that no one would return to Elkmont, questions arose about the fate of the buildings and the town after everyone’s departure.
While history buffs wanted to preserve Elkmont due to its century-long history, environmentalists pushed for the demolition of these cabins to allow the land to revert to its natural state.
The National Park Service also favoured demolition, but it was decided that 19 of the 74 structures would be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preventing their destruction and ensuring their restoration. The remaining buildings were demolished.
Parts of the town have been untouched for decades(Image: Getty)
Buried within the Tennessee mountains, haunting photographs show rotting and deteriorating cabins that have remained undisturbed for more than 40 years.
Today, visitors are invited to explore this deserted town in the Smoky Mountains at their own pace and witness structures slowly being reclaimed by nature.
As the photos reveal, you’ll encounter broken wooden floors, flaking paint, collapsed roofs, and vacant cabins, all reminiscent of houses from a horror film. You’ll also have the opportunity to tour the restored structures during your visit.
The area now has an eerie, horror-film feel(Image: Getty)
Reddit users have taken to the site to talk about Elkmont’s slow demise. One user said: “Ghost towns never cease to amaze me… like a little sliver forever frozen in time.” Another said it was “cool” and gave them “Friday the 13th vibes”.
Despite this, many walkers and tourists add this hidden treasure to their must-visit list in Tennessee, finding Elkmont a surprisingly tranquil spot. Maybe you’d fancy stepping back in time and exploring this ghost town for yourself.
After starring in several back-to-back projects over the past six months, Jack Quaid has been eager to finally settle in for a bit.
“It’s amazing that I get to do this job, but I do find myself missing home a lot,” Quaid says from his Los Angeles apartment, which he shares with his girlfriend and “The Boys” co-star Claudia Doumit. “So it will be nice to really connect with the people I grew up with and the place I’m from.”
In Sunday Funday, L.A. people give us a play-by-play of their ideal Sunday around town. Find ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to eat and how to enjoy life on the weekends.
Quaid kicked off his jam-packed year with the sci-fi thriller “Companion,” and a couple of months later, he transformed into a superhero who feels no pain in “Novocaine.” Shortly after, he co-starred in a crime thriller called “Neighborhood Watch,” and he traveled across the pond to London to star in “Heads of State” with Idris Elba, John Cena, and Priyanka Chopra, which is now streaming on Prime Video.
When we hop on a Zoom call, Quaid has recently returned to L.A. after shooting the fifth and final season of “The Boys,” Prime Video’s superhero dramedy.
“I’ve really grown up on that show,” says Quaid, who dedicated an Instagram post to “The Boys” with a collection of bloody selfies. “I worked a bit before, but that show was really like actor boot camp.”
Quaid talked about his perfect Sunday in L.A., which involves taking a “giant walk” to visit all of his favorite spots, including a comic book store, coffee shop and a classic diner. If it were up to him, the action star would break the laws of physics and be in more than one place at a time. For now, sadly, that only works in superhero movies.
This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
7:30 a.m.: Coffee, records and backgammon
Claudia or I will usually make coffee. We kind of have a whole morning routine. Not to sound too douchey, but I’m never really here or at least I haven’t been in the past year, so every time I’m home, I just want to take it in. The one constant every day is that we wake up, have coffee and put a record on. It’s usually “Pink Moon” by Nick Drake or “Super Sad Generation” by Arlo Parks. Sometimes it’s Marty Robbins’ “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” which is a good one. Just stuff that starts the day off in kind of a chill way.
We’ll go out onto our balcony, have our coffee and play backgammon. Backgammon is something I learned on the set of “The Boys.” It’s just such a fun game that keeps your mind active. You’re not on your phone and it’s nice to play with someone that you love, obviously.
10 a.m.: Fill up my tote bag with new comics
I usually go for a giant walk. L.A. is not a walkable city, but I’m trying to make it one. I love my local businesses and coffee shops, and I try to be a regular whenever I can. I typically will walk to my favorite comic book shop in L.A. called Golden Apple. I started going there to get all the issues of “The Boys” to research the comic. I was really into comics when I was younger, and then recently, I’ve gotten very into comics. My specification is that it can’t be about superheroes. No disrespect to those comics, but I’m in that world a lot.
I really started getting into this writer named James Tynion IV. I stared reading “Something Is Killing the Children” and I got obsessed with it, and that kind of spawned this new comic renaissance for me. I just go to the shop, I talk to the guy who works at the store and he recommends new books to me and I just love that.
11 a.m.: Feel nostalgic at my favorite diner
I’d probably walk all the way to Swingers Diner and meet up with a friend. I used to go there with my sketch comedy group — we would write there a lot. Everyone who works there is amazing and that place is legendary. I grew up in Santa Monica and I used to go to that location which used to have purple cows on the walls. I think that closed, which is unfortunate. Back then, I’d be doing a school play and that’s where everybody would go after a performance.
Typically, I get the protein breakfast with quinoa, egg whites and chicken. Very boring. But on my ideal Sunday, I’d get something involving bananas, pancakes and peanut butter. I’d want to sit and eat on the [patio] area. If it has a little bit of tree shade, I’m in.
1:30 p.m.: Coffee break
Then I would go to Coffee for Sasquatch, which is amazing. My sketch comedy group is called Sasquatch so I feel like I have to go in there. Since it’s my ideal Sunday, I’ll kind of eschew any dietary restrictions. Usually I have black coffee, but I’d get their frozen blended coffee with almond milk, which is basically a milkshake. I can’t remember the name, but It’s so good and it gets you that caffeine buzz. I’d probably have my headphones on, listening to music and reading comics.
4 p.m.: Video games and virtual photography
I think that 4 p.m. is my least favorite time of day. It’s not quite settling down in the evening. The sun is still high in the sky. There’s something about it that I just don’t like, so I’d probably want to go home. My internal clock wherever I am just knows it’s 4 p.m. and I get a little sad.
I’ve gotten really into virtual photography. A lot of games have a photo mode where you can pause the game and put a digital camera anywhere in the 3D space. There’s like lenses and filters, and it’s kind of inspired me to do photography in the real world if I can. It’s really calming so I think I would need that around 4 p.m.
5 p.m.: Run down Sunset Boulevard
5 p.m. is fine because the sun is starting to set and that’s cool. I’d probably go for like a giant jog. I’d basically go to where Book Soup is and then head back. Some of it’s on Sunset Boulevard, which is kind of overwhelming but it’s nice to see the new billboards in town. I’d jog by the Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory. I’m an anxious person and jogging is good for anxiety.
7 p.m.: Mexican food with friends
At 7 p.m., I’d assemble the biggest group of people I know who are in town, including my group of high school friends and their partners, to go to a classic Mexican restaurant. My favorite thing to do in L.A. is to eat authentic Mexican food. L.A. is better with these places here. It’s just what makes L.A. L.A. to me. So I’d go to any restaurant with “El” in the title. The three big “El’s” to me are El Compadre, El Coyote and El Carmen. They’re all delicious and they have so much history to them, which I love. I was literally at El Coyote last night. I always order a combo of shrimp and chicken fajitas, and I’d get a spicy margarita or three of them. I’m a giant spice fan.
9 p.m.: Watch “Jaws” in a cemetery
My favorite thing to do in L.A., period, and I’ve been doing it since high school, is to go to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery to watch a movie. There’s this company called Cinespia that does screenings of classic movies. I say it’s in a cemetery and people go, “Why are you doing that?” But it’s on this big grassy field and — at least they say — you’re not on top of dead bodies. People bring a blanket, wine, snacks and everyone just watches a movie.
But let’s say we want to go see a movie that’s currently in theaters. In the fantasy of my perfect Sunday, the ArcLight is back. That was a big pandemic loss for me because that was my favorite movie theater I think I’d ever been to. When you came out of the theater, you’d talk about it with everyone. I loved the employees doing the intro of the movie. I’d love to manifest another dream. ArcLight was the best place to be a moviegoer, so I want to have a hand in creating something like that in L.A. again.
12 a.m.: Canter’s and cartoons before bed
I’d probably go home and fall asleep to “The Simpsons” or “Futurama.” That’s usually the way that Claudia and I go down. But if I’m still hungry, I’d order take out from Canter’s Deli cause I’ve had three margaritas and that’s the best place to have some good greasy, classic L.A. diner food. I’d get a turkey Reuben with some thick french fries. Then I’d like to go to bed late on my perfect Sunday like around 1 a.m. I’d like to relish in that as long as I can.
Most UK holidaymakers will also have to pay a fee before jetting off
Holidaymakers will soon need a new travel permit(Image: Kathrin Ziegler via Getty Images)
Brits heading to EU nations such as Italy, Spain or France may soon have to undertake an interview before permission to enter is granted. It’s all to do with new rules that will soon come in following Brexit.
Once a new scheme gets underway, UK passport holders will need a travel permit to visit any part of the Schengen area, made up of 25 EU countries and four additional nations. EU leaders have stated that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is being introduced to enhance security and the borders of the Schengen zone.
The implementation of the scheme has been delayed several times, but according to the latest update, UK travellers won’t require one for EU travel until at least April 2027. The EU’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs announced earlier this year that the ETIAS will be launched in the final quarter of 2026, and due to a transitional and grace period, the requirement to apply for an ETIAS before departure won’t become mandatory until 2027.
The roll-out of ETIAS is tied to the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES), and each permit will cost 20 euros. It will be necessary for travel to and within the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
With a valid ETIAS, you can make multiple trips into the territories of the participating European nations for short stays, typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, it doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be allowed in.
At the border, officials will check your passport and other documents to confirm you satisfy the entry requirements. Most ETIAS applications are to be processed and approved “almost immediately”, but some could be turned down.
One reason for this, according to SchengenVisaInfo, is if you are invited for an interview and do not attend. While most ETIAS applicants will not need an interview, some may require a manual review due to mistakes or potential issues.
Other reasons an ETIAS may be refused include not having a valid passport, not filling out the application properly, being flagged as a “risk”, or having a flag against your name in the Schengen Information System (SIS).
A travel expert warned against taking one item of clothing off on a plane, and it’s left some people feeling a little bit queasy, especially when they know the potential consequences
08:06, 25 Jul 2025Updated 08:07, 25 Jul 2025
She issued a warning about certain clothing (Stock Image)(Image: AlxeyPnferov via Getty Images)
Appropriate aircraft attire is so important, yet countless passengers continue to disregard this guidance, sporting leggings, crop tops, and man-made fabrics. With so many adorable airport ensembles to choose from – tracksuits and trainers being perennial travel staples – many holidaymakers prefer to touch down at their destination already dressed for summer in flowing floral frocks or shorts paired with sandals, primed to bask in the sunshine.
However, a travel guru has revealed crucial information you’d be foolish to dismiss, as ignoring her advice could lead to revolting health consequences that you definitely don’t want occurring before your getaway begins.
Kate Van Dyke, who serves as Travel and Leisure’s associate social media editor, declared: “Before you head to the airport for your next trip, here’s what not to wear on the plane.”
She implored travellers to “leave the open-toed shoes in your suitcase,” explaining that you’ll “be doing your neighbour a huge favour”.
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The expert also cautioned that it’s “probably been a while since that carpet and under the seats were deep cleaned”.
But what makes exposing your bare feet on an aircraft so revolting?
Removing your footwear during flight subjects your feet to numerous bacteria and potential dangers.
Aeroplane floors are seldom given a proper scrub between journeys, meaning passengers risk encountering bacteria, fungi, and viruses that could trigger infections like athlete’s foot, plantar warts, or potentially more severe skin conditions – particularly if you’ve got any cuts or grazes.
Carpet surfaces frequently harbour bodily fluids, food spillages, and various other nasties, heightening the chances of picking up something rather unpleasant.
Moreover, the arid cabin atmosphere and cramped conditions can leave your skin more vulnerable to irritation and cracking, which only amplifies infection risks.
While the likelihood of contracting something genuinely serious remains fairly minimal for most healthy individuals, it’s typically more sanitary to keep your footwear – or at minimum your socks – firmly in place throughout your flight, particularly during loo visits, as what appears to be water might actually be something considerably more revolting.
Kate also cautioned against wearing “avoid strong fragrances,” while airborne, so although you might fancy dousing yourself with 100 spritzes of that gorgeous perfume you spotted in Duty Free, if it’s likely to offend fellow passengers, it’s probably best avoided.
She explained: “Scents spread far and wide when you’re in an enclosed space like a plane cabin, and your favourite fragrance may be overpowering to others.”
In the comments section, some travellers insisted there was “nothing like” removing your shoes “on a flight,” declaring “sorry not sorry”.
“I had to tell the man behind me to put his shoes back on. The smell was about to knock me out,” one person joked. A woman advised: “Avoid all fragrances, because they can set off some serious migraines for some of us.”
One bloke revealed: “I hate to say it, but I wear shoes that I can run in in case there’s an emergency.”
Procida, in the Bay of Naples, is not as famous as nearby Capri and Ischia, but is all the more appealing for it. Not a tourist trap but an island where people actually live, it’s a delightful slice of unhurried Italian life. The island is small enough to be explored on foot or by bicycle, though there is a bus service too. There are many pretty little beaches for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking – our favourite was Il Postino, where scenes from the movie of the same name were filmed. As people still fish for a living, there’s no shortage of wonderfully fresh seafood in the restaurants. A local delicacy is lemon salad, made from the enormous, thick-skinned lemons unique to Procida. Villa Caterina B&B’s orchard of lemon and orange trees provides fresh juice and marmalade for breakfast, and the rooms have wonderful views of the island and the bay, with Vesuvius looming in the distance and Naples only 45 minutes away by ferry. Bernie G
Seafood and sunshine in Sweden
The Styrsö coastline. Photograph: Maximiliane Wagner/Alamy
When life gets too much, I dream of Styrsö in the Gothenburg archipelago. Big open skies, nature trails and heaps of swimming spots make this car-free island the perfect summer escape. It’s topped off by a brilliant seafront restaurant, Tångbaren, where you can have a plateful of fresh seafood and a cold glass of wine, and watch the sea bob away. Hannah
Tranquillity among the dunes, Germany
The dunes of East Frisia’s Spiekeroog. Photograph: Image Professionals/Alamy
I was 21, living in Germany for a year to improve my language skills, and decided on a whim to visit the tiny East Frisian island of Spiekeroog (yes, it was the fantastic name that first attracted me to the place). I spent a happy couple of nights at the Hotel Inselfriede, a small family-run hotel just a 10-minute walk from where the ferry arrives from the mainland. The island is car-free and a beautifully peaceful place to explore the dunes or simply sit with a coffee and watch the sea. Lizzy
A Balearic beauty
Sa Dragonera viewed from La Trapa monastery on Mallorca. Photograph: Kris Hoobaer/Alamy
Sa Dragonera is a tiny but utterly beautiful uninhabited island that lies just south-west of Mallorca in the Balearics. It is brimming with history (there are 18th-century watchtowers built to observe pirate activity). Supposedly named after the lizards that inhabit it, the island is a hugely popular walking and birding spot, and is only accessible by small ferries from the nearby Sant Elm. It is best to go first thing to beat the heat and pedestrian traffic – you won’t regret it when you see the views from the top. Tom
A tiny Greek island with great beaches
Chora, the main village on Kythira. Photograph: Napa/Alamy
Everyone knows that Greece has some of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands. But few foreign tourists have heard of Kythira and that’s just the way the locals like it. For most of the year only about 3,500 people live on the island. In summer, however, thousands of Greeks come for holidays, many back to homes that have been in their family for generations. There are no major tourist resorts – it’s a Greek island rich in history and tradition, with dozens of beautiful beaches. Andy Moffat
Explore old world Ireland in Galway Bay
Ruins and stone walls on Inisheer. Photograph: Juan Carlos Munoz/Alamy
Inisheer (or Inis Oírr), one of the three spectacular Aran Islands in Galway Bay, is my favourite small island by far. The ferry from Rossaveel on the mainland takes just under an hour, but you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time – this is a tiny island of stone walls, fishing boats, old cottages, and more ponies and traps than cars. You can walk or cycle across the island in an afternoon to explore shipwrecks and ancient ruins. At the end of the day, enjoy some traditional music in the charming pub. You can camp almost on the beach for a good price. Eleanor
A sheep on Kuusiluoto. Photograph: Jani-Markus Hasa/Alamy
Kuusiluoto is a gem in the heart of Helsinki, only reachable on foot across rickety wooden duckboards that make it feel like you’re walking on water. Setting foot on the island, you’ll meet a welcoming committee of friendly sheep. The only indication you’re in a bustling European capital is the skyscrapers across the water. To get to Kuusiluoto, start from the city’s technology museum (itself well worth visiting, and just a short bus journey from the city centre) and walk a couple of miles along well-marked paths through reed beds. The island has a sauna, woodland trails, free postcards and those most valuable attributes – peace and quiet. Arran
Snorkel in the coves of Silba, Croatia
Silba has quiet coves and is car-free. Photograph: Jure Gasparic/Alamy
I didn’t know much about Silba before I arrived – it’s a small, car-free island with no hotels, just family-run guesthouses. The catamaran from Zadar takes roughly 90 minutes, with several sailings a day during summer. Once there, you can walk on shaded paths through olive groves, find quiet pebble coves with clear water for swimming, and climb the Toreta tower at sunset for great views of the Adriatic. My tip: bring a snorkel, stay at least two nights, and make sure you book your return ferry in advance as the schedules are limited. Elaine
Stunning vistas in Scotland’s Hebrides
Lon Liath bay on the Isle of Eigg. Photograph: Arch White/Alamy
On the community-owned Isle of Eigg, the constantly changing light is so enthralling that you don’t need to do anything else during your stay but say “Look!” and point out beautiful variations of rainbows, sunbursts or cloud formations. Stay at the Laig Beach Bothy and gaze out of the beautiful big windows at the sky, sea and mountains. As Virginia Woolf wrote: “One should not let this gigantic cinema play perpetually to an empty house.” Anna
Winning tip: France’s wild west
Nividic lighthouse on Ouessant (Ushant). Photograph: Jekaterina Sahmanova/Alamy
The island of Ouessant (Ushant) is the most westerly point of metropolitan France. It’s a short ferry ride from the mainland, and as wild as it gets. Visit for a day as part of a longer holiday, or stay on the island for your entire trip. You can hire bikes as soon as you step off the ferry. There are beautiful beaches, such as Plage du Prat; impressive lighthouses; and bars and restaurants in the main village of Lampaul. Airelle
Those headed to this popular European beach destination this summer need to be careful as social media users warn of an unexpected phone charge which could set you back hundreds of pounds
Holidaymakers have been warned of unexpected charge when travelling to this popular island (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Brits heading to Corfu have been warned to be the lookout this summer for a hidden network charge – which could hit them before they’ve even left the airport. Worse still, it could even cost them hundreds. Instead of unwinding, tourists have been left confused after receiving a ‘Welcome to Albania’ text message upon arrival at their island destination – despite Corfu being a part of Greece.
As reported by the Daily Mail, an employee from MailOnline recently holidayed at the popular holiday destination. He shared a text he received upon landing, which came from a service named ‘Rate Advice.’
Holidaymakers have reported being hit with unexpected charges after landing in Corfu(Image: Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
It reads: “Welcome to Albania! Calls, texts and data in Albania are chargeable and do not come out of your standard allowances or UK data add-ons. Roam Beyond data add-ons for this destination are available in the iD Mobile app for as little as GBP5.00.
“If you haven’t already purchased a Roam Beyond data add-on, it will cost GBP1.50 per MB. Minutes and texts are not included , and will cost GBP0.60 per text to roam. To protect you from excessive charges, a GBP45.00 roaming data cap is in place.”
The issue arises from Corfu’s proximity to Albania. Despite being located in Greece, it lies relatively close (30 miles) to Ksamil, a small beachside village in the Albanian Riviera.
Due to its location, the strength of Albanian mobile phone signals from the coast can cause phones to connect to them automatically. This can occur even when the user is in a completely different country.
Aside from causing confusion, this mix-up can end up costing tourists – which is why unfortunate holidaymakers jumped on social media over the summer to warn others of unexpected charges.
Steve Moore, from Chesterfield, came on to the popular Facebook group, We Love Sidari, to complain about his experience. He wrote: “I arrived Sunday, usual welcome text to Corfu charges just the same as UK – 2 days later message welcome to Albania this is your charges.”
He continued: “Wow what a rip off, phoned company and after 45 mins of conversation was told the network must of changed to a different mast. You need to keep an eye on it otherwise it will cost you a lot.”
A second Facebook user also chimed in, pointing out that appears to happen in specific parts of the island. “Only if you go to the east of the island,” they wrote. “I did that mistake while on a quad. Using google maps. £128 to drive up road lol.” A third added, ‘We got caught out £298 bill when we got home.’
So, how do you avoid these charges? Travellers are urged to either contact their provider regarding the situation, switch off ‘roaming’ or manually select a Greek network in their phone’s settings – rather than relying on automatic network selection.
As one Facebook commenter advised: “All you do is let your phone set it’s paired Greek network automatically when you arrive on the island at the airport. Once it’s selected the correct Greek network, go into your settings and turn OFF ‘automatically select network’.”
They added: “This means your phone will not hunt for or connect to anything else other than your correct Greek network.” Although, they warned users to remember to switch it back once they return to the UK.
To avoid these charges, Georgia Brivida, from the international SIM provider Sim Local, has urged Brits to switch off the ‘autoplay’ feature on their phones before boarding their next flight.
She revealed that the setting could quietly drain data and lead to a significant phone bill, in many cases without users even noticing. She explained: “Autoplay is a feature that automatically plays videos as you scroll through apps like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube, often without you even tapping play.”
A woman has left people divided after a mum asked her to swap seats with her son for a ‘stupid’ reason, but she branded her as selfish and accused her of ‘making a scene’
Things became awkward quickly when she was asked to move (Stock Image)(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Everybody has their preferred plane seat, which is likely to be a window or an aisle. The middle seat is often one that’s dreaded – especially if you’re sitting next to random people. But when one woman asked if she could swap with the occupant of a window seat on the plane for a “stupid” reason and was told no, she was seething.
Posting a video of her side of the interaction, @life_in_mini_stories shared a clip of a woman sitting in a window seat, minding her own business. Of course, many times when you occupy these seats, you’ve paid an additional fee for the pleasure.
She shared a woman allegedly said to her: “Excuse me, would you mind switching seats? My son really wants to sit by the window. He just loves watching the clouds.”
The female responded by saying she couldn’t switch, because she “picked this seat ahead of time”. The woman in the video also shared she also likes looking outside during a flight.
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The mum was incensed already, saying she didn’t understand why the woman wouldn’t swap with her, pointing out “nobody has ever refused before”.
She also seethed: “You must not have kids; otherwise, you’d know it’s normal to give your seat up for a child. Or do you want him crying for the whole flight?”
The woman in the video explained it wasn’t her “problem” if the child was crying, stating once more that she wouldn’t be giving up her seat.
“If you wanted your son to sit by the window, you should’ve planned ahead and booked a window seat,” she pointed out.
The mum said she wasn’t “paying extra just because one person thinks she’s smarter than everyone else”. She also continued her attack, saying: “You’re a grown woman, have some shame,” accusing her of “making a scene”.
But the female responded by pointing out she knows she’s a “grown woman,” and that’s why she books her seat “ahead of time instead of guilt-tripping strangers into giving theirs up”.
The mum accused her of not caring about other people’s feelings, or children, branding her as “disgusting”.
In the comments of the video, someone wrote: “You’re 100% in the right and she has absolutely no right to ask.”
Another added: “Asking is okay, but she needs to take no for an answer.”
“While I agree that I’d keep my seat, I also think the mother of the child has a right to ask as much as I have the right to say hell no,” somebody shared.
A man seethed: “NEVER give up a seat you prepaid extra for! ESPECIALLY to accommodate those who tried to be clever by not paying for seats they wanted.”
Someone joked: “You’re teaching that child and parent a great lesson… In the real world you, #1 plan ahead, #2 stand your ground, #3 you can’t get what you want by crying.”
