Holidays

Netflights travel expert Amanda Parker tackles the viral ‘free upgrade’ flight myth that’s circulating TikTok, offering three alternatives to boosting your luck for freebies

A travel expert has addressed a popular TikTok hack that promises to upgrade your flights for free. With the trend going viral this summer as jetsetters buckle up for a holiday abroad, Brits are desperate to know just how to save their coins whilst maxing out their luck.

One flier has circulated on TikTok, accumulating over 2.5 million views for sharing his means of a free upgrade. He said: “A little charm and confidence go a long way”. Instructing viewers to go to the lengths of buying chocolates at the airport and boarding last, the user suggested fliers charmingly gift the flight attendants upon board for a magical free upgrade.

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Splitting viewers in two over whether this trick really works or not has led to flying experts at Netflights coming forward to shed light on this gift-theory and whether sweet-talking is worth a shot.

Netflights’ Amanda Parker said: “The travel hack of buying flight attendants a gift, and sweet-talking them when boarding the plane has gone viral. Kindness will always be appreciated by airline staff, so small gestures like snacks or gifts won’t go unnoticed.

One TikTok comment shares, “as ex-cabin crew I can confirm this works”. However, the chances of receiving a complimentary upgrade just by handing over a box of chocolates might be slim”.

She went on, saying: “Free upgrades are usually determined by strict criteria, including frequent flyer status, ticket class, availability, and airline policies, unfortunately, not by last-minute sweet talk as you board the plane!”.

“The gift and sweet-talk hack may work, so it’s worth a try; but, we warn you not to get your hopes up, as these moments are the exception, not the rule! You may just strike lucky if your flight attendant likes chocolate M&M’s!”

As an alternative, Netflight provided their expert tips on how to really up your chances of that sought-after upgrade and ‘freebies’:

Join loyalty programmes

Frequent fliers and loyal customers are most likely to bag the free upgrades so take advantage of all those summer trips by joining an airlines reward scheme. Netflight adds that “even if you don’t fly frequently, some credit cards allow you to earn points that count towards upgrades. Over time, this can significantly boost your chances of an upgrade”.

Travel in off-peak periods

You can boost your luck by traveling in off-peak hours and days. Less popular times mean flights are quieter, therefore there are more Premium seats available – your chances suddenly peaking. Netflight suggests “to avoid flying in school holidays and Friday evenings or weekends” and to opt for “midweek flights at midday” as they are “typically quieter”.

Be polite and have good manners

Seems simple but whilst politeness won’t equal an instant upgrade, they never hurt. Staff should always be treated with respect, no matter whether you’re pinning for that upgrade or not. That being said, Netflight agrees that “being kind can make you stand out, so a small gift like chocolates might be remembered”. Either way, your flight attendants will definitely appreciate it.

Family travel guru Jen Carr, has taken to TikTok to share a “sneaky” travel hack that could save you some money on your next summer holiday with the kids

A savvy travel expert has shared a little-known hack for bagging a cheap last minute family holiday.

Jen Carr, known as @thetravelmum on TikTok, took to the social media platform to share “sneaky little tip” for navigating the Jet2 website to find the best possible price.

She demonstrated how to locate a hard to find calendar, which is where the search for your next bargain holiday begins.

Jen explained: “When you get to this page, you want to go to ‘edit search’ and here you can put in the airports you can travel from (try to include as many as possible), the dates you want to travel, the size of your family, then you can have a look at the calendar and find the cheapest dates for that month.

Once you’ve selected a holiday destination, Jen recommends sorting the prices from low to high, before deciding whether you want to view the prices by per person or total for the whole family. Then simply browse away.

Jen’s tips come as holidaymakers have been advised to avoid taking part in the popular ‘airport theory’ trend, as dozens of travellers have missed their flights after showing up to the gate too late.

A new TikTok trend has taken social media by storm, where travellers ignore the airport advice of showing up to the airport hours before their flight. Instead, passengers are showing up 15 to 20 minutes before their scheduled boarding or departure time.

Even if you’re only carrying a cabin bag, it’s still generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before an international flight, and 1-2 hours before a domestic flight.

As long as you have a digital boarding pass and your suitcase has the permitted measurements and weight, you shouldn’t have any issues breezing through security. But there’s one thing you should know.

Social media users have posted videos of their attempts to make it to their flights on a shorter timeframe, but this has led to some missing their flights, the Daily Mail reported.

TikToker @momlifewithtiff, whose name is Tiffany, documented the moment that she and her husband almost missed their flight by trying out the challenge. She wrote: “Definitely do not recommend trying the airport theory. Will certainly be getting to the airport 2 hours early from now on.”

Posting different snippets from the stressful situation, she filmed from the moment they got stuck in security whilst boarding had already begun, to begging people to cut in line, and finally, being the last two passengers to board the plane before the doors closed.

In a similar situation, another TikTok user @jenny_kurtzz, known as Jenny, said that she found out the plane had left without her showing up at the gate at the time of departure.

Unfortunately, in these circumstances, there isn’t anything that the airline can do.

When this happens, passengers have to book another flight at their own expense. However, this can change depending on the circumstances and their status with the airline.

It’s important for passengers to understand they must arrive at the gate at least one hour prior to departure time. During this hour, passengers board the plane. The departure time is the slot planes should take off, not when boarding begins.

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The charge, which has been dubbed the ‘sustainable tourism fee’ by the local government, has been implemented in a bid to curb ‘overtourism’ in certain hotspots

If you’re planning a trip to the Greek islands this summer, you’ll want to take note of a new charge now hitting some visitors to the region. The new rule, which came into force on Monday (July 21), means cruise passengers must cough up a “cruise fee” when disembarking from the ship.

“Cruising the Greek islands became a little more expensive for everyone,” warned Dane from TikTok’s CroatianTravellers account. “Passengers disembarking on Greek islands will pay an extra charge.” But what’s the damage? “The so-called ‘cruise fee’ will be €20 for disembarkation at ports on the islands of Mykonos and Santorini,” Dane revealed. “For others ports it will be €5.”

The levy, branded the “sustainable tourism fee” by Greek officials, has been brought in to tackle “overtourism” at popular destinations.

According to the Hellenic Ports Association, a staggering 768 cruise ships carrying roughly 1.29million holidaymakers visited Mykonos last year.

Dane continued: “During shoulder season in October and from April 1 to May 31, the fee for Mykonos and Santorini the fee drops to €12 for Mykonos and Santorini and €3 for all other ports. And, during the winter months from November 1 to March 31, the fee is just €4 for Mykonos and Santorini and €1 for other ports. The charge will be applied per passenger and per port where they disembark.”

According to Keep Talking Greece, cruise line companies will include these fees in their fares and then manage the payments to the Greek government.

State broadcaster ERT suggests that this change could bolster the local economy by €50million, with a third of the income benefiting the island municipalities themselves.

Holidaymakers appear to be supportive of the extra cost, including one TikTok user who penned in response: “As long as it’s being spent on tourist infrastructure and preservation of local history and nature then I’m all for it.”

Another added: “Greece is a poor country, I think this is fair. I wouldn’t agree if it were a wealthier country like Canada. The economic boom from the cruise ships is enough for us.”

A third person declared: “I’d pay for Santorini, it is well worth it. I spent a month on Santorini and if I had the opportunity to go again I’d be there in a heartbeat.”

While a fourth explained: “Honestly that’s okay to charge it say they are trying to drive people to other ports. People rock up use the facilities and leave. As long as the tourist tax goes into infrastructure it will be there for years for others to enjoy as well as the locals.”

However, one holidaymaker who was less than impressed by the change, vented: “It’s just not worth cruising to these places… by the time you dock, queue for a hour to get on your boat, everything is a rush and spend hours in queues before panicking to get back and queue to get back on the boats to take you to the cruise ship.

“A complete day of stress. I normally just stay onboard and enjoy the weather and a empty ship.”

“Welcome to Kihnu. We are not a matriarchy,” says Mare Mätas as she meets me off the ferry. I’ve stepped on to the wild and windswept Kihnu island, which floats in the Gulf of Riga off Estonia’s western coast like a castaway from another time. Just four miles (7km) long and two miles wide, this Baltic outpost is a world unto itself that has long been shielded from the full impact of modernity, a place where motorbikes share the road with horse-drawn carts, and women in bright striped skirts still sing ancient sea songs. But Kihnu is no museum – it’s a living, breathing culture all of its own, proudly cared for by its 700 or so residents.

Mare, a traditional culture specialist and local guide, promptly ushers me into the open back of her truck and takes me on a whistlestop tour of the island, giving me a history quiz as we stop at the museum, the lighthouse, the cemetery and the school.

The men of Kihnu would once have spent many months away at sea, sailing or hunting seals. Out of necessity, the women of the island became the heads of the family as well as the keepers of the island’s cultural heritage. This led to Kihnu being nicknamed “the island of women”, and the BBC even proclaimed it “Europe’s last surviving matriarchy”. But Mare is very clear: “If you must use a word, you could say that our culture is matrifocal. But I prefer to say that on Kihnu we are simply equal. Women have status in the community, and older women have a higher status – they are seen as wise elders. Women work as the guardians of our culture, and we look after the circle of life on the island – we have the children, we tend the land, we care for the dead.”

The women of Kihnu have been lighthouse keepers, tractor drivers and even stand-in priests. Today, they play ancient melodies on violin and accordion, teach their daughters traditional dances and sing Kihnu’s eerily beautiful runic songs, believed to be of pre-Christian origin. Most eyecatchingly, they wear traditional dress – bright red woollen skirts, embroidered blouses and patterned headscarves. These aren’t just garments donned for weddings or festivals – this is the only place in Estonia where folk dress is still donned daily.

Mare is wearing a red striped kört skirt and woollen jacket. Her daughters, in their teens and 20s, pair their traditional skirts with slogan T-shirts. The skirts are woven every winter and each tells the story of the wearer. Young women usually wear red – they are supposedly in the “fairytale” era of their lives. If a woman is in mourning, she will don a black skirt. Over the months, her skirts will include more red and purple stripes until she’s dressed in joyful red again. A married woman wears an apron over her skirt, and new fashions and patterns still influence designs today. “When paisley was brought to the island from India, we began using it for our headscarves,” explains Mare. “And in the 1960s, when miniskirts were the rage, we wore mini körts!”

I spot women of all ages dressed in bright flashes of red as I cycle about the island’s dirt roads on a sit-up-and-beg-bike. Kihnu is a patchwork of wildflower meadows and pine groves, edged by rocky coastline and dotted with wooden homes painted in primary yellows and reds. Outside one homestead I meet Jaak Visnap. An artist from Tallinn, he has run naive art camps here every summer for 20 years. Historically, many of the island’s sailors were also naive painters (artists who typically have no formal training and exhibit a simplicity in their work), and when I meet Jaak, he and a group of painting students from Kihnu and the mainland are busy working on richly coloured paintings for an exhibition in the island’s museum.

Estonians often label themselves as cold and standoffish, but the painters welcome me warmly and offer me wine. The sun comes out and transforms the island – moody grey skies swept away by golden light – so I join them for a swim in the warm, shallow sea. As we bob on our backs in the evening glow, Viola from Tallinn tells me a joke: “It’s raining, and a foreigner asks an Estonian man: ‘Don’t you have summer in this country?’ ‘Of course,’ he replies. ‘But sadly I was at work that day.’”

Before I leave the painters, I ask Jaak how the island has changed since his first summer here. “This used to be the fishing island,” he says. “Now, it’s the tourist island.” But visitors don’t seem to have transformed Kihnu just yet. Locals may drive modern cars and trucks, but I also pass Soviet-era motorbikes with side cars. There are a few shops and cafes, but they sell smoked dried fish and seal meat as well as coffee and cakes.

Outside her craft shop, I meet Elly Karjam, who knits the traditional troi sweaters worn by Kihnu’s men, beautifully patterned in blue and white wool woven into protective symbols. “I can knit hundreds of jumpers every winter, and each takes me 200 hours,” she says, her fingers clicking in a blur as she works on a new masterpiece for the local priest.

Mare tells me that the island only wants to attract tourists interested in culture and craftsmanship, and that the islanders are musing over whether campervans should be banned. But tourism also allows the next generation to remain on the island, rather than leave for the mainland in search of work. And for now, most visitors seem to embrace slow travel, staying with local people in guest houses and B&Bs, and visiting to join midsummer dances and violin festivals, to learn to paint or knit, or just to find pastoral peace.

The “island of women” is a misnomer. Instead, Kihnu feels like an old-fashioned yet balanced place that moves to the beat of its own drum (or perhaps, the hum of its own accordion). In winter, cloaked in snow, it must be a tough place to live. But in summer, this slow-paced island is a joy to explore. As I leave, the rain that makes it so lush and green returns. The ferry has barely left the harbour before Kihnu is swallowed in the grey sea, a place of legend once again.

Kihnu is reached by a one-hour ferry crossing (foot passengers €4 one way, cars €16 one way) from Munalaid harbour, which is an hour’s bus journey from the coastal town of Pärnu. See visitkihnu.ee. Mare Mätas offers guided tours of Kihnu as well as guesthouse accommodation on her farm, about £40 a person a night, kihnumare.ee. Elly Karjam offers comfy bedrooms and a traditional sauna on her homestead, where she also sells her knitting and homemade crafts, visitestonia.com/en/elly-bed-breakfast-in-kihnu. Pitch a tent at Kihnu Vald campsite, kihnurand.ee

I’m a regular traveller, but I don’t go anywhere without this handy, practical beauty bag that I bought from Amazon years ago – and it’s now reduced in price to under £25

As someone who travels often for both work and pleasure, from overnight stays to long-haul holidays, I like to think that I’ve become something of a pro at packing neatly and concisely. For my clothes, I’ve recently invested in a set of the best packing cubes I’ve ever used, and for toiletries, this trusty Amazon bag of mine can’t be beaten.

It might not be the most luxurious or the most elegant of items (my boyfriend think it looks like an old lady’s handbag), but in terms of practicality and price, I’ve never found anything that’s even half as good – especially as it’s currently reduced from £29.99 to £23.99. Here’s why I love it so much…

READ MORE: ‘I tried five Korean sunscreens on holiday and this £15 one came out on top’

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I first saw this toiletries bag recommended by celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin on Instagram and, as she’s someone who probably always packs a lot of products, I thought it was worth trying out.

I have the larger one (there’s also a medium, and all are available in several different colours), and it’s perfect for most of my travels. Things I love about it including the hook for hanging it up in the bathroom, saving previous sink space, the compartments with elasticated straps to stop your products rolling around, and how neatly it all folds up into itself. It even fits neatly inside this handy Antler backpack (now on sale) that I use for overnight stays in the city for work.

I use the smaller two sections for things like scrunchies, tweezers and cleansing clothes, and the larger two compartments for skincare and body care. They’re large enough to fit enough stuff for a good number of days away – including a full-size deodorant and shampoo. The only additional things I sometimes need to pack separately are sun creams (I’m very sun-sensitive and so go through a lot of them!).

My make-up also goes in another bag – one like this popular Space NK zip-up one – which fits neatly into corners of suitcases and stops my products from getting crushed.

Although not particularly fancy, this fold-up Amazon toiletries bag has lasted me years and travelled all over the world with me – and I won’t be without it now.

If you did want something a little fancier, perhaps as a nice gift idea, these velvet embroidered Elizabeth Scarlett bags are perfect for make-up, and open up flat for easy access.

And for something a little more compact and minimalist – perhaps for men – Antler’s Essential Washbag is now reduced from £25 to £20.

An Air India flight skidded off the runway while landing at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in heavy rain.

Flight AI 2744 from Kochi suffered a “runway excursion” the airline said.

It veered off the runway and suffered damage to an engine.

All passengers and crew were able to deplane safely and no injuries were reported.

It was able to taxi to the gate.

The plane is now out of service pending repairs.

“Flight AI2744 experienced heavy rain during landing, resulting in a runway excursion after touchdown. The aircraft taxied safely to the gate, and all passengers and crew members have since disembarked,” an airline spokesperson said.

An airport spokesperson said the landing caused minor damage to the runway.

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Ryanair and EasyJet passengers have long been warned about the strict hand luggage rules, but a shoe expert has shared a ‘simple yet effective’ shoe rule to help you stay within the limit

Budget carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet might lure travellers with their low-cost tickets, but their stringent cabin bag policies can quickly bump up the overall price. Holidaymakers are bound by tight restrictions on both the weight and dimensions of their hand luggage if they want to sidestep extra fees for additional carry-ons or checked baggage.

However, a savvy shoe guru has come forward with a “simple yet effective shoe rule” that could help jet-setters keep within the free luggage limits. It’s all about planning your holiday agenda well in advance, which enables you to be discerning about what earns a spot in your suitcase and what gets left at home.

Gabriel Miller from Gatsby Shoes points out that shoes are often the biggest culprits when it comes to hogging space and piling on the pounds in your luggage.

Gabriel’s top tip for travellers is to curb the number of shoes they pack. “Packing efficiently not only eases the stress of travel but also helps you navigate different situations with ease, safe in the knowledge that you have a shoe for every occasion,” he said.

He champions a pared-down packing strategy: stick to a maximum of three pairs of shoes for any trip, which not only frees up space but also encourages thoughtful packing, reports the Express.

Gabriel reassures that a carefully curated trio of footwear can meet the demands of various outings, from exploring urban landscapes during the day to enjoying an elegant evening meal.

“It’s about bringing what you need, not what you might use,” he said.

Gabriel has broken down the must-have shoes for holidaymakers into three essential categories, advising travellers to pack just one pair from each to cover all bases on their trip.

For the first category, Gabriel suggests a pair of comfy walking shoes or trainers that are versatile enough for travel days. “Your primary pair of shoes should be comfortable for walking, durable enough for adventure activities, and stylish enough not to detract from your daily outfits,” Gabriel explained.

He advises sticking to neutral colours that can easily match with a variety of outfits.

Moving on to the second category, Gabriel recommends a smarter pair of shoes for any posh dinners or formal events you might attend while away. “Even on vacation, a dressier shoe option is crucial for evenings out or more formal events,” Gabriel noted.

For men, he suggests versatile loafers, while women might opt for chic heeled sandals that can elevate any look.

Lastly, for those jetting off to sunnier shores or beachside locales, Gabriel insists on including a pair of sandals or appropriate beachwear shoes. These types of footwear are usually light and take up little space in your suitcase.

“Ideal for relaxing days by the water or casual strolls, a good pair of sandals is indispensable,” Gabriel stated. He recommends choosing sandals that are easy to clean, quick to dry, and comfy enough for all-day wear.

Greece has introduced a new cruise tax which will see people charged depending on the season and port on the European Union holiday hotspot, MSC Cruises has warned

British holidaymakers now face a €20 (£17.35) levy the moment they set foot in Greece following the introduction of fresh regulations in the popular European Union destination. A new cruise tax has been rolled out, meaning passengers will be hit with varying disembarkation charges depending on which Greek island port they visit and the time of year.

From July 21, 2025, island-hopping by cruise ship became considerably pricier for all travellers. Between June 1 and September 30, visitors will be stung with a €20 fee when stepping off at Mykonos and Santorini ports. All other Greek ports will impose a €5 (£4.34) charge during this peak period.

READ MORE: Brits claim Benidorm is ‘too posh’ as ‘German Magaluf’ is the new holiday hotspot

The levy reduces during the shoulder months of October and from April 1 to May 31, dropping to €12 (£10.41) for Mykonos and Santorini whilst other ports charge €3 (£2.60).

Throughout the winter period from November 1 to March 31, the fee falls to just €4 (£3.47) for the two popular islands and €1 (87p) for remaining ports. The charge applies to each passenger at every port where they step ashore.

MSC Cruises has already notified customers via email that the additional cost will be passed directly onto guests. The cruise operator explained in correspondence: “This tax, similar to those already in force for hotels and other types of accommodation facilities, is designed to support local infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism, and improve the visitor experience.”

“For your convenience, MSC Cruises will prepay this tax for you directly to the Greek authorities. We will simply add the tax to your onboard account the night before each call in a Greek port.”

READ MORE: Little known cheap holiday spot dubbed the ‘new Magaluf’ as £2 pints a hit with Brits

They explained: “MSC does not determine or control this expense, which is established and imposed by the Greek authorities and applied to all cruise companies operating in Greece.” The message also noted that passengers who remain aboard will have the fee automatically waived.

The new travel permit is to strengthen security and the borders of the Schengen zone, reports Birmingham Live. The €20 doesn’t apply only to Greece, but also other popular holiday destinations, such as Spain and France, will be affected.

This also follows news from EU’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs revealing that European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) were going to be introduced in the final quarter of 2026. As previously reported by the Mirror, ETIAS will not be mandatory until 2027.

Brits might want to do some research before they head off to a sunny-drenched destination, as they might be stung with a fee. The bigger the family, the more expensive it will become!

Swathes of UK holidaymakers are being urged to do one key thing before jetting off to Turkey this year, after the country has reportedly issued a sudden ban impacting tourists

Thousands of UK holidaymakers heading to Turkey this year could get stung the second they get off the plane following a major update. Around 4.8 million Brits are slated to visit the country this year, as it braces for a record-breaking boom in international visitors. Enticed by endless stretches of golden beaches, a ubiquitous history, and impressive architecture – Turkey appears to be capitalising on anti-tourist sentiment currently rocking countries like Spain and Greece.

However, the country’s Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) has reportedly blocked access to more than a dozen international eSIM providers. According to Holafly, the move means tourists will be prevented accessing the websites and apps of the affected companies.

eSIMs have spiralled in popularity in recent years, providing travellers with a cheap and convenient way to access the internet on their phone – as well as to be able to make phone calls and texts. The alleged ban means Turkish residents aren’t able to purchase international eSIMs until they’re out of the country.

For tourists, it’s a little less black and white. You will still be able to use your eSIM if you purchase it and install it before you arrive in Turkey. Fail to do this, and you may struggle to get online.

In a statement sent to the Mirror, travel expert at Holafly Juan David Soler said: “Turkey’s sudden ban on eSIMs has caught many travellers off guard, and it’s vital that UK holidaymakers heading there this summer take action before they fly. eSIMs have become the go-to option for Brits wanting affordable mobile data abroad without the hassle of physical SIMs or costly roaming. But now, travellers will no longer be able to activate a new eSIM once they arrive in Turkey.”

To avoid getting ‘caught out’, the experts have urged Brits to ensure their eSIM is fully downloaded and activated before leaving the UK. “This means setting up your digital SIM while still on UK networks, and confirming it’s working properly before departure,” Juan added. “Otherwise, you could be left without internet access the moment you land, which can be a serious issue if you rely on your phone for maps, transport, or bookings.”

Earlier this year, Brits were also warned of a little-known rule when visiting Turkey which could land them in hot water. While technically not a new rule, purchasing or distributing e-cigarettes and liquids is prohibited in the country. According to Reuters, many people still buy vaping products in the country online.

“We’ve heard of so many travellers returning from Antalya, Marmaris, and Bodrum saying they were caught completely off guard,” Mike Byers, a vape expert over at WickdUp explained. “Shops that once stocked basic vape gear now won’t sell it at all — and if you’re used to picking up supplies on arrival, you could be left without.”

If you’re a serious vaper and can’t give up the juice for the entirety of your trip – you are allowed to bring your ‘personal supply’. This tends to be classed as ‘one device, spare pods or refill bottles no greater than 30ml in volume, or up to 10 disposable vapes per person’.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

Two young men have died in the last two weeks after falling from the balcony at Ibiza Rocks Hotel in San Antonio, which is known for its live music and vibrant atmosphere but has now been dubbed a ‘death hotel’

The notorious Ibiza Rocks Hotel has faced another tragedy after a Brit holidaymaker fell to his death from the hotel’s balcony.

Gary Kelly, 19, was visiting the Spanish island when he fell from the third floor of the four-star Ibiza Rocks Hotel just after midnight on Monday. Two ambulances were sent to the scene, but paramedics said there was nothing they could do to save him.

A spokesman for the Civil Guard confirmed this morning: “We are investigating the death of a 19-year-old British man at a hotel in San Antonio in Ibiza. The alarm was raised around 12.40am this morning.

“Our officers were sent to the scene but the man in question was already dead by the time help arrived. The fall was from from the third floor of the hotel to an outside part of the complex. Court officials authorised the removal of his body at 2.40am this morning.

“The fall could be accidental based on the early information obtained from cameras but as part of the investigation possible witnesses will need to be located and interviewed. The results of the post-mortem will also be important to the investigation.”

Well-placed sources confirmed the hotel where the tragedy occurred is the famous Ibiza Rocks Hotel in San Antonio. The source said: “The post-mortem will help to determine if the man who died had consumed alcohol or taken drugs beforehand and in what quantities.”

The teen’s tragic death comes just a fortnight after Scottish holidaymaker Evan Thomson lost his life after falling from his sixth-floor balcony at the same hotel while celebrating his 26th birthday with friends. Evan was pronounced dead at the scene after medics rushed to the hotel at around 6am on July 7.

Friends and family of Evan blasted bosses over how the aftermath of his death was handled, and claimed the hotel resumed normal operations less than 90 minutes after his traumatic death. They were enraged by social media posts allegedly uploaded hours later advertising their next pool party.

They also claimed they sat in an office “without answers” for an hour after they were informed of Evan’s death before being allowed back to their rooms. Pals of the Brit said they were told to pack up their belongings before being transferred to another nearby hotel.

Evan’s sister Teila said: “Ibiza is known for its partying and it just stuns me that they don’t have higher safety precautions. Pray nobody else suffers. And, once it did happen, the hotel’s response was just completely heartbreaking; almost as if it never happened. I pray no other family has to go through this.”

Remi Duncan, 23, said: “It was disgusting. There was minimal respect for the situation, considering the music went back on soon after Evan had died. It puts a pit in your stomach.”

In April a 33-year-old British woman died at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel. Local police and paramedics rushed to the hotel, situated just metres from one of the world’s most famous sunsets, after the alarm was raised around 6.30pm on April 30.

Emergency responders confirmed when they arrived the holidaymaker had gone into cardiac arrest and spent around 40 minutes practicing CPR on her to try to revive her. She was declared dead at the scene after efforts to save her life proved unsuccessful. Well-placed sources said at the time there was nothing pointing to the death being suspicious.

On April 27 a 19-year-old Italian tourist of Turkish origin plunged to her death from the fourth-floor at the same hotel. She had flown to the island the previous day and gone out partying. She was said at the time to have tried to been trying to reach her room via a balcony from a shared area of the hotel after realising she didn’t have her key card when she lost her footing and fell. Her lifeless body was discovered around 9am on April 27.

In light of Gary’s death, Ibiza Rocks hotel has suspended its events as authorities conduct their inquiries. A statement read: “We are deeply shocked and devastated by the recent incidents that have tragically occurred. Our priority is to support those affected and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time and to fully assist the authorities with their investigations.

“The safety and wellbeing of our guests has and always will remain our highest priority. Given the seriousness of the situation and out of respect for those involved we believe it is right to pause our advertised events programme at this time. All customers will be informed directly via email.”

The Ibiza Rocks Hotel, a hotspot known for its live music poolside events featuring top artists and DJs, is a magnet for British holidaymakers. The venue boasts a large pool, sun terraces, bars, and entertainment, drawing in young Brits with its vibrant atmosphere. Tourists are often seen dancing on balconies up to six floors above the music stage or in the swimming pool, often while intoxicated.

One person who stayed there “many years ago” told the Mirror: “It was full of 18-24 year olds, girls were more interested in their looks etc than getting drunk but the boys were getting very drunk and high. Drugs were most of the problem. I actually saw the body of a teenager lying on the ground after he fell from the balcony of a hotel nearby. It turned out he was the precious son of a good family who was on his first boys holiday and was a talented rugby player.”

They added: “The main trouble is ketamine – it makes users hallucinate and feel invincible. Spanish police once said it was main reason for the balcony deaths – and the fact that guys try to get to each other balconies for a laugh. It has not changed sadly.”

Former guests at the hotel have shared their thoughts on social media. One partygoer wrote: “It’s a really fun place… until it isn’t. It’s 24/7 carnage, just party after party with everyone dancing on balconies or swimming in pools even though they’re wasted.”

Another expressed on X: “This place needs shut down! The stories that are coming out and the way they treat their guests is appalling! A pattern like this shows serious safety failings but they continued business as usual and now unfortunately another young man has died! Heartbreaking.”

Someone else commented: “The balcony railings are far too low it seems to me.” Another fumed: “How many people need to die before you ACTUALLY do something about the safety of your hotel! absolutely ridiculous!!!!! Rest in peace Evan, so lucky to have known you.”

On TripAdvisor, yet another slammed: “A horror, to flee absolutely!! Hotel just horrible. Customers are disrespectful and there is no control or oversight by staff. If you want to spend a sleepless night, you’ve come to the right place: it’s noisy, poorly insulated, and chaos reigns all night. No respect for the rest of others. A frankly unpleasant experience from start to finish. Go your way!”

In a review from August last year one holidaymaker wrote: “DECADENT! Hotel is full of drunk people screaming and shouting 24/7 – security is rude and they don’t have control over it”.

Despite concerns being raised, the hotel has previously received a huge number of positive comments following a stay at the party hotel. One traveller wrote on Tripadvisor: “Wow!!! I have just got back from 4 nights @ Ibiza Rocks and it has been INCREDIBLE! I travelled alone with a friend meeting me out there later in the week!”

A second added: “This hotel is absolutely wild and is totally for the party goers in Ibiza. There is music daily. The hotel is very clean, staff are fabulous and so accommodating. I was expecting a very young crowd here but surprising the age group was late 20’s to mid 40’s which was great. It was definitely an experience”.

A third shared: “Stayed for a hen party with a group of 15 girls – hotel was fantastic, rooms were clean & staff were really friendly & helpful – highly recommend the rooftop room for hens was so great having the extra space! The chill pool is so good, prices there are so reasonable too – shop on site and also right opposite with everything you need – walking distance to everywhere you want to go that side of the Island!”

The Mirror has contacted Ibiza Rocks Hotel for a comment.

The crackdown on “illegally built” buildings at the world-famous Bingin Beach in Uluwatu, Bali began on Monday, drawing huge crowds of angry locals and surfers to gather

Huge tearful crowds formed as hordes of officials destroyed villas and restaurants at a beloved beach.

The crackdown on “illegally built” buildings at the world-famous Bingin Beach in Uluwatu, Bali began on Monday.

The destination is incredibly popular among Australians and global surfers in southern Bali, yet has become a source of frustration for local politicians. Local government officials say none of the buildings have been built with the correct permits, ABC News reported.

Bali’s governor, I Wayan Koster, marched to the beach alongside demolition workers armed with crowbars and sledge hammers. “The buildings for tourism businesses here are illegal — that’s it. We should not let this practice continue. If we let this go on, Bali will be damaged,” he said.

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Owners of the targeted businesses wailed and screamed in distress as their livelihoods were torn apart by the workers. As they were unable to bring in heavy machinery due to the buildings’ steep cliff-side construction, they smashed tables and doors to smithereens during the government-enforced demolitions.

ABC News reported that a Balinese woman screamed out: “This is how the bureaucrats work. They’ve demolished our livelihoods.” News.com.au reports that some travellers have had their bookings voided at the popular destination due to the demolition works.

Authorities have denied rumours that the demolition was carried out so a high-end resort can be built.

Eleven-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater took to social media to condemn the move. He wrote: “Awful to hear and see that the beachfront at Bingin in Bali has been bought up and all the local (eateries) and other businesses will be demolished to make room for some kind of beach club and not sure what else?

“Bali has been completely mishandled and ruined by foreign interests in recent years. I hope something can be done to retain the culture and beauty of what attracted everyone there in the first place.”

Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Yet, the influx of visitors has also led to numerous problems, including disruptive behavior from tourists drawn to the island’s idyllic beaches, vibrant food scene, rich cultural heritage, affordable accommodation, and the promise of luxury indulgence.

While tourism has been a major economic driver—accounting for over 60% of Bali’s economy in 2019—many locals have developed mixed feelings about it. The island has struggled with overwhelming traffic, uncontrolled development, and a growing number of poorly behaved tourists.

In 2023, more than five million foreign tourists visited Bali, which has a population of just four million. The island has had several tourist scandals recently, including a visitor who was criticised for posing naked in front of a sacred tree in 2023.

American travel publication Fodor’s has placed Bali on its ‘perennial no list’, urging people not to travel there and further add to the island’s woes. “This post-pandemic travel rebound has only intensified the strain on the island. While this influx has boosted the economy, it has also placed overwhelming pressure on Bali’s infrastructure. Once-pristine beaches like Kuta and Seminyak are now buried under piles of trash, with local waste management systems struggling to keep up,” Fodors writes.

Earlier this year, faced with the challenges of overtourism, officials in Bali proposed introducing a daily tourist tax, similar to Bhutan’s $100 (€£79) Sustainable Development Fee, which is charged to most international visitors.

Wayan Puspa Negara, head of the Bali Marginal Tourism Actors Alliance and a lawmaker in Bali’s Badung regency, told the South China Morning Post that he envisions Bali “selecting” tourists, much like Bhutan does. The Himalayan nation restricts its annual tourist intake to just 400,000 people and has previously charged up to $250 (£198) per day for visitors, Euronews reports. Tourists are also obliged to hire a guide, driver and transport from any official tour agency.

Want to go to the Caribbean this summer but lack the budget? Turns out, there’s an island much closer to home that offers similar views without the long-haul flight

If you’re on the hunt for an idyllic spot to visit this summer without breaking the bank on flights, travel expert Chris Lawlor suggests a hidden gem right off the coast of the UK he claims rivals much more exotic locations. “Did you know that in Scotland you can visit a tiny island that looks like the Caribbean with a white sandy beach and turquoise waters?” he began in a TikTok video, showcasing the stunning destination.

The entire island is “explorable on foot”, according to Chris, who ventured inland during his visit, as he detailed other activities life on the island benefits from. First, he visited a nearby “sacred abbey” offering coastal “tranquillity,” and highlighted the “many other treasures” discovered along his walk. What’s more, it’s only a 10-minute boat ride from the Isle of Mull.

In his clip, Chris recommended “soaking in the views” at Ailidh – a quaint coastal pizza takeaway that also serves local seafood and sweet treats.

“Remember to respect this wee island called Iona,” he concluded.

“I’ve spent so much time in Scotland over the years, but completely missed this gem,” one TikTok user confessed in response. “Thanks for sharing.”

Another person reminisced: “Visited here with family when I was about 11 I never forget this place because of how clear the water was looking over the side of the boat and seeing hundreds of little jellyfish fish.”

A third gushed: “One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.”

Whilst a fourth shared their experience of the island, adding: “I was lucky enough to visit Iona during my time in Scotland. I stumbled upon an art store and bought a beautiful glass dish. Even on a cold, cloudy day it’s beautiful.”

The island’s official tourism website states online: “Iona, with its beauty and white sand beaches, has a time and place for everyone. From Dunbhuirg, the Iron Age fort, to the Marble Quarry, worked even in the 20th Century; from St Columba’s Bay in the south, to the White Strand of the Monks in the north, many places have their stories to tell.”

It further highlights that Iona’s wealth of activities include golf, fishing, shopping and dining out experiences and of course, its walks.

“The joy of Iona is that everything on the island is happily reached on foot,” Welcome to Iona continues.

“And though relatively small, the island has a wide variety of places to enjoy from the beautiful beaches that surround Iona to the high point of Dun I which affords dramatic views of the surrounding islands.”

When it comes to dining, there are two hotel restaurants that offer meals throughout the day, and there is the Iona Heritage Centre Garden Café that offers light snacks and soups from late morning until late afternoon.

“Each location has its own unique ambiance and style, and of course during the summer months they all be very busy,” the website adds. “Hence, reservations are recommended – and are often essential for large parties.”

The Foreign Office has issued a travel advisory for anyone headed to Vietnam as popular tourist destinations including Hanoi are set to be affected by heavy rainfall with the arrival of Storm Wipha

Tourists planning to visit Southeast Asia this week have been issued a travel warning ahead of Storm Wipha’s descent on the region. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned on Monday, July 21 that the typhoon is heading for northern Vietnam, and is likely to lead to flooding and mudslides in affected areas.

Tropical storm Wipha made landfall in northern Vietnam on Tuesday July 22 – in alignment with the forecast shared by the FCDO. Wipha hit the provinces of Ninh Binh and Thanh Hoa early on Tuesday afternoon and authorities remain on alert due to heavy rains. The FCDO has named specific popular tourist destinations as affected areas, including Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and Ninh Binh.

READ MORE: Doomed Vietnam tourist boat passengers begged to return to shore before 38 died

Wipha has already ravaged southern China but wind speeds have weakened since its descent on Vietnam according to the national weather forecasting agency.

The FCDO warned travellers to Vietnam: “You should expect heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding and mudslides in affected areas in the days after landfall. You should expect travel disruption and should follow advice from local authorities.”

The FCDO also advises that travellers can receive regular news updates in English via VNexpress and Vietnam News. Additionally, travellers can sign up to get email notifications when the FCDO updates its travel advice for Vietnam.

A number of flights in Vietnam were cancelled ahead of Wipha’s arrival. Vietnam Airlines announced on Monday that it would be cancelling several flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong to “ensure the safety of passengers and crew”.

Meanwhile, Pacific Airlines rescheduled two flights, between Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong, to depart earlier than planned, while two more flights on the same route were cancelled.

On Tuesday, all flights operated by Vietnam Airlines Group, including Vietnam Airlines and Pacific Airlines, to and from Hai Phong were moved to depart in the afternoon. The group said: “Vietnam Airlines Group regrets the schedule changes caused by this force majeure weather event and appreciates our passengers’ understanding.

“Flight times may continue to be adjusted depending on the storm’s progression. Updated information will be communicated via the airline’s official channels and passenger contact details provided in booking records.”

The new tropical storm is set to strike just days after a tourist boat carrying as many as 53 people capsized in stormy weather in Vietnam on Saturday, July 19. Of the 53 people on board, 38 have been declared dead.

The boat was carrying 48 tourists and five crew members near Đầu Gỗ Cave off the coast of Ha Long Bay when it was hit by a sudden squall and overturned, according to local media.

Over the previous weekend, Wipha hit Hong Kong, leaving 33 people injured and the Philippines has struggles with monsoon downpours that began last week.

Hong Kong authorities erected temporary shelters for around 277 people who sought refuge from the storm. There were also 286 reports to the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department, 425 reports of fallen trees and seven confirmed flooding cases received by the Drainage Services Department, according to a statement by the Hong Kong Government on Sunday.

There are some people who are not phased by the security checks and scanners and brazenly try to smuggle illegal substances through the airport – a number of them have now been nabbed

Thousands of families will be jetting off to and from Manchester Airport for their summer getaways. While most holidaymakers are mindful of the 100ml liquid rule and removing large electrical items from their hand luggage, there are always a few who slip up.

Yet, there are some travellers who seem unfazed by security measures and audaciously attempt to smuggle illegal substances in their luggage. A number of these so-called “tourists” were nabbed by vigilant security teams and police at Manchester Airport.

Among those caught was a pair of friends who claimed their suitcases were brimming with shopping, a woman who flaunted her holiday snaps to staff before being apprehended, and a boxer who accepted an “offer he couldn’t refuse”.

Below is a snapshot of some individuals arrested at Manchester Airport, as highlighted by the Manchester Evening News, though it’s not an exhaustive list.

They claimed they went shopping in New York – their luggage told a different tale

Sophie Bannister, 30, hailing from Withington, and her mate Levi-April Whalley, 31, from Lancashire, appeared to have returned from a fabulous shopping spree in New York, touching down on British turf with suitcases that seemed to overflow with new purchases.

Their suitcases, however, told a starkly different tale. Upon their return to the UK, the pair were caught with over 35kg of cannabis in their baggage.

In April, seated together in the dock, the women clasped hands and wept as the court was informed of their attempt to smuggle the drugs into the country, reports Liverpool Echo.

Both women pleaded guilty to the charge of fraudulent evasion of prohibition. Bannister’s 20-month term was suspended for 18 months, while Whalley was given a 16-month sentence which was also suspended for the same duration. The court heard that both women were susceptible to exploitation due to their personal and financial struggles.

The remorseful friends disclosed to the Mirror the series of events that led them to become entangled in a cannabis smuggling scheme, which seemingly began with a single message on social media.

She flaunted her holiday snaps to staff – then they nicked her

A mum who proudly presented her vacation snaps to officers at Manchester Airport found herself under arrest when they spotted a revealing detail.

Larissa Lins, aged 27, insisted she had travelled to the UK to “research nice places” after transiting through France and Portugal from Brazil. Despite her claims of innocence regarding any illicit activities, the photo gallery she shared with the officials inadvertently revealed her time in France.

While browsing through the images, they came across a snapshot of the “white pellets”. Further investigation revealed that Lins had ingested, concealed, and stashed away a kilogram of narcotics both inside and outside her body.

After admitting to her role in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on importing a class A substance, she was sentenced on October 17 last year. The court informed her that she will “almost inevitably” face deportation back to Brazil after completing 40% of her term.

Boxer behind bars after irresistible offer

A former pugilist and father of two found himself under arrest at Manchester Airport following what he described as “‘an offer he felt he could not refuse”.

Edward Nesbitt, aged 36, was one of two drug mules imprisoned in May, alongside Yoke Woon, subsequent to the seizure of a suitcase crammed with 23 kilos of cannabis at the airport. Manchester Crown Court listened to accounts of how Uber driver Woon arrived with the contraband on a flight from Singapore in March.

He abandoned the suitcase on the luggage belt in Terminal 2, where it was retrieved by Nesbitt, who had landed on a different plane from Amsterdam. Prosecutor Mark Pritchard detailed how Woon, aged 43, touched down at T2 just past 8:30 am on March 4 on a Singapore Airlines flight from Singapore, using a Malaysian passport.

Friends admir ‘you’re going to see it’ as luggage scrutinised

Two school friends faced the music after a “naïve and stupid” decision following their three-week revelry in Thailand. Lewis Ellis and James Poutch jetted off in April to experience a festival dubbed as “the world’s biggest water fight”.

Upon their return to Manchester Airport via Abu Dhabi, Ellis, 20, and Poutch, 19, were stopped for a luggage inspection.

Ellis didn’t hesitate to confess to customs officers: “I have cannabis in my bag, I may as well tell you because you’re going to see it.”

The search revealed a staggering 37kg of cannabis stashed in their bags. Both Ellis and Poutch were handed suspended sentences at Manchester Crown Court.

Eligible customers can pick from more than 100 holiday destinations at a discounted rate

Millions of Tesco shoppers could benefit from discounted holidays this summer. Anyone with a Clubcard could use their points to get cheaper deals from easyJet.

According to the supermarket, there are thousands of holidays to choose from, covering a range of budgets. The scheme uses your existing Clubcard vouchers, which are accumulated from points when you shop at Tesco.

These can then be exchanged for easyJet holiday credit, making them worth twice the value they were previously. This means that for every 50p in Clubcard vouchers you have, you will get £1 to use with easyJet.

The Tesco website explains: “Choose from thousands of hand-picked hotels in Europe and beyond, with a range to suit any budget. easyJet holidays has departures to over 100 destinations from airports all around the UK, often with daily or more frequent flights, meaning you can tailor your travel plans to suit you.

“Their collection of more than 5,000 hotels has everything from luxury all-inclusive, boutique city retreats and family friendly beach side resorts. Whatever you’re looking for, you can holiday with confidence with a dedicated 24 hour UK-based support team and flexibility to change your booking if plans change.

“Tempted? Exchange your Clubcard vouchers and get 2x the value, then book your package holiday at an unbeatable price with total confidence. Did we mention that all holidays are ATOL and ABTA protected too?”

How to claim your holiday

Firstly, you must make sure you have an easyJet holidays online account that matches your Tesco account email address. Your easyJet holidays account email must match the one you use for your Tesco Clubcard account.

You must then select the right amount to exchange. However, if your order exceeds the maximum annual easyJet holidays credit allowance (£300 Clubcard Voucher value = £600 easyJet holidays credit), the order will be cancelled and the Tesco Clubcard points will be refunded to your account.

Tesco.com added: “Please note, once you exchange your Clubcard vouchers for easyJet holidays credit, this is non refundable. Any unused easyJet holidays credit will not be refunded, credited, or exchanged, so only exchange the amount you need.”

You will then receive an order confirmation email. A second email will follow once easyJet holidays have validated your order.

It will contain information on how to access your easyJet holidays credit. This means you can then visit easyJet holidays to book your package holiday.

You must also remember that easyJet holidays credit is only valid for six months from the date you exchange your Clubcard vouchers. Within a 12 month period, the maximum you can exchange is £300 in Clubcard vouchers (£600 easyJet holidays credit).

You cannot use your easyJet holidays credit to book standalone easyJet flights and you must be one of the travel party on the holiday booking. You cannot share, combine or pool your easyJet holidays account(s), or credit with other family members or friends.

As of 2024, around 23 million households in the UK were registered for a Tesco Clubcard. For more information on how to claim your holiday, visit the Tesco website here.

Queenstown is the most tranquil destination in the world, thanks to its low levels of noise and light pollution, cleanliness rating and quality of green spaces

If you’re seeking a holiday where tranquillity, breath aking scenery and utter relaxation are the order of the day, then one destination should be at the top of your list.

Tucked away on the other side of the globe, nestled between the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu and the majestic Southern Alps, is the New Zealand city of Queenstown. Recently crowned the most serene spot on earth by TravelBag, this enchanting city is a pristine paradise waiting to be discovered.

It offers an unspoilt environment that encourages you to truly unwind, disconnect, and immerse yourself in nature.

The travel experts analysed 26 locations to identify the most peaceful, using key indicators such as noise and light pollution, cleanliness, and the quality of green spaces, with Queenstown emerging victorious.

Queenstown scored an impressive cleanliness rating of 91.7, outshining all other destinations, and a high green space quality score of 94.4.

With relatively low traffic congestion and minimal light pollution, Queenstown is an ideal location for stargazing, reports the Express.

It’s also a fantastic destination to visit throughout the year.

During the winter months, visitors can enjoy superb ski fields and cosy eateries, while the summer sees the city transform into a sun-drenched haven boasting numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning swimming spots.

For thrill-seekers, there’s bungee jumping, ziplines and paragliding.

And for those who prefer a more tranquil experience, there are hot pools with breathtaking views over the alps, as well as spas and wellness centres.

If you fancy visiting this stunning location and experiencing all it has to offer, bear in mind that it is somewhat off the beaten track.

A flight from the UK to Queenstown takes approximately 25 hours, but departures are available daily.

If you’re after a winter getaway, the optimal time to travel is between June and August, whereas for a summer holiday, December through to February is the best period to visit.

A third of Brits have holiday romances, and many are now using dating apps to find love abroad

After exhausting all their local dating app options, singletons are now seeking love abroad this summer. A survey of 2,000 solo travellers revealed that two-thirds have reactivated a dormant dating app to find romance overseas. One in five have even chosen their holiday destination based on its dating potential, with a third expressing interest in dating locals.

Among those who have already dated abroad, one in five said they learnt more about the culture when dating a local. However, while one in ten stated that finding a holiday romance is a travel priority – with men more likely than women to continue a holiday romance back home – a third admitted they are great for short-term fun.

When attempting to get to know someone local, four out of ten have experienced embarrassing translation issues, accidentally swearing or unintentionally insulting their date.

As a result, to avoid any miscommunication, a quarter have turned to language learning apps to expand their limited knowledge. However, one in ten have had to ghost an interest on dating apps abroad due to roaming costs.

The study by OnePoll.com found that a third have been hit with a higher-than-expected roaming charge when abroad.

Some travellers have faced a bill of over £150 after using their data, while a quarter have paid for extra roaming data to message someone whilst there.

Lewis Henry from iD Mobile, which commissioned the research and offers inclusive roaming as standard across 50 worldwide destinations, said: “Whether it’s sparks in Seville or soul-searching in Santorini, we want our customers to stay connected – for love, fun and everything in between.”

To assist modern holidaymakers in finding the perfect connection, iD Mobile has partnered with TV personality and relationships guru Anna Richardson to provide Brits with practical advice for navigating romance whilst travelling.

“Travellers are shifting away from the idea that holiday romance has to mean something short-lived or superficial. Whether it’s a deep conversation over dinner in Florence or a hike with a local in Croatia, it’s about connection, not just chemistry,” Anna said.

“Flirting abroad can be exciting and memorable, but it’s easy to put your foot in it if you’re not tuned into the local culture. “

ANNA RICHARDSON’S TOP FIVE TIPS FOR DATING ABROAD:

1. Use apps to your advantage: From dating to translation tools, tech can be a bridge – just always double-check before hitting send to avoid awkward misunderstandings!
2. Read the room (and the culture): Swot up before diving blindly into an awkward situation. A kiss on the cheek in one place might mean something more elsewhere.
3. Flirting is about confidence: It’s not all about chemistry. A great connection can start with something simple, like offering local tips or asking for recommendations.
4. Learn a few local phrases: A little effort goes a long way and shows genuine interest.
5. Don’t let roaming kill the mood: Ghosting because of mobile charges? Not a good look! Choose a plan that enables you to stay connected without worry.

One of the underrated luxuries of living in Los Angeles is how easy it is to make a quick escape. With nothing more than a full tank of gas and an overnight bag in the trunk, you’re only a few hours from pine-scented trails, fog-wrapped coastlines and sun-soaked desert hideaways. If you’re traveling with a dog, even better: California is dotted with towns that don’t just allow pets — they basically roll out the red carpet for them.

Los Angeles is a dog town, no bones about it. In this weeklong series, we dig into the obsession.

My dog Charlie has been my steadfast companion since I brought him home in 2021: a calming presence when I’m racing to meet a deadline, and a blur of excitement the moment he senses we’re heading out the door. Traveling with him now isn’t just routine — it’s part of the joy.

We’ve taken more than a dozen weekend getaways together: some mapped out with military precision, others sketched out over coffee. Along the way, Charlie has darted into waves, waddled down wooded trails and stretched out like a tiny emperor beneath cafe tables, soaking up the scene.

Over time, I’ve picked up a few practical tips that help make the journey of traveling with a dog smoother:

• Call ahead to confirm pet policies. Just because a spot was dog-friendly once doesn’t mean it still is. (My favorite bookstore in Ojai, for instance, no longer allows pups due to overcrowding.) It’s worth checking on weight limits, extra fees and room restrictions — details that may not be listed online.

• Pack a few familiar comforts. Charlie never travels without a half-dozen of his favorite squeaky toys. A cozy bed, treats and even a dog-approved playlist (he’s partial to ‘90s teen pop) can go a long way in making your pup feel at home.

• Plan for pit stops. Every dog has their limit on the road; Charlie’s is about two hours. That’s when he starts getting antsy and throwing side-eye that clearly says, “Stretch time!” Before you head out, map a few good stops: scenic rest areas, cafes with outdoor seating or quick walking trails to help burn off some energy.

Once the essentials are covered, the only thing left is choosing your backdrop. Here’s a short list of destinations around the state that strike the right balance: beautiful, accessible and dog-loving. Whether you’re chasing salty breezes, crisp mountain air or just a patio brunch with water bowls on standby, these eight California getaways are sure to charm you and your furry friend.

A frequent traveller has shared an airport hack that has people stunned – and wondering why they’ve never thought of it before as she claims it works “90 percent of the time”

A seasoned traveller has revealed their secret airport trick, leaving people baffled they hadn’t thought of it themselves. Airports can be incredibly stressful environments, packed with lengthy queues, rigorous security procedures and inevitable delays. However, most travellers associate airport arrivals with anticipation for their upcoming adventure.

Whilst countless people discuss strategies for smooth departures, fewer address the frustrations that arise when landing at your destination. Travel influencer Lindsay Mukaddam, known as @onegirlwandering, posted footage of herself positioned outside the terminal following her arrival in a clip that has since received over a million views.

READ MORE: British tourists urged to ‘never wear’ one type of shoes on plane for ‘vital reason’

Lindsay explained: “Come to the departures level if the arrivals level is completely slammed with cars, because then the person whose picking you up can get up here with no issues and they don’t have to wait in line.” She noted in the caption: “I may look like crud after a 20 plus hour travel day, but at least I don’t have to wait a moment longer to get home.”

Following the video’s viral success, the travel influencer revealed to Insider that “this tactic works about 90 per cent of the time” in her experience. “When I have had a hard time using it, it has usually been during a very busy travel period, like a holiday weekend,” Lindsay explained. In most instances and at most airports, passengers can actually be collected from the departures area rather than arrivals.

While travellers are typically encouraged to head to the designated pick-up zone, there are no regulations preventing them from doing the opposite.

Nevertheless, if you’re planning to collect a loved one at departures, they can likely forget about a lengthy reunion beside the vehicle. Typically, passenger drop-off zones at departures are fast-moving, and motors aren’t allowed to park, or if they are, not for extended periods.

Airport officials may hand the driver a ticket for loitering. On Reddit, one user highlighted this, commenting, “If you do this, make sure they’re waiting for you and not vice versa. In Nashville, if you attempt to pick someone up at departures, the airport police will probably give you a ticket, so make it as quick as possible.”

Some airports do offer brief parking facilities at departures. In these situations, there’s no reason passengers can’t be collected from this spot. One user joked: “Don’t be sharing secrets like this, you’re going to ruin it for us.”

@gwaipor wrote: “Sydney, Australia here. Doesn’t work at Sydney airport. Get a fine for doing so.” A Chicagoan added: “This does not work well at O’Hare.”

READ MORE: Boots cut price of ‘super gentle’ Inkey List cleanser in £10 sale

OCEARCH, a non-profit research organisation that tracks marine animals, tagged the 30-year-old male great white shark named “Contender” in the waters east of Massachusetts

The world’s biggest shark is heading straight towards Martha’s Vineyard in the US, after being pinged near an affluent tourist destination.

The 14ft predator, which weighs a whopping 1,653 pounds, was recently detected on Friday afternoon, around 50 miles off the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts.

OCEARCH, a non-profit research organisation that tracks marine animals, tagged the 30-year-old male named “Contender” in the waters east of Massachusetts, between Nantucket Shoals and Georges Bank.

It was seen heading towards the wealthy holiday destination of Martha’s Bay, home to celebrities and multi-millionaires. Former US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama own a £10million mansion on the island.

OCEARCH first tagged the shark in the North Atlantic, 45 miles off the Florida-Georgia coast, off Jacksonville.

It took six people, including three fishermen and scientists, to tag and release “Contender”, which is then electronically tracked through the Argos satellite system, according to Dr Harley Newton, OCEARCH Chief Scientist & Veterinarian.

The predator can be tracked through OCEARCH’s Global Shark Tracker app, where anyone can follow the animal as it moves. The animal has been pinged several times, including on January 26 and February 6, which means the tag attached to the fin was spotted above the surface for a brief period of time as it swam. It was last pinged on June 7.

Dr Harley Newton, OCEARCH Chief Scientist & Veterinarian, previously told The Mirror there were some tourist hotspots the shark might visit.

She said: “This is the exciting question about Contender, as this is the first season we will be able to watch him migrate to a summer/fall foraging area.

“Although there are many places in the Northeastern US and Canada where he could go, there are two primary locations where many white sharks spend the summer: Cape Cod, Massachusetts or Nova Scotia, Canada.

“Though Contender is an adult male white shark, and the largest we at OCEARCH have ever tagged and sampled in the Northwest Atlantic, but he is certainly not the largest male white shark ever caught.

“Contender was 13 feet 9 inches total length and estimated to weigh 1653 lbs. But male white sharks can grow up to 18 feet.

“The adult age class animals have been more elusive than smaller, younger, age classes so we were excited to have the opportunity to tag, sample and release him. Based on our Global Shark tracker, he has travelled 1870 miles to date from the place he was first tagged and released. We won’t know until he shows us, which is all the more reason to follow him on the tracker.”