The Spanish city is a popular short break destination as well as being popular with groups who want to enjoy the lively atmosphere, but a new ban could see their parties cut short
Stag parties will no longer be able to book boozy pub crawls(Image: Getty Images)
A Spanish city which is a major tourist destination for Brits, including stag and hen parties, is introducing a brand new rule in an effort to curb antisocial behaviour linked to drinking.
Barcelona, which sees over 500,000 Brits visiting each year, has banned pub crawls citywide at all hours of the day. Previously, pub crawls were only banned in the area of Ciutat Vella and L’Eixample, which had restrictions between 7PM and 7AM.
On the official website for Barcelona City Council, a statement explained how it defines a pub crawl: “Pub crawling is a business that takes customers on organised drinking tours to a series of establishments that offer discounted alcoholic drinks.
“It typically involves quickly consuming one or more low-quality drinks before heading to the next stop.”
The statement went on to say: “This activity has been identified as a risk factor that causes disturbances in neighbourhoods, puts extra strain on public spaces and potentially leads to criminal behaviour or road safety violations.”
It also confirmed: “The new decree introduces a permanent ban that applies 24 hours a day, year-round, rather than being only seasonal. ” It stated that the new ban will be in place for four years. The change came into force yesterday (October 29).
Organisers who ignore the ban and plan an event could find themselves hit with fines of up to €3,000. While participants in an organised pub crawl wouldn’t face charges, authorities could potentially give them fines for public drinking or other disturbances, which range from €100 to €3,000.
The move is the latest in a long-line of measures brought in by authorities to ease the impact of tourism on Barcelona, and other Spanish destinations could follow suit.
In May, it was announced that Spain was cracking down on holiday rentals, with authorities ordering Airbnb to remove 65,000 properties from their website. Reasons such as lack of licence numbers and unclear ownership records were cited for the mass removal. Many of the delisted properties were in popular areas such as Barcelona and Malaga.
Demonstrations against overtourism have also taken place over the last couple of years, with hundreds of protesters taking to the streets of Barcelona waving banners with slogans such as “tourists go home”.
A trade union in the Balearic Islands has even proposed a €15 a day tourist tax during high season to work as a “deterrent” for tourists. The union’s general secretary said: “”This is not an increase aimed at raising revenue, but rather a deterrent, so that the Balearic Islands send a clear message to the world that there’s no room for more people here during the high season.”
Some resorts have also dealt a blow to Brits who were hoping to enjoy copious amounts of booze. Those visiting certain areas of Majorca and Ibiza may find themselves limited to six drinks a day, even if they’ve paid for all-inclusive.
Finland, a Nordic nation of 5.6 million, has been named one of Lonely Planet’s 25 Best Destinations in 2026 – and it’s not hard to see why the Finns are so happy
Finland’s people appear to have figured out the secret to a happy life(Image: alexsl via Getty Images)
One of the globe’s finest destinations also happens to be amongst Europe’s most sparsely populated.
Finland, a Nordic country home to 5.6 million people, has earned recognition as one of Lonely Planet’s 25 Best Destinations in 2026. The nation was the sole European country to secure a place on the list, though it did share its ranking with regions across Italy and Ireland, amongst others.
Recent years have seen considerable attention focused on Finnish contentment levels. This March, Finland claimed the title of the world’s happiest nation for an eighth consecutive year, as reported by the World Happiness Report 2025, reports the Express.
“Happiness isn’t just about wealth or growth – it’s about trust, connection and knowing people have your back,” said Jon Clifton, the chief executive of Gallup. If we want stronger communities and economies, we must invest in what truly matters: each other.”
The formula behind Finland’s contentment proves fascinating and complex.
Trust forms the foundation of Finnish culture. Numerous youngsters in the country bundle up warmly to attend woodland schools, even in the country’s northern regions during brutal Finnish winters.
They’re permitted to clamber, leap, scramble, and engage in countless other activities to their heart’s desire, with educators choosing to allow learning through experimentation rather than stepping in. Beyond this bedrock of trust lies an immense pride in their homeland.
Finland boasts one of the globe’s highest national service participation rates. Roughly 27,000 conscripts commence service annually, with approximately 80% of Finnish men fulfilling their duty. Moreover, increasing numbers of women volunteer for service, with more than 1,500 enlisting each year.
Another major contributor to Finnish contentment is the nation’s stunning natural landscape. Known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, Finland features nearly 200,000 lakes and remains roughly three-quarters blanketed in woodland.
The nation serves as an ideal spot for witnessing the Aurora Borealis, visible on countless evenings, particularly throughout Lapland.
“Whether you are paddling through Finnish Lakeland in the golden light of a midsummer evening, feeling the heartbeat of Sámi reindeer-herding culture in Inari or embracing the bitter cold of Lapland on a dogsled ride as the northern lights come out to play, you will realize that Finnish happiness is tuning into nature, in touch with your inner child,” Lonely Planet writes.
Fortunately, there’s ample room to savour this magnificence.
Finland ranks amongst Europe’s most thinly populated nations, averaging merely 17 residents per sq km, contrasted with 227 per sq km in the UK. Lonely Planet’s Kerry Walker says if you do visit Finland, you shouldn’t leave without first embracing Sámi culture in Lapland.
“Give Santa the slip and head to Inari or, further north still, Utsjoki, for reindeer-driven sleigh rides and joik (rhythmic poems) sung around a flickering campfire in a simple lavvu tent. Go for the whole Arctic shebang with husky mushing, snowshoeing and ice fishing, then hole up in a log cabin, igloo or aurora-gazing dome to watch the flakes silently fall,” she suggests.
The Sámi inhabit Finland’s northern territory of Lapland, a region that extends into Sweden and Norway too.
Many still engage in age-old reindeer herding practices, though contemporary methods and gadgets like drones and snowmobiles are now employed.
If the prospect of holidaying somewhere with minimal crowds appeals to you, Mongolia could be perfect.
This vast landlocked nation, nestled between China and Russia, spans more than 603,000 square miles yet houses barely 3.5 million residents, making it the globe’s most thinly populated independent country.
Indeed, roughly half the nation’s inhabitants reside in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital city.
Tom Hanks is one of several celebrities who have fallen for the charm of Muskoka in Ontario, Canada, a region filled with thousands of lakes and tens of thousands of craggy islands
Muskoka is towards Canada’s east coast so is around an eight hour flight from London(Image: Getty)
When you consider Hollywood getaways, you might envision classic destinations like Italy’s Portofino, Monte Carlo, or the Hamptons, but Tom Hanks appears to have discovered the ideal spot for a tranquil retreat, well away from bustling beaches and heaving resorts.
Boasting thousands of lakes and countless rugged islands, the relatively unknown Muskoka region in Ontario, Canada, has attracted the star for serene and scenic breaks before the masses discover it.
It’s a realm of tranquil azure waters, small wooded islets, and timber boathouses that feels worlds apart from Hollywood and mirrors the Lake District but amplified, minus the coach parties and with far superior weather.
Merely two hours from Toronto, Muskoka spans an enormous area of central Ontario, peppered with over 1,500 lakes and encircled by coniferous woodlands.
It’s frequently dubbed “the Hamptons of the North”, owing to its blend of wilderness splendour and waterside opulence, reports the Express.
The ambience here is considerably more relaxed than what you’d experience in that exclusive New Jersey enclave.
You’re far more apt to spot families paddling canoes or toasting marshmallows beside a bonfire than moored, ostentatious vessels with champagne flowing.
Tom Hanks is amongst numerous celebrities who’ve been captivated by the region’s allure.
Sources claim he owns a home on Lake Muskoka itself, one of the area’s most renowned locations, where he spends considerable time between shoots. Muskoka, a tranquil region in Canada, is rumoured to be the summer retreat of choice for many celebrities, including Harry Styles, the Beckhams, Justin Bieber, and even Steven Spielberg, all seeking respite from their hectic lives.
The area is defined by three main lakes: Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph, each with its own unique charm. Lake Rosseau is renowned for its elegant cottages and grand holiday homes, while Lake Muskoka offers a more laid-back vibe, ideal for canoeing, paddleboarding or simply watching the sunset from the dock.
For those who love the great outdoors, Muskoka is a dream come true. Walking trails line the banks of the lakes, and there are plenty of places to rent a canoe or mountain bike.
With nearly 30,000 little islands scattered across the region, you can easily spend a day exploring and feel like you’ve truly escaped.
Despite its current status as a hidden gem, Muskoka has been a celebrity favourite for over a century. The iconic Bigwin Resort hosted big names such as Clark Gable and Ernest Hemingway back in the 1930s.
Steve Haid, a luxury waterfront estate agent, perfectly encapsulated the allure of Muskoka when he told Forbes: “To describe Muskoka is like trying to put into words a beautiful dream you just had.
“It’s best that you experience it rather than hear about it; beautiful lakes, unique boat houses, and a variety of cottage-style lake houses from different eras, it’s something out of a storybook really.”
Anyone who has a holiday in Rome coming up has been issued a warning. One holidaymaker who has just been to the Italian capital told people to be on ‘high alert’ when visiting
A string of incidents have occurred in the city recently (file)(Image: Gary Yeowell via Getty Images)
A holidaymaker in Rome has issued a stark warning to fellow tourists heading to the Italian capital after enduring a horrifying experience during her break. Caroline Jansson turned to TikTok to reveal she had been “robbed of all of her personal belongings” and urged others visiting the city to stay alert to their surroundings.
“I’ve just been with the police and they told me they [thieves] specifically target tourists,” she began in a video. She went on, explaining that those with hire cars should stay especially watchful after learning at the police station that numerous others had fallen victim to luggage theft straight from their rented vehicles.
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“I talked to one woman who turned around to take a picture and she had her handbag stolen,” Caroline continued.
“There was another man who had his wallet and passport stolen out of his hand – so be very vigilant and look out for each other and each others’ suitcases because literally everything we had with us for the trip is now gone.”
Caroline revealed that consequently, she had lost numerous valuables including her iPad and two laptops in the European hotspot. Luckily one of those was a MacBook, enabling her to trace and find it inside one of the pinched bags – only to discover it had been abandoned in a ditch with no trace of her other belongings.
“We’re going to continue talking to the police and see how it goes,” Caroline said, before issuing a heartfelt plea to her followers to keep an eye out for her luggage if they happen to be in Rome.
In response, another tourist shared their own experience of theft in Rome. “We were robbed in the Rome train station,” they revealed. “Luckily an officer noticed this guy with a bag that didn’t match his look and we got it back. We were so lucky.”
A second person also revealed: “We were robbed, had our van smashed and they stole phones, iPads, handbag, money, camera. Police not interested. We were in a secure patrolled car park.”
Whilst a third TikTok user warned: “A group of three tried to pickpocket me and my husband on a very crowded bus. Just be careful and keep your belongings close to you and be aware.”
The UK government’s foreign travel advice section offers the following guidance for those visiting Rome, meanwhile.
“Thefts from parked cars happen in Rome, particularly in the Colosseum area, Ostia, Milan and Pisa. Thieves also target coastal areas and towns, and motorway service stations. Avoid leaving luggage in your vehicle – even out of sight in the boot – for any length of time.
“Thieves may use a variety of methods to distract you or encourage you to stop your car, including asking for help or directions or pointing out a fictional fault with your car.”
To reduce your personal risk:
keep sight of your belongings at all times
beware of thieves using distraction techniques
avoid carrying all your valuables together in handbags or pockets
leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place such as a hotel safe
AN ANCIENT Roman ship downed by a storm has been found centuries later at a holiday hotspot – and there’s even treasure on board.
The 2,000-year-old discovery was made mere metres from a popular beachfront – and baffled researchers claim the ship is still in great condition.
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A Roman shipwreck was found in a holiday hotspotCredit: Credit: Mladen Pe�ic via Pen News
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Divers found treasure on the shipCredit: Credit: Maja Kaleb via Pen News
The archaeological sensation was unearthed along the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia this month, almost two millennia after it sunk.
Its timbers even “look like they were just carved”, according to the gobsmacked research team.
Divers suspected there might be a wreck at the Roman port of Barbir after discovering an antique plank with a metal nail in 2020.
Five years later, the entire 42-foot vessel has now been revealed, along with a haul of ancient coins.
One of them even included the ancient Roman emperor, Trajan.
The incredible shipwreck lies in the village of Sukošan just a few miles south of Zadar, one of Croatia’s biggest tourist destinations.
The International Centre for Underwater Archaeology, which led the excavation, said the ship was likely lost in a storm.
Director Mladen Pešić said: “As the evidence shows us, the ship was docked in the harbour.
“It was found just in front of the pier, so we suppose that due to the bad weather the ropes could be broken and the ship might have hit the shore.”
He added: “Broken stern elements give us evidence of this, since this beam that belongs to the keel was split like it hit a hard surface.
Incredible ancient lost city from 3,500-years-ago home to the Americas’ oldest civilization uncovered in Peru
“The ship was probably in such bad condition that the owners decided to leave it on the bottom of the harbour.”
Radiocarbon analysis dates the ship to the first or second century AD – roughly the period of Trajan’s reign.
And though the ship was damaged enough to sink, it is in surprisingly good condition for its age.
Dr Pešić said: “The preserved ship was almost 13 meters in length and 3.5m in width.
“Many different elements were preserved – keel, planks, frames, ceilings, and many elements of the ship’s upper construction.”
He continued: “It is quite well preserved; some of the planks and frames look like they were just carved.”
The construction of the vessel suggests it was built to carry heavy loads over medium-to-long distances.
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It is nearly 2,000 years oldCredit: Credit: Roko Suric via Pen News
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Researchers detailed the treasure found on boardCredit: Credit: Roman Scholz via Pen News
And the artefacts found on board point to the same conclusion.
Dr Pešić said there were many shards of “pottery, glass, and other archaeological material” that could be connected with ship and the port.
“Most interesting are two complete jugs that were part of the ship’s equipment,” he explained.
“As we found many olive pits on it, we suppose that at the moment of sinking, the ship was transporting olives for further processing or for sale.”
The ship will now be preserved in-situ, being covered with a protective geotextile membrane and reburied in the sand.
But a recreation of the ship is planned for public display.
Dr Pešić said: “The plan is to make a 1:10 scale reconstruction of the existing ship construction in order to make a predictive model of ship how it looked in Roman times.”
Excavation of the ship was the work of a multinational team, including experts from Croatia, France, Poland, Germany, and the UK.
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The ship was found in CroatiaCredit: Credit: Roko Suric via Pen News
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It reportedly sunk after a storm centuries agoCredit: Credit: Roman Scholz via Pen News
Hurricane Gabrielle could even have knock-on effects on the weather in the UK with reports of heavy rainfall on its way
Angra do Heroísmo is the capital of Terceira in the Azores(Image: Getty)
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an urgent travel update for anyone planning to visit a popular Portuguese hotspot or its surrounding regions. It comes amid a warning published today (September 25) with the government department alerting travellers to an approaching storm that’s expected to hit very soon.
Its update forms part of the Foreign Office’s Portugal travel advice which also includes Madeira, Porto Santo and the Azores. In its latest advisory, it noted that a tropical storm warning has been issued specifically for the Azores, where adverse weather conditions are anticipated to develop rapidly – and where around four million tourists visit a year, with Brits the top nation for visitors.
The travel experts highlighted that Hurricane Gabrielle is forecast to reach the Azores during the afternoon of September 25, urging travellers in the region to stay informed and take precautions if needed. Because of the expected weather conditions, there could “be disruption to services due to hurricane force winds and possible coastal flooding.” People are being urged to take care and read up on the latest advice over the next few days.
Noting that “hurricanes can change course and intensity”, it stated that the situation is being closely monitored by the US National Hurricane Center. It further advised people follow the guidance of their local authorities, adding: “If you are due to travel, check for updates from your travel provider.”
The US National Hurricane Center website warned travellers that currently, “a hurricane warning is in effect for all of the islands of the Azores, and hurricane conditions are likely tonight into Friday. Significant hurricane-force wind gusts are likely across portions of the Azores even after the center passes.”
The warning continues: “A dangerous storm surge is expected to produce significant coastal flooding in areas of onshore winds in the Azores. The surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves.”
As well as this, “heavy rainfall from Gabrielle could produce flash flooding across the terrain of the central Azores tonight through Friday morning. Swells generated by Gabrielle will continue to affect Bermuda during the next couple of days, and the east coast of the United States from North Carolina northward and Atlantic Canada for the next day or so.”
Guidance from the experts concluded: “These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Please consult products from your local weather office.”
What to do if you are affected by flooding or a storm
Flooding may result from heavy rainfall, tropical cyclones, or tsunamis. These events can cause extensive damage, including loss of life and major disruption to transport networks. During a flood, there is a significant risk of drowning and after, the likelihood of contracting water-borne diseases such as malaria or typhoid fever increases.
People can find out more about flooding from TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre), the World Health Organisation and the Met Office. In addition to flooding, tropical cyclones cause “considerable loss of life” every year. They can also cause “immense damage to property, and damage transport, electricity and communication infrastructure.”
Tropical cyclones gain energy from the heat released when moist air rises into the atmosphere. Hurricane season takes place during the months when sea surface temperatures in a given region are at their peak.
Highest risk:
June to November in the Northern Hemisphere Tropics (Caribbean, Atlantic, Southeast Asia, Pacific, Far East)
November to April in the Southern Hemisphere Tropics (for example, East Africa coast)
Tropical cyclones can cause:
high winds: buildings can be damaged or destroyed; trees, power and telephone lines fall; flying debris becomes dangerous
storm surge: a hurricane can cause a temporary rise in sea level of several metres which can flood coastal areas and damage buildings on the shoreline
very heavy rainfall: this can cause localised or widespread flooding and mudslides
You can find the latest Portugal travel advice here. Please keep an eye on the Foreign Office before and during your holiday.
One traveller came back from a Spanish holiday hotspot bearing crucial advice for anyone mulling over an Autumn break there. Tasha Penney took took to TikTok to share her advice with people
Katie-Ann Gupwell and Chloe Dobinson
11:49, 25 Sep 2025
Lanzarote is a popular hotspot for many Brits (Image: David C Tomlinson via Getty Images)
As Britain battles yet another spell of cold and miserable weather, countless people are fantasising about fleeing to warmer shores. The urge to dash off somewhere tropical feels overwhelming, particularly when confronted with Britain’s never-ending downpours.
One traveller who came back from Lanzarote bearing crucial advice for anyone mulling over an Autumn break to the Canary Islands. Tasha Penney, known as @tashapenney_ on TikTok, warned holidaymakers in October last year against trusting weather forecasts too heavily regarding Lanzarote’s conditions. In her eye-opening clip, she explained at the time: “If you’re coming to Lanzarote, and you’ve been worried about the weather, because when you look up online about Lanzarote weather, it always says windy, cloudy, overcast.
“It pretty much says the weather’s like not great most of the time. Don’t be worried, because it’s all a big lie.
“We’ve been here for three days and, every day, it’s said it’s going to be like 24C, cloudy. It actually predicted rain yesterday. None of the times we’ve had any of that. It’s been clear blue skies, the clouds are like that.”
Banishing any remaining concerns, Tasha revealed that the genuine temperatures felt considerably warmer than predicted, offering comfort to prospective tourists that weather worries are unnecessary.
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Regarding the climate, she had absolutely zero complaints.
Her footage subsequently become a sensation, amassing hundreds of views and triggering countless responses from watchers, loads of whom are weighing up a Lanzarote getaway this year. Holidaymakers have been raving about Lanzarote, dubbing it the ideal year-round escape destination.
One fan gushed at the time: “Lanzarote is great all year around. My second home.”
Another traveller commented: “I was here for a week. It was roasting, overcast three days, sunny four. Probs it was highest 30.”
Heaping further praise on the destination, a third visitor revealed: “I’m going with my best friend in December to break up the cold. Can’t wait.”
A fourth sun-seeker posted from the island itself at the time, declaring: “Here now and it’s lush. It’s rained a little bit, usually late at night or for less than a minute, but it’s been so hot.”
The appeal of Lanzarote, situated amongst the stunning Canary Islands, comes as no shock given its standing as an excellent winter sunshine retreat.
The destination regularly enjoys a delightful average temperature of 20C during January, seldom falling beneath a mild 16C.
Better still, getaways there won’t break the bank.
For budget-conscious travellers, you can either secure a package holiday or hunt down bargain flights and sort out your own accommodation.
A major American hotspot is thought to be ‘dying’ as tourist numbers have significantly decreased since last year. Experts have had their say on the reason for this downfall.
A popular destination in the US is losing tourists as costs rise (stock image)(Image: Andrey Denisyuk via Getty Images)
A beloved hotspot in the US is experiencing a dramatic drop in visitor numbers. Las Vegas stands as an internationally renowned major resort city, celebrated for its casinos, shows, exquisite cuisine and buzzing nightlife.
The most populated city in Nevada has served as the backdrop for a number of Hollywood blockbusters, including Ocean’s Eleven, The Hangover and What Happens in Vegas. Yet, tourism to this iconic American location is plummeting, with specialists revealing the reasons behind the decline. This concern was spotlighted by Race Across The World champion, Alfie Watts, who travelled to Las Vegas to investigate what’s causing the drop in holidaymakers.
He documented his latest journey to the metropolis and posted it on TikTok. The BBC TV personality said: “Vegas tourism is falling off a cliff and I went to find out why.
“This city is a neon soaked fever dream of excess. You can have dinner in Paris, cocktails in Venice and you’ll lose all of your money in New York all before midnight.”
Las Vegas boasts hotels modelled on Paris, Venice and New York that have been crafted to resemble these destinations.
Watts continued: “It’s outrageous and it’s unique but it is still incredible but back in the day the whole point of Vegas was that you didn’t have to be rich to live like it for a weekend.”
During the first half of this year, Las Vegas saw a 7.3 per cent drop in visitor numbers compared to the same period last year, with June alone witnessing an 11 per cent decrease, as reported by Investopedia.
Watts attributes this decline to the rising costs of hotels and food and drink. He elaborated: “It used to be the ultimate weekend blow-out, the wild stag do’s, the girls’ trips, the spontaneous getaway where you came back sunburnt, broke but buzzing.
“Now, it’s priced itself into special occasion only territory and when the magic costs that much, people start asking if they can get it cheaper somewhere else.”
The TV star and renowned travel content creator argued that hotel rooms which “once cost next to nothing” are now comparable to the price of a city break in Paris.
He added: “Thirty years ago Vegas was the spot for outrageous fun but now you can get a similar weekend in Dubai, Ibiza and Cancun, and very often for half the price.”
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However, he admitted that Las Vegas still holds its unique charm with its dazzling lights, vibrant energy, mind-blowing events, world-class cuisine, and the opportunity to dance at 4am in a hotel lobby “shaped like ancient Rome.”
Watts concluded: “Vegas is still a glitter cannon in the desert. It’s just that these days the glitter’s a little bit more unappealing because it’s a lot more expensive.”
Investopedia highlighted additional factors driving tourists away from Las Vegas, including fewer flights arriving in the US from Canada and other nations, partly due to escalating tensions from trade rows between the Trump administration and foreign governments.
Technology could also be playing a role, as sports betting apps and online gaming mean punters no longer need to travel to Las Vegas to gamble.
In his TikTok post’s caption, Watts argued that Las Vegas is “dying” and international arrivals are “tanking.”
The video has attracted a number of comments with viewers expressing their opinions.
One commented: “The millennials don’t gamble and if they do, it’s online and they also are smart with their money, they’re not going to go somewhere where they have to pay this, that and [the] other.”
Another remarked: “Ridiculous ‘resort fees’ and the outrageous tipping culture isn’t very attractive when everything else is getting more expensive.”
A third declared: “No one under 40 cares about Vegas.” A different viewer proposed: “Downtown Vegas is the place to be. Cheaper rooms, food and drink.”
Barcelona is a popular city in Spain that attracts millions of tourists year-on-year and it is famous for its art and grand architecture, but a visitor shared one thing not everyone knows about it
11:48, 14 Sep 2025Updated 11:50, 14 Sep 2025
A tourist shared something you might not expect when visiting Barcelona (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
There are several countries in Europe that attract large amounts of tourists, including Spain, France and Italy. Many people from the UK enjoy going to Spain in particular as it is not far from Britain but offers beautiful beaches, warmer and sunnier weather, has a vibrant culture and is seen as relatively affordable to explore.
Spain consistently ranks as the top holiday destination for Brits who often visit coastal and island sites, like Majorca, Ibiza and Benidorm. A popular city in Spain for holidaymakers is Barcelona, the capital of the country’s Catalonia region. According to Statista, Barcelona’s hotels welcomed nearly 7.9 million overnight tourists in 2024.
The tourist hotspot is known for its art and architecture but locals have been protesting against the issue of overtourism in the city, which saw some tourists being sprayed by water guns.
One visitor who recently travelled to Barcelona shared one thing international visitors might not expect.
He posted a video on TikTok at the end of August showing the wet weather with puddles on the ground of a largely empty street and a small group of people shielding themselves from the rain with umbrellas.
Overlaying the clip, he sarcastically wrote: “Okay Barcelona we get it, you don’t want tourists. Message received loud and clear.”
Barcelona experiences short-lived rain showers in August and September but average temperatures this month reach 26°C during the day so it’s still warm with plenty of sunshine, as per TUI.
The caption of the tourist’s TikTok post caption reads: “The teabags I packed turned into tea in my bag.”
The clip has garnered 247,300 views, 23,800 likes and almost 150 comments, at the time of writing.
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A Spain local commented: “As a Catalan we really wanted the rain so sorry but we really needed it, the heat was HORRENDOUS.”
Another agreed: “In fact, the locals were waiting for this good weather after 15 days of boiling air. Enjoy it with us.”
A third TikTok user said: “Barcelona better behave in September.” A tourist who visited Barcelona shared: “I was there, had to hide in the Burger King until it stopped raining.”
A second chimed in: “It passed very quickly and honestly makes the air much more bearable! Don’t think I could handle 40C, 30 is hot enough!”
The TikTok user who posted the clip revealed in the comments section that the rain “only lasted 30 ish minutes and it’s been sunny ever since.”
A different user, unbothered by wet weather, remarked: “A great place to visit. I love it . What’s the rain got to do with it?”
Someone else highlighted: “Better that than the heat that comes later.” A number of commenters were surprised to see rain in the Spanish city at this time of year, while others knew it is normal for there to be some rainfall.
Rome is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and while many people know about the classic tourist sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican, there are some hidden gems an Italian local has shared
A travel expert from Italy has shared some hidden gems in Rome (stock photo)(Image: Marco Di Lauro/Getty Images)
Rome is recognised globally for its ancient ruins, most notably the Colosseum, religious sites like the Vatican and St Peter’s Basilica and its famous Italian cuisine, featuring a variety of pasta and pizza. It earned the name the ‘Eternal City’ due to its historical and cultural significance spanning centuries.
Located in the heart of Italy, Rome is a popular tourist destination that welcomes millions of tourists every year. According to Turismo Roma, tourism was at an all time high in 2024 with 22.2 million international arrivals, a 5.63 per cent increase from the previous year.
She posted a video on TikTok with short clips showing some beautiful sites in Rome, writing: “Don’t go to Rome if you’re going to skip places like these.”
In the caption of her video she added: “If you’re planning a trip to the Eternal City, save this Rome itinerary – it’s based on my full seven-day guide and packed with more than just the classics. From rooftop cocktails to secret palazzos, here’s what you actually want to do in Rome.
“Beyond the Colosseum and the Vatican, I’ve included some of the best hidden gems in Rome – like Galleria Doria Pamphilj, the Lateran Palace (where popes lived before the Vatican!), and beautiful churches.
“Whether it’s your first days in Rome or your third visit, these secret spots in Rome will change how you see the city.”
Federica gave suggestions of where to go to eat, sightsee and watch the sunset, and you can find some of her recommendations below.
1. Galleria Doria Pamphilj
The Galleria Doria Pamphilj is a large private art collection housed in the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj in Rome, Italy, between Via del Corso and Via della Gatta
Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, dating back to the 16th century, is a blend of art and history and the gallery is where most of the masterpieces of the Doria Pamphilj family’s private art collection are held.
2. Lateran Palace
Lateran Palace is an ancient palace of the Roman Empire and later became the main papal residence of Rome, as Federica mentioned.
It allows visitors to learn about the history of Christianity in Rome and is part of a larger complex that includes the basilica of St John Lateran, the baptistery, the Holy Stairs and the Sancta Sanctorum chapel.
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3. Cycle down Ancient Appian Way
For those who enjoy bike riding, Federica recommends cycling down Ancient Appian Way.
This is one of the oldest roads in Rome and was built by Appius Claudius Caecus starting in 312 BCE to facilitate troop movement and trade between Rome and Brindisi.
There are ancient ruins, catacombs, tombs and villas along Ancient Appian Way, making it popular for walking and cycling.
4. Carbonara at Cecilia Santa Cucina
Federica revealed that she gets her favourite carbonara from the Cecilia Santa Cucina restaurant in Trastevere.
It offers a variety of starters, first courses, main courses and desserts, including cuttlefish, lamb, pork and a dark chocolate ‘cigar.’
5. Watch the sunset from the Giardino degli Aranci
Many people enjoy watching the sunset from scenic places outside and Federica suggests seeing the sun set over Rome from the Giardino degli Aranci.
This is a large park and garden in Rome, also known as the Orange Garden, as there are lots of orange trees. The public outdoor space is said to offer spectacular views over the city.
A man who relocated to Benidorm from the UK has shared three ‘dangerous situations’ he has found himself in since the move, and issued some advice to those planning to visit
14:59, 05 Sep 2025Updated 14:59, 05 Sep 2025
He shared the things that had happened to him (Stock Image)(Image: Sergi Formoso via Getty Images)
A man who has “lived in Benidorm for at least seven or eight years” has shared three hair-raising moments that made him question his decision to move, and whether he should hotfoot it back to the UK.
Harry, known as @harrytokky on TikTok, regularly posts about his life in Benidorm – and recently shared the “most dangerous slash scariest situations” he’s found himself in while living in the Spanish party hotspot. However, he did admit that these things could definitely happen in other places and he said he wasn’t trying to put anybody off visiting Benidorm, as he loves his life there.
Almost being hit by a bus
“Yes, you heard, ran over,” Harry elaborated. He went on: “It was one of these back roads here in Benidorm where people drive at mental speeds, and to be honest, they were so close to hitting me.
“I literally had to run out of the way of the road, it was awful,” he said.
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Unexpected police search
Harry recounted how he’d been stopped by police, and they “literally said random search” to him. He alleged they were looking for “the naughty stuff,” which Harry insisted he “didn’t have.”
“They did a full-on search on the side of the road here in Benidorm. I honestly thought they were going to handcuff me, chuck me in the back of a car and throw away the key,” Harry claimed.
Nearly being robbed
“This is definitely number one by far,” Harry divulged, explaining: “I was walking down one of the back alleys […] from the beach to the main road and a guy came up to me, shook my hand, twisted my arm around my back and all of this”.
He described the incident as an attempt to “rob” him of his possessions, labelling it as the “worst experience,” that would leave anyone rattled.
However, he clarified that his intention wasn’t to “scare anyone off Benidorm,” but rather to arm people with the awareness that such incidents can occur, enabling them to take precautions.
“Stuff like this does happen everywhere in the world,” Harry emphasised. “But because I live here, it’s happened to me, and I wanted to speak about it.”
Responding to a comment suggesting he’d led a “crazy life” in Benidorm, Harry added: “I know right, super crazy”.
Despite the incident, Harry highlighted some of the benefits of living in Benidorm – including the cheap McDonald’s.
As he sat outside, he announced: “And just like that, the food has arrived. Now you will not believe how cheap this was. We’ve got two meals here. Guess how much this costs? €11 (£9.53)”.
Harry went on to detail the contents of the meal, which included two portions of fries, two burgers, two drinks, and a side of chicken nuggets.
He enthused: “I mean, €11? What do you think guys? I think that’s an absolute bargain, let’s be honest. €11? In the UK, that’d probably be at least £20.”
A large Big Mac meal in the UK typically costs around £7.69, depending on location, while six chicken nuggets are priced at approximately £3.49.
Gibraltar has long been a firm favourite with Brits looking for a sun-soaked holiday that doesn’t involve a long flight – but one writer was surprised by what was on offer when they arrived
Catalan Bay in Gibraltar(Image: PR HANDOUT)
Stepping on to the baking airport Tarmac, I glance over my shoulder to get my first look at the Rock of Gibraltar. Dramatic and dominating, the great monolith of limestone and shale looms 1,400ft above us, dwarfing even my accommodation here – a 465ft long, 189-room five-star superyacht-hotel.
Lovingly called Gib by the locals, the peninsula is located at the entrance to the Mediterranean, on the southern tip of Spain. Its strategic position has shaped its complex and fascinating history, through the changing hands of multiple nations – it was ceded to Britain in 1713 – and as a vital Second World War Allied stronghold.
Today, Moorish, British, Spanish and Jewish influences come together to create a unique aesthetic, while almost 40,000 locals, many of whom speak a Spanish-English hybrid language called Llanito, live alongside Barbary macaques, Europe’s only wild monkeys.
A macaque sits on a fence in Gibraltar(Image: Getty Images)
We are lucky enough to be staying at the Sunborn Yacht Hotel in the lively Ocean Village Marina, a stone’s throw from the busy town centre.
Azure waters teeming with little fish lap at the moored boats, while holidaymakers chill outside British pubs showing the football highlights. Across the water, almost close enough to touch, and with the airport runway between us, is Spain.
A backdrop of cranes and building sites are evidence of the forward charge of development, with land reclamation around the harbours a huge part of the progress. No time to stop for too long, though, as there’s so much to do on the peninsula – now linked directly to Birmingham with a new easyJet flight – that within a couple of hours of landing we’re on a yellow boat in the nine-mile-wide Strait, between the Rock and the Rif Mountains, watching a friendly pod of dolphins play and leap around us while our tour guide points out the calves.
Dinner that evening is at a popular spot called Bianca’s, only a few feet from where the Dolphin Adventure vessel is moored. We are delighted to tuck into pil pil gambas and a dish called The Swimming Cow – surf and turf, Gibraltar style.
You can enjoy gorgeous views from the cable car(Image: Getty Images)
Following a buffet breakfast the next morning, we head up the winding roads to St Michael’s Cave, in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Our jaws hit the floor and we enter the magnificent grotto, gazing awestruck at the enormous stalactites and stalagmites that dominate the vast cavern, illuminated by a multicoloured light show.
Long imagined to be bottomless, the Ancient Greeks believed these cathedral-like halls to be the entrance of Hades, while a popular Gibraltar legend tells that the caves connected Gibraltar to Africa, allowing underwater passage to the famous macaques.
Emerging blinking and stunned, we venture to the World War II Tunnels, a tourist experience that takes us right into the heart of the Rock, meandering through winding passages that were carved into the limestone by the military. The instant emotional wallop of the soldiers’ graffiti etched into the rock leaves me with a lump in my throat.
A hefty £3million private investment has allowed head of development Christian Wright to vastly improve the experience, making it more accessible, dynamic and interactive. Wright is personally committed to ensuring that the overlooked story of his fellow Gibraltarians is told, using local artefacts, accounts and photos. Referenced along the way, in a recognition that truth is stranger than fiction, is James Bond creator Ian Fleming who played a role in Operation Goldeneye – a plan to secure communication and intelligence in Gibraltar.
A view of Gorham’s Cave Complex(Image: PR HANDOUT)
Up the cable car we go next for a six-minute ascent, this time bound for the impressive Skywalk, which is great for monkey lovers. The macaques are synonymous with Gibraltar and the 10 groups are managed with love and respect.
But tourists be warned: they can be aggressive and will snatch a snack (first hand witness here), so keep it well hidden. Feeding the monkeys is punishable with a substantial fine, so don’t be tempted.
We learn even more about our primate cousins when we meet with primatologist Brian Gomila of Monkey Talk – Gibraltar for a fascinating in-depth study of monkey behaviour, lucking out when we see a week old baby, clinging to its mum.
Dinner is at The Lounge on the Queensway Quay Marina later, which offers a gorgeous setting and classic, elegant dishes.
A private tour of the derelict Northern Defences, used as a fortress in the war, is an eye-opening exploration led by architect Carl Viagas. Carl, whose passion for the project is clear, is renovating the labyrinth of caves into a considerably impressive visitor attraction – in his words he’s “defending the defences”. The attraction is set to open in summer 2026.
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Gibraltar Museum provides further insight into the multilayered history of the peninsula, particularly “Nana and Flint”, a Neanderthal grandma and her grandson, tenderly portrayed via two life-sized forensic reconstructions.
Some of the last people of these archaic humans occupied the Goram’s cave complex on the southeastern side of the peninsula, and the caves are considered of such great importance that they are now combined into a Unesco World Heritage site.
Gin tasting rounds off day three at award-winning Spirit of the Rock’s microbrewery, with seven gins to taste (hic) and a romp through the history of the spirit to boot.
Thankfully clear headed for our final day, we embark on an extremely fun e-bike tour of the Lower Rock. The route sees us pass a beach where the sand was imported from the Sahara, visit the Botanical Gardens where we see ancient dragon trees, ride by an impressive mosque donated by King Fahd of Saudi Arabia, pass in and out of the ever-present Rock through various winding tunnels, and, thrillingly, cross the airport runway, bringing our exploration of Gibraltar to a close.
Was Gibraltar what I expected? The answer, unequivocally, is certainly not. Despite its small size, it delivers some memories.
Book the holiday
easyJet flies from Birmingham to Gibraltar starting at £26.99 one-way. easyjet.com
easyJet holidays offers four nights’ B&B at the Sunborn Gibraltar yacht-hotel from £584pp with Birmingham flights on October 12. easyjet.com/en/holidays
China will hold a large-scale “Victory Day” parade on September 3rd, an annual parade marking Japan’s surrender in 1945 and the end of World War 2. The parade is concurrent with a broader rivalry between China and the West, with Beijing strengthening its ties to nations under heavy Western sanctions. Analysts describe the alignment as an “Axis of Upheaval”, a loose coalition of states discouraged by the long-standing Western world order.
What Happened?
Chinese President Xi Jinping will host Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Mlaing in Beijing on September 3rd.
It will mark the first joint public appearance of Xi, Putin, and Kim.
In total, 26 foreign leaders will attend, essentially no Western heads of state will be in attendance. The only exceptions being; Slovakia’s Robert Fico and Serbia’s Aleksander Vucic, both of whom have maintained alignment with the Beijing/Moscow sphere of influence.
Tens of thousands of Chinese troops will march in the parade, doubling as an international show of strength in addition to celebration of a historical occasion.
Why it Matters:
The parade highlights China’s role as a diplomatic hub for sanctioned and otherwise isolated leaders, further enforcing Beijing’s willingness to spearhead an alternative power bloc to the West. By unifying Putin, Kim and others, Xi emphasizes global leadership stature while reinforcing alliances that bypass Western sanctions. The gathering also underscores the immense economic leverage of China, from buying 90% of Iran’s oil exports to sourcing strategic rare earth minerals from Myanmar.
Stakeholder Reactions:
Analysts: Note that the “Axis of Upheaval” provides critical, mutual lifelines to resist sanctions, whether by supplying energy, blocking trade routes, or reinforcing each other diplomatically.
Western observers: Concerned that the absence of major Western leaders contrasts sharply with the presence of sanctioned figures, signaling a deepening divide in global alignments.
Alfred Wu, NUS Singapore: Asserts that XI is projecting strength, showing that leaders he once admired now stand beside him, and in some senses now look to him, symbolizing his rise as a global leader.
What’s Next?
The parade is likely to amplify rhetoric about resisting Western dominance and provide new opportunities for side meetings between sanctioned leaders. As China balances this coalition with its own global economic interests, that still undoubtedly relies on some level of cooperation with the West despite growing tensions. Said growing tensions stemming over energy security, Taiwan and sanctions enforcement are likely to intensify over the years. The event will serve as a visual reminder of shifting alliances and who stands on each side of the contemporary multipolar world order.
A travel influencer has revealed how she was “bombarded with sudden marriage proposals” during a nightmare solo trip to a tourist hotspot and warns others how to handle unwanted attention
Karolina Wachowicz in Morocco.(Image: Jam Press/Karolina Wachowicz)
It should have been the holiday of a lifetime but a trip to Marrakesh in Morocco turned into an experience that was challenging and exhausting for one young woman.
Influencer Karolina Wachowicz, 35, who is originally from Poland, said she felt like a “neon sign” as she walked the streets of Morocco as a “blonde single woman” and couldn’t even cross the road or sit alone without having to fend off unwanted attention from men.
The travel lover said she was motivated to visit Morocco by fellow travel influencer Katarzyna Lawrynowic, who regularly posts content about her time in Marrakesh. But she is warning other travellers to wear appropriate clothing and develop a thick skin in order to survive.
Karolina warned other travellers to wear appropriate clothing (Image: Jam Press/Karolina Wachowicz)
“As a blonde, single European woman, you are not seen as just another traveller, you become the spectacle,” Karolina, who originally comes from Krakow in Poland, told What’s The Jam. “Every glance, every comment, every offer of help is loaded with meaning you never asked for.
“Here, it’s not about seeing Morocco as a tourist, it is a daily lesson in holding your boundaries, keeping your nerve, and realising you have to rewrite the rules for every block, market, or bus stop.
“In Marrakesh, the onslaught is sharp and constant. Men make comments out loud, sometimes in French, sometimes in Arabic, as you walk by. At first, you think the compliments are harmless, maybe even flattering, but they don’t let up, and you realise their persistence is never just about curiosity.”
And she said refusing politely is rarely respected because men often push for your name, your plans and your relationship status. Sometimes, a casual ‘I have a boyfriend’ is the only answer that truly stops them. Yet the moment you let your guard down, or even just smile out of nervousness, it can be read as a signal to try harder.
“In cafes and markets, you quickly learn to focus your gaze, answer monosyllabically and keep walking. Men bombarded me with questions and compliments, even sudden proposals!”
Women are advised to cover their shoulders and legs in Morocco(Image: Jam Press/Karolina Wachowicz)
Karolina said the attention became even more intense when she left the city and travelled to small towns and rural villages. The 35-year-old said, “The attention is sometimes suffocating. Simple acts, like sitting in a café or shopping for groceries, become events.
“I couldn’t cross the street without at least one person asking for a photo or money.
“Marriage proposals were, of course, also common. Here, any visible skin or uncovered hair is read as a statement, no matter how modestly you think you are dressed. Suddenly, you realise that even a light summer dress and exposed shoulders can make you the focal point for requests, proposals, or relentless questions.”
But despite the challenges, Karolina said it’s possible to enjoy time in Morocco “if you understand just how different the social codes are”.
She added: “Morocco can challenge and exhaust you, but it will also teach you resilience, flexibility, and the importance of cross-cultural kindness, if you’re willing to look beneath the sometimes exasperating surface. The key to survival is a blend of thick skin, improvisation, humour, patience, and cultural sensitivity.”
A British expat living in the holiday hotspot has issued a warning to tourists visiting the popular destination, after he said his ‘eyes were opened’ to how sophisticated the scams can be
Tourists should be wary of different scams in Ibiza(Image: Getty Images)
An expat living in Ibiza has issued a warning to Brits about common scams that target tourists and the key phrases holidaymakers should be wary of.
The Spanish island is a favourite holiday destination, renowned not only for its vibrant nightlife and party scene, but also for its stunning beaches. Each season, it draws a massive influx of tourists, and James Smith, a Spanish teacher and founder of Learn Spanish with James, warns that visitors are easy pickings for local fraudsters.
These con artists employ everything from sham boat parties to counterfeit holiday rental adverts in an attempt to swindle money from tourists.
“Living in Ibiza opened my eyes to how sophisticated these scams have become,” reveals James.
“The scammers know exactly what buttons to push with British tourists, promising VIP treatment, exclusive access, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But there are always telltale signs if you know what to look for.” According to James, these are the six most prevalent scams in Ibiza, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Fake club tickets
One of the oldest tricks in the book involves fraudsters approaching tourists with “discounted” tickets to top clubs like Amnesia or Pacha. These tricksters often lurk around popular hotels or loiter at beach bars during sunset.
“They’ll show you what looks like a genuine ticket and claim they can’t use it,” warns James. “The story is always the same: they’re leaving the island early, their mate cancelled, or they double-booked. But these tickets are either completely fake or already used.”
Warning signs include sellers who won’t let you examine the ticket closely, refuse to provide contact details, or pressure you to buy immediately with phrases like “last chance” or “someone else is interested”.
Ibiza is renowned for its party scene (Image: Getty Images)
Bogus boat parties
Boat party scams have surged in recent years, with fraudsters setting up fake social media pages and websites advertising non-existent events. They’ll post professional-looking photos and promise celebrity DJs, unlimited drinks, and VIP treatment.
“These scammers are getting smarter with their online presence,” cautions James. “They’ll steal photos from legitimate boat parties and create convincing websites. But when you turn up at the supposed departure point, there’s no boat – and no refund.”
Watch for vague meeting locations, requests for full payment upfront via bank transfer, and reluctance to provide official booking confirmations or company registration details.
Overpriced drinks packages
Street sellers often approach tourists with laminated cards advertising drinks packages for popular venues. They’ll claim you can skip queues and get unlimited drinks for a fraction of the normal cost.
“The legitimate venues don’t work this way,” James points out. “Real clubs sell their own packages through official channels. These street sellers are either selling fake vouchers or massively overcharging for basic entry.”
Timeshare presentation traps
Ruthless sales teams prey on holidaymakers with promises of complimentary dinners, boat excursions or club access in return for attending a “brief” presentation. What begins as a half-hour discussion can escalate into hours of relentless sales pressure.
“I’ve seen tourists lose thousands on timeshare deals they signed under duress,” says James. “The salespeople are trained to create urgency and make you feel like you’re missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Accommodation bait and switch
Fraudulent holiday rental adverts have become increasingly clever, utilising pilfered photographs and fabricated reviews to trick tourists into handing over deposits for properties that are non-existent or bear no resemblance to the description.
“Always verify the property through multiple sources,” advises James. “If someone is pushing for immediate payment or won’t video call to show you the property, walk away.”
Transport overcharging
Rogue taxi drivers and bogus airport transfer operators routinely fleece tourists, particularly those arriving during the early hours or whilst intoxicated.
James has also cautioned holidaymakers about specific phrases employed by fraudsters to manipulate tourists. This includes: James advised: “Living in Ibiza taught me that scammers specifically target British tourists because they know they’re often unfamiliar with local customs, and language barriers can make visitors more vulnerable.
“The key is preparation: know the Spanish phrases for ‘no thank you’ and ‘I’m not interested’, and don’t be afraid to use them firmly.
“Before you hand over any money, always ask for official documentation, a receipt, and contact details. Legitimate businesses will happily provide these. If someone starts getting aggressive or evasive when you ask basic questions, that tells you everything you need to know.
“The simplest check you can do is ask them to write down exactly what you’re buying, when and where it’s happening, and their contact information. Watch how they react – genuine sellers will do this without hesitation, while scammers will usually make excuses or try to rush you into paying immediately.”
Marton Mere Holiday Village in Blackpool is planning to site extra static caravans for holiday use, with park owners submitting a planning application to Blackpool Council
Julia Banim Audience Writer and Richard Hunt, Local Democracy Reporter
14:55, 21 Aug 2025
Marton Mere Holiday Village in Blackpool has plans for expansion
A holiday park in popular tourist destination Blackpool is seeking to position additional static caravans on the site.
The park’s owners, Bourne Leisure Ltd, have lodged a planning application with Blackpool Council for the placement of 20 extra caravans for holiday use through a proposed Certificate of Lawfulness.
Marton Mere Holiday Village, which operates under subsidiary group Haven Holidays, currently has 1474 permitted pitches, mainly filled with static caravans alongside a handful of touring pitches. By pursuing a Certificate of Lawfulness, the applicants contend there would be no need for planning permission to position the extra caravans on the park, situated off Mythop Road, Marton.
Bourne Leisure Ltd has lodged a planning application with Blackpool Council (Image: Bardhok Ndoji via Getty Images)
Planning consultants Laister, representing the applicants, stated in a planning document: “The addition of 20 caravans in the context of the overall permitted number of units across the park is so insignificant that it would not result in an onsite change to the definable character of the use of the land.
“The total number of permitted caravans across the site would rise to 1494, an increase of 1.4 per cent on the existing limits, which falls well within the percentage change parameters of a number of recent appeal decisions.
“As such, the stationing of the 20 caravans, as proposed in the submitted plans, would not result in a material change of use and would therefore be lawful, not requiring permission for the use of the land.
“Respectfully, we therefore request that the Council issue a CLOPUD (Certificate of Lawful proposed Use or Development) for the stationing of the additional 20 caravans and associated operational development.”
Earlier this month, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, one of the seaside town’s main attractions, announced that it would be allowing visitors to bring their furry friends with them on Sundays throughout August in a dog-friendly move that has proven controversial, reports Lancs Live.
Outlining the reasoning behind the ‘Dog’s Day Out’ initiative, Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, stated: “We know that so many of our guests see their dogs as part of the family, and leaving them behind for the day can be a real worry. Dog-friendly Sundays mean guests no longer have to choose between a great day out and doing what’s best for their pet.
“We’ve always been a family park–family owned, for families–and with this latest step, we can truly say we’re a destination for all.”
Health authorities are warning people to keep their distance from “risky” animals
Travellers are urged to take precautions around animals when abroad(Image: GETTY)
The Catalan Department for Health has issued a warning as 21% of animal attacks in the area are now considered to be “risky” for disease transmission. Bats with rabies are a particular concern according to the authority.
It urged people in Catalonia to avoid contact with bats at all costs as these animals are the main carriers of rabies in the area. Rabies is passed on through bites, scratches and other close contact from an infected animal such as an infected animal licking your eyes, nose or mouth.
The authority cautioned: “It is important that if a person finds a bat, they do not handle it, even if it seems harmless or injured. And in this case, notify rural agents so that they can take charge of its management.
“In the event of a bite, scratch or lick from an animal considered at risk, both in Catalonia and in any other territory, in addition to immediately washing the wound with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection, it is necessary to consult a healthcare centre so that it can assess the actions to be taken.”
People who come across a bat are warned not to handle it and contact local authorities(Image: GETTY)
Officials also reminded people to be wary when travelling to other countries or areas that might have endemic rabies but Catalonia is currently free of terrestrial endemic rabies. This means that animals such as dogs, cats and ferrets in the area have no risk of contagion. The authority has highlighted that occasional instances of bats carrying the infection have been reported in the area.
Between January and 29 July this year, there were 88 animal attacks reported in Catalonia, with 22 involving bats, a figure consistent with previous years. However, this year has seen a significant increase in cases requiring intervention due to potential rabies infection, accounting for 63% of all incidents.
The health authority clarified that people who have been attacked by an animal deemed at risk of carrying rabies are typically administered anti-rabies medication and must adhere to a vaccination schedule following the suspected exposure.
Historically, June, July and August have been the peak months for animal attacks in Catalonia, with most incidents occurring during tourist trips in the region, on the streets or within domestic settings.
The NHS has issued a warning to travellers heading to Asia, Africa, Central America and South America to be particularly vigilant for rabies, as these regions have a higher prevalence of the disease.
Catalonia is a summer holiday hotspot in Spain, coinciding with a spike in animal attacks each year(Image: GETTY)
In certain circumstances, a rabies vaccine may be recommended for those travelling to areas where access to emergency medical assistance may be limited or for those likely to come into contact with animals, such as those engaging in extensive outdoor activities.
Rabies is extremely rare in the UK and can be transmitted by various mammals including dogs, bats, raccoons and foxes. Currently, much like Catalonia, it’s only sporadically found in some bats in the UK.
Rabies can be prevented if treatment is sought promptly after exposure, according to health services. However, once symptoms begin to manifest, the disease becomes untreatable and is almost always fatal.
The 51-year-old, from Scotland, was reported to Italian authorities after a guide spotted him “picking up pieces of Pompeii pavement” during an evening tour
Police recovered the stolen items
A British tourist caught stuffing six forbidden fragments from Pompeii in his backpack faces a huge fine.
The 51-year-old, from Scotland, was reported to Italian authorities after a guide spotted him “picking up pieces of pavement” during an evening tour on Thursday. He had illegally collected the stones from the ancient Roman archaeological site.
He was caught outside the Pompeii excavation site near the Villa dei Misteri EAV station. Fortunately, the items were recovered and returned to the park.
“He said he had no idea it was forbidden to remove artefacts from Pompeii,” a police officer said. “He was trying to get out of trouble but it did not work. It is pretty easy to understand you cannot do that because if everyone wandered off with a piece of Pompeii there would be nothing left,” he added.
He had illegally collected the stones from the ancient Roman archaeological site
The unnamed man now faces a fine of over £1,200 and could face up to six years in prison if he is summoned to court.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, said: “Congratulations and thanks to the attentive tour guide, to our excellent custodians and security staff, and to the Carabinieri for this collaborative effort to protect our heritage.”
Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, with 2.5 million tourists visiting each year. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. hit Pompeii, burying it under volcanic ash.
It comes after a mosaic panel on travertine slabs, depicting an erotic theme from the Roman era, was returned to the archaeological park of Pompeii last month, after being stolen by a Nazi German captain during World War II.
The artwork was repatriated from Germany through diplomatic channels, arranged by the Italian Consulate in Stuttgart, Germany, after having been returned from the heirs of the last owner, a deceased German citizen.
Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world
The owner had received the mosaic as a gift from a Wehrmacht captain, assigned to the military supply chain in Italy during the war.
The mosaic — dating between mid- to last century B.C. and the first century — is considered a work of “extraordinary cultural interest,” experts said.
“It is the moment when the theme of domestic love becomes an artistic subject,” said Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii and co-author of an essay dedicated to the returned work. “While the Hellenistic period, from the fourth to the first century B.C., exulted the passion of mythological and heroic figures, now we see a new theme.”
THIS is the astonishing moment a “jewellery thief” is wrestled to the ground and held in a “lion killer” chokehold by tourists.
Brazilian brothers Gabriel and Gustavo Galindo sprung into action after hearing screams from a man claiming he had been robbed.
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The Brazilian tackled the man to the groundCredit: Instagram
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He held him there in a chokehold until cops arrivedCredit: Instagram
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The man appeared to try and wriggle awayCredit: Instagram
Both black belts in Jiu-Jitsu, the siblings quickly put the alleged thief into a “lion killer” chokehold – a popular martial art move that can, in some instances, be deadly.
When police arrived 10 minutes later to escort the man away, applause and cheers erupted for the two brothers.
Shocking footage shows the man pinned to the ground as he attempts to wriggle out of the stranglehold.
According to Brazilian news, the alleged thief tried to bite Gabriel before being warned to “stay still” or leave without an arm.
Gabriel said: “I put him on the ground to show him Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
“By then, there was already a crowd of people enraged with anger towards the unfortunate man.
“Some angry people started to beat him up, but I didn’t have the heart to let them hurt him too badly.”
“We stopped the robbery, taught the thief a lesson, and kept everyone safe.”
Posting the video online, Gabriel quipped: “Enjoying ourselves in Barcelona.”
The clip has massed thousands of views, with hundreds congratulating the holidaygoers for their efforts.
Thief tackled & put in chokehold by tourist after ‘trying to steal camera’
One user hailed the lads “champions” while another crowned them modern day superheroes.
The pair, who were in Barcelona, Spain on a European tour with their family at the time, later said they were left with a “good story to tell”.
Gabriel said: “And we went back to enjoying our day in Barcelona—with a great story to tell.”
Barcelona is notorious for its rampant thieves who target unsuspecting tourists.
Just a couple months ago, extraordinary footage emerged of another tourist tackling a thief to the ground and holding him in a chokehold.
Meanwhile, aast August, Sir Ben Ainslie was robbed at knifepoint for his £17,000 Rolex in the Spanish city.
Ainslie, 47, recalled the horror as a gang mugged him while out for a meal on Saturday night in Barcelona.
The terrifying attack unfolded when he was leaving a restaurant, as reported by local media La Vanguardia.
And last year, unbelievable footage captured a thief swiping a Brit tourist’s phone just as he proposed to his girlfriend in Barcelona.
Footage showed Charlie Bullock surprising his now-fiancée Hannah McNaghten by going down on one knee – but the romantic moment is cut short as a thug is captured nabbing the device.
Charlie propped up his phone on the wall as the two posed for a picture outside Barcelona‘s famous Arc de Triomf, with Hannah totally unaware of what would happen next.
And in 2022, Barcelona FC star Robert Lewandowski chased a thief who stole his £59,000 watch as he signed autographs.
Before an evening training session, the Poland hitman stopped to greet fans outside the club’s Ciutat Esportiva complex.
But one crafty thief used the distraction to open Lewandowski’s car door and make off with the high-end time piece.
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The brothers said they enjoyed the rest of their day with a good story to tell
