Latest news with #holidaydestination
The Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Mum-of-six on holiday in Spain slammed for claiming sunbeds for her ‘big family' first thing & then going for a DAY OUT
A MOTHER-OF-SIX has come under fire after claiming sunbeds for her family first thing in the morning - only to then head out for the day. Mum and TikToker Stephanie was slammed after she revealed she claimed several sunbeds at the pool area for her ''big family''. 2 But rather than chilling outside and soaking up the glorious sunshine by the pool, Stephanie then went for a day out with her bumper brood. The family, her TikTok page revealed, are currently enjoying a holiday in Spain - despite the mum confessing her '' annual leave hasn't been approved''. Once the sunbeds had been claimed by placing their towels on top, Stephanie and her family went on a stroll to find a breakfast spot. ''We have come as a big family, so we have to be there early,'' Stephanie explained her logic behind the move. For brekkie, the mum showed in the clip, the brood opted for pancakes topped with appeared to be scrambled egg, a frittata, toast and baked beans. ''These did not disappoint. We came here every day for breakfast - it's amazing.'' A while later, after the family had devoured the dishes, the sun-soaked Brits headed for a mini shopping trip in the area. It wasn't until Stephanie and the bumper brood had finished shopping for clothes that they returned to the accommodation - and finally enjoyed the poolside, as well as their sun loungers. Since being posted online, the clip has amassed more than 115k views in just two days - and the mum has been shamed for claiming the sunbeds. More than 600 people gave the video a like, as over 560 others flooded to comments to share their thoughts - and criticism. Fuming holidaymakers foil fellow Brits sneaky plans to secure sunbeds seven hours before hotel pool opens One person was baffled, writing: ''I can't believe you claim the sunbeds and then leave.'' Someone else was just as stunned, commenting: ''Why claim sun beds if you're going out for the day?'' A third chimed in with their approach: ''All hotels should do the same thing. Experts weigh in on whether you should reserve your sunbed with a towel on holiday EVERY summer, hotels become the sites of frantic battles, as guests try to reserve the best loungers with their towels first thing in the morning. But etiquette and elegance expert Katarina, who shares her expert opinions about manners on TikTok at @ says people need to be less selfish and more considerate of other hotel guests. In the footage, she said: "If you're staying at a hotel, avoid blocking the sunbeds if you're not planning on staying. It's disrespectful toward other guests. "Unless the hotel has a reservation system in place, only occupy the sunbeds when you're staying by the pool." Renowned etiquette expert, William Hanson, believes there is a 30-minute grace period on poolside reservations. This is where hotel guests can use a towel or a book to reserve a spot for no longer than half an hour. William told the Sun Online Travel: "In the morning, at the start of the day, and you're by the pool after breakfast, then it's fine at 8.30 to put your towel on the bed to reserve your spot. "But later on in the day after you've used the lounger, and go off for a massage, for example, which is going to be an hour, then you can't use a towel to reserve the sun lounger." If you're grabbing some grub at lunchtime, William said holidaymakers are allowed to eat at the hotel bar or restaurant providing you're not gone longer than 30 minutes. He said: "It also gives your towel time to dry off." William said despite the grace period, "You can't hog the sun lounger for the entire day." Meanwhile, Laura Akano, the Principal Coach and Trainer at Polished Manners doesn't believe holidaymakers have a right to reserve a lounger at all. She told the Sun Online Travel: "I think it should be a first come first serve basis - if the resort doesn't have a booking system." ''After 30 mins of not been on sun lounger, towels are removed and other people get them.'' Many eagle-eyed social media users also spotted the sorry state of the sun loungers - which hundreds thought belonged ''in a prison exercise yard''. ''Rather lie on the floor than those beds,'' a person joked. ''I'd have to jet wash them beds 1st,'' a TikToker chimed in.
Telegraph
12-07-2025
- Telegraph
Why Seville is the greatest city in Europe
Like a smug, doting mother whose highly gifted child has just won a major prize – to her delight but not necessarily her surprise – I was thrilled to hear that Seville has been voted the Greatest City in Europe by Telegraph readers. Having lived here for 22 years, it feels fully justified. As anyone who has visited the city will already know, Seville is a holiday destination that you should explore in fragrant spring, or wander during the warmth of autumn, but avoid throughout the stiflingly hot summer months. It is a magical microcosm of everything you could want in a weekend destination. Airport nearby? Check. Characterful hotels aplenty? Check. History at every turn? Check. Tasty, affordable food? Check. Easily walkable? Check. Blue skies whatever the month? Check. What's not to love? There are tiny, medieval alleyways, narrow enough to touch both sides with outstretched arms; unexpected doorways leading to cool, arcaded patios filled with ferns; and jaw-dropping contemporary structures such as Las Setas, the world's largest wooden structure that winds 30 metres up. There are also endless bars for an unhurried caña de Cruzcampo bien fria (small glass of ice-cold beer), and when the last inch gets warm, do like the locals do and just order another. Yes, as in many well-visited cities, there are concerns about the rise of holiday lets and their impact on residents. And yes, they are justified, but laws have been passed to address the issue. Yet you can expect that most Sevillanos will be delighted to meet you, help you, and charm you with their warmth. They're infinitely proud of their beautiful city, and they love that you appreciate it too. They're passionate about everything: football teams (Seville versus Betis); Semana Santa (Holy Week); the seven-day hedonistic glory of drinking, eating and dancing that is the Feria de Abril; and debating which bar serves the coldest beer. One of the main reasons people choose Spain for their holiday is the food. Seville is known as the capital of tapas, and small dishes reign supreme. It doesn't do any harm that Andalucia grows superb fruit and veg: when British visitors taste a tomato salad – juicy, deep red slices of heaven dressed simply with EVOO, garlic and salt – they weep. Add a few slices of tangy Payoyo cheese, some slivers of nutty Iberian ham, tartare of tender (sustainably caught) bluefin tuna and cumin-scented spinach with chickpeas, a traditional dish originating from Sephardic Jews, and you're in heaven. And I haven't even touched on the glories of the city's dizzying romp through architectural styles. Stone pillars in a church courtyard? Probably Roman or Visigothic. A tower that looks reminiscent of a Moroccan mosque? That's because it used to be a minaret; now it's a belltower with a Renaissance crown. Spanish and Arabic script on the same building? Built by Islamic stonemasons for a Christian king, known as Mudéjar. A glazed tile with geometric design? Made in Triana, with Arabic origins. I feel privileged to live here, and I like nothing more than to convey the city's enduring allure to visitors. As the saying goes, 'Quien no ha visto Sevilla no ha visto maravilla' – 'If you haven't seen Seville, you haven't seen a wonder'.
Bloomberg
11-07-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
Spanish Tourism Growth to Slow as Uncertainties Hit Travel
Tourism in Spain, Europe's second largest holiday destination, will grow less than previously expected as economic and geopolitical uncertainties weigh on appetite for travel. The country's biggest industry will grow 3.3% in 2025, down from the 4% figure forecast in April, amid a deteriorating international macroeconomic context, according to Exceltur, the main tourism business group. Tourism will still grow more than the 2.4% expansion projected for the Spanish economy.
Daily Mail
04-07-2025
- Daily Mail
France's best village revealed and the residents are desperate for tourists to visit
Searching for your new favourite holiday destination? With tourists being sprayed with water pistols in Barcelona, cruise passengers hit with a hefty tourist tax in Santorini and overcrowding in some of the UK's prettiest villages, you might be struggling to pick a summer getaway. But luckily there's one gorgeous European village where tourists will be welcomed with open arms. Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, a medieval commune in southeastern France, was just named the country's favourite village. And rather than worrying about the potential crowds the win could bring to Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, the village's mayor has described it as a 'great honour'. Mayor Maryline Longis told The Times: 'We haven't got the problem of overtourism and it won't happen here. 'This is a great honour and we're perfectly well able to handle more tourism. It will help our restaurants, hotels and shops.' She even claimed that the village will remain 'calm and untroubled' even if lots of tourists arrive. So, what makes Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye France's best village? Stephane Bern, a royal commentator who presented the award, described it as 'prosperous and well-run'. Located between Grenoble and Valence, the village is named after Saint Anthony the Great, whose bones are kept in the Abbey. A Gothic building, the 900-year-old abbey is known for its stunning architecture and as a pilgrimage site for people walking the Santiago de Compostela route. Tourists can discover more about the abbey's history at its museum which has a 4.3 star rating on Tripadvisor. But the village's pretty streets and market squares are also well-worth exploring. Tourists will find stone houses towards the upper part of the village which the historic centre has independent shops. Those who visit in August should try to coincide their visit the La Medievale festival, a medieval-themed celebration. The village is taken back in time to the 13th century during the event with costumed performers lining the streets. How to get to Saint-Antoine-L'Abbaye The nearest airport to Saint-Antoine-L'Abbaye is Grenoble-Isere Airport which is 14 miles from the village. British tourists can fly direct to Grenoble from the UK on several airlines including easyJet and Wizz Air. It can also be easily reached from Lyon Airport with easyJet and BA among the airlines offering direct flights from the UK.
The Independent
11-06-2025
- The Independent
The best family hotels in Cornwall for coastal kids' activities and spas for youngsters
Cornwall has long been a favourite holiday destination for families – and no wonder. It's a bucket-and-spade paradise – with more than 300 beautiful, sandy beaches – but the attraction doesn't end there. This corner of South West England is becoming a destination in its own right for gastronomy, design and – music to any parent's ears – accommodation that genuinely welcomes children, instead of simply tolerating them. Whether you're looking for a boutique bolthole with babysitting services or a seafront pad with a full-blown children's club, there's no shortage of family-friendly hotels in Cornwall. From surf schools to beach bushcraft and even kid-friendly facials, hotels have been quick to find ever more creative ways to keep their younger guests entertained. Active broods can tire themselves out with surfing or gentle cycling along disused railway lines. Meanwhile, frazzled parents seeking a relaxing spa escape can opt for somewhere that looks after their little ones while they indulge, or they can plump for a hotel that allows children in its spa. Here's our pick of Cornwall hotels that make it a delight to stay for the whole family. Best family-friendly hotels in Cornwall 2025 At a glance The open-top Atlantic Coaster is a fun, budget-friendly family adventure. Children love the thrill of riding up top, you get amazing sea views and can hop on and off as you please, with single fares from £2. The route connects Newquay and Padstow. Stop off at Macdonald's Farm to visit the animals and drink good coffee as your kids explore the enclosed play area, or continue to Porthcothan Beach for its rockpools and ice cream – don't miss the blackcurrant and cream flavour!) 1. SeaSpace hotel Active families will love this new and stylish aparthotel on the edge of Newquay. Created by the team behind Watergate Bay Hotel, it hits the right balance between comfort and contemporary flare – think bright and spacious rooms, an Art Deco indoor pool, multicoloured fabrics and atmospheric lighting. While the coast path stares you right in the face and Porth beach is just a five-minute walk away, you can burn off steam without leaving the site – both Padel tennis and fitness classes are available. Downstairs, there's a buzzing cafe and Italian-American restaurant Tallo, but you also have the flexibility of self-catering. Rooms range in size from studios to three-bed apartments, and kitchens come with washing machines and dishwashers. Kids will adore the outdoor play areas, which include a mud kitchen and maze. 2. Hotel Tresanton Parents that haven't yet given up all claims to style will gratefully check into this luxurious seaside retreat in the upmarket fishing village of St Mawes. Reflecting owner Olga Polizzi's taste, there is Italian elegance in spades – whitewashed buildings are offset by lush green gardens, mosaic tiles depict Roman gods, and lovely, wood-floored terraces offer picture-postcard views across the estuary to St Antony's Head. There is a children's playroom with puzzles, crafts, a table football and crabbing kits (with staff happy to provide bacon as bait). Of the hotel's 31 bedrooms, three are family suites, though you can also book interconnecting rooms or opt for an extra cot or bed in your room. The Lamorran Suite has three bedrooms, so little ones can play or watch television in their cabin bunk room while grown-ups flick through the thoughtful collection of books or sip Champagne (complimentary bottle on arrival) on the full-length balcony. Overlooking Mawgan Porth beach with its endless surfing and rock-pooling opportunities, this hotel is a firm favourite with families of all ages. For parents with toddlers, the hotel lends buggies and bottle warmers, there's a huge indoor soft play and children under three stay for free. There is also a day creche (£15 per child for two hours) and a cinema room to keep little ones entertained on rainy days. The bright, sea-facing restaurant has plenty of high chairs and a children's menu. The hotel runs Family Time breaks where the first two children under 16 go free (dinner and B&B) and you receive a complimentary craft or creche session per stay (two-night minimum stay, not available in July/August). Babysitting can be arranged, so grown-ups can hide away in the sea view spa and sensory garden. Water babies of all ages will be in their element at Watergate Bay Hotel, with its prime position on one of Cornwall's best surfing beaches. Poised above two miles of golden sand, its children's clubs, babysitting and accommodation options are attractive for families. Parents can watch Atlantic rollers from the outdoor sauna while their children (aged six months to 12 years old) are looked after in the Ofsted-registered Kids' Zone. A free Land Rover Discovery beach school with bushcraft and firepit cooking sessions runs during school holidays (for 4- to 15-year-olds) and surf lessons and equipment hire are available from the next-door Wavehunters surf school. Afterwards, refuel with Cornish fish puttanesca in the bright and beachy Living Space, which has an extensive children's menu. 5. Fowey Hall Hotel Children are warmly welcomed at this Victorian hotel overlooking the Fowey estuary and coastline. Youngsters are even allowed in the spa, with its indoor pool and panoramic views, which offers adult treatments and 'Junior' facials and massages for under-16s. One of the best perks is the two-hour daily complimentary childcare for children up to eight, so parents can relax in the manicured grounds of the 19th-century manor, said to have inspired The Wind in the Willows. An in-house creche, outdoor play area, games room and buckets and spades to borrow all add to the ease and genuine pleasure of a family holiday here. 6. Carbis Bay Hotel & POD St Ives Poised above its own Blue Flag beach, just outside St Ives, the 125-acre estate surrounding Carbis Bay Hotel is as appealing for children as it is for grown-ups. While parents watch waves roll in from the hot tub, children aged five and over can sample beach games, paddleboarding and arts and crafts in the kids' club. For younger children, babysitting is available, while movie nights will keep teens engaged as their parents sample the Chef's Menu at the superb Ugly Butterfly restaurant by chef Adam Handling. Families can pick from self-catering cottages, the uber-luxe Beach Lodges (used to host delegates during the 2021 G7 Summit and named after the country they hosted) or the new POD St Ives accommodation. Comprising five glamping pods, including a family pod sleeping four with its own garden and hot tub, they are a ten-minute drive inland from the hotel and offer more privacy, but you still get complimentary access to the hotel and spa. 7. Polurrian on the Lizard hotel Standing in superb solitude on the edge of the Lizard coastline, this whitewashed Victorian hotel has been brought right up to date with contemporary furniture, cheery fabrics and modern artwork. Expect clifftop vistas, lawned gardens and a secluded beach below (you can walk there and back, or enlist the help of the hotel's four-seater golf buggy). The 40 rooms include options for families, or try a luxury self-catering villa for more flexibility. There are tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools and a play area, plus a film room for rainy days. Explore rock pools, armed with blankets, buckets and crab lines provided by the hotel. Parents can relax in the spa or try activities such as pilates and sea kayaking. 8. The Headland hotel Standing proud above Fistral Beach in Newquay, The Headland still impresses as much as it did when it opened in 1900. This grand, terracotta complex comprises 86 rooms and suites (including family suites and interconnecting rooms) – many with sea views – plus 39 self-catering cottages, ideal for families wanting all the perks of a 5* hotel but with extra space. Family-friendly touches include an outdoor playground, newly reopened tennis courts and the award-winning AquaClub with splash pools to tire out little ones. Families with older children can burn off energy with Surf Sanctuary surf school, located underneath the hotel, who offer everything from surfing and snorkel tours to ocean confidence training. 9. Harbour Hotel Padstow Families that enjoy adventures on two wheels should head to Padstow, home to the Camel Trail. Stretching for 18 miles between Padstow and Wenfordbridge on a disused railway line, the route is mainly flat and traffic-free, ideal for little legs. A two-minute walk away from the town's main bike rental shop, Padstow Harbour Hotel is a blissful base. The revamped Victorian hotel has sweeping views over the Camel Estuary with 58 tasteful rooms with high ceilings, royal blue armchairs and zig-zag fabrics. Adult bikes are available to borrow from the hotel, and staff can arrange family-friendly activities, including fishing trips, beach picnics, surfing lessons and sea safaris. 10. St Mawes Hotel With just seven rooms, this bijou hotel (sister to the fancier Idle Rocks around the corner) offers seafront dining, a local buzz and family-friendly touches. The style nods to the nautical – think blue and white colour palettes, striped fabrics and coastal artwork. Local sailors and fishermen sip the hotel's own-brand ale in the Lower Deck bar, while the cosy Upper Deck lounge is the spot for gazing at yachts in the harbour. The split-floor family room can accommodate a family of four, babysitting can be arranged and a children's menu is available. Toddlers will love the rock pools nearby, while older children can have a go at everything from kayaking to learning to fish for their supper. 11. St Moritz hotel Set on the coast near the surfer hangouts of Polzeath and Daymer Bay, the Miami-style St Moritz is family-friendly with a children's club, Mini Moritz, in summer. For tired parents wanting to rejuvenate, there's also a swish new spa that recently opened after a £1.5m refurbishment, which converted the entire pool area into a wellness space with a swim-out hydro pool, crystal steam room, ice fountain and multiple saunas. There's accommodation options to suit broods of all sizes, from spacious hotel rooms and suites to entire self-catering apartments and villas. With pools, tennis courts, fitness classes and Cowshed spa treatments on site, you may never want to leave. If you do, it's less than a five-minute walk to the sand-and-shingle Greenaway Beach, where children can spend hours looking for little creatures in rock pools at low tide. Why trust us The hotels featured in this list have been carefully selected by The Independent's expert travel writer, Ellie Ross. Ellie has lived in Newquay, Cornwall, since 2017, when weekends away turned into a permanent stay, ensuring a personal and informed perspective. For almost a decade, she has been a hotel reviewer covering Cornwall, making it her mission to visit the best hotels the county has to offer. When picking which hotels to include, they consider their own experience staying in the hotels and evaluate location, facilities, service and all the other details that make for an exceptional stay for all types of traveller.
