Latest news with #TUI
Daily Mirror
19 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Mum slams 'nightmare' Corfu hotel with 'no English food' and '€1.50 water bill'
Susan Edwards said her holiday was 'horrendous' from the minute she arrived at the Greek island of Corfu with her daughter and three other family members A fuming mum has vowed never to book with TUI again following a "nightmare" all-inclusive trip to Corfu, where she claims there was "no English food" or hotel entertainment. Susan Edwards embarked on a seven-night holiday to the Greek island on 12 May. She stayed at the Lido Corfu Sun Hotel with her cousins, aged 77 and 78, her daughter, 30, and second cousin, 50. However, Susan, 69, from Westerhope, described the holiday as "horrendous from the minute [they] got there." The holidaymaker explained: "It was all-inclusive, £750 each we paid and there was no food we could eat and we couldn't have anything to drink. "I have to be careful because I have ulcerative colitis so there's certain things I can't eat. The all inclusive drinks were wine, lager, ouzo, or brandy. Yes, there were soft drinks, but we had to pay €1.50 for water." Susan and her party arrived at the hillside hotel around 2pm on 12 May, ready to enjoy some food and refreshments after their long journey. After climbing a large ramp to reach the hotel reception, Susan said she was told that pool-side food would be served at 5pm for guests, which she claims was a "one-inch square of baklava". Her dissatisfaction only got worse the next day when she discovered there was "no English food" available at the hotel. Describing the grub on offer, Susan said: "On a morning you could have toast, a hard boiled egg, or something in sauce," Chronicle Live reports. "There was no bacon. For breakfast there was mozzarella and sliced tomatoes. There was no hot bacon or sausage. "We got chips one day. One day out of the whole lot. There was fish, sardines and rice - I was sick to death of looking at rice. There was pasta and salads, none of this was marked (labelled). One night there was a Greek night and they had kebabs, I couldn't eat that. It's the worst holiday I've ever been on." The mum says she couldn't enjoy her preferred drink during her holiday because she doesn't fancy ouzo and doesn't drink brandy. She explained that she would normally have bottled lager or one Bacardi and Coke, which she said would have cost her €9 and would have been a different brand. "By the time we paid £750 for the holiday, €70 tourist tax for me and my daughter and an extra £450 for both of our meals, I could have been to the Caribbean on that", Susan fumed. TUI's website describes holidays at the Lido Corfu Sun Hotel as being "all about the laidback life" where "ping pong and pool are the liveliest activities on the agenda", aside from the occasional live music and Greek night. It also says the four-star hotel has its own private patch of beach "just steps away". However, Susan claimed there was no entertainment at the hotel which is "stuck there in the middle of nowhere". She added: "There was a private beach but it was so steep we couldn't get down to it and it was 150 yards from the hotel." "There's a ramp at the side of the hotel that you have to try and pull your case up when you arrive. My daughter was up and down, up and down, trying to pull everyone's case up for them." She also expressed her frustration over not being able to get a second key for the room she shared with her daughter. Susan explained: "I asked for a second key for my daughter because sometimes I get tired in the afternoon and rather than lying in the sun and getting burned. "But if I went up to have a sleep, my daughter wouldn't be able to get into the room. She would have to wake me up to get in. I asked for a second key but I was told 'no, too expensive'." Susan said she usually holidays in Spain with her cousins and would always fly with TUI as she felt comfortable knowing "there's a big company behind you if anything goes wrong." However, this time, her confidence in TUI has been shaken due to what she perceives as an inadequate response from the travel firm. She has been offered £100 in holiday vouchers by TUI, but she claims that other guests she met at the hotel have been offered more after complaining. Susan has declined TUI's final £100 voucher offer. "In the past I've paid more to get on a TUI flight because if anything happened I've always thought you've got a big company behind you if anything goes wrong. Not anymore. This holiday was a nightmare," Susan said. A spokesperson for TUI UK said: "Our priority is to ensure customers have the best possible holiday experience, so we are sorry to hear that Mrs Edwards felt dissatisfied with her holiday. We have been in touch directly with Mrs Edwards to come to a resolution."
Metro
20 hours ago
- Metro
Affordable and 'overlooked' European capital gets new flights from the UK
It might be scorching outside, but if you're already deciding your winter getaway, why not swap the usual tourist spots for somewhere a little more off-beat? TUI has announced new direct flights from Newcastle Airport to Sofia, starting December 20. The Bulgarian capital, often dubbed one of Europe's most underrated cities, is renowned for its historic landmarks, beautiful architecture and easy access to world-class ski resorts – including Bankso, Pamporovo and Borovets. The weekly service will run every Saturday throughout ski season. It'll be sure to capture the attention of both snow-seekers and city-breakers alike. And as one of Europe's most affordable skiing destinations, those flocking to the Alps might want to consider Bulgaria as an option instead. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. While many travellers will pass through Sofia on their way to the slopes, the city itself is worth a visit. Steeped in history, you'll find Roman ruins beside Ottoman mosques and grand Soviet-era architecture. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, is one of the city's most stunning examples of architecture, with its iconic gold domes. While you're there, why not take a stroll down Vitosha Boulevard – the main street of Sofia, packed with shops, bars and restaurants? If you're after some culture, you can take a look at the National Palace of Culture or the Museum of Socialist Art. Or, if you're hoping for some fresh air, there's plenty of outdoor space to relax in. The Borisova Gardina is the oldest park in the city and is home to a few open-air bars. If you're heading in summer it'll likely be packed with visitors, but in winter, it's a quiet retreat from the city. Mount Vitosha, which is only a short bus ride from the city, is an easily accessible spot for hiking or to admire views of the capital. TUI's newly launched flight comes at an ideal time. The ski season, which typically runs from December to early April, is the prime time to visit if you want to hit the slopes. January and February offer the best snow conditions. But, if you're not one for skiing, spring and early autumn might be for you. There are mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the more bustling European capitals. If you don't fancy navigating your way through sweaty crowds, you might want to avoid summer. Temperatures can reach as high as the mid-30s and early 40s. Whether it's a quick pit stop before heading to the mountains, or a few days to explore the city, there are plenty of accommodation options. More Trending If you want to be close to the city centre, look for hotels near Vitosha Boulevard. You'll have the major sights, restaurants and shops on your doorstep. The Art 'Otel, for example, currently costs £120 for a one-night stay. Those on a budget are well catered for too. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels dotted around the city – the Central Point Boutique hotel, near Sofia University, has rooms from £40. If you want luxury without the hefty price tag, hotels near the National Palace of Culture or in the Lozenets neighbourhood offer more affordable options. The residential area is southeast of the city and is only a couple of stops on the tram. Weather: Bulgaria has a diverse climate. Summers are hot and dry, particularly in southern regions, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in July and August. However, winters are cold with average temperatures between 3°C to 5°C, especially in mountainous areas, with heavy snowfall and temperatures often below freezing. Bulgaria has a diverse climate. Summers are hot and dry, particularly in southern regions, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in July and August. However, winters are cold with average temperatures between 3°C to 5°C, especially in mountainous areas, with heavy snowfall and temperatures often below freezing. When to Visit: The best time to visit Bulgaria depends on your interests. For beach holidays along the Black Sea coast, visit between June and September (although beware that July and August are the busiest months). Ski enthusiasts should head to resorts like Bansko or Pamporovo between December and March. For cultural exploration and hiking, visiting during the shoulder seasons in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offers ideal conditions. The best time to visit Bulgaria depends on your interests. For beach holidays along the Black Sea coast, visit between June and September (although beware that July and August are the busiest months). Ski enthusiasts should head to resorts like Bansko or Pamporovo between December and March. For cultural exploration and hiking, visiting during the shoulder seasons in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offers ideal conditions. Where to Stay: Accommodation in Bulgaria is affordable, with hotel prices in Sofia ranging from £40 to £100 per night for mid-range options. Coastal resorts like Sunny Beach offer a mix of budget hostels and high-end hotels. A meal for two in a restaurant typically costs around £10-£15, while a pint of beer is roughly £2. Accommodation in Bulgaria is affordable, with hotel prices in Sofia ranging from £40 to £100 per night for mid-range options. Coastal resorts like Sunny Beach offer a mix of budget hostels and high-end hotels. A meal for two in a restaurant typically costs around £10-£15, while a pint of beer is roughly £2. What to Pack: If visiting in summer, pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter trips, bring warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy boots. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round, especially for exploring cities and mountain trails. If visiting in summer, pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter trips, bring warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy boots. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round, especially for exploring cities and mountain trails. Language : While more people speak English, there can still be a language barrier for visitors. It's best to learn a few basic Bulgarian words during your travels. : While more people speak English, there can still be a language barrier for visitors. It's best to learn a few basic Bulgarian words during your travels. Adaptors: Bulgaria uses type F plugs (same as much of Europe). The UK uses G-type plugs, so you'll need a travel adapter. Bulgaria uses type F plugs (same as much of Europe). The UK uses G-type plugs, so you'll need a travel adapter. Currency: Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). 1 BGN converts to roughly 0.43 GBP. While card payments have become more accepted in Bulgaria and you can generally pay by card in big cities, it's a good idea to keep cash on you for smaller places. Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). 1 BGN converts to roughly 0.43 GBP. While card payments have become more accepted in Bulgaria and you can generally pay by card in big cities, it's a good idea to keep cash on you for smaller places. Visas: UK citizens can stay in Bulgaria visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. UK citizens can stay in Bulgaria visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Time: Bulgaria is two hours ahead of the UK (BST+2). Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: I spent 96 hours in 'little London', where life is easier MORE: This 'underrated' European gem with £34 flights should be your next city break MORE: 'Baffling' UK bus is 'world's most confusing' and leaves at different times every day
Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Yahoo
TUI and Jet2 passengers told to do one thing 'six hours before flight'
Millions of Brits are gearing up to fly away on holiday in the coming weeks, with people advised to read up on the travel rules ahead of their trips. This includes when check-in for a flight opens and closes. Different airlines have different rules regarding this, so those with flights booked have been advised to familiarise themselves with what they should do before arriving at the airport. READ MORE: Drivers in England warned over new £5 daily charge 'which could last two years' Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp , click the link to join TUI and Jet2 do share a similar position on when check-in closes, NottinghamshireLive reports. According to the airlines' websites, online check-in with both closes six hours before the flight is due to depart. Online check-in closes two hours before departure with easyJet and Ryanair, three hours prior with Wizz Air, and one hour before take-off with British Airways. TUI passengers are usually able to check in online from either 14 days or 48 hours before your flight, depending on whether you've pre-booked seats or not. There are exceptions, such as for flights to Mexico, Jamaica, and Costa Rica, where online check-in doesn't open until 24 hours before departure. And with Jet2, online check-in opens 28 days before the flight, and with easyJet this is 30 days in advance. Ryanair online check-in opens either 60 days or 24 hours before the scheduled flight departure, depending on whether or not you've paid for an assigned seat. If you miss the online check-in window, you may still be able to check in at the airport. Check-in desks for TUI generally close 45 minutes before take-off, while those for Jet2, Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air close 40 minutes before the flight. If you're flying long-haul with British Airways, desks will close "at least 60 minutes" before departure, or 45 minutes prior if you're flying short-haul.
Daily Record
2 days ago
- Daily Record
Jet2, TUI, easyJet and Ryanair's strict rules ban this food and drink
UK airlines have a number of rules in place around what food and drink passengers are allowed to bring onboard their flights, with some banning items altogether If you're jetting off with TUI, easyJet, Ryanair, or Jet2 this summer, it's crucial to check the list of prohibited food and drinks before heading to the airport to avoid having your items confiscated. The rules on what you can and can't bring onboard differ between airlines, and breaching them could result in your items being taken away before take-off. As rules continue to tighten, especially on flights to EU destinations, passengers flying from the UK are advised to review airline guidelines carefully before heading to the airport. Following Brexit, food products containing meat or dairy, such as sandwiches, yoghurts, or even pre-packed lunches bought at the airport, are banned from being taken into the EU, regardless of their purchase location. And for those returning to the UK, because of an outbreak of foot and mouth disease all passengers are banned from carrying bringing items like sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats or milk into Great Britain – regardless of whether it is packed or packaged or whether it has been bought at duty free. Here's a rundown of what's banned or restricted on flights operated by the UK's major budget carriers: TUI provides complimentary meals and drinks on flights lasting over seven hours. On shorter journeys, snacks and beverages can be purchased onboard via a trolley service, and passengers are also allowed to bring their own food. TUI However, TUI specifies that any food brought onboard must be "low-risk," such as cold snacks or pre-made sandwiches. The airline also notes that it cannot heat food for passengers, except for baby bottles. Importantly, passengers are not allowed to consume any alcohol they've brought from home or purchased in duty-free onboard. Even if it's sealed, duty-free alcohol is not permitted. If you fancy a tipple mid-flight, you'll need to purchase your alcohol onboard. easyJet EasyJet adopts a more laid-back approach towards food onboard, allowing passengers to bring their own meals. However, passengers should be mindful of liquid restrictions and rules specific to their destination. The airline states: "You can bring food into the cabin, although we do sell a range of delicious food and drink on board." There's a 100ml limit for liquid food, like soup or custard. "Hot beverages purchased at the airport are allowed, provided they have a secure lid to minimise the risk of scalding during turbulence. Passengers are also reminded by the airline to check the rules at their destination as some countries enforce stricter customs policies regarding food items. Ryanair Ryanair adopts a hybrid policy, permitting passengers to bring their own cold food and non-alcoholic drinks under its "feel free" policy – but hot drinks and alcohol are strictly airline advises: "In the interest of safety we cannot allow passengers to board the plane with hot drinks or consume their own alcohol during the flight. "This means that even if you've purchased alcohol in duty-free or at the airport, you won't be allowed to drink it crew are authorised to confiscate items if rules are breached Jet2 Jet2 generally allows passengers to bring cold snacks and some drinks on board, but restricts hot food and drinks, as well as strong-smelling or messy foods. Passengers are also prohibited from consuming their own alcohol on the flight. Specifically, Jet2's rules regarding food and drink on board include: Hot food and drinks: These are not allowed to be brought on board. Alcohol: Passengers cannot consume their own alcoholic beverages on the flight. Strong-smelling or messy foods: These are discouraged to ensure passenger comfort. Perishable items: Jet2 advises against bringing perishable items. Cold snacks: Passengers can bring cold snacks, but they should be packaged appropriately and meet any applicable security regulations. Pre-ordered meals: Jet2 offers a variety of meals, snacks, and drinks that can be pre-ordered or purchased on board.
Wales Online
3 days ago
- Business
- Wales Online
Nearly £3m council funding has been approved for this new office block in Swansea
Nearly £3m council funding has been approved for this new office block in Swansea The aim is start work in spring or early summer next year An image of the office building which will go up between St Mary's Church, Swansea and the new multi-storey car park off Albert Row (Image: Swansea Council ) Council chiefs in Swansea have committed nearly £3 million towards another new office block in the city centre. The five-storey building has planning permission and will take shape on land between St Mary's Church and the new multi-storey car park off Albert Row. It has always been described as being a public sector office building, or hub, but private sector interest will also be sought now for some of the office space. The ground floor will have commercial units while public sector organisations, and potentially some private sector ones, will occupy the four floors above. Cabinet members heard more about the project at a meeting on June 26 and agreed to allocate £2.95 million to take the project forward, including procuring a contractor, although the actual construction cost won't be known for some time. It emerged that the council will only occupy one floor of the new building instead of two as had been proposed, but this will still enable it to finally decant all staff from the seafront Civic Centre. Never miss a Swansea story by signing up to our newsletter here Council leader Rob Stewart said the authority was in discussions with the Welsh and UK Governments about the potential relocation of some of their staff to the new block. This is where the office block will be built (Image: Richard Youle ) Article continues below The council has previously commissioned a new office block on The Kingsway - 71/72 The Kingsway - which is due to open shortly, while new office space has also been created by a private sector firm on the corner of Princess Way and St Mary Street. Two tenants have been announced for 71/72 The Kingsway - travel company TUI and workspace provider IWG Ltd - which will occupy just over a quarter of the five-storey building. Cllr Stewart said high quality office and mixed-use space was "hugely important if we are to continue to regenerate the city centre" and that "strong demand is building" for 71/72 The Kingsway. The new block is part of a wider regeneration project planned for the surrounding area, known as Swansea Central, in collaboration with a council development partner called Urban Splash. If all goes to plan for the authority and Urban Splash there'll be new shops, restaurants and walkways, as well as the office block, connecting to the city centre at one end and the new Copr Bay development at the other. The Copr Bay development comprises the new but unfinished multi-storey car park, flats, commercial units, yellow pedestrian bridge across Oystermouth Road and the Swansea Building Society Arena. A report before cabinet said the aim was to finalise design work for the office block this year, appoint a contractor and break ground in April, May or June 2026 and complete the building in October, November or December 2027. It added there were already interested parties in the office space. Cabinet has previously allocated £2.68 million in pre-development and other costs to move the project forward. Deputy council leader Andrea Lewis seconded the report. "It has been a huge amount of work to get us to this stage and it's great to see this report here today," she said. Article continues below
