Glasgow travellers face summer chaos amid strikes in Spain
Colossal strike action, including protests outside major hotel chains on the Spanish island, could see Glasgow and British holidaymakers facing chaos in July and August, reports The Sun.
The mass walk-outs were proposed by the main tourism union in the European country.
They are expected to hit the Canary Islands' capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. It is understood that strike action will begin on July 4, 2025.
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Union leader Manuel Fitas of the Grassroots Trade Unionists revealed the action comes as employers have yet to agree on a pay rise for hotel workers.
He claimed the employers had a 'stubborn refusal' to discuss salary improvements for staff.
Glasgow travellers face summer chaos amid strikes in Spain (Image: Newsquest) According to Fitas, on May 29, the union gave employers a fifteen-day deadline to respond to their demand for a 6.5 per cent salary increase before negotiating a new agreement. However, employers have yet to come to a new agreement.
If the strikes go ahead, the Sun claims they will 'prove disastrous for thousands of Brit holidaymakers'.
They are planned for every Friday of July and August. As part of the strikes, British tourists should expect major disruptions.
The scheduled walkouts and protests will be confirmed on June 16.
Ahead of the potential strikes, the manager of the local employers' association, Juan Pablo González, said they were "moderately optimistic" of making progress in the talks.
In terms of the efforts to avoid the strikes, González said they "limit everything to the table because that is how collective agreements are negotiated".
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The Independent
16 minutes ago
- The Independent
The best budget-friendly hotels in Lisbon for a cheap break in the Portuguese capital
Lisbon's popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, bringing with it a steady climb in accommodation prices. The Portuguese capital's combination of photo-worthy architecture, buzzy food scene, centuries of history and a famously sunny climate has made it one of Europe's most sought-after city breaks, but this popularity comes at a cost. Fortunately, savvy travelers can still find excellent accommodation without emptying their wallets. Lisbon' s hotel scene includes numerous budget-friendly options that deliver style, comfort and prime locations without premium prices. Summer high season (late June to early September) sees prices surge, so be flexible on dates when possible, and watch for major festivals (like Santos Populares in mid-June), which can also impact rates. For the best deals, you may need to forgo extras like balconies, sweeping views or super-central locations, but with pre-planning, you can enjoy a stellar stay while keeping cash for pastéis de nata. Best budget hotels in Lisbon 2025 At a glance 1. Locke de Santa Joana hotel It might not be bargain-basement cheap, but the first Portugal outpost from hip British aparthotel brand Locke offers an awful lot of bang for its buck. Five years in the making, the 369 studios and one-bedroom apartments – set within a restored 17th-century convent and contemporary new-build addition – tick all the style boxes, with the project picking up a Wallpaper Design Award in 2024. Budget-conscious travellers can save a pretty penny by making the most of the self-catering facilities, co-working spaces and gym, and one of Lisbon's trendiest bars, The Kissaten (a listening bar from the team behind Spiritland in London), is right on site, saving on Uber rides. The handy metro station nearby makes it easy to reach city centre hotspots when you can bring yourself to leave this crowd-free retreat (complete with pool and sunny courtyards) and hit the busy city streets once again. 2. Casa do Jasmim by Shiadu hotel This cosy guesthouse in Príncipe Real, one of Lisbon's most fashionable neighbourhoods, offers remarkable value. Part of the small, sustainably-minded Portuguese Shiadu collection started by two childhood friends in 2009, Casa do Jasmim features 14 rooms in a restored 18th-century building (note there's no lift, but upper-floor rooms have sweeping city views to help sugar the pill of dragging luggage up stairs). There's a charmingly eclectic feel to the decor in rooms and shared spaces, and the hearty breakfasts are a good way to fuel a day's exploring. The quiet location is handy for Lisbon's Botanical Gardens, the kiosks and chic shopping of Príncipe Real and Chiado, and it's close enough to Bairro Alto's bars and restaurants to enjoy a lively night out without being so close it will spoil your sleep. Address: R. da Academia das Ciências 36, 1200-001 Lisboa 3. Palácio das Especiarias hotel A grand restored palace named after the spice trade that brought prosperity to Lisbon during the Age of Discoveries might seem an unusual place to look for budget stays in the Portuguese capital, but this centrally located gem is extremely well-priced. Surprisingly so, given its location steps from well-heeled Chiado, its more-is-more design aesthetic and the wealth of amenities such as a basement spa where guests can sink into Roman Bath-themed pools and enjoy a sauna. With generous breakfasts, afternoon tea and cakes, and a wealth of lavishly-decorated libraries and common rooms to explore, a stay here feels like luxury without the exorbitant price tag. If there's room to stretch the budget, Superior suites and rooms offer tempting extras like large sunny balconies and free-standing bathtubs, which are worth pushing the boat out for, even if just for a night or two. Address: Rua da Madalena 122, 1100-330 Lisboa 4. VIP Executive Eden hotel While its name might imply otherwise, this apart-hotel in a landmark Art Deco building isn't a mainstay among VIPs or high-flying executives. But while the fixtures and fittings are more budget chain hotel than designer chic, the location inside a restored 1930s cinema (now a National Monument) at the heart of Lisbon's tourist centre, steps from Avenida da Liberdade and Rossio, make it a popular choice among architecture enthusiasts as well as cost-conscious visitors drawn by the reasonable rates and the fact that each of the 75 studios and 59 apartments is equipped with a kitchenette. Breakfast is available for a few extra euros, and during the summer high season, the views from the rooftop pool and bar are more than a match for trendier (and much pricier) options nearby. Address: Praça dos Restauradores 24, 1250-096 Lisboa 5. As Janelas Verdes hotel A little off the tourist trail but handy for Lisbon's National Museum of Ancient Art and the hip bars, brunch spots and restaurants of hilly Santos, As Janelas Verdes ('The Green Windows') offers a lot of luxury for its price category. A peek behind the namesake shuttered windows reveals lavishly furnished rooms and living spaces in a lovingly restored 18th-century mansion. Guests can escape the busy streets outside to lounge on the rooftop terrace, enjoy breakfast in leafy gardens, sip complimentary port wine during afternoon tea, and generally feel smug in the knowledge that all these luxe touches won't cause any major damage to the bank balance. It pays to be flexible with dates and book well ahead of your visit, as prices shoot up in high season. 6. Browns Avenue Hotel This minimalist-chic hotel scores major brownie points for maintaining reasonable rates despite a plum location on Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon's chic downtown avenue lined with high-end shops and highly priced hotels. Part of a local Portuguese hotel group, Browns Avenue offers 46 bright, contemporary rooms with soundproofed windows (essential on this busy thoroughfare) and sleek bathrooms. Small but thoughtful extras include Smart TVs, Nespresso machines in every room, and a buffet breakfast served until a civilised 11 am. The rooftop swimming pool is a welcome feature rarely found at this price point in central Lisbon. While there's no restaurant, the central location puts you within walking distance of countless dining options, and the 24-hour reception team can point you 7. Mama Shelter Lisboa hotel Opened in 2022, the first Portuguese outpost of youthful French-owned hotel chain Mama Shelter attracts a fashionable crowd with its slick restaurant, rooftop bar with late-night DJ sets and views over the Tagus and a bold design. Like others in the Mama Shelter fold, the hotel is designed with the Instagram set firmly within its sights, but rates remain accessible for a central address. Located in the upscale Príncipe Real district, the 130 rooms vary in size – some on the smaller side, making them a good bet for a short stay or heady weekend away rather than a longer holiday, though all feature good-sized beds. Downstairs, a huge island bar dominates the restaurant space where well-heeled passersby rub tanned shoulders with the hotel's guests, drawn by decent pizzas, burgers and a sense of being at the heart of the party. 8. Hotel White Lisboa Located next to the metro station in the largely residential area of Saldanha, this clean-lined, well-located three-star hotel is a savvy pick for travellers after comfort and convenience without a sky-high bill. The name reflects the crisp, minimalist aesthetic – white rooms with natural wood elements, complemented by patterned tile floors and distinctive lighting. While lacking a gym, it offers a small rooftop plunge pool and bar with city views. With its mix of students, locals and plentiful cheap eats, the location is a practical option for those who want to experience authentic city life while maintaining easy access to the main tourist areas. 9. Residencial Florescente hotel This long-established, family-run hotel in Lisbon's busy Baixa district punches above its weight, offering reliable comfort in a location that's hard to beat for the price. Housed in a narrow 18th-century townhouse on a pedestrianised street packed with old-school tascas and theatre-goers heading to nearby Teatro Politeama, Florescente has 66 rooms, many with city views. Interiors are simple but inviting, with colourful textiles and thoughtful lighting, and guests rave about the friendly staff and impressive breakfast spread. A leafy rooftop terrace, small plunge pool and quiet lounge areas add to the appeal, making it a smart base for independent travellers looking for a friendly welcome in a location that's ideal for exploring Lisbon's major tourist attractions. 10. Hotel Convento do Salvador Art lovers and history buffs will find much to love at this tranquil hotel in Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood. Built within a former convent, the three-star property blends a pared-back contemporary design with original features such as arched corridors and thick stone walls, and there are artworks galore to be admired if you can take your eyes off the views outside. The 43 rooms are simple but comfortable, and there's a calm courtyard terrace for morning coffee or post-sightseeing drinks. The famous yellow trams rattle by a short distance from the hotel, but you'll still need plenty of stamina to make the climb to the hotel entrance. The payoff, however, is a killer vantage point and peaceful escape from the crowded cobbled streets. FAQs When is the cheapest time to visit Lisbon? The cheapest time to visit Lisbon is generally during the low season, which runs from November to March, excluding the Christmas and New Year period. The weather is likely to be cooler and wetter, but there will be fewer crowds to compete with at top attractions. What currency do I need? Like all cities in Portugal, Lisbon uses the Euro as its official currency. Is Lisbon cheap or expensive? Lisbon is generally considered affordable compared with other major European capital cities, with budget travellers able to enjoy the city on a budget of around €50 per day. Public transport is cheap, while Uber and taxis can be expensive during peak periods. Coffees and pastries are reasonable, but the sky's the limit when it comes to Lisbon's rarefied dining scene. Simply strolling around the city can provide a wonderful overview of this historic city, while parks, churches and some museums – such are Museu Coleção Berardo – remain free. Why trust us The hotels featured in this list have been carefully selected by The Independent's expert hotel writer in Lisbon, Lucy Bryson. Our contributors either live in these locations or visit frequently, ensuring a personal and informed perspective. 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.
Telegraph
17 minutes ago
- Telegraph
Britons could be stopped from entering Gibraltar by Spanish police, Lammy admits
Spanish border guards will be able to stop Britons entering Gibraltar because of the new Brexit deal for the Rock, the Government has admitted. Fabian Picardo, Gibraltar's chief minister, furiously denied surrendering any sovereignty to Spain or the EU after The Telegraph reported details of the deal on Wednesday. But David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, was forced to concede in the House of Commons on Thursday that Spanish guards working for the European Union would have control over who entered Gibraltar. Under questioning, Mr Lammy told MPs that a British person stopped by Spanish guards at Gibraltar airport would have a choice: they could either voluntarily go over to Spain for questioning, or be returned to the Gibraltarian authorities and return to the UK. 'It is clear from the Foreign Secretary's answer that Spanish border officials can prevent a UK citizen from entering one part of the UK from another part of the UK,' Richard Tice, the Reform UK deputy leader, said. 'This appears to be a significant sovereignty compromise,' he told The Telegraph. The deal ensures Gibraltar's border with Spain remains open after Brexit, and means the 15,000 people who cross it every day will not have to have their passports stamped. Border checks will be moved to Gibraltar's nearby airport after the Rock effectively becomes part of the EU's Schengen zone of passport-free movement. People flying into Gibraltar from the UK will face one check from Gibraltarian officials and another by the Spanish on behalf of the EU. Mr Lammy said: 'For those arriving by air into Gibraltar's airport, there will be a dual border control check, in a model similar to French police operating in London St Pancras station.' Dame Harriett Baldwin, a former Conservative minister, asked: 'Can a British citizen flying from the UK to Gibraltar now be stopped by a Spanish official as they land?' Mr Lammy replied: 'There will be a second line queue, as there is in St Pancras, and there will be Spanish border guards and police situated in that second line. 'And of course, if there was an alert, then at that point, not on their own, but at that point, there would be a hand-back facility with the Gibraltar police, so they are working alongside that Spanish team. 'And if there was an alert, then the individual would have a right to legal advice. They would either be able to return to their country of origin, let's say the UK, or they would be able to voluntarily go over to Spain to face the questions they are facing.' Mr Tice asked whether Spanish border officials 'have an effective veto on the entry of a British citizen from the United Kingdom landing on British sovereign territory in Gibraltar'. Mr Lammy said if Mr Tice flew to Gibraltar and there was an alert in the Schengen system, 'he would be handed back to the Gibraltarians, where he might feel more comfortable' before returning to the UK. 'No doubt the Spanish would seek to extradite him, and many in this House would be rather pleased,' he added. Mr Lammy said he had insisted on a 'sovereignty clause' in the treaty and added that immigration, policing and justice remained the responsibilities of Gibraltar's authorities.
Scottish Sun
18 minutes ago
- Scottish Sun
Air India crash LIVE: Brit couple including celeb wellness guru feared to be on doomed jet as 290 killed in disaster
Harrowing footage shows the moment the aircraft crashed shortly after take-off DISASTER JET FEARS Air India crash LIVE: Brit couple including celeb wellness guru feared to be on doomed jet as 290 killed in disaster TWO Brit passengers feared to have been on board the doomed Air India flight have been named. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner with 242 passengers on board - including 53 Brits - smashed into a doctors' hostel in Ahmedabad in the west of India. 6 Brit couple Fiongal (left) and Jamie Greenlaw-Meek are believed to have been the Air India flight Credit: Facebook / Jamie Greenlaw-Meek 6 The couple, who have been together since 2019, posted on Instagram from the airport before the crash Credit: Instagram 6 Fiongal appeared on This Morning in January to talk about people's auras Credit: instagram 6 Huge plumes of black smoke could be seen billowing into the sky Credit: X 6 The plane was seen wedged in a building Credit: Reuters The plane was headed to London Gatwick with 232 passengers and 10 crew on board when it crashed just seconds after take-off. Brit couple Fiongal and Jamie Greenlaw-Meek are believed to have been the plane and had posted about their "magical experience" in India. Hours before the crash, the pair - who run the Wellness Foundry, a spiritual wellness centre and yoga studio - posted on Instagram about their "mind-blowing" trip. Fiongal said: "So it's our last night in India and we have had a magical experience really, there have been some quite mind-blowing things that have happened." Jamie added: "We really have been on quite a journey, and then just spending the last night here in this amazing hotel, and we have just had the most delicious Tali food. "It was a perfect way to round up the trip. Excited to share it all with you." A final video showed the pair - who have been together since 2019 - sitting in the airport ahead of their 10-hour flight back to the UK. Fiongal appeared on ITV's This Morning in January to talk about people's auras - with the Wellness Foundry describing it as their "biggest gig so far". Cops said at least 204 bodies have been recovered so far from the crash site. Along with dozens of Brits, 169 Indian nationals, a Canadian and seven Portuguese travellers were also on board. A city police commissioner said there are unlikely to be any survivors - with many passengers still trapped under the rubble. The Dreamliner lost contact just seconds after take-off, according to flight tracking website Flightradar. A final alert was last logged less than a minute after it started the journey from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. It had only reached 625ft at the time, officials believe. Seconds before the crash, the Boeing was filmed flying low over the Meghani Nagar residential area. Moments later, it disappeared behind buildings before a huge blast erupted in the distance. Thick plumes of black smoke could be seen pouring into the sky. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: "The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating." King Charles also said both he and Queen Camilla are 'desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning'. The US-built Boeing 787 is one of the world's most advanced airliners and the accident is the first fatal crash involving the plane. 6 Read our live blog on the Air India plane crash...
