Anthea Turner reveals she may have accidentally once smuggled something illegal into Singapore: 'I could've been in Changi Jail!'
She's been on our TV screens since the 80s, and has fronted everything from Top of the Pops to GMTV.
But it could've been a completely different story for Anthea Turner after getting too friendly with a fellow plane passenger on her first holiday abroad.
'You might not be speaking to me! I could have been in Changi Jail!' Anthea, 65, jokes in an exclusive interview with MailOnline Travel.
Anthea was 18 and gone to visit her cousin who was working for Barclays bank in Singapore.
She recalls: 'I saved up all my pocket money, everything I had, really, working in a pottery factory.
'And I just thought it was utterly and totally amazing to get on a plane. And, of course, I was getting on a plane and going nearly to the other side of the world, on my own, to meet my cousin at the other end.'
'But, looking back, I cannot believe what I did,' she continues. 'I was chit-chatting to this guy on the plane, and he told me he worked on an oil rig.
'He was quite charming and a bit of fun and I was 18.
'I had quite a big suitcase with me - you didn't have suitcases on wheels in those days, so everybody lugged their case around – and we're going through Nothing to Declare at Singapore.
'He said to me, 'Oh, that's a big suitcase. Why don't you take my haversack through and I'll take your suitcase through?'
'And I thought, 'What a nice chap. That's really kind of you, because it's so heavy.'
'And we went through and then swapped over the suitcase and haversack, and I went about my way, and my cousin met me.
'I would never do that now – To this day, I wonder what was in that haversack?!'
Despite the potentially accidental smuggling, that wasn't the last time Anthea travelled solo.
She says: 'I'm quite big and brave about travelling on my own to meet up with TV crew or friends, but I've only been on one holiday on my own.
'There would've been a bloke involved, and I thought 'Oh, I just need to clear my head.''
But, despite recently visiting a solo traveller hotel in Crete for a TV show, and now pushing the idea onto her friends, Anthea confesses she's much more comfortable holidaying with her millionaire fiancé Mark Amstrong.
She says: 'I love traveling with Mark, and he's really useful because he speaks about four languages fluently.
'He's also the person who actually enjoys mapping the journey and sorting things out, so it's like I live with my own rep.'
Anthea and Mark recently went on a TUI River Cruise, exploring the European cities along the Danube – and had a great time onboard the TUI Skyla.
'I had never really thought about going on a river cruise before, and I don't particularly know why,' Anthea says. 'I live by the river, and I look at the Thames every day.
'It's not quite as pretty as the Danube or the Rhine, but it has its moments of gorgeousness, and I do like being by water.
'We loved the river cruise because Mark and I had to plan nothing - and we're not completely used to that.
'From the moment you arrive at the airport, you're scooped up, you get to your location, you get to dinner, then they take you to where the boat is, and from there on, all you have to do is decide what you're going to eat.
'From the moment you arrive at the airport, you're scooped up - and all you have to do is decide what you're going to eat,' she says
'For both of us, it was a joy, and all the excursions, everything, oh my goodness.
'I actually came back really relaxed!'
And Anthea was very happy about being recognised 'quite a lot' on the ship.
'I felt like I had a ship full of friends by the time I left,' she finishes. 'And I think everybody felt like that, because there's only about 150 of you, which is just like a big wedding.
'You speak to people, say hello, all the pleasantries, you'll go on a few trips with them, so after seven days, everybody got to know each other.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Telegraph
an hour ago
- Telegraph
The countries with the strangest entry requirements on Earth
Will there soon be a new hurdle when visiting Japan? Earlier this month, the country's media reported that Tokyo is considering introducing a requirement for travellers to prove they have medical insurance – and that they don't have a history of unpaid hospital bills – before entering the country. As one of the most popular destinations on earth, the Land of the Rising Sun has long had relaxed rules around tourism, allowing most Western nationals to obtain a visa upon arrival. But several cases of foreigners fleeing the country with unpaid medical bills has led to calls for a stricter approach. While compulsory insurance would create more admin for travellers, the new rule wouldn't make Japan too much of an outlier by international standards. For when it comes to entry requirements, there are plenty of examples of strange ones out there. Here are some of the most bizarre and extreme. Take a Covid test: Turkmenistan Keen travellers will shudder recalling the days when going abroad meant surrendering to cumbersome Covid testing rules and vaccine passports. But did you know there is one country that still requires international visitors to place a Covid swab up their nose upon arrival? It's true that the former Soviet Republic of Turkmenistan is hardly a holiday destination. And when it comes to strange rules, the country is practically synonymous with autocratic eccentricities – like renaming the days of the week at the whim of the president. But could there be some method in the madness on this one? Turkmenistan probably isn't the only country sitting on piles of unused flimsy PCR tests after the pandemic. But how many other countries have found a way of offloading them on international visitors at the princely sum of $31? Sign a climate pledge: Palau For understandable reasons, tiny island nations tend to take sustainability seriously. But in 2017, the Micronesian nation of Palau (population 18,000) took things one step further by requiring all international visitors to sign a special environmental pledge committing them to 'tread lightly' and minimise their carbon footprint during their time on Palau. As with a lot of climate stunts, the jury is out as to whether it adds up to more than just a clever gesture. But at least it leaves travellers with a nice talking point, given that the signed pledge is affixed to the pages of their passport as a novel souvenir. Pay $100 tourist tax: Bhutan Tourist taxes are all the rage in Europe these days. But the controversial charges levied by the likes of Venice and Amsterdam look positively puny compared to that of Bhutan, which has imposed a $100 daily fee on international tourists (excluding those from neighbouring India) to be payable on arrival. Unsurprisingly, Bhutan's 'sustainable development fee' (to give it its proper name) is the highest tourism tax in the world. Despite that, though, the country's prime minister, Tshering Tobgay, insists that the hefty charge is welcomed by adventurous travellers who come to marvel at the kingdom's breathtaking landscapes. 'Most tourists are delighted that they can play a small part – a small meaningful part – in the sustainable development of Bhutan,' he told a US news network this spring. Provide proof of parental permission: Canada In the era of widespread international travel, the abduction of children by a parent has become a serious problem, with countries around the world cooperating to stop spurned parents trying to take their offspring out of the reach of their ex-partner. That said, few countries take such a proactive approach to the problem as Canada, which advises that any parent travelling alone with their child (or children) bring a letter from their spouse proving that the arrangement is consensual. In theory, then, it's a clever safeguard against parental kidnapping. In practice, it's the sort of unexpected requirement that could also trip up unsuspecting travellers with perfectly innocent intentions. Leave chewing gum (and handcuffs) at home: Singapore Singapore's zero tolerance approach to chewing gum has been part of travel folklore for decades. What is less well known, though, are the similar prohibitions on Christmas crackers and (ahem) handcuffs, both of which are taken equally seriously. One benefit to Singapore's strictness is it presumably encourages travellers to check the bags – and the rules – carefully before their trip. Given the city state's extremely tough rules on drugs, including some prescription medicines, that is probably a good thing. Hire a tour guide (with one exception): North Korea Most people are aware that the only way into North Korea is to sign up for one of those tightly controlled propaganda tours which have become a fixation for a certain type of adventure tourist. But did you know there is an exception? For all its embrace of authoritarian socialism, the hermit kingdom actually contains a semi-capitalist 'special economic zone', where foreign investment is welcomed and entry requirements are considerably lighter for foreign nationals. Getting to the city of Rason isn't easy, given that you'll have to obtain a Chinese visa first and make your way to the North Korean border. But if you're looking for novel entry requirements, it must be one of the most counter intuitive on earth.
Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE I accidentally booked into a SEX hotel... here is what it was like
When your company send you abroad for a job it's hard not to envision yourself as one of those fabulous women sauntering through the airport in a tailor-made suit. And when I was told I was being sent to Madrid I was over the moon. In anticipation, I concocted a plan for my first night: check-in and walk into the local town for a glass of sangria. So when the taxi driver confirmed the name of my hotel three times and I got dropped off on the side of the Spanish highway at a steel gate you can imagine my disappointment. Nevertheless, in a state of delusion that could only have been brought on by the Spanish sunshine I was confident my hotel would look just like the pictures and there would be a lovely outdoor spot for me to sit and read my book before bed. I don't think the hotel had ever had a visitor arrive by foot and so I was forced to stand in between two cars and queue for the 'reception'. I was given some very funny looks by glammed up women and meek looking men behind the wheel - I assumed it was because I was a clueless Brit standing in a queue of cars - but just be sure while I was waiting, I thought why not check the reviews. 'If a discrete and a non-intrusive hotel is what you are looking for, this is the place. An "Adults Only" establishment' one read 'Perfect for a romantic getaway' added another. Pictured: An array of 'spicy' menus available in the hotel room -they were scattered on the side table along with branded ash trays My first thought was to panic, frantically looking for nearby hotels on my phone, but then it was my go to speak to the receptionist through a screen and as she handing me my key card I thought how bad can this really be? Instead of walking to a hotel entrance I was confronted by a row of numbered garage doors - with number 123 open and ready for me to enter. I walked in and the barrier rattled down, leaving me in the dark, luckily I grabbed onto a rusted spiral staircase and climbed up to my room. After an initial inspection of the bathroom, which seemed clean enough I thought why not just lock the doors and firm staying here for the night. The room was scattered with branded ash trays and gave off the faint stench of sweat and cigarettes but once I blasted on the aircon it seemed good to go. A perk of this 'adults only' room was the King sized bed and as I lay down to inspect its comfort levels, I found myself staring at my own reflection, I sat back up and there I was again... the room was covered in mirrors. Slightly freaked out I switched the lights on as the small blacked out window wasn't providing much natural lighting but the minute I flicked the switch the whole room turned blue. While this might have been enough to encourage someone to check out, the blue LED light was actually the feature that encouraged me to stay, because it would have illuminated any unseemly stains on the mattress and there were none! Trying to stick to my original plan I decided to order room service. There was an array of menus littered around the room and so I grabbed the first one I saw. I opened it up and inside was an immense assortment of condoms, glow in the dark vibrators and handcuffs. Unfortunately, I didn't fancy eating flavoured lube for dinner and I was able to locate a menu. 20 minutes later I heard a knock on a cupboard I opened it up and inside was a tray with my dinner on, and while many people would argue that salmon was a rogue choice, it was surprisingly good. After a bit of Netflix and a high pressure shower I fell asleep and because the rooms were fantastically sound-proofed I woke up in the morning feeling refreshed. Now would I recommend staying here? Absolutely not. But one thing I've learned is to always give something a go!
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
I travel to Spain every month – 12 stunning and cheap destinations Spaniards love that Brits have never heard of
AFTER years of travelling to Spain almost monthly, I've learnt where to go if you want to dodge the crowds, eat well, and actually feel like you're a local. There are loads of places that Spaniards head to on holiday that most Brits don't even know exist. 7 7 7 These aren't just quiet villages in the middle of nowhere; they're lively, packed with culture, good food, and beautiful views. So, if you're up for something different, forget Benidorm and Barcelona. Check out these places that are not only less touristy but cheaper and brimming with proper Spanish charm. Inland Málaga: Ronda, Ardales and Antequera Most people landing in Málaga do the same thing - head straight to the coast and barely leave the beach for a week. And I don't blame them. But if it's a change of pace you're after, drive just an hour inland and you'll hit one of Spain's most underrated regions. This area around Ronda, Ardales, and Antequera is what I'd call proper Spain - it's beautiful, full of history, and still mostly untouched by British tourists. Start in Ronda, a stunning town split in two by a huge gorge, with a stone bridge linking both sides. It's dramatic and buzzing with local life. And while you'll find some tourists here, they're mostly Spanish, so it still feels super authentic. There are endless tapas bars, cosy restaurants, and shady squares where people actually live. Nearby Ardales is tiny but charming, and right next to the Caminito del Rey, a jaw-dropping walkway is pinned to the cliffs above a turquoise river. The Spanish resort with Maldives-style overwater hotel rooms and floating Bali breakfasts It used to be known as the most dangerous hike in Spain, but now it's safe, stunning, and one of the best things I've done in the country. Finally, it's worth checking out Antequera - a small city packed with churches, castles and even prehistoric tombs older than the pyramids. This is the sort of place that doesn't shout about itself, but everywhere you go, there's something to see. You can easily visit all three towns over a long weekend, and you'll come home wondering why more people don't. The real Costa Brava: Tossa, Canyelles and Sant Feliu Barcelona is my usual go-to for a Spanish city break. It's got great food, culture and nightlife, but going in the summer months can be a bit chaotic. After a couple of days, I like to bolt on a more chilled trip up the coast. A quick coach ride north gets you to the Costa Brava. Most package holidays land in Lloret de Mar - but swerve this if you want to dodge the Brits abroad. Just beyond it are spots more locals go to, like Tossa de Mar. 7 While not undiscovered, Tossa has managed to hang on to its charm and still far more popular with Spanish families than Brits. It's got a proper Catalan feel, with a castle overlooking the beach, a cobbled old town and plenty of family-run restaurants serving authentic local food. Tucked between Lloret and Tossa is Platja de Canyelles, a small cove that feels like a completely different world. It's mostly used by Spanish second-homers, so you'll find plenty of peaceful spots and not one sign in English. The beach is quiet, the water's super clear, and there's just enough going on to keep you fed, watered and content. Sant Feliu de Guíxols is further up, and ideal if you want a bit more of a local town vibe. It's got a proper promenade, a big marina, and a town centre for a spot of local shopping - and not just souvenir shops. 7 Locals come here for weekend breaks, so the restaurants are authentic and the prices aren't inflated. It's also a great base for walking, relaxing, or activities like kayaking and snorkelling. This part of the Costa Brava is a great choice for those who prefer to mix up their holiday itineraries from the usual sunbathing on the beach. The Cádiz Coast: El Palmar, Zahara de los Atunes and Tarifa When most people think of southern Spain, they picture the Costa del Sol - with packed beaches, bustling nightlife and loud resorts like those in Marbella, Benalmádena or Torremolinos. But head west to the Cádiz coast and it's a completely different story. This stretch of coast is all about surf towns, local food and relaxed beach life without the crowds. It's where Spaniards go to unwind - and the best bit? Most Brits don't know about it. El Palmar has to be my all-time favourite beach here. It might not be easy to get to (you'll need to get a bus or hire a car to get to it) but it's worth the effort. It's known for its wide open beach and Bohemian surfer vibe that's almost impossible to find anywhere else in Spain. There's a reason why they nicknamed it 'Cadizfornia'. There are no big hotels or chains here, either, just beach bars, surf schools and Spanish families enjoying the sun. 7 While El Palmar can get a little windy, the sunsets are unreal, and the seafood is super fresh. It feels like a Spanish secret you never want to leave. If you do leave, you can head down the coast to Zahara de los Atunes, a fishing village that turns into a lively summer spot. It's got some of the best beaches in the region with proper seafood restaurants, hitting that sweet spot of happening but not hectic. In the evenings, the beach bars light up and it feels like one big local party - without the cheesy tourist traps. Top things off with a stop at Tarifa - Europe's southernmost town, where the Atlantic crashes into the Med. Expect narrow streets, music-filled bars, and plenty of activities for adventure lovers, such as kite surfing. Fancy a break from the beach? Head inland for a day in Jerez de la Frontera - where sherry comes from. You can tour the old sherry bodegas with a tasting tour, catch a live flamenco show, or just sit outside a local bar with a cold fino and a plate of jamón. It's cheap, full of character, and barely touched by foreigners. Day trips from Madrid: Toledo, Cuenca and Segovia If you're planning a trip to Madrid for a city break, don't just stick to the city. There are plenty of day trips you can do, which I love - and all less than an hour by train. Packed with history, and strangely overlooked by Brits, the tiny cities of Toledo, Cuenca and Segovia each offer a proper taste of old Spain without the crowds. As Spain's former capital, Toledo is the better known of the three. Locals from Madrid head here for a weekend of food and wandering. Perched on a hill and wrapped in a river, it's full of quaint winding streets, ancient churches and views for days. You can spend hours getting lost in the old town, ducking into bars, or sitting in shady plazas with a glass of vino. Cuenca is smaller and quieter, but it's still got the wow factor. Built on the edge of a deep gorge, with old houses called 'Casas Colgadas', which are literally hanging off the cliffs, it feels like something out of a fairytale. You can walk across the (quite scary) San Pablo bridge for epic views, explore quirky galleries and museums, and stop for lunch in the sun with barely a tourist in sight. It's peaceful, colourful and unique - the kind of place that feels untouched. Finally, there's Segovia, which has to be the most photogenic of the three thanks to its massive Roman aqueduct - one of the best preserved in the world - and a castle that supposedly inspired Disney's sitting high on the edge of town. Segovia also has a top-notch food scene, being famous for 'cochinillo' - a must-try, melt-in-the-mouth roast suckling pig dish. All three are easy to reach from the capital and feel a world away from the usual Brits abroad scene - with the bonus of being back in Madrid by bedtime.
