Barrhead Travel launches European cities river cruise
Barrhead Travel said: 'The exclusive sailing with APT's premium brand, Travelmarvel, comes in response to unprecedented demand, with the agency reporting a 31% increase in river cruise bookings year to date, following a 38% surge in 2024.
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'The charter marks a significant milestone for UK-based travel retailers, showcasing Barrhead Travel's confidence in the river cruise sector and its dedication to delivering tailored, high-quality travel experiences.'
It added: 'Holidaymakers will enjoy a premium onboard experience aboard one of Travelmarvel's contemporary river ships, renowned for their relaxed atmosphere, exceptional service, and curated itineraries.'
Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, managing director of Barrhead Travel, said: 'Chartering a cruise ship is a significant step for the agency and a clear signal of our intent to lead the way in the UK river cruise market.
'We're seeing record-breaking interest in river cruising as holidaymakers look for more immersive experiences that combine comfort, culture, and convenience. This exclusive charter allows us to bring something truly special to our customers and our team of specialists have worked hard to curate a stunning itinerary at our favourite ports of call.'
Barrhead Travel, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, was sold to US-based Travel Leaders Group in 2018, and was by that time one of the UK's biggest travel agents.
Travel Leaders Group is part of Internova Travel Group, which has its head office in New York.
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Wales Online
9 minutes ago
- Wales Online
I keep booking this budget seaside hotel right on a huge sandy beach that still has dates free this summer
I keep booking this budget seaside hotel right on a huge sandy beach that still has dates free this summer This is one of my favourite budget beach stays in Wales This wallet-friendly hotel has a lush sea view (Image: Portia Jones ) We're now in the full swing of the long summer holidays, and the kids are already bored with the local park and the iPad. You want to squeeze a cheeky summer trip in, but everywhere is booked or expensive. Luckily, I've found a budget hotel right on a sandy beach. It costs £32 per person, for a family of four, for a wallet-friendly stay on the gorgeous Welsh coastline. Picture a vast sandy beach extending as far as the eye can see, with crashing waves and a stylish promenade with an ice cream shop in the middle of the seafront. You're not in a pricey European resort; this is Pendine, a charming seaside village in Wales with a seven-mile beach and seaside hotel, Caban. Caban Pendine is an excellent choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly seaside getaway. Its spacious rooms start from £32 per person in the peak season (based on a family of four sharing a £130 room), and prices drop the rest of the year, too. It's modern, comfortable, and ideally situated for exploring the glorious Carmarthenshire coast without spending a fortune. Luckily, I've found a budget hotel on the gorgeous Welsh coastline. It's right on a sandy beach and costs £32 per person for a family of four. (Image: Aled Llywelyn ) There are 14 rooms at Caban, including spacious family bedrooms (some with bunkbeds), mobility accessible bedrooms, and dog-friendly bedrooms. You can book the room that best suits your needs, though I definitely recommend a sea view room if you can get one. I love this hotel for its location alone. It's ideally situated right next to Pendine Sands, making it perfect for long sunset strolls or even a bracing dip in the sea if you're an outdoor swimmer like me. Plus, with the ocean practically lapping at your doorstep, you'll drift off to sleep to the soothing sound of the waves. You can see our list of the best Welsh beaches here. The hotel is located on Pendine Sands, a 7-mile-long sandy beach perfect for long walks, sea swimming, or watching a land speed race event. (Image: Portia Jones) I have stayed here several times, as it's my go-to when we have a warm spell of weather and the beach is calling. On my most recent spontaneous stay, the weather had tipped over 23 degrees, so I went into immediate 'mini break' mode. I bundled a bag and my obling husband into the car, and off we set. We had booked a sea view room that was fuss-free, bright and airy with splashes of coastal chic in the decor colour palette. There was a cosy double bed, an ensuite bathroom, a TV, and those all-important tea and coffee facilities. I don't know about you, but I generally need a coffee within minutes of waking up, or I'm completely irrational. If you're after a budget-friendly break by the sea, the Caban Pendine Hotel is a great shout (Image: Portia Jones ) Another bonus is that after a day of exploring Pendine, it was nice to grab a drink at the hotel bar and sink into deep slumber, knowing this seaside stay wouldn't tip me into my overdraft. To be fair, this isn't a luxury stay; it's frankly an elevated Premier Inn in a prime location that's comfortable, clean, and won't break the bank. If you want a five-star stay with a concierge and a swim-up bar, this is not the hotel you're looking for (said in Obi-Wan Kenobi voice). One of the main highlights is the fully licensed restaurant and bar overlooking the Carmarthen Bay seafront. The relaxed restaurant serves authentic Welsh cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The reasonable prices are a bonus, and you also don't need to book. The menu has a decent selection of mains, including the Chef's homemade chicken curry, smoked salmon salad, vegetable lasagne, and homemade smoky beef chilli. Prices range from £12.50 to £13, which is a total bargain. Their full-cooked breakfast costs less than £7 for adults and £4 for the kids. If you love sweet treats, the pancakes drizzled with maple syrup are a steal at just £4.00. To be honest, I was tempted to order two plates at that price. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here The cafe-dining area at Caban (Image: Carmarthenshire Council ) After filling up on a budget breakfast, we explored Pendine Beach and the surrounding area. While visiting Pendine Sands, it's worthwhile delving into its racing heritage. Pendine Sands has been associated with land speed records for over a century. Its unique landscape, a natural runway of compacted sand, provided an ideal testing ground for early 20th-century speed trailblazers. By the 1920s, Pendine had become the preferred location for land speed record attempts, where racing limits were stretched to thrilling new levels. In 1924, Sir Malcolm Campbell, a racing icon, brought his Sunbeam 350HP car, Blue Bird, to Pendine. Using the beach as his racetrack, Campbell made history by setting a new world land speed record at 146.16 mph. His insatiable need for speed brought him back the following year, where he shattered his record with an impressive 150.76 mph. Pendine Sands Land speed racing (Image: Worldreach) These achievements solidified Pendine's status as the ultimate platform for automotive triumph. Not to be outshone, Welsh engineer and driver J. G. Parry-Thomas stepped up to the plate. In 1926, he steered his bespoke car, 'Babs', to a new record of 169.30 mph, demonstrating cutting-edge engineering and fearless driving. Sadly, Parry-Thomas's quest for speed came to a tragic end in 1927 when he was fatally wounded trying to regain the title. His car, buried in the sands after the accident, was later unearthed and restored. Pendine Sands' legacy fell silent for much of the 20th century until contemporary speed enthusiasts brought it back into the limelight. In 2015, actor Idris Elba paid tribute to the sands' rich history by setting a new 'Flying Mile' record, hitting 180.361 mph in a Bentley Continental GT Speed. His accomplishment was a touching homage to the audacious pioneers who had paved the way nearly a hundred years earlier. The Museum of Land Speed (Image: Portia Jones ) Today, Pendine Sands is hailed as a historic centre for motorsport and engineering excellence, and its racing heritage is now preserved in the splendid Museum of Land Speed. We visited the Museum of Land Speed to learn more about Pendine's history. I know shockingly little about motorsports and wanted to get up to speed. Is Jenson Button still a thing? I have no idea. The modern museum celebrates the area's illustrious history of land speed record attempts on the renowned sands of Pendine Beach, situated exactly where these historic events took place. Overlooking the beach, the museum is brimming with artefacts, memorabilia, and tales of the incredible speed achievements made along this iconic stretch of coast. A standout feature of the museum is its collection of vehicles that have shattered land speed records on Pendine Beach throughout the years. Inside the museum (Image: Portia Jones ) We wandered around engineering wonders such as Sir Malcolm Campbell's iconic "Blue Bird" and John Godfrey Parry-Thomas's "Babs," gaining insight into the technological advancements that drove these machines to break speed barriers. Interactive displays also offered a deep dive into the lives and legacies of these trailblazing speedsters, and I came away a little more educated and appreciative of this thrilling sport. Pendine also offers more than its sandy shores. It's also the starting point for the Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile trek skirting the nation's coastline. The path near Pendine features epic clifftop vistas and wildlife. Heading west, you'll reach the scenic cove of Amroth, while the eastward path offers expansive views of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay. With its firm sand and dog-friendly policy during the off-season, the expansive Pendine Sands is a perfect spot for a lengthy beach stroll in Wales. Pendine is not just about its sands. It's also a gateway to the Wales Coast Path (Image: Portia Jones) The Wales Coast Path website suggests a route starting at the Augmented Reality panel in front of the 'Tea by the Sea' cafe. Take the steep steps up to Gillman Point following the Wales Coast Path. The breathtaking views over Morfa Bychan are worth every bit of the climb! You can choose to return the same way. Fancy going further? Continue to the small beach at Morfa Bychan and turn right onto a signposted track that leads uphill. At the fork in the track, turn right and head towards the B4314 road back to Pendine village. I love this beach (Image: Portia Jones ) During our visit, we plodded along the seven miles of firm golden sands, tracing the shoreline with its lapping waves and then popping to Cambrian Ice Cream for a lush ice cream with a sea view. Perfection. In recent years, the Pendine resort has seen a multi-million-pound regeneration. Completed projects include a 500m traffic-free promenade providing easy access to the beach and a beach-facing commercial centre (Parry Thomas Centre) housing businesses ranging from kayak hire and coffee shops to an Asian fusion restaurant. I really love this part of Wales, and I think it's hugely underrated. Most people head for the popular tourist hotspots of Rhossili Bay or Tenby, but Pendine is absolutely worth a stop, especially if you're looking for a budget minibreak this summer. Pendine Sands (Image: Jo Ridout Wales Online) Travel tips for Pendine and Carmarthenshire Planning a trip to Pendine and Carmarthenshire? Here are some top tips to ensure your journey goes off without a hitch: Hotel: Book your stay at Caban Pendine here. You can also check out a range of Carmarthenshire hotels, B&Bs and camping on and Airbnb. Parking: A large car park conveniently located next to Pendine Sands provides easy access to the hotel, beach and the village. Parking tends to be more readily available during the off-peak season, but it can get busy during the height of summer. Beach access for dogs: Dogs are allowed on most parts of Pendine Sands during the autumn and winter. However, restrictions are in place between the slipways from May to the end of September, so check the signage if you're visiting in the summer. Wales Coast Path: The coastal trail around Pendine features breathtaking clifftop vistas and is well-marked. Wear robust footwear, particularly after rainfall, as some parts can become muddy. Nearby facilities: Public lavatories are near the beach, and the village boasts several cafes and small shops within a short stroll. These are ideal for warming up after a brisk day outdoors. Article continues below Military firing range: Portions of Pendine Sands are occasionally utilised as a Ministry of Defence firing range, which may restrict access. Always check for any notices or limitations before setting off.
Wales Online
9 minutes ago
- Wales Online
Teeth whitening shopper says 'I was sceptical but this works' in 30% off deal
Teeth whitening shopper says 'I was sceptical but this works' in 30% off deal Celebrating five years of gleaming smiles, MySweetSmile is offering huge discounts on their award-winning oral care products MySweetSmile's teeth whitening products are popular with shoppers and the brand now has a host of deals live Oral health is crucial for maintaining sparkling teeth, healthy gums and fresh breath, which is why investing in dental care products is a wise decision. However, it can quickly become costly, and with a plethora of options available, shoppers face the challenge of deciding which products are worth the cost. MySweetSmile is one of the few brands that has received high ratings - winning awards and being hailed as the UK's top teeth whitening brand. Now, they are marking five years of success and they have a series of deals to express their gratitude to customers - both new and existing. To start with, they are offering a 30% discount across popular MySweetSmile products if shoppers sign up. They also have a buy two get one free offer on all products and free two-day delivery on orders over £20 for UK-based shoppers. Among the range of products on offer, customers can select from a variety of options such as the Teeth Whitening Powder, now priced at £24.99, reduced from £29.99. This product is clinically proven and dentist-approved to lift deep-set stains and prevent new ones from forming without causing any harsh peroxide damage, sensitivity or enamel harm, reports the Manchester Evening News. The Teeth Whitening Strips, also discounted to £24.99 from £29.99, are easy-to-use, non-slip strips that deliver quick results without damaging the enamel. The Precision Teeth Whitening Pen is also available with a £5 discount. It's designed for targeted whitening for those desiring extra sparkly teeth. Refresh your smile £30 £25 My Sweet Smile Shop here Product Description You can shop the Teeth Whitening Strips at My Sweet Smile Its fine brush tip allows customers to apply the formula precisely where needed, and it doesn't use any peroxide, so there should be no sensitivity caused to the teeth. For customers with damaged or sensitive enamel, the Enamel Care Serum could be an ideal choice. This product targets the root cause of sensitivity by repairing and strengthening the enamel. For optimal results, customers simply follow their regular night-time brushing routine before applying the serum, dispense two to three pumps onto their toothbrush, brush for two minutes and spit out any excess. Sensitive gums are a common problem for many, but the Gum Serum from MySweetSmile which is powered by hyaluronic acid, promises to hydrate, soothe inflammation, and strengthen gum tissue. It should be used after a regular brushing routine, with two pumps dispensed onto the tongue and gently spread across the gums, allowing it to absorb for two minutes. MySweetSmile's teeth powder can be used on mature teeth as well as caps, crowns, veneers, and dentures Of course, not every brand suits everyone's needs, and if MySweetSmile isn't the right fit, there are other options available. For instance, Boots offers the Rapid White Blue Light Tooth Whitening System for £23.33, which is clinically proven to whiten teeth up to five shades in two weeks and features sensitive action formulas that are peroxide-free. Alternatively, Lookfantastic sells the Spotlight Whitening Teeth Whitening Pen for £14.95, a handy tool that delivers professional-looking results at home and minimises stains for a brighter smile. Customers have shared their experiences on the MySweetSmile website, including Margaret, 63, who said of the Teeth Whitening Powder: "I always thought my yellow teeth were just part of ageing, but after just a few uses of MySweetSmile, I can't stop smiling at the mirror. My teeth feel so much cleaner and brighter-it's like I've turned back the clock on my smile!". Before and after using MySweetSmile's teeth whitening strips Emily, 39, shared: "I was sceptical at first, but this really works. My teeth looked dull and yellow no matter how much I brushed, but now they're sparkling clean and bright. The compliments haven't stopped, and I feel so much more confident!" Tom, 34, commented on the Teeth Whitening Strips: "I'm always running around with work and barely have time for self-care. These strips fit perfectly into my busy routine, and the results are incredible! My teeth are whiter, and I feel so much more confident." However, on Amazon, some customers had differing opinions. One customer noted: "I have only just started using this, so I have not seen much difference yet but the powder leaves your mouth smelling fresh." Article continues below Another added: "I bought this as it was recommended online. I'm not a smoker and I haven't been drinking much, I do drink coffee regularly but I equally regularly clean my teeth. There's an initial improvement but I'm not sure it's what I expected. I used it every day in the first week and only noticed the difference post brushing. Shortly after that - little difference." The teeth whitening products can be purchased from MySweetSmile.
The Independent
9 minutes ago
- The Independent
Pensioners could be set for a £500 boost to state pension next year – here's why
Pensioners could be set for a boost from April next year, with the state pension looking set to rise by up to £538. That's because of the rules around the state pension triple lock and how recent economic data sets out the likelihood of a rise. At present, increases to the state pension are decided by either inflation, wage growth or 2.5 per cent – whichever is the highest. That is to ensure pensioners' income doesn't leave them trailing as living costs continue to increase – though with people living longer and the pension bill escalating rapidly, change is likely to come in the future. Employment data released on Wednesday shows the UK job market slightly cooling, with lower vacancies at present still counteracted by wage growth – one of the three factors dictating state pension payment changes. How much is the state pension and how much will it go up? Next month is when data around wages will count for 2026/27, so this month gives a good indication of where we are headed. Right now, the full new state pension is £230.25 a week, or £11,973 per year. But with inflation expected at 4 per cent across much of the rest of 2025 and pay growth easing back to 4.6 per cent, a rise of between 4.0 and 4.5 per cent is estimated to be the outcome. That equates to £478.92 extra at the lower end, and £538.79 at the higher end of the scale. Will I need to pay tax? However, with that rise in state pension income comes another dilemma for those receiving it: the potential for paying taxes they didn't previously need to. 'This isn't the crunch month for the triple lock, but we're not far off now. Total pay is up 4.6 per cent in the year to April-June, and it's the May-July figure that counts for the triple lock,' explained Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at Hargreaves Lansdown. 'A rise of 4.0 to 4.5 per cent means the state pension would be between £12,451 and £12,512. This would bring it within touching distance of the personal allowance – so anyone with even a very modest personal pension income could end up paying income tax.' The standard Personal Allowance is £12,570, which is the amount of income you do not have to pay tax on, the government website notes. Beyond that figure – so receiving a full state pension would mean just an extra £59 – the basic tax rate would apply. That includes income from property, dividends, earnings or elsewhere. It's important to remember the tax would only be paid on the portion of income above the personal allowance threshold, not the entire amount. That also remains dependent on no changes to the tax threshold levels, the triple lock remaining in effect, and the Treasury backing the increase order during their March review. The numbers apply to the new state pension rather than the basic state pension, which is for those born before 1951 (men) or 1953 (women). 'The Bank of England expects inflation to ease in the coming months, so that by the time we get to the state pension rise in April next year, this increase might be well ahead of annual price rises at the time,' Ms Coles continued. 'Of course, this is only part of the picture. Inflation has been particularly focused on household bills and food prices, which pensioners on lower incomes spend a larger proportion of their income on. It means many of those who rely heavily on the state pension will be holding their breath for the rise in the spring.'
