The best holidays to book right now
Whether you're yearning for warm sand, snowy escapism, off-grid adventures or simply somewhere to let the kids run wild, this list has you covered.
Ace the family holiday with sun, sea and something for everyone
Trying to plan a holiday with the kids that doesn't wear you out? Barut Hotels, situated across Turkiye, might just be the answer. Found in sunny spots like Antalya, Side and Didim, these family-friendly resorts are thoughtfully designed to balance grown-up relaxation with serious fun for children. Expect special entertainment programmes, hands-on workshops and professional animation teams to keep young guests happy — when they're not splashing in the pool or playing safely in the supervised playgrounds, that is. Meanwhile, adults can unwind in the spa, take a dip or enjoy sports and activities at their own pace. Dining is a delight, too, with fresh, locally sourced Mediterranean menus and plenty of child-friendly choices. From quality time to quiet moments, Barut Hotels helps you holiday as a family — and actually enjoy it.
Make summer sparkle with a city break to Vienna
Vienna always stands for pure elegance. But this summer, it's also adding a little fizz. The Sans Souci Wien, a design-forward boutique hotel in the heart of the city, invites you to rediscover the pleasures of urban travel with its Sparkling Moments package. Unwind in the 20-metre sports pool, browse the in-house art gallery or explore the boutiques and boulevards of Austria's stylish capital. The highlight? A private champagne tasting, curated to bring a touch of extra luxury to your stay. Whether you're escaping for a romantic weekend or celebrating something special, this is a city break with sparkle — tailored entirely to your own rhythm. Book now and let Vienna's charm (and bubbles) work their magic.
On the sunkissed coastline of northwestern Crete, Atlantica Ocean Beach Resort is a laid-back haven where salt air and simple pleasures set the pace. Overlooking the calm blue of Maleme Beach, this family-friendly retreat pairs modern comforts with space to roam — think lush gardens, a sparkling water park and that endlessly inviting stretch of sand. Spend your mornings wandering along the shore, your afternoons by the pool and your evenings exploring the nearby towns of Platanias and Chania, both known for their timeless tavernas and charming local character. Whether you're travelling with friends or family, the rhythm here is relaxed, the views spectacular and the memories made to last.
Dine like a statesman in the heart of the Cotswolds
The Killingworth Castle is a handsome 17th-century inn with standout food credentials – 3 AA Rosettes, Michelin Guide recommended – and oodles of rustic character. Winston Churchill was once a regular here, not least because it's just a stone's throw from stately Blenheim Palace. Tucked into the Oxfordshire village of Wootton, it's recently been named one of Condé Nast Traveller's Best Cotswolds Restaurants for 2025. Expect quality modern British fare, a proper pint and eight cosy, rural-chic bedrooms. It's also a great base for exploring the honey-coloured cottages of the Cotswolds, with local itineraries highlighted on the pub's website. Book the Stay & Dine package for 20% off a two-night break, including breakfast and £75 per person to spend on the seasonal set menu. Use code KILLINGWORTH. Offer ends 4 December 2025.
See another side of the Isle of Wight
From ravishing beaches to epic cliff-hugging pathways, the Isle of Wight promises a summer escape with serious soul to spare. Sail across the Solent to swap your everyday grind for panoramic coastal hikes, artisan food and a rhythm that invites you to slow down and explore. Stroll the shores at Compton Bay, sample small-batch gins and creamy island cheeses or dive into history at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Queen Victoria's island pad, Osborne. With boutique hotels, seaside cottages and clifftop campsites to choose from, you can tailor your stay to suit your style. So, whether you're craving salty air, fresh flavours or family-friendly adventure, this little island delivers in spades.
Indulge in all-inclusive ease at a tropical paradise
Craving a sunshine escape that delivers on the daydream? With a trio of award-winning resorts across Cancún and Jamaica, Moon Palace serves up seamless, sunkissed luxury for every generation. Whether you're drifting between spa rituals and tranquil pools in Cancún or dining beachside in Ocho Rios, your every whim is catered for. Expect thoughtful extras — from family suites and world-class kids' clubs to wellness, golf and gourmet dining — all bundled into one transparent, upfront price. It's uncompromising high-spec comfort without the hassle. And with perks like 'Kids & Teens Stay Free' you can get up to 30% on early bookings, your dream holiday is nearer than you might think. Offer valid until 30 June 2025.
Let Scandinavia stir your soul
From long summer days to the glow of Arctic winter skies, Scandinavia always casts a spell. Great Rail Journeys brings this region to life through expertly curated tours that blend unforgettable experiences with seamless travel. Its 'Norway, Lofoten & Arctic Cruise' itinerary begins in Oslo and Bergen, before setting sail along Norway's majestic coastline, through fjords and fishing villages into the Arctic Circle. Prefer wintry magic? The 'Northern Lights Winter Arctic Cruise' pairs a journey on the Bergen Railway with aurora-hunting from ship and shore. Or opt for the 'Ultimate Norway, Sweden and the Arctic Circle' rail tour — a celebration of Scandi cities, landscapes and heritage. Book before 31 July 2025 to enjoy half-price cabin upgrades on 2026 bookings.
Make seamless travel plans with tech that keeps you in control
Flight delayed? Schedule changed? When travel plans shift on a dime, drvn exists to ensure your ground game stays sharp. Designed for travel managers, event planners and executive teams who demand flawless execution every time, this global platform coordinates private transportation at scale, with real-time ride tracking, custom integrations and white label booking tools tailored to your exact needs. Whether it's black car pickups for an international conference or discreet SUV arrivals for top-tier clients, drvn connects you to a vetted network of commercial chauffeurs worldwide. Every detail is managed, and every mile carefully accounted for. This isn't just black car service, it's large-scale ground transportation management.
When your soul craves stillness, snow and a sky full of stars, head for Jøkelfjord in Northern Norway. Isbreen The Glacier is an off-grid Arctic hideaway where five geodesic-domed igloos offer front-row views of Øksfjordjøkelen glacier and the fjord below. Inside, you'll find wood-burning stoves, private whirlpools and a sense of silence that's anything but empty. Meals feature local ingredients like reindeer and cloudberries, and days unfold between dog sledding, kayaking or whale swims. At night, if the conditions are right, the Northern Lights perform while you stay cosy in bed. The largest dome — a whopper at 1,500sq ft — turns remoteness into proper indulgence. Book now with code OFFER2025 to get your fourth night free (this year or next), a complimentary forest sauna experience and potential igloo upgrade, subject to availability. Cool!
Make family travel effortless with expert help and five-star childcare
Travelling with kids needn't be stressful. And with a little help from Scott Dunn's Explorers Kids' Clubs, it can be seamless — and surprisingly relaxing for parents, too. Available at five luxurious Mediterranean resorts, from Costa Navarino and Eagles Resort in Greece to Pine Cliffs in Portugal, each club offers a carefully curated blend of fun and learning for children aged four months to 11 years. Think nature walks, cookery classes, splash time and new friendships. Meanwhile, you'll have time for a proper lunch, a grown-up swim or even a spa treatment, knowing your precious little ones are in expert hands. From cots and car seats to restaurant bookings and Stargazers evening sessions, Scott Dunn handles every detail with style. It all begins with one call.
Raise a glass to Brussels' best beer experience and rooftop
Belgium's beer culture is world-renowned — and there's no better way to explore it than at the Belgian Beer World experience, an immersive journey housed in the historic La Bourse (the former stock exchange) building in central Brussels. Wander through centuries of fascinating heritage, discover the country's signature styles and finish the tour off with a well-earned tasting on the panoramic rooftop terrace. This special €34.50 (£29) ticket includes a tour followed by a tasting of three expertly selected Belgian beers — dark, blond and fruity — unlike the regular ticket, which only includes one tasting. You'll also be served artisanal cheese and the local spicy sausage. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just interested in getting a taste of the country's culture, this is an unmissable flavour tour with one of the city's best views thrown in. Come thirsty, leave cheerful.
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The Sun
11 hours ago
- The Sun
My family train journey in Europe that made me realise how awful British rail services are
WHEN I told my kids the train we were taking had a play area, they had to see it to believe it. We were on the platform at Central Station in Finland's capital city, Helsinki, ready for our two-hour journey to Turku to reach the seaside town of Naantali. 7 We had seats booked, but the carriage we couldn't wait to board was easy to spot as it displayed a picture of a large cartoon cat on the side. Climbing the small staircase up to the top deck, there it was - as enticing as it looked in the pictures, and as clean too. Plus, both the front and back entrances to the carriage were protected by gates that were easy to push and pull open, but sturdy enough to keep a toddler in. Play while you travel - screen-free At the end of the carriage, which had around 40 standard seats, the play area featured a slide with cubby area at the top, plus a bookshelf next to a cosy area with several low stools lined up by the window. There was also a brightly-painted wooden train structure, big enough for four or so kids to sit in and pretend they were driving. Before the train had even left, our boys, aged six and two, had been up and down the slide about 20 times, shrieking with delight each time. They had also already had multiple arguments about who would get to be the train driver. While my husband and I did remind them to be gentle, we didn't tell them off for being noisy or feel bad about the ruckus they were making, as surely, that was the whole point of having a play area on a train. A number of Finnish children joined them throughout the journey, happily taking turns across each area. I worried that when the train was at its fastest or bumpiest, the play area wouldn't be safe as the kids would be more inclined to fall and hit their heads, but the train was so smooth it wasn't an issue at all. Our seats were the closest to the play area, so we tried to take a leaf out of the book of the Finnish mum next to us, literally, as she was relaxing in her seat reading a book while her daughter occupied herself in the play area. The carriage remained about half full throughout the whole journey, including with passengers who didn't have kids, who opted to sit there. Cleanliness is king When our youngest, who is 2.5 and not yet potty trained (that's a whole other story), decided that a good time to do a poo would be at the beginning of the journey, I had a slight feeling of dread as neither of us had changed him on a moving train before. I quickly found the toilet downstairs, which, to my relief, was not just spacious and clean, but also featured a large, pull-down changing table above the toilet - plenty of room and plenty strong enough for my large toddler. 7 I also spotted a potty in the corner, should we (he) be inclined to use it. This was something we noticed frequently in public toilets across Finland, which is a much better alternative to finding a potty with a lid and dragging that across the country. There was also a shelf next to the sink with a bottle warmer. I've never seen a potty in a public toilet in the UK, as I can't imagine people would remember to clean it. I also noticed that at the wall next to each row of seats was a pile of detachable plastic bags for rubbish, rather than trying to stuff your trash in an overflowing bin at the end of the carriage like we have to in the UK. 7 They haven't forgotten food and relaxation either We found a fully-functioning cafe car in the next carriage over, where passengers were relaxing over a beer, or working on their laptops with a coffee. The menu included hot meals like meatballs and mash and salmon pasta, as well as kids meals like sausage and chips, or nuggets and chips. They also offered a Finnish meat pie, which is kind of like fried bread with a fragrant mince meat filling. On our return journey, we opted for a private family compartment as our journey was later in the day. I haven't seen anything like this on offer in the UK. The compartment, featuring four seats facing the window, plus luggage rack and coat hooks and mini play area at one end, was on the lower level of the carriage, meaning you had to go up the stairs to play in the play carriage. We let our older son go up and down as he pleased, but he soon got tired and came back to join us in our private compartment, where our toddler had already dozed off while sprawled out across his seat. While we were proud of our fully screen-free first journey, as we'd had a busy morning we were happy for our oldest to watch a show on the iPad. 7 As we were in a private compartment, he didn't have to use headphones or worry about the volume. The cafe car wasn't open on this train, but a trolley came round with sandwiches, muffins and drinks. My husband and I managed to have a short doze, too. We couldn't believe our first long train journey as a family had gone so smoothly, thanks to the Finnish train system thinking so clearly about kids. My husband and I joked that in the UK, a play area on a train carriage would quickly fill up with empty beer cans and be defaced by teenagers. Finnish trains offer great value Prices vary depending how far in advance you book and how many tickets have already been sold, but we also couldn't believe what amazing value our journeys were. Our first leg from Helsinki to Turku in the play carriage cost around €19.80 for both of us, and €6 for our six year old, with our toddler travelling free - a total of €25.80, or around £22. Our return journey didn't cost much more - two adult tickets were around €6 each, with our six-year-old's ticket being €3.60, plus a €14.70 surcharge for the private family compartment, so a total of €30.10, or around £25.50. 7 That's basically how much it costs me to commute on my own from our town into London, which is less than an hour's journey. The way the Finns accommodate families with children in their public services is truly inspiring and makes it really appealing as a family holiday destination. You can see why Finland is the happiest country in the world. Days can also last three months in Finland. Plus, the best holiday parks, hotels and pubs in England 2025 revealed – with soft play, safari lodges and floating pods. 7
The Independent
2 days ago
- The Independent
The best holidays to book right now
Whether you're yearning for warm sand, snowy escapism, off-grid adventures or simply somewhere to let the kids run wild, this list has you covered. Ace the family holiday with sun, sea and something for everyone Trying to plan a holiday with the kids that doesn't wear you out? Barut Hotels, situated across Turkiye, might just be the answer. Found in sunny spots like Antalya, Side and Didim, these family-friendly resorts are thoughtfully designed to balance grown-up relaxation with serious fun for children. Expect special entertainment programmes, hands-on workshops and professional animation teams to keep young guests happy — when they're not splashing in the pool or playing safely in the supervised playgrounds, that is. Meanwhile, adults can unwind in the spa, take a dip or enjoy sports and activities at their own pace. Dining is a delight, too, with fresh, locally sourced Mediterranean menus and plenty of child-friendly choices. From quality time to quiet moments, Barut Hotels helps you holiday as a family — and actually enjoy it. Make summer sparkle with a city break to Vienna Vienna always stands for pure elegance. But this summer, it's also adding a little fizz. The Sans Souci Wien, a design-forward boutique hotel in the heart of the city, invites you to rediscover the pleasures of urban travel with its Sparkling Moments package. Unwind in the 20-metre sports pool, browse the in-house art gallery or explore the boutiques and boulevards of Austria's stylish capital. The highlight? A private champagne tasting, curated to bring a touch of extra luxury to your stay. Whether you're escaping for a romantic weekend or celebrating something special, this is a city break with sparkle — tailored entirely to your own rhythm. Book now and let Vienna's charm (and bubbles) work their magic. On the sunkissed coastline of northwestern Crete, Atlantica Ocean Beach Resort is a laid-back haven where salt air and simple pleasures set the pace. Overlooking the calm blue of Maleme Beach, this family-friendly retreat pairs modern comforts with space to roam — think lush gardens, a sparkling water park and that endlessly inviting stretch of sand. Spend your mornings wandering along the shore, your afternoons by the pool and your evenings exploring the nearby towns of Platanias and Chania, both known for their timeless tavernas and charming local character. Whether you're travelling with friends or family, the rhythm here is relaxed, the views spectacular and the memories made to last. Dine like a statesman in the heart of the Cotswolds The Killingworth Castle is a handsome 17th-century inn with standout food credentials – 3 AA Rosettes, Michelin Guide recommended – and oodles of rustic character. Winston Churchill was once a regular here, not least because it's just a stone's throw from stately Blenheim Palace. Tucked into the Oxfordshire village of Wootton, it's recently been named one of Condé Nast Traveller's Best Cotswolds Restaurants for 2025. Expect quality modern British fare, a proper pint and eight cosy, rural-chic bedrooms. It's also a great base for exploring the honey-coloured cottages of the Cotswolds, with local itineraries highlighted on the pub's website. Book the Stay & Dine package for 20% off a two-night break, including breakfast and £75 per person to spend on the seasonal set menu. Use code KILLINGWORTH. Offer ends 4 December 2025. See another side of the Isle of Wight From ravishing beaches to epic cliff-hugging pathways, the Isle of Wight promises a summer escape with serious soul to spare. Sail across the Solent to swap your everyday grind for panoramic coastal hikes, artisan food and a rhythm that invites you to slow down and explore. Stroll the shores at Compton Bay, sample small-batch gins and creamy island cheeses or dive into history at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Queen Victoria's island pad, Osborne. With boutique hotels, seaside cottages and clifftop campsites to choose from, you can tailor your stay to suit your style. So, whether you're craving salty air, fresh flavours or family-friendly adventure, this little island delivers in spades. Indulge in all-inclusive ease at a tropical paradise Craving a sunshine escape that delivers on the daydream? With a trio of award-winning resorts across Cancún and Jamaica, Moon Palace serves up seamless, sunkissed luxury for every generation. Whether you're drifting between spa rituals and tranquil pools in Cancún or dining beachside in Ocho Rios, your every whim is catered for. Expect thoughtful extras — from family suites and world-class kids' clubs to wellness, golf and gourmet dining — all bundled into one transparent, upfront price. It's uncompromising high-spec comfort without the hassle. And with perks like 'Kids & Teens Stay Free' you can get up to 30% on early bookings, your dream holiday is nearer than you might think. Offer valid until 30 June 2025. Let Scandinavia stir your soul From long summer days to the glow of Arctic winter skies, Scandinavia always casts a spell. Great Rail Journeys brings this region to life through expertly curated tours that blend unforgettable experiences with seamless travel. Its 'Norway, Lofoten & Arctic Cruise' itinerary begins in Oslo and Bergen, before setting sail along Norway's majestic coastline, through fjords and fishing villages into the Arctic Circle. Prefer wintry magic? The 'Northern Lights Winter Arctic Cruise' pairs a journey on the Bergen Railway with aurora-hunting from ship and shore. Or opt for the 'Ultimate Norway, Sweden and the Arctic Circle' rail tour — a celebration of Scandi cities, landscapes and heritage. Book before 31 July 2025 to enjoy half-price cabin upgrades on 2026 bookings. Make seamless travel plans with tech that keeps you in control Flight delayed? Schedule changed? When travel plans shift on a dime, drvn exists to ensure your ground game stays sharp. Designed for travel managers, event planners and executive teams who demand flawless execution every time, this global platform coordinates private transportation at scale, with real-time ride tracking, custom integrations and white label booking tools tailored to your exact needs. Whether it's black car pickups for an international conference or discreet SUV arrivals for top-tier clients, drvn connects you to a vetted network of commercial chauffeurs worldwide. Every detail is managed, and every mile carefully accounted for. This isn't just black car service, it's large-scale ground transportation management. When your soul craves stillness, snow and a sky full of stars, head for Jøkelfjord in Northern Norway. Isbreen The Glacier is an off-grid Arctic hideaway where five geodesic-domed igloos offer front-row views of Øksfjordjøkelen glacier and the fjord below. Inside, you'll find wood-burning stoves, private whirlpools and a sense of silence that's anything but empty. Meals feature local ingredients like reindeer and cloudberries, and days unfold between dog sledding, kayaking or whale swims. At night, if the conditions are right, the Northern Lights perform while you stay cosy in bed. The largest dome — a whopper at 1,500sq ft — turns remoteness into proper indulgence. Book now with code OFFER2025 to get your fourth night free (this year or next), a complimentary forest sauna experience and potential igloo upgrade, subject to availability. Cool! Make family travel effortless with expert help and five-star childcare Travelling with kids needn't be stressful. And with a little help from Scott Dunn's Explorers Kids' Clubs, it can be seamless — and surprisingly relaxing for parents, too. Available at five luxurious Mediterranean resorts, from Costa Navarino and Eagles Resort in Greece to Pine Cliffs in Portugal, each club offers a carefully curated blend of fun and learning for children aged four months to 11 years. Think nature walks, cookery classes, splash time and new friendships. Meanwhile, you'll have time for a proper lunch, a grown-up swim or even a spa treatment, knowing your precious little ones are in expert hands. From cots and car seats to restaurant bookings and Stargazers evening sessions, Scott Dunn handles every detail with style. It all begins with one call. Raise a glass to Brussels' best beer experience and rooftop Belgium's beer culture is world-renowned — and there's no better way to explore it than at the Belgian Beer World experience, an immersive journey housed in the historic La Bourse (the former stock exchange) building in central Brussels. Wander through centuries of fascinating heritage, discover the country's signature styles and finish the tour off with a well-earned tasting on the panoramic rooftop terrace. This special €34.50 (£29) ticket includes a tour followed by a tasting of three expertly selected Belgian beers — dark, blond and fruity — unlike the regular ticket, which only includes one tasting. You'll also be served artisanal cheese and the local spicy sausage. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just interested in getting a taste of the country's culture, this is an unmissable flavour tour with one of the city's best views thrown in. Come thirsty, leave cheerful.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Daily Mail
Michelle Keegan flaunts her incredible figure in summer dresses just three months after welcoming daughter Palma as she enjoys Marbella holiday
Michelle Keegan put on a radiant display on Sunday, as she shared a slew of snaps modelling looks from her Very collection during her family holiday to Marbella. The actress, 38, is currently soaking up the sun with husband Mark Wright and their daughter Palma, three months, at the swanky £300-a-night SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort Hotel. And she gave her followers a glimpse into the lavish trip, while flaunting her sensational figure in a number of summer dresses. Michelle posed up a storm in a plunging brown dress, which flashed a peek of her cleavage and boasted gold seashell detailing. Gushing over the look, she wrote: 'One of my fave dresses from this collection, so simple but yet so effective. I'm obsessed with the gold shell detail.' From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. She also showed off her svelte waist in a strapless yellow crochet number, which she described as: 'The perfect dress for summer nights or a special occasion.' Michelle explained that the mint outfit was in fact a co-ord, telling followers: 'This colour is a WOW! And the asymmetrical hemline is really flattering. (It's a skirt and top so you have to buy separate ladies) Oh, and it's currently in the SALE!' The sun-soaked getaway is baby daughter Palma's first holiday abroad and Michelle marked the occasion with a holiday post on Thursday, revealing the little girl's sweet nickname. The former Coronation Street star captioned the post: 'Princess P's first family holiday'. The stunner, who celebrated her birthday earlier this week, looked sensational in a skimpy black bikini as she gazed adoringly at the little one while shielding from the sun beneath an umbrella. Michelle later slipped into a crochet dress while teasing a glimpse of her swimwear beneath. Beaming for the camera Michelle wore shades and a straw hat as she pushed Palma in her pram. Earlier in the week, doting parents Michelle and Mark were spotted out with their daughter in Marbella as they celebrated the actress' birthday. Michelle was cradling her little girl, three months, in her arms as they strolled along together - looking every inch the picture perfect family. The couple welcomed t heir first child together on March 6 and then announced the news on their respective Instagram pages a week later. Michelle looked lovely in a white lace co-ord from her Very collection, which included a white applique shirt and a pair of matching shorts. She boosted her frame with flip flop style heels and accessorised with gold hoop earrings, wearing her brunette hair in a low ponytail. Her daughter was wearing a sweet pale yellow two-piece. Meanwhile, former TOWIE star Mark was dressed in all black for their evening out, sporting a short-sleeved shirt with linen trousers. He completed the ensemble with black Birkenstock sandals and a chain necklace. The outing came as Michelle shared a rare sneak peek of her baby daughter, she uploaded an adorable black and white photo of Palma's feet, she wrote: 'Yep... my toes.' Michelle and Mark have been enjoying their time as parents and have been sharing small glimpses of Palma on their social media accounts. It's believed the couple chose the name Palma because of their strong links to Mallorca, which has been their go-to holiday destination for years and the setting for their pregnancy reveal photoshoot. Michelle married Mark in May 2015 and the couple live together in a £3.5 million Essex mansion they built from scratch. Chatting with his best friend and fellow dad Olly Murs on his Heart Breakfast show, TOWIE star Mark recalled the moment he first held his newborn daughter in his arms. Mark fought back emotions as he said: 'Mate, it's actually hard to put into words. 'It's the biggest achievement of my life it's all I think about but obviously, hats go off to my wife she is an absolute superhuman, a superhero for bringing this baby into the world.' Sharing his appreciation for Michelle, he added: 'It makes you realise what our mums did for us and makes me have so much more respect than I already had and what women had to go through. 'It's the best feeling in the world. I wake up every morning just so excited to see her face.' Recalling the first moment he held Palma, he continued: 'That moment when I held her in my arms, it gets me emotional now thinking about it.' Mark added: 'I suppose everything else goes out the window and its made me realise what life is all about and my little baby Palma I love you so much and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you. 'It's a very special feeling. I can't really put it into words. We've waited a little bit of time, we've chased our dreams and our careers and now we're here. We've got a baby.'
