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Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Travel influencers reveal most overrated Insta-famous holiday destinations & the dupes that could save you thousands
Bucket list destinations are often overcrowded, overpriced and overrated. Here, 10 travel experts pick their top prettier, cheaper swaps SUN, SEA & SWAPS Travel influencers reveal most overrated Insta-famous holiday destinations & the dupes that could save you thousands Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MILLIONS of Brits are inspired by social media when it comes to booking their next holiday - then left dismayed when they get there, and it doesn't look like what they saw on screen. To avoid disappointment, we've spoken to ten top travel influencers to find their least-favourite destinations and the underrated locations to head to instead. 27 Helen Wright from the blog, found a hidden spot in Florida Credit: Instagram 27 Chloe, aka The Holiday Mum, gets the beach to herself Credit: Instagram Travel writer, Helen Wright, from passportstampsuk says short and snappy video content online can show someone everything a destination has to offer in less than a minute. She told Sun Travel: "In less time than it takes to make a cup of tea, you might discover somewhere you have never heard of and get a look at the sights, food and feel of the place before the kettle has even boiled. "I was planning a short break to a Spanish city I'd visited before when I saw influencers Twin Perspectives post about Gdansk in Poland. "It looked relaxed, easy to navigate and with lots to see and do, so I ended up going there instead. "Not only did I get to experience somewhere I've never been before, it was half the price - flights to Gdansk on Ryanair start from £11 each way, so it's a real bargain." Influencers who travel the world full-time often stumble across less popular places, seeing how they compare to common holiday spots for Brits. The Sun asked a range of travel experts for their most overrated destination and the French capital Paris was the most unpopular destination, with many frequent travellers saying the same thing. "It doesn't live up to the hype," says travel blogger Cora Harrison. "It's expensive, dirty, often overcrowded and not easily walkable." So what overrated destinations do some of the top UK travel influencers think you should avoid this year? And where should you swap them for instead? Ryanair launches new flights to cheap holiday hotspot Miami for Panama City Beach, Florida 27 Panama City Beach is a beautiful spot on Florida's Gulf Coast, and much cheaper than Miami Credit: Instagram 27 The world-famous Ocean Drive in South Beach – a hotspot for tourists Credit: Alamy Helen told Sun Travel: "Miami is iconic, which is why it's a bucket list destination for a lot of people, but it's also very expensive and can be difficult to navigate. "Often, people, especially families, discover that there isn't actually that much to do in Miami Beach itself and after a few days, find it disappointing. "The beach is beautiful, but it doesn't have the laid-back Florida beach life that some coastal towns have. "Instead, go to Panama City Beach on the Gulf Coast. It's just as lively as Miami, but the beach bars here are laid back and family-friendly. "There are lots of sleek apartments along the seafront, perfect for families, that start from £90 a night. Compared to the hotels in South Beach, which are usually between £150-£250 per night, it's a real bargain. "The beach itself is stunning. It's one of the nicest I have seen in the USA, outside of Hawaii. "The water is pure blue and it's not uncommon to spot dolphins, manatees and turtles swimming off the shore. "It doesn't have the architecture and culture that Miami offers, but if you want lively nightlife and a white sand beach, Panama City Beach is perfect." Paris for Lyon 27 Travel bloggers said Paris was crowded and overpriced Credit: Alamy 27 They much preferred Lyon with a more relaxed and authentic vibe Credit: Alamy Cora Harrison, from told Sun Travel: "Paris might be known as the City of Love, but reality says otherwise. "It's crowded, overpriced, and honestly, a bit dirty, meaning any charm the city might have is quickly lost. "Instead, I suggest heading to Lyon, France's culinary capital. "It offers riverside strolls, cobbled old towns, and a more relaxed, authentic vibe. "During the same week in September, when 3-star hotels in Paris were £400, you could book an equivilent stay in the centre of Lyon for £250. "Plus, Lyon is well connected, with affordable direct flights from airports across the UK, making it an easy, budget-friendly swap." Mykonos for Kimolos, Greece 27 Mykonos has become a popular tourist destination - and crowded with holidaymakers Credit: Alamy 27 Jackie likes to visit less populated areas of Greece like Kimolos Credit: Instagram Jackie Rezk from said: "Did you know Greece doesn't have to break the bank? On average, the daily cost to visit touristy places like Mykonos can be over £180 a night. "Mykonos is expensive and so crowded that you lose all the beauty and charm it became famous for. "Instead, why not try Kimolos, which you can get to on the ferry from Athens? "You will find hardly any tourists there and it's absolutely stunning. "This hidden gem is also more affordable to visit, with an average daily spend of £80. "This small volcanic island has the same gorgeous white-washed buildings as Mykonos but with few crowds. "You will find stunning views of the sea, great food, and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. "It has easily become my favorite island in Greece." Santorini for Dorset 27 Emily says you don't have to leave the UK to get a Santorini-like experience - just head to Dorset Credit: Instagram 27 Santorini has famously become overcrowded with tourists and Instagrammers driving prices up Credit: Alamy Emily Luxton from told Sun Travel: "Santorini always looks perfect on Instagram, but for me, the reality on the ground is less inviting. "You dream of cute cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and sapphire seas. "Instead, you get elbow-to-elbow crowds and overpriced everything! "I do like Santorini and the volcanic rock beaches are impressive, but are usually too heaving to enjoy. "There are far nicer islands in Greece, in my opinion. "In fact, you don't even have to leave the UK to find pretty seaside villages, dramatic coves, and quality seafood. "Dorset has all of that and more, with no additional airport stress. "You can get a two-night stay on the Juarassic Coast, close to key areas like Durdle Door for under £200. In Santorini, you can expect to pay £300 or more. "If you don't mind a bit of a ramble, you can often find a remote beach all to yourself too." Ksmail for Dhermi, Albania 27 Influencer Abena loves to explore the quieter areas of Albania, like Dhermi Credit: Instagram 27 Ksamil in Albanian has been dubbed the 'Madives of Europe' - but travel bloggers say its overpriced and beaches are packed Credit: Alamy Abena Kusi from TravellingTuesdays told Sun Travel: "Ksamil in Albania is very overrated. "People often say this is a hidden gem that not many people know about, but in summer it's rammed. "The beaches are packed and sun loungers and parasols are wildly overpriced. "I've even heard people calling it the Maldives of Europe, but in reality it is a small village, overrun with construction and loud music. "Instead, choose to go further up the Albanian coast to places such as Dhermi or Himare, which are more authentic and less congested. "To be honest, even a simple trip to Corfu would be better and more beautiful than going to Ksami, in my opinion." Nice for Cassis, France 27 Nikita says Nice but it didn't leave a lasting impression Credit: Alamy 27 Instagrammer Nikita pictured in the less crowded town of Cassis, France Credit: Instagram Instagrammer Nikita Bathia told Sun Travel: Nice is… nice, but it didn't leave much of an impression. "The buildings are pastel, the coastline is pretty, and it looks good in photographs - but beyond that, it felt a bit flat. "The beaches aren't particularly comfortable, the old town is packed, and the energy leans more generic than charming. "It's easy to see why people go, but harder to feel connected to it. "I found myself wishing for somewhere slower, more authentic and less polished. "If, like me, you're after something with more character and less crowds, Èze or Cassis feel far more personal. "They are both beautiful with a stunning coastline and quietly a lot more memorable." Nassau, Bahamas for private island 27 Marcus says many people don't realise Disney has a private island in the Caribbbean Credit: Instagram 27 A seafood restaurant on the shore at Bimini in the Bahamas - a hidden gem with less tourists Credit: Alamy Marcus Adam from said: "Going to the Bahamas invokes a vision of azure waters, white sandy beaches, and a blissful island vibe. "But some ports end up a very different experience to what you might expect. "For me, Nassau, one of the Bahamas' main cruise ports, is over busy and overpriced. "Frequent cruisers I meet will often opt to stay on board to enjoy ship amenities instead. "You can go shopping and enjoy the local bars in the brand new port area, but if you prefer a more exclusive experience in the Bahamas, time is better spent at one of the cruise lines' private islands. "However, they are exclusive to the cruise line you sail with, so choose wisely and check the itinerary you book includes a stop there. "My favourites are Bimini with Virgin Voyages, Perfect Day CocoCay with Royal Caribbean, or Castaway Cay with Disney Cruise Line. "As the only ship in port, it feels like your own private island." Cornwall for Llyn Peninsula 27 Monica Stott is a big fan of the Llyn Peninsula Credit: Instagram 27 Abersoch, Llyn Peninsula, Gwynedd, Wales is beautifully undiscovered Credit: Alamy 27 Cornwall has become a hotspot for staycations in the UK Credit: Alamy Monica Stott from told Sun Travel: "I love Cornwall but unfortunately, so does everyone else looking for a staycation in the UK! "The crowds, the traffic, the lack of parking and the need to book restaurants so far in advance is a real hassle. Plus, the cost of decent accommodation that isn't a caravan is outrageous. "If you can even find somewhere near the beach in summer, expect to pay over £1,000 for the week. "I've started swapping Cornwall for Wales' Llyn Peninsula. You can book accomodation steps from the beach for less than £100 a night. Try Victoria Hotel, a lovely pub with rooms on the coast. "People often say the Llyn Peninsula is how Cornwall was 50 years ago. It's all golden beaches, pretty villages, white-washed cottages, weather-beaten pubs, dramatic cliffs and views for days. "The Llyn Peninsula is also blessed with a beautiful micro-climate and often tops the charts for the hottest days during the UK summer." Mirajima for Kyoto 27 Mirajima is a great place to experience Japan's serene landscape Credit: Instagram 27 Kyoto is a beautiful city to visit but tourists flock there throughout year Credit: Alamy Calum McSwiggan told Sun Travel: "While Kyoto is undoubtedly beautiful, over-tourism has made this popular hot spot almost impossible to enjoy, with huge crowds swarming over the whole city and cultural areas. "To really experience the peaceful serenity that Japan is famous for, I recommend travelling just that little bit further. "From the island of Mirajima, the mountains of Kusatsu, or the hot spring town of Shibu Onsen, the country has so much more to offer. "Get out there and explore, enjoy the scenery from the windows of the country's exceptional public rail network, and remember to put your phone away and enjoy the quiet moments in between." Dubai for Oman 27 Dubai is a popular destination for Brits, but Chloe Gunning finds it lacks character Credit: Instagram 27 Oman is naturally beautiful and more interesting than Dubai Credit: Instagram Chloe Gunning from told Sun Travel: "Dubai is famed for its luxury lifestyle and five-star hotels, but I find it artificial and lacking in character. "Warm temperatures are guaranteed throughout the year, but you'll spend most of your time sitting in traffic, or hopping from air-conditioned hotel to shopping mall, to overpriced restaurant. "For a more cultural and adventurous holiday, I'd recommend swapping the UAE for Oman. "This neighbouring country is home to rugged mountains, emerald-hued pools, vast deserts and incredible history. "Spend your days hiking through dramatic gorges, swimming in waterfalls and sleeping under the stars in desert yurts. "Oman has more soul, and you'll feel all the better once you experience it!" The Algarve for Comporta, Portugal 27 The Algarve, Portugal, is a holiday hotspot for Brits thanks to its guaranteed sunshine Credit: Alamy 27 Chloe says Comporta is just as pretty and a lot cheaper to visit Credit: Alamy Chloe from @theholidaymum told Sun Travel: "The Algarve has many strong points, not least the guaranteed sunshine and sandy beaches, but it's very commercial with a lot of concrete and high rise buildings spoiling the idyllic beach views. "I recommend making a swap to its chic older sister, Comporta. "The beaches in Comporta are paradise found: more expansive, quieter and cleaner than the Algarve and lined with effortlessly cool beach clubs. "The resort style hotels, such as Sublime Comporta and Quinta da Comporta, are design-led and stylish and there's a smattering of homestays in the area with the same design credentials. "The sunny peninsula is just under a two-hour drive from Lisbon but it's more affordable to you can stay longer to compensate for the drive." Cancun for Belize 27 Cancun has stunning beaches Credit: Alamy 27 But Belize also has many undiscovered beaches with less crowds Credit: Instagram Macca Sherifi from told Sun Travel: "Cancun is full of American college kids looking to party and it has zero Mexican culture. "Throw in all the high-rise all-inclusive hotels and over-developed beaches, and you've got yourself one of the most overrated tourist hotspots in the world. "My advice - head over the border to Caye Caulker in Belize. This place is a tropical paradise with a really fun Caribbean vibe and some of the bluest waters you'll ever see. "In fact, it is home to the Blue Hole, the giant sinkhole that is on every divers and snorkeller's bucket list. "Instead of paying £1,800 for the week in Cancun, get an apartment with beach views for only under the half the price. It may not be all-inclusive, but the local food is better and very affordable. It really is an amazing destination to visit and so undiscovered compared to somewhere like Cancun."
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Travel influencers reveal most overrated Insta-famous holiday destinations & the dupes that could save you thousands
MILLIONS of Brits are inspired by social media when it comes to booking their next holiday - then left dismayed when they get there, and it doesn't look like what they saw on screen. To avoid disappointment, we've spoken to ten top travel influencers to find their least-favourite destinations and the underrated locations to head to instead. 27 27 Travel writer, Helen Wright, from passportstampsuk says short and snappy video content online can show someone everything a destination has to offer in less than a minute. She told Sun Travel: "In less time than it takes to make a cup of tea, you might discover somewhere you have never heard of and get a look at the sights, food and feel of the place before the kettle has even boiled. "I was planning a short break to a Spanish city I'd visited before when I saw influencers Twin Perspectives post about Gdansk in Poland. "It looked relaxed, easy to navigate and with lots to see and do, so I ended up going there instead. "Not only did I get to experience somewhere I've never been before, it was half the price - flights to Gdansk on Ryanair start from £11 each way, so it's a real bargain." Influencers who travel the world full-time often stumble across less popular places, seeing how they compare to common holiday spots for Brits. The Sun asked a range of travel experts for their most overrated destination and the French capital Paris was the most unpopular destination, with many frequent travellers saying the same thing. "It doesn't live up to the hype," says travel blogger Cora Harrison. "It's expensive, dirty, often overcrowded and not easily walkable." So what overrated destinations do some of the top UK travel influencers think you should avoid this year? And where should you swap them for instead? Ryanair launches new flights to cheap holiday hotspot Miami for Panama City Beach, Florida 27 27 Helen told Sun Travel: " Miami is iconic, which is why it's a bucket list destination for a lot of people, but it's also very expensive and can be difficult to navigate. "Often, people, especially families, discover that there isn't actually that much to do in Miami Beach itself and after a few days, find it disappointing. "The beach is beautiful, but it doesn't have the laid-back Florida beach life that some coastal towns have. "Instead, go to Panama City Beach on the Gulf Coast. It's just as lively as Miami, but the beach bars here are laid back and family-friendly. "There are lots of sleek apartments along the seafront, perfect for families, that start from £90 a night. Compared to the hotels in South Beach, which are usually between £150-£250 per night, it's a real bargain. "The beach itself is stunning. It's one of the nicest I have seen in the USA, outside of Hawaii. "The water is pure blue and it's not uncommon to spot dolphins, manatees and turtles swimming off the shore. "It doesn't have the architecture and culture that Miami offers, but if you want lively nightlife and a white sand beach, Panama City Beach is perfect." Paris for Lyon 27 27 Cora Harrison, from told Sun Travel: " Paris might be known as the City of Love, but reality says otherwise. "It's crowded, overpriced, and honestly, a bit dirty, meaning any charm the city might have is quickly lost. "Instead, I suggest heading to Lyon, France's culinary capital. "It offers riverside strolls, cobbled old towns, and a more relaxed, authentic vibe. "During the same week in September, when 3-star hotels in Paris were £400, you could book an equivilent stay in the centre of Lyon for £250. "Plus, Lyon is well connected, with affordable direct flights from airports across the UK, making it an easy, budget-friendly swap." Mykonos for Kimolos, Greece 27 27 Jackie Rezk from said: "Did you know Greece doesn't have to break the bank? On average, the daily cost to visit touristy places like Mykonos can be over £180 a night. "Mykonos is expensive and so crowded that you lose all the beauty and charm it became famous for. "Instead, why not try Kimolos, which you can get to on the ferry from Athens? "You will find hardly any tourists there and it's absolutely stunning. "This hidden gem is also more affordable to visit, with an average daily spend of £80. "This small volcanic island has the same gorgeous white-washed buildings as Mykonos but with few crowds. "You will find stunning views of the sea, great food, and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. "It has easily become my favorite island in Greece." Santorini for Dorset 27 27 Emily Luxton from told Sun Travel: " Santorini always looks perfect on Instagram, but for me, the reality on the ground is less inviting. "You dream of cute cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and sapphire seas. "Instead, you get elbow-to-elbow crowds and overpriced everything! "I do like Santorini and the volcanic rock beaches are impressive, but are usually too heaving to enjoy. "There are far nicer islands in Greece, in my opinion. "In fact, you don't even have to leave the UK to find pretty seaside villages, dramatic coves, and quality seafood. " Dorset has all of that and more, with no additional airport stress. "You can get a two-night stay on the Juarassic Coast, close to key areas like Durdle Door for under £200. In Santorini, you can expect to pay £300 or more. "If you don't mind a bit of a ramble, you can often find a remote beach all to yourself too." Ksmail for Dhermi, Albania 27 Abena Kusi from TravellingTuesdays told Sun Travel: "Ksamil in Albania is very overrated. "People often say this is a hidden gem that not many people know about, but in summer it's rammed. "The beaches are packed and sun loungers and parasols are wildly overpriced. "I've even heard people calling it the Maldives of Europe, but in reality it is a small village, overrun with construction and loud music. "Instead, choose to go further up the Albanian coast to places such as Dhermi or Himare, which are more authentic and less congested. "To be honest, even a simple trip to Corfu would be better and more beautiful than going to Ksami, in my opinion." Nice for Cassis, France 27 27 Instagrammer Nikita Bathia told Sun Travel: Nice is… nice, but it didn't leave much of an impression. "The buildings are pastel, the coastline is pretty, and it looks good in photographs - but beyond that, it felt a bit flat. "The beaches aren't particularly comfortable, the old town is packed, and the energy leans more generic than charming. "It's easy to see why people go, but harder to feel connected to it. "I found myself wishing for somewhere slower, more authentic and less polished. "If, like me, you're after something with more character and less crowds, Èze or Cassis feel far more personal. "They are both beautiful with a stunning coastline and quietly a lot more memorable." Nassau, Bahamas for private island 27 27 Marcus Adam from said: "Going to the Bahamas invokes a vision of azure waters, white sandy beaches, and a blissful island vibe. "But some ports end up a very different experience to what you might expect. "For me, Nassau, one of the Bahamas' main cruise ports, is over busy and overpriced. " Frequent cruisers I meet will often opt to stay on board to enjoy ship amenities instead. "You can go shopping and enjoy the local bars in the brand new port area, but if you prefer a more exclusive experience in the Bahamas, time is better spent at one of the cruise lines' private islands. "However, they are exclusive to the cruise line you sail with, so choose wisely and check the itinerary you book includes a stop there. "My favourites are Bimini with Virgin Voyages, Perfect Day CocoCay with Royal Caribbean, or Castaway Cay with Disney Cruise Line. "As the only ship in port, it feels like your own private island." Cornwall for Llyn Peninsula 27 27 27 Monica Stott from told Sun Travel: "I love Cornwall but unfortunately, so does everyone else looking for a staycation in the UK! "The crowds, the traffic, the lack of parking and the need to book restaurants so far in advance is a real hassle. Plus, the cost of decent accommodation that isn't a caravan is outrageous. "If you can even find somewhere near the beach in summer, expect to pay over £1,000 for the week. "I've started swapping Cornwall for Wales' Llyn Peninsula. You can book accomodation steps from the beach for less than £100 a night. Try Victoria Hotel, a lovely pub with rooms on the coast. "People often say the Llyn Peninsula is how Cornwall was 50 years ago. It's all golden beaches, pretty villages, white-washed cottages, weather-beaten pubs, dramatic cliffs and views for days. "The Llyn Peninsula is also blessed with a beautiful micro-climate and often tops the charts for the hottest days during the UK summer." Mirajima for Kyoto 27 27 Calum McSwiggan told Sun Travel: "While Kyoto is undoubtedly beautiful, over-tourism has made this popular hot spot almost impossible to enjoy, with huge crowds swarming over the whole city and cultural areas. "To really experience the peaceful serenity that Japan is famous for, I recommend travelling just that little bit further. "From the island of Mirajima, the mountains of Kusatsu, or the hot spring town of Shibu Onsen, the country has so much more to offer. "Get out there and explore, enjoy the scenery from the windows of the country's exceptional public rail network, and remember to put your phone away and enjoy the quiet moments in between." Dubai for Oman 27 27 Chloe Gunning from told Sun Travel: " Dubai is famed for its luxury lifestyle and five-star hotels, but I find it artificial and lacking in character. "Warm temperatures are guaranteed throughout the year, but you'll spend most of your time sitting in traffic, or hopping from air-conditioned hotel to shopping mall, to overpriced restaurant. "For a more cultural and adventurous holiday, I'd recommend swapping the UAE for Oman. "This neighbouring country is home to rugged mountains, emerald-hued pools, vast deserts and incredible history. "Spend your days hiking through dramatic gorges, swimming in waterfalls and sleeping under the stars in desert yurts. " Oman has more soul, and you'll feel all the better once you experience it!" The Algarve for Comporta, Portugal 27 27 Chloe from @theholidaymum told Sun Travel: "The Algarve has many strong points, not least the guaranteed sunshine and sandy beaches, but it's very commercial with a lot of concrete and high rise buildings spoiling the idyllic beach views. "I recommend making a swap to its chic older sister, Comporta. "The beaches in Comporta are paradise found: more expansive, quieter and cleaner than the Algarve and lined with effortlessly cool beach clubs. "The resort style hotels, such as Sublime Comporta and Quinta da Comporta, are design-led and stylish and there's a smattering of homestays in the area with the same design credentials. "The sunny peninsula is just under a two-hour drive from Lisbon but it's more affordable to you can stay longer to compensate for the drive." Cancun for Belize 27 27 Macca Sherifi from told Sun Travel: "Cancun is full of American college kids looking to party and it has zero Mexican culture. "Throw in all the high-rise all-inclusive hotels and over-developed beaches, and you've got yourself one of the most overrated tourist hotspots in the world. "My advice - head over the border to Caye Caulker in Belize. This place is a tropical paradise with a really fun Caribbean vibe and some of the bluest waters you'll ever see. "In fact, it is home to the Blue Hole, the giant sinkhole that is on every divers and snorkeller's bucket list. "Instead of paying £1,800 for the week in Cancun, get an apartment with beach views for only under the half the price. It may not be all-inclusive, but the local food is better and very affordable. It really is an amazing destination to visit and so undiscovered compared to somewhere like Cancun."
Business Mayor
02-05-2025
- Business Mayor
I've been to Disney 50 times but one £30-a-night UK seaside town is as great for family holidays
IF you didn't grow up sat behind a gingham windbreaker with a bag of chips and a stone in your jelly shoe, you didn't spend your childhood at the great British seaside. Some of my fondest childhood memories were sat on the beach, with my mum and dad and my Nanny Eva. 7 I've been to Walt Disney World in Florida over 50 times – but a budget break in the UK is equally as good Credit: Helen Wright 7 The sunny weather, the rides and characters, as well as the food and experiences makes Walt Disney World a great family holiday Credit: Helen Wright 7 But my fondest childhood memories were sat on the beach, with my mum and dad and my Nanny Eva at the British seaside Credit: Helen Wright Our pale limbs turning pink in the sun as we tried to hoover up a Mr Whippy 99 flake before it melted down our arms. Now, I have a family of my own and holidays are less simple and a lot more expensive. As a Disney fan, I have been to Walt Disney World in Florida over 50 times. We love the sunny weather , the rides and characters, as well as the food and experiences in the USA. However, it's a world away from my holiday memories of getting the train from London to Blackpool, usually in the October school holidays so we could see the Blackpool Illuminations. When I was growing up in the 1980s, we didn't have the money to go on holidays abroad. I was eight when my family flew on a plane for the first time. Read More 'A lesson like no other': readers' favourite learning holidays By comparison, my children are already travel veterans, navigating the airport like seasoned pros and thinking nothing of boarding a nine-hour flight to the sunshine state. However, making sure my kids have less flashy, more realistic holiday memories is important to me as someone who grew up in a working-class family. In my opinion , Blackpool in Lancashire is the perfect British beach destination and it seems like coachloads of beach-loving Brits agree. The colourful city by the sea often tops the list of best beach destinations in the UK, as well as recently being dubbed the 'friendliest' in a poll by train company, LNER. Seaside theme park gets reimagined ride Blackpool attracted 6.8 million visitors to its famous Victorian promenade in July last year, with the number of holiday-makers growing every year since tourist destinations reopened after Covid. Despite the cost-of-living crisis, beach-loving Brits know Blackpool will be a budget-friendly break for families. As well as golden sandy beaches, a wide variety of attractions and lots of seasonal events, Blackpool is known for its huge number of independently-owned Bed and Breakfasts. Here, guests will get a friendly welcome, a proper English brekkie and can be walking distance to the sights for an affordable price. B&Bs in Blackpool range from between £30 and £85 per night on average, which compared to a trip to Florida, is a fraction of the cost. Mickey Mouse may be busy Stateside, but Blackpool has plenty of characters – locals aside! 7 Blackpool in Lancashire is the perfect British beach destination and it seems like coachloads of beach-loving Brits agree Credit: Alamy 7 The UK seaside town has golden sandy beaches, a wide variety of attractions and lots of seasonal events Credit: Getty 7 Making sure my kids have less flashy, more realistic holiday memories is important to me Credit: Helen Wright 7 Here, guests will get a friendly welcome, a proper English brekkie and can be walking distance to the sights for an affordable price Credit: Helen Wright The new Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse on the promenade is a hit with young families and those who want the adrenalin of white-knuckle thrill rides can head to the Pleasure Beach Resort – starting, of course, with The Big One, which is so tall it can be seen for miles along the seafront. Read More Manchester's £1-a-night tourist tax comes into force Nearby Blackpool Zoo is also a draw for families, with a new Big Cat enclosure opening last year. For me, it doesn't get better than a trip up to the top of the Blackpool Tower for perfect views along the coast and big dollop of nostalgia. There was no spine-tingling glass floor Skywalk when I was a kid, but just the ride up in the steel lift takes me back to being six years old, holding hands with my nan as we stepped out onto a platform 120ft in the sky . Below ground, the famous Blackpool Circus is still delighting guests and everyone wants a glimpse of the beautiful Tower Ballroom, with its sprung floor and vintage Wurlitzer organ. If you're lucky, you might catch a performance while you are there, taking you back in time to the 1930s. Blackpool has history and that's why its popularity has lasted through the generations. As I walk along the beach this time, I spot a group of pre-teens in Jelly shoes. Apparently, the iconic footwear is back in fashion again, much like Blackpool itself. Timeless.
BBC News
16-02-2025
- General
- BBC News
Lincoln Cathedral sleep-out to raise money for homeless
Businesses, families and individuals have been encouraged to take part in a charity sleep-out at Lincoln Sleep Easy will aim to raise awareness and funds for homeless people across will camp out in sleeping bags and cardboard shelters on the Dean's Green from 19:00 GMT on 7 March until 07:00 the following organiser YMCA Lincolnshire said the experience would give people the chance to "experience a small fraction of what homeless individuals face on a nightly basis". Helen Wright, director of housing at the charity, said: "One of the things that always stands out for me is that we get to go home after it and have a warm bath or shower."What we need to remember is that for those actually rough sleeping, this isn't a possibility and they have to do this night after night."YMCA Lincolnshire said all funds raised through the event would support services aimed at preventing homelessness, including emergency accommodation, outreach programs, and essential life to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.
