Latest news with #JoanneLynn
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Underrated EU island welcoming Brits where tourism backlash doesn't exist
Deterred by escalating anti-tourist sentiment in Spain? Don't worry, this beautiful EU island offers equally stunning beaches, history and architecture - all without the threat of angry protestors Avoid the angry protestors on this stunning European island just over three hours from the UK. For decades, sun-worshipping Brits have been flocking to sunny Spain - partying in the hectic regions of Magaluf and Benidorm, or chilling out in the more laid-back coastal gems stretching across the Costa del Sol. Lured in by golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, cheap booze and stunning history, the country has watched its tourism rapidly boom. Last year, Spain and its slew of insatiably popular islands, witnessed a record-breaking 94 million international visitors - a 10 per cent spike from the year before. However, the influx sparked backlash amongst locals, who argue the skyrocketing demand for short-term holiday lets has priced them out of the property market. 2024 witnessed a string of protests erupt across the country, with banner-holding residents demanding Brits 'go home' and never return. This anti-tourist rhetoric has spiralled in recent years, with fresh vows of demonstrations to take place during the insufferably busy summer. If you've been put off by the clashing protests, Joanne Lynn, a European travel expert over at Riviera Travel, recommends visiting Malta instead. Situated in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the North African coast - Malta may only span some 122 square miles, but it certainly packs a powerful punch. Here, you'll find a UNESCO city dripping in history, ancient ruins, stunning architecture and pristine beaches. Highlights include the 'Blue Grotto' - a network of six sea caves that has been branded the perfect dupe of Italy's Amalfi Coast - and the Saluting Battery ceremony in the capital, where a restored canon is fired Monday through Sunday twice a day. Speaking exclusively with the Mirror, Joanne explained how the country has 'largely avoided' this kind of tension thanks to the island's more 'measured approach to tourism and strong emphasis on maintaining local culture'. "While the island can certainly get busy, particularly around popular beach areas during peak season, it has not experienced the same degree of backlash or protest seen in places like Barcelona," she said. "Crucially, Malta hasn't faced the same pressures on housing markets or local infrastructure, which has helped preserve a generally positive relationship between residents and visitors." Last year, Malta welcomed 3.6 million tourists - almost 20 per cent more compared to 2023. But despite its growing popularity, Joanne says travellers can still enjoy a 'fulfilling experience without the added concern of tourism-related unrest'. "Overall, Malta's combination of high-quality restaurants, museums, historical tourist attractions and quiet towns makes it a great choice for anyone looking to avoid demonstrations across Europe, while still being able to experience a wonderful summer trip abroad," she added. Of course, this is not to say that everyone on the islands loves the sudden influx of Brits. Certain areas, such as Comino - a small island of the Maltese archipelago, have become super crowded in the busy summer months. Back in 2022, a local group named Movimenti Graffiti stripped the area of its deckchairs and sun beds to make it clear that Comino should be protected 'not plundered'. You can fly directly to Malta from most major UK airports, including Glasgow, Belfast, Liverpool, and London Stansted, with flights taking an average of three hours and 15 minutes. If you're flexible with dates, you can grab return fares for as little as £50 in June. Accommodation on the island is equally affordable, with a slew of no-thrill hotels, hostels, and apartments available. For example, a week's stay (Monday, June 9-16) at The Rose Hostel in St Julian's will set you back £349. This is based on two adults staying in a seven-bed mixed dorm. However, if you want a more luxurious trip - check out Grand Hotel Excelsior. Located in Valetta, this stunning resort boasts a large outdoor and indoor pool, a private beach, spa, and three restaurants. You can splurge out on the Superior Deluxe Double Room with a sea view for £1,659 on the exact same dates.
Daily Mail
13-05-2025
- Daily Mail
The best walkable destinations in Europe revealed - as gorgeous Italian coastline bags the top spot
Skip the car rental hire and put your best foot forward on a holiday in one of these walkable destinations. Joanne Lynn, head of European Product at Riviera Travel, has revealed the best destinations on the continent for a walking holiday. From a dreamy UNESCO Italian hotspot to an iconic canal city, find out which of Europe's cities are the easiest to discover on foot. Amalfi Coast, Italy One of Italy 's prettiest holiday destinations, the Amalfi Coast is also one of Europe's most walkable holiday hotspots, according to Riviera Travel. Joanne says: 'Situated between the Gulf of Naples and Salento, the Amalfi Coast offers stunning views of Italian landscapes and the Mediterranean Sea, providing an exceptional backdrop for a breathtaking walking holiday.' A UNESCO heritage site, the Amalfi Coast is world-renowned and loved for its lemon trees and colourful clifftop villages. And the beautiful holiday destination is set to get easier to reach with BA launching new flights to Salerno later this May. Amsterdam, Netherlands It might be best known for cycling but Amsterdam is also a fantastic destination to explore on two feet. Joanne explains that the Dutch capital has a combination of 'walkable streets' and 'pedestrian-only zones'. She adds: 'The canals dotted throughout the city only add to the scenic nature, providing some great views while travellers stroll around this bustling location.' Many of the city's top attractions including the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and Vondelpark are within a half an hour walk of each other. Dubrovnik, Croatia The historic city of Dubrovnik is an ideal option for a walking holiday, according to Joanne. She says: 'The city's Old Town is car-free, with its cobbled streets only accessible by foot. Additionally with the city located on the coast, travellers can enjoy some amazing views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding Dalmatian islands.' Walking Dubrovnik's historic walls is one of the city's highlights but tourists will need to buy a ticket to do so. However, the city's main attractions are all within an easy walk of each other which means tourists can save on the cost of car hire. Florence, Italy The Italian city's 'flat and compact' centre means it's 'easily accessible for exploration on foot' Florence is a popular honeymoon destination but it's also a great choice for holidaymakers who like to walk. Joanne says: 'Often considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a city everyone should visit at least once during their lifetime. 'Located in the region of Tuscany, Florence is a wonderful city, home to well-known landmarks including Ponte Vecchio, Campanile di Giotto and Uffizi Gallery.' The Italian city's 'flat and compact' centre means it's 'easily accessible for exploration on foot'. Krakow, Poland Krakow, Poland's second-largest city, is another fantastic destination for holidaymakers who like to walk. 'The Polish city is relatively compact and easy to navigate on foot, with pedestrian-only zones in place in the city's Old Town,' reveals Joanne. She adds: 'Furthermore, there's plenty of history and medieval architecture to discover, making it a great place to explore while boosting fitness.' Tourists can walk from Rynek Glowny, the city's main square, to Wawel Royal Castle in just 15 minutes.
