Latest news with #Staycation
The Sun
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
I won the lottery and whisked my family away on a last-minute holiday – people are surprised by the destination
A LOTTO winner has defender her holiday destination after people cried "why are you not in the Maldives?". Olivia Love, of Glasgow, scooped £10,000-a-month for a year alongside hubby Kevin last month. 2 2 The 36-year-old's been able to quit her job at a local supermarket, and hire a cleaner and gardener. Thanks to her massive tax-free win, she's also made the first steps in building her dream career as a wedding content creator. Since going public with her win, Olivia has been speaking out about the life-changing cash in more detail on TikTok. And she hilariously wiped away fake tears with £20 notes in response to cruel comments from trolls. Recently, she documented her family's "first holiday as lottery winners" to North Wales with their four kids and Kevin's parents. The down-to-earth brood hired a nine-seater car for the four-and-a-half hour journey and stopped off at a service station for a McDonald's to "fuel themselves up". They hired a stunning four-bedroom 17th century farmhouse for the week and spent just £2,202.06 in total including car rental, food, and accommodation. And Olivia has defended her decision to staycation in the UK instead of splashing the cash on a long-haul flight to an exotic destination. While enjoying the sunshine in her Welsh garden, she said: "To everyone that said 'why aren't you going to like the Maldives? You've won the lottery'. It's like 32 degrees and I'm in North Wales. Who needs the Maldives when you have this? "We're in a beautiful old farmhouse. It's just so stunning. "[I] just wanted to take a minute to just appreciate where the hell I am. "It's just wild, it's just so beautiful and warm. I didn't need to leave the country for this." Her holiday clips quickly racked up 11,000 views with social media users rushing to praise her holiday destination. One said: "It's probably hotter there than Spain or Greece, enjoy it." A second wrote: "Looks lovely! Hope you had amazing break." Meanwhile, a third added: "We go North Wales every year!! So so so much to do." We told earlier how a simple email from the National Lottery team at 12.33am on May 16 changed everything for Olivia. Before this, the mum-of-four was earning just £800-a-month working in a supermarket's customer service kiosk. She was on Universal Credits to subsidise her eye-watering £1,800-a-month childcare costs and "dreaded" her council tax bill coming through. She said: "My husband and I claimed Universal Credit because we needed help with the cost of childcare. "Now, obviously, because I've won £10,000 a month for a year, I'm no longer entitled to that which, you know, quite right." Olivia and Kevin won the second-tier prize on The National Lottery's Set For Life on May 15 after matching five main numbers. The winning numbers in the draw were: 03, 27, 42, 45, 46, plus Life Ball 06. 'Set For Life' offers a top prize of £10K a month for 30 years when the five main numbers and the Life Ball are matched. Players can also win £10K a month for a whole year by matching the five main numbers.
Al Bawaba
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Al Bawaba
QE2 Summer Specials Escape, Dine & Discover
This summer, enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences aboard one of Dubai's most iconic destinations, the Queen Elizabeth 2. Permanently docked but forever storied, the QE2 offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern comforts. From relaxing Sea-View Getaways or Staycations and Royal Afternoon Teas to hearty Sunday Roasts and immersive Heritage Tours, every experience aboard the QE2 is crafted to create lasting memories. Whether you are planning a serene weekend escape or treating someone special, let the QE2 set the stage for your most memorable GetawayImmerse yourself in a unique sea-view getaway or staycation aboard the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2, Dubai's only floating hotel. Enjoy a stay that blends tranquil sea views, rich maritime heritage, and a host of thoughtful benefits, all wrapped in modern comfort and timeless includes:• Complimentary upgrade to a sea-view room• Buffet breakfast at Lido restaurant• Complimentary shuttle bus to Dubai Mall & Metro• 20% discount on F&B except Afternoon Tea• Terms & Conditions ApplyQE2 Sunday Roast at Queens GrillStep aboard the historic Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel and experience a timeless tradition with a sumptuous Sunday Roast Lunch in the iconic Queens Grill. From succulent roasts to delicious classic side dishes, savour every bite in a setting that echoes the grandeur of a bygone era.• From only AED 115 per roast• Every Sunday at the Queens Grill | 12.30pm to 3.30pm• Book your table now – because Sundays deserve the royal Your Tea Time with the QE2 Royal Afternoon TeaStep into a world of elegance with the QE2 Royal Afternoon Tea at the Queen's Grill. This historic venue, once the domain of the ship's most distinguished guests, now offers a refined tea experience that brings a touch of British tradition to Dubai. Choose from two exquisite afternoon tea selections: the Cunard, featuring a delightful array of cold bites and pastries, or the Britannia, which adds a warm twist with a selection of hot canapés. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available upon request. (Guests must inform the QE2 team when booking). Available Fridays and Saturdays between 3:00 pm – 6:30 pm (Last seating at 5:00 pm). Cunard Package: AED 165 per person / AED 110 per child (8 – 12 years old) Britannia Package: AED 195 per person / AED 135 per child (8 – 12 years old) Dress Code: Smart CasualGuests must be above 8 years old to enjoy the Afternoon note that a 24-hour advance booking is our prices are in AED inclusive of 5% VAT, 7% municipality fee and 10% service FavouritesNo visit to the Queen Elizabeth 2 would be complete without experiencing the classic British pub fare at the Golden Lion. Whether you're in the mood for crispy fish and chips or a hearty burger, the Golden Lion offers a comforting taste of home. Golden Hour: Enjoy a 50% discount on selected beverages from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm (excludes key events). Teachers enjoy 20% discount on food and beverages at the Golden Lion – daily from 8:00pm to 12:00am. Teacher's ID card must be presented to avail the valid for a maximum of 4 accompanying guests.*Not available during key events and the Art of Giving with QE2 Gift VouchersThe best gifts aren't things - they are moments. No matter what the occasion go beyond the ordinary and gift something truly special - unforgettable experiences aboard the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2. Whether it is a cherished moment with family, a heartfelt surprise for a friend, or a thoughtful gesture for colleagues, let your loved ones know you care with QE2 From dining in the classic elegance of the Lido Restaurant or indulging in the QE2 Sunday Roast or a QE2 Royal Afternoon Tea at the celebrated Queens Grill to guided tours and a one-of-a-kind stay aboard the historic liner, the options are as unique as the QE2 itself.
Daily Mail
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Beloved historical cinema in UK staycation hotspot announces epic comeback after previously closing due to 'lack of footfall'
A popular historical cinema in a favourite staycation hotspot has announced an epic comeback after previously closing due to a 'lack of footfall'. The Royalty Cinema in Bowness-on-Windermere in the Lake District shut its doors last August from a lack of footfall. The business was 'losing too much money', and its owners, Westmorland and Furness Council, said it was looking for a new leaseholder at the time. However, the venue will now be reopening next month, with a special evening of music, film and celebration. It will start with a short film, which will outline the place's history along with revealing some of its new features, according to local paper The Mail. Guests will be treated to performances such as a Beatles tribute band. Some of the new features the venue will have include a new bar area, a music mixing zone and an accessible toilet in the main auditorium. A new flexible seating arrangement has been implemented in the main screen area, enabling cabaret-style events with tables and chairs. Additionally, a new private hire venue called The Studio is being launched, providing a more intimate atmosphere for events and accommodating up to 50 guests. A designated ice cream sales area also officially opened on Saturday and is set to operate throughout the season. In a post, the venue said: 'We hope previous customers will be returning and spreading the good news. 'More news to follow with further details of the new owners as well of more details of the revamp of the building. You will be able to see work has already commenced as seen by current activities. 'While carrying out works in the old hairdressers, we made an interesting discovery. Details to follow, it will make a lovely memory for someone. 'We look forward to seeing you all in the near future. Please tell your friends of this exciting news, thank you, see you soon.' As previously reported, a beloved department store that abruptly shut its doors earlier this year is set to make a comeback following an extensive refurbishment — a win for traditional British high street shopping. Jolly's, the iconic Bath department store, stunned locals in December when it suddenly announced its closure, leaving 100 staff members — some with decades of service — facing an uncertain future. Now, just a month after the shutters came down, the store, formerly run by Mike Ashley's Frasers Group, is set to be revived, with a new retailer stepping in to take the reins. Morleys, a London-based department store group, confirmed today that it will be taking over the site, which is owned by the local council. The store's general manager has been retained for the two-stage refurbishment, which will see most of the store closed off while it is restored to its 'former glory', Morleys said. The chain, which has eight stores in London, one of which closes next month, says it is committed to making the traditional shop an 'anchor store' for Bath's fashionable Milson Street once more. Allan Winstanley, chief executive of Morleys, promised the Jolly's name would be kept, as would the traditional department store model. It operates several London department stores, including Elys Wimbledon, Morleys Brixton, Pearsons of Enfield and Selbys in Holloway.
Fashion Network
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Fashion Network
Doja Cat fronts Marc Jacobs' pre-fall 2025 campaign
has tapped multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning artist Doja Cat to front the brand's new pre-fall 2025 campaign. Dubbed "Staycation", the campaign debuts its latest Dual bag collection, and features an exclusive first preview of Doja Cat's yet to be released song, "Jealous Type'. Shot by Stef Mitchell, styled by Sydney Rose Thomas, and directed by Christian Breslauer, the campaign captures the spirit of summer through a dreamlike city Staycation, where a construction site becomes the perfect place to catch some sun, and a bus stop doubles as a spa. At the heart of the campaign is the new Dual Bag, first seen on the Marc Jacobs runway, which combines understated luxury and everyday practicality. Complementary styles, including the Snapshot Pochette, Large Denim Chain Sack, and Glam Claw Clip Shoulder Bag, round out the accessories lineup, and are paired with Marc Jacobs' pre-fall 2025 ready-to-wear and footwear. "Being on vacation isn't about where you go," said Doja Cat. "It's about how you show up—whether you're just enjoying the city or soaking up the sun at the beach. This Marc Jacobs campaign is about living life and serving looks. It couldn't be a more perfect stage to preview my new music, where retro glam meets a little soul.' Marc Jacobs' pre-fall 2025 collection is available now at Marc Jacobs boutiques worldwide, online, and at select luxury retailers.
