Latest news with #Tourists
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Scarborough named fish and chip capital in the UK
By Fish and chips is undoubtedly considered one of the UK's most iconic culinary traditions, with tourists flocking from all corners of the world to sample the classic combo. As thousands head to the coast over the summer, and for many, no trip will be complete without a generous portion of battered, flaky cod and golden chunky chips drenched in salt and tangy vinegar. Fish and chip shops are estimated to serve a staggering 380 million meals across the nation each year - but which seaside town tops the list as the UK's fish and chip capital? A study has unveiled 20 of the leading locations by analysing the number of fish and chip shops in each local authority area and using those figures to calculate the number of establishments per 100,000 residents. Ranking as the UK's fish and chip capital is Scarborough, with a whopping 85.35 chippies per 100,000 residents - the equivalent of one chip shop for nearly every 1,200 residents. This traditional seaside town has long drawn visitors with its picturesque harbour, sandy beaches and, with the fresh North Sea catch on its doorstep, an endless supply of tasty fish and chip offerings. East Lindsey follows in second place with 62.26 fish and chip establishments per 100,000 people - akin to roughly one chippy for every one or two miles of its sprawling 70km coastline, which is home to bustling seaside towns like Skegness. The popular seaside resort of Blackpool unsurprisingly ranks third, with 59.59 chip shops per 100,000 residents. Known for its iconic tower, picturesque pier and striking illuminations , its traditional seaside fare, such as rock candy and fish and chips, only further shapes its identity as one of the most quintessential British resorts. Hastings, renowned for its historical significance and being home to the oldest beach-based fishing fleet, ranks a close fourth, with 59.37 fish and chip shops per 100,000 residents. The town's rich maritime heritage and local fishing industry is to thank for the extensive number of chippies offering fresh and locally caught fish. In fifth place is Great Yarmouth, which is home to 57.92 fish and chip shops per 100,000 people. The town was once the centre of the global herring trade, and with fish locally sourced straight from the quay, its love for seafood runs deep, which can only spell good news to the 5 million hungry tourists visiting each year. Ranking sixth is Gwynedd, Wales' first entry on the list, with 57.23 chip shops per 100,000 residents, while Lancashire's Rossendale is the first non-coastal spot featured in the top ten in seventh place, with 47.99 chippies per 100,000 people. Markku Kanerva, a spokesperson for Suomikasinot, who conducted the survey, said: 'Fish and chip shops continue to be a cornerstone of community life throughout the UK, from Scarborough's historic coastline to Blackpool's busy promenade. 'However, this rich heritage is under threat, with almost half of UK chippies at risk of closing by the end of 2025. 'We're seeing traditional chip shops facing unprecedented challenges. With 62 per cent of these businesses being family-run, each closure represents not just an economic loss, but the end of skills and traditions passed down through generations.'
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
UK's fish and chip shop capital revealed - is it YOUR city?
Fish and chips is undoubtedly considered one of the UK's most iconic culinary traditions, with tourists flocking from all corners of the world to sample the classic combo. As thousands head to the coast over the summer, and for many, no trip will be complete without a generous portion of battered, flaky cod and golden chunky chips drenched in salt and tangy vinegar. Fish and chip shops are estimated to serve a staggering 380 million meals across the nation each year - but which seaside town tops the list as the UK's fish and chip capital? A study has unveiled 20 of the leading locations by anaylsing the number of fish and chip shops in each local authority area and using those figures to calculate the number of establishments per 100,000 residents. Ranking as the UK's fish and chip capital is Scarborough, with a whopping 85.35 chippies per 100,000 residents - the equivalent of one chip shop for nearly every 1,200 residents. This traditional seaside town has long drawn visitors with its picturesque harbour, sandy beaches and, with the fresh North Sea catch on its doorstep, an endless supply of tasty fish and chip offerings. East Lindsey follows in second place with 62.26 fish and chip establishments per 100,000 people - akin to roughly one chippy for every one or two miles of its sprawling 70km coastline, which is home to bustling seaside towns like Skegness. The popular seaside resort of Blackpool unsurprisingly ranks third, with 59.59 chip shops per 100,000 residents. Known for its iconic tower, picturesque pier and striking illuminations, its traditional seaside fare, such as rock candy and fish and chips, only further shapes its identity as one of the most quintessential British resorts. Hastings, renowned for its historical significance and being home to the oldest beach-based fishing fleet, ranks a close fourth, with 59.37 fish and chip shops per 100,000 residents. The town's rich maritime heritage and local fishing industry is to thank for the extensive number of chippies offering fresh and locally caught fish. In fifth place is Great Yarmouth, which is home to 57.92 fish and chip shops per 100,000 people. The town was once the centre of the global herring trade, and with fish locally sourced straight from the quay, its love for seafood runs deep, which can only spell good news to the 5 million hungry tourists visiting each year. Ranking sixth is Gwynedd, Wales' first entry on the list, with 57.23 chip shops per 100,000 residents, while Lancashire's Rossendale is the first non-coastal spot featured in the top ten in seventh place, with 47.99 chippies per 100,000 people. Markku Kanerva, a spokesperson for Suomikasinot, who conducted the survey, said: 'Fish and chip shops continue to be a cornerstone of community life throughout the UK, from Scarborough's historic coastline to Blackpool's busy promenade. 'However, this rich heritage is under threat, with almost half of UK chippies at risk of closing by the end of 2025. Hastings, renowned for its historical significance and being home to the oldest beach-based fishing fleet, ranks a close fourth with 59.37 fish and chip shops per 100,000 residents 'We're seeing traditional chip shops facing unprecedented challenges. With 62 per cent of these businesses being family-run, each closure represents not just an economic loss, but the end of skills and traditions passed down through generations.' She added: ' The average price of fish and chips is now reaching £15 or more in some areas and so affordability has become a major issue for many consumers. 'Energy costs and food inflation have put significant pressure on shop owners, with potato prices particularly affected by poor harvests.
Condé Nast Traveler
4 days ago
- Condé Nast Traveler
How Europeans Feel About American Tourists Right Now
When you picture an American tourist in Europe, a certain cliché is bound to spring to mind. Perhaps you envision a loud, bumbling traveler in a large tour group, who doesn't attempt to adhere to cultural customs or speak the local language, and who is impatient at tourist attractions and restaurants. But do these stereotypes actually have any truth to them? Or are they outdated tropes that don't represent the majority of US travelers? A new study is shedding light on the matter. To get to the bottom of how Europeans really see American travelers, Upgraded Points surveyed more than 2,200 people across 22 European countries on their general view of US tourists. The travel credit card advice site also asked Europeans whether recent political events impacted their opinions. For comparison, they also surveyed 1,000 American travelers on their views of the typical US tourist. How Europeans really see American tourists On the whole, Americans actually had a much harsher view of themselves as tourists than the European respondents did. 'Americans often assume the worst about how they come off, while Europeans see a more balanced, though definitely still loud, picture,' the study said. Indeed, the one matter on which both groups agreed was that American travelers can be loud: 70% of Europeans said loudness was a typical trait of US tourists, while 69% of Americans agreed.
Condé Nast Traveler
4 days ago
- Condé Nast Traveler
15 Things to Know Before Visiting Bali
When planning your trip to Bali, keep in mind that many shops, restaurants, and businesses may close on sacred days, according to the Hindu calendar. Polina Kuzovkova/Unsplash Know the sacred days Hindu tradition has deep roots in Bali, and the island hosts numerous religious ceremonies and festivals throughout the year. On these sacred days, many shops, restaurants, and businesses may close, so it's wise to consider this when planning your trip. Even if you're not observing the rituals yourself, visitors are expected to respect local customs and adjust their activities accordingly. While ceremonies are often vibrant and open to observation, visitors should be respectful: Ask permission before taking photos, dress modestly, especially when entering temples, and avoid blocking processions or interrupting rituals. The most significant of these events is Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, which will next be observed from March 19 to March 20, 2026. During this 24-hour period, the entire island comes to a complete standstill—airports close, roads are empty, and even internet and broadcast services go offline. Everyone, including tourists, must stay indoors or within resort grounds, keep lights dimmed and curtains drawn at night, and avoid making loud noise. Go beyond Canggu There's so much more to Bali than Canggu and Ubud—or even the well-trodden paths of Seminyak, Uluwatu, and Nusa Dua. Venture beyond these tourist hotspots and you'll find areas that offer just as much, if not more, in nature and cultural richness without the crowds. Pererenan is Bali's up-and-coming spot, offering laid-back beaches and a food scene that might just be redefining island dining. On the eastern coast, Manggis is ideal for those seeking solace, where big-name brands like Amankila and Alila overlook the Lombok Strait. Further northeast, Amed is known for diving, snorkeling, and volcanic black sand beaches, while Munduk in the highlands is blessed with cool mountain climate, waterfalls, and scenic treks. Just off the mainland, the Nusa Islands—Ceningan, Lembongan, and Penida—offer a different kind of beachside escape with dramatic coastlines and a slower pace that feels worlds away from Bali's bustle. Beware Bali belly For those that haven't heard of 'Bali Belly,' or those who haven't experienced it, consider yourself lucky. Bali Belly is quite real and a common nickname for traveler's diarrhea, often caused by consuming contaminated food or water leading to gastrointestinal distress. It typically resolves in a few days with rest and hydration. You can avoid it by sticking to bottled or boiled water and saying no to iced drinks (unless you can confirm that that ice was made from purified water). Many clinics also provide mobile IV drip services straight to your hotel or villa. There's so much more to Bali than Canggu and Ubud. Travelers would do well to explore the island beyond the usual tourist hot spots. Alexa West/Unsplash Temples, national parks, and some beaches sometimes have official dual pricing, which means tourists do occasionally pay more than locals. Fabio Verhorstert/Unsplash Tourists pay more than locals Tourists typically pay more than locals at many attractions on the island. Temples, national parks, and some beaches sometimes have official dual pricing, with foreigners typically paying higher entrance fees than Indonesian citizens. For example, locals might pay IDR 10,000 (0.60¢ USD) while tourists are charged IDR 50,000 ($3 USD) or more. In informal settings like markets, taxis, or tours, prices can also be higher for tourists unless negotiated. Don't feed the animals Stray dogs and cats are a frequent sight across Bali and wild monkeys freely roam jungle areas and temple grounds. While they may seem harmless, it's best to observe from a distance and avoid them. Bali monkeys are known to pickpocket tourists, so keep your phones, glasses, hats, and snacks in your bag.
The Independent
5 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
These Gulf countries will be easier to travel to with new Schengen-style visa
A new Schengen-style visa for travelling around six Gulf nations is set to be launched this year, making it easier for tourists to explore the countries. The GCC Grand Tours Visa, also known as the GCC Unified Visa, will allow non-Gulf nationals to visit one or all six Gulf nations under one visa. This is similar to the Schengen Area, which allows people to travel freely between certain European countries without the need for strict border checks. The visa was approved in 2023 by the Gulf Cooperation Council, an alliance between Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to allow travellers to flow between the six countries and to promote tourism across the region. The UAE is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Gulf due to its ultra-modern cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with glitzy skyscrapers sitting on the sandy coastline. The country, like many other Gulf nations, also attracts thousands of expats, lured by hot weather, luxury lifestyle and financial benefits. It is estimated that some 30 million of foreign nationals live across the region. Visa-free travel is already available to citizens of these countries, but the new visa will benefit foreign nationals. To be eligible, the purpose of a trip must be tourism, a short-term stay, or seeing family and friends – not employment. While the validity period has not been finalised, it is expected to offer a duration from 30 to 90 days. The visa is anticipated to be launched this year, although an exact date has yet to be confirmed. The aim GCC states that the aim of the visa is to boost tourism and increase spending within the region, which will in turn create jobs. Once launched, the visa will be available to apply for online, with the council saying the unified visa will be more cost-effective than the current visas. The price of the visa has yet to be outlined. To apply, a visitor will need to provide their passport, and may need to supply additional documents such as proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, insurance, proof of financial means and their return or onward ticket.
