Latest news with #adventure
The Sun
3 hours ago
- The Sun
I've found an incredible cheap UK holiday park that brings the best bits of Center Parcs, Butlin's and Haven to ONE site
IF you want the style of Center Parcs, the buzz of Butlin's and the hype of Haven, I've found one holiday park that has it all and it won;t cost a fortune. When one child loves spending hours in the pool, another enjoys a boogie on the dance floor and the third wants to swing through the trees on the high ropes, it's hard to know which holiday park is best for your family break - but I've got you covered. 7 7 My family and I recently took a trip to Haven's Hafan y Mor park near Pwllheli in North Wales. We loved it so much I had booked to return next summer before we'd even made it home. The park is set on a little slice of the British coastline that's like stepping back in time to the holidays of your childhood. The site's staycation secret is that it used to be a Butlin's before being turned into a Haven 25 years ago. So it's still got all the best bits of Butlin's - from the flumes and slides of the Splashaway Bay adventure pool to the top-notch venue full of shows. I even did a double take when I saw the stripy blue tops of the entertainment crew, instead of the Redcoats of Butlin's from days gone by. Now one of the largest Haven parks, there's a stunning choice of outdoor activities you'd usually see at an upscale Center Parc resort. It's the first Haven I've been to where the high ropes take you through the trees, just like at Center Parcs. The Dragon Lakes Adventure Park even sees thrill-seekers zipping over the waters where fellow guests can take to pedalos. The adrenaline-charged activities also include The Jump - a terrifying free-fall leap onto a huge inflatable cushion - as well as climbing wall, mini 4x4 off-roaders and even Segways. There's all sorts of accommodation at Hafan y Mor, including Center-Parcs-style pine lodges surrounded by trees. The perfect Haven holiday park for a kid-friendly break - with direct beach access, indoor waterpark and neighbouring seaside theme park 7 7 There are even old-fashioned chalet blocks from back in the Butlin's days and mod-con caravans you'll see at all Haven resorts, so you can pick whatever works for you and your budget. It's not often that my three boys all get their own bedroom when we go away on holiday, but our recently refurbished four-bed chalet was huge. I loved the village vibe of everyone hanging out on their decking or balcony, so reminiscent of childhood holidays when the kids played together on the grass by your block. I even spotted one family stringing up a badminton net. The chalet accommodation is also one of the cheapest options - we paid less than £300 for our June weekend away and it's only £275 for four nights in the summer holidays next year, which is incredible value for money if you're bringing eight people. We were just a stone's throw from Dragon Lakes Activity Village, which also offers up sports courts, a sandpit playground and even a bark park for furry family members. Like Center Parcs, most of the activities aren't included in the price of your break, and you'll need to factor that in, but the cost is far less at Haven. We paid £12 for Aquajets in the pool, £8 for the mini 4x4 off roaders and £7 for a go on the bungee trampoline. 7 7 Aquajets at Center Parcs would set you back £18.50 to £22.50, while children's 4x4 off-road explorers are £24, so there's a hefty saving to be made here. And you could easily just stick to the freebie fun if you prefer. The pool was enough to keep everyone busy for hours and although you pre-book an entry time, there wasn't anyone asking us to leave at the end of our hour time slot on the weekend we were there. The free shows and entertainment were great - my littlest loved the Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime and won a prize for his enthusiastic dancing at the kids' disco. And no seaside staycation would be complete without a stroll to see the sandy shore, although you might need to venture a bit further afield if you want to find a beach to play on. This is quite a spread-out site with a railway track splitting it in two, but there's a land train that takes you on a turn around the park if your little ones are worn out with all the activities and don't fancy walking. This tucked-away spot is surrounded by dramatic mountains, picturesque beaches and unassuming tourist towns that only add to the magic of a trip here. It's like going back in time to the heyday of the great British staycation. Catching sight of Criccieth Castle overlooking the beach was a welcome signal that we had almost arrived after our long drive. It's a bit of a trek to get there, but the direct train from Birmingham takes less than five hours, around the same time as travelling by train from London to Cornwall. And Penychain station is on the edge of the park within walking distance of its entrance. This haven by the sea could well become our new holiday hotspot as it ticks all the boxes for my boys. Here's more about the Haven holiday from someone who visits every year - and has discovered secret areas that guests don't know about. Plus, the beachfront Haven holiday park reveals plans for huge new adventure attraction and Wetherspoons pub. 7
The Sun
5 hours ago
- The Sun
I quit the UK to live with 6 people on ‘sacred' island 11k miles away – it's saved me £1,000s but there's a big drawback
A BRITISH woman has revealed that she ditched life in the UK to move to a remote island 11,000 miles away. Catrin, 22, has an extreme passion for travelling, and can often be seen jetting off to exciting locations such as Sri Lanka and Morocco. 3 3 In 2023, the seasoned explorer left her home in Wales, and decided to move to Motutapu, a small island off the coast of Auckland, New Zealand, which has a population of just six people. Motutapu, meaning "sacred" in Māori, boasts incredible scenery and is a haven for native birds, but it can only be accessed by ferry from Auckland. Catrin shared the pros and cons of living in such a remote location via a blog post on her website Catrin Explores. Peaceful surroundings If a peaceful life is what you're after, a remote island might be perfect, as the adventurer revealed that there is no "hustle and bustle" on Motutapu. Catrin, who lived on the island for nine months, working in an outdoor recreation centre, explained that there is plenty of time to think and relax, with the sound of tweeting birds the only noise likely to wake you up in the morning. Stargazing Due to its incredibly remote location, Motutapu has little light pollution, meaning that at night the sky is lit up with thousands of glittering stars. "If you love your stargazing and astrology, then working in a remote location would be super cool!", Catrin said. Scenery Motutapu is packed with gorgeous sandy beaches, and offers incredible views of Auckland in the distance. Catrin boasted that the island also offers panoramic views of nearby islands, rolling hills and even a volcano. Safety Even as a seasoned traveller, Catrin said that as a young female, she often fears for her safety when abroad. However, she revealed that in Motutapu , she felt the "safest", she's ever felt. "Not once have I stressed about going out after dark, about leaving the doors open, about being paranoid that somethings going to happen. "Just one less thing that's on my mind when going to sleep", she said. Money saving Motutapu has no bars, pubs or shops, which may sound boring to some. How easy is it to move abroad? Brexit means British citizens now have to apply for visas to move to countries within the EU. While some countries residency restrictions are easier than others, here's what you need to do at home before moving: Notify HMRC about your upcoming move. Let your local authority know and provide a forwarding address. Contact your mortgage and utility providers and bank before leaving. If you have paid enough UK national insurance contributions, you can qualify for a state pension abroad - contact the International Pension Centre. You can sign up to the Royal Mail's redirection service. If you have outstanding student loans, contact the Student Loans Centre. If you have children, give due notice to childcares and schools. However, Catrin explained that it helped her to save thousands for her next trip. Difficulty getting food As there are no shops or restaurants on the island, Catrin admitted that it can be tricky to access food. Each time she needed to head to the shops, she had to wait for a ferry to the mainland, meaning she had to plan well to make sure she isn't left without. Nothing to do With no nightlife, and only five other people to hang out with, life on the island can get boring. "You have to do with nature and entertaining yourself", Catrin said. Lack of freedom Finally, Catrin said that the hardest part about living on the island, was the inability to nip to the shops or head out for dinner whenever she pleased. "You start to become stir crazy, being stuck in the same location, with the same scenery, and the same people", she revealed.
Times
9 hours ago
- Times
10 ways to extend that summer holiday feeling
From staying in a converted post office to giving luggage a first-class upgrade – travel inspiration to feed your wanderlust There's something transformative about travel, no matter which season you choose to embark in. If you've still got the travel bug after returning from a summer sojourn or are already an all-year round voyager, here are some fantastic recommendations. Read on to be inspired by the timeless glamour of Miami Beach, the raw natural drama of Central Asia or the stillness of a European river at sunset. Elsewhere, new technology like Airalo's eSim makes staying connected across borders effortless, while luxury luggage from Moncrief ensures you'll travel with elegance. Whether unwinding at a villa under Corfu's sunny skies or boarding a steam train in Sussex, these experiences are worthy of even the most seasoned adventurer. Be it wild, refined or somewhere in between, the world is your oyster. Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. These Central Asian nations – known as the Three Stans – were once vital stops along the ancient Silk Road. Today they offer breathtaking views, from the soaring Tian Shan mountains to the vast Kazakh Steppe and the intricate Islamic architecture of Samarkand and Bukhara. Join one of Steppes Travel's group tours, dedicated to unlocking the Three Stans. Running from August 23 to September 6, the 15-day Central Asia Tour will take in the deep history, culture and sweeping landscapes of all three countries. Your guide for the trip will be Central Asia expert Diana Driscoll, who provides insight about the sites of both ancient and modern history, many of which are Unesco recognised. Whether you're overnighting in a traditional yurt on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, exploring bustling bazaars or wandering centuries-old caravanserais, this immersive journey promises both discovery and perspective. Places are £3,950 per person (excluding international flights) with a single supplement of £595. Stitch your story into the Silk Road. Find out more at and speak to a Steppes Travel expert to reserve your place Travel should provide an opportunity to relax and unwind, but from the minute you touch down and connect your phone to a mobile provider or public wi-fi, stress levels can hit the roof. Am I likely to be stung by huge roaming fees? Will I be hacked via an insecure wi-fi service? Do I have to queue for a new local Sim card at every destination? eSims from Airalo remove all this stress, offering a way to connect to a mobile network without needing to buy a physical Sim card. As the world's first eSim travel app, Airalo gives travellers instant access to mobile data, calls and texts in more than 200 destinations worldwide. Ideal for digital nomads, family holidays and business travellers, Airalo lets you download an eSim in minutes and then top up anytime via its app. Connecting users to local mobile networks around the globe, it takes away the need to buy and swap countless local Sims on arrival, offering fast and safe connectivity whether you're working on a beach or at the top of a mountain. Find out more at and use code TIMES15 for 15 per cent off your first eSIM Known the world over for its sun, sea and sand, Florida's coastal resort city of Miami Beach should be on your radar if you want to step into a world of timeless glamour and vibrant design. With exclusive hotel offers at properties such as Hotel Victor South Beach and Faena Miami Beach, visitors can take time to explore the area's bold architecture and lose themselves in luxurious experiences and curated fashion moments. From ocean-front dining at the former Versace mansion to art-infused afternoons at Faena Bazaar, every detail here is a tribute to creativity and culture. And the chic vibes continue at design-driven destinations like The Standard and the stylishly reimagined Monterrey Bar, where wellness and retro-modern aesthetics meet. Shop the latest runway-inspired collections at The Webster and discover hidden gems at Sunset Harbour and Lincoln Road mall. Don't miss the new 100 Years of Art Deco exhibition too – celebrating the design movement that put Miami Beach on the global style map. Visit to find out more and check out @experiencemiamibeach on Instagram for stylish stay inspiration. Download the EXP Miami Beach Tours app to start planning a getaway The island of Corfu, located off the northwest coast of Greece, is a haven of sun-drenched beaches, Venetian charm and olive grove-covered hills. It's the perfect holiday setting and Prestige Villas is more than equipped to provide a dream base for your next Greek adventure. A trusted family-run business and a proud member of ABTA, Prestige Villas provides peace of mind from booking to arrival, as well as a 24/7 concierge service as standard. Across more than 100 villas in Nissaki, Kassiopi and beyond, you can take your pick of stays from a luxury waterfront with private moorings to a mountain retreat. Whether you seek a family experience, a car-free holiday or just pure indulgence, Prestige Villas has it all. Indulge in fresh Mediterranean cuisine, explore quaint seaside villages and unwind in elegant resorts. From centuries of rich history to crystal-clear waters just waiting for you to dive in, Corfu offers a joyful blend of relaxation and adventure for every traveller. Visit or call 0845 594 2980* Summer adventures definitely warrant a few sparkling moments along the way and Bottega Gold is the pinnacle of all things fresh, crisp and bubbly. Distilled from Glera grapes native to hilly terrain in the province of Treviso that's optimal for growing, Bottega Gold Prosecco DOC Brut has links to four centuries of wine-making in that region, balanced with a very modern care for sustainability. Presented in its distinctive gleaming gold bottle, Bottega Gold reveals a fruity and floral bouquet that carries hints of apple, pear, citrus fruit and white flowers. Its versatility is its strength, whether it's paired with food, offered as an aperitif or served as the first drink at a pool party. It's a quintessential summer drink, yet one that is informed by a year-long passion for choosing just the right grapes, all harvested from manually tended vines as part of an artisanal process. Appreciated the world over, Bottega Gold is the perfect taste sensation for the seasoned traveller, bringing a very special corner of Italy straight to you. Shop now at Everyone likes to feel secure and confident on their travels – and this extends to your choice of insurance. Gigasure is an insurance provider with a handy app that travels with you, ready to use if you need it and tucked away when you don't. Through a series of different products including Travel Insurance for Single Trips, Annual Multi-Trips, Backpacker's Insurance, Car Hire Excess for Single Trips and Annual Multi-Trips, coverage is quick and easy to take out. Gigasure is always here to help – the 24/7 Gigasure Assist is available for medical emergencies, while the customer care team can be easily reached through the Gigasure app for any other issues, including flight or baggage delays. Travel insurance policies can be tailored to suit your needs and budget, but the flexibility doesn't stop there. You can quickly upgrade your policy while travelling, to add insurance for spontaneous plans like adventure sports, golf or cruises. Whether you ' re planning ahead or making last-minute decisions, Gigasure makes it simple to stay covered. It just takes a few simple steps to travel in total confidence. Visit or download the Gigasure app today to get a quote and secure your travel insurance in just a few taps Inspiration is a special exhibition train touring Britain as part of the Railway 200 celebrations – marking two centuries since the Stockton and Darlington Railway's first journey. Launched from London Paddington in late June, Inspiration features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Where better to enjoy Inspiration on its tour than at Bluebell Railway in Sussex? This 11-mile heritage line in West Sussex is an icon of great British rail travel. Inspiration will be stopping at Bluebell's Horsted Keynes station from July 23 to August 2 as part of its tour. There is a Kids for a Quid offer with every accompanying fare-paying adult and the museum's All Day Rover ticket lets you board as many times as you wish, and includes access to the railway's own museum and other attractions. And then, of course, there's the actual Bluebell Railway line itself. The first preserved, standard gauge steam-operated railway in the world to become available for public enjoyment, a trip on board is a must. Visit for more information. Get 10 per cent off advance full-fare adult All Day Rover tickets using the voucher code CHECKLIST25 Code may be applied online to purchases up to and including Sunday November 2, 2025. Does not apply to special events. Standard third-class travel only Moncrief is known for its range of luxury and hand-crafted briefcases, wallets and bags, including its luggage collection – perfect when you want to add a little timeless elegance to your next flight. Inspired by an ancestral legacy tracing back to the Pictish warriors of ancient Britain, Moncrief blends nomadic spirit with modern sophistication. Each piece – handcrafted using the finest leather – is a testament to artisanal mastery. Skins are meticulously stripped and burnished 13 times, resulting in rich textures such as crocodile-embossed, deerskin, buffalo-effect and iguana finishes. Signature creations include the exquisite Alethea Emerald Bag (£2,200), ideal for weekend escapes, alongside refined staples such as the men's wallet (£475), briefcase (£2,995), weekend bag (£4,450) and the luxurious trolley case (£7,495) – all featuring secure stitching and stain-resistant linings. Moncrief offers bespoke customisation, exclusive colour palettes and unmatched durability, setting a high standard in luxury luggage that's designed for the modern traveller. Go to to explore the full collection or visit Moncrief ' s London store at 7 Heath Street, NW3 6TP Located in the heart of the beautiful city of Ghent in Belgium, 1898 The Post is a charming boutique hotel, based in a neo-gothic landmark – a huge former post office. Recognised by the Michelin Guide, it charms guests with romantic 'Harry Potter-like' interiors – think turret views, sloped ceilings and antique details. As you would expect, the experience of staying here is just as grand as the setting. Indulge in a fireside breakfast and enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at The Kitchen. When you have returned from exploring Ghent's charming corners, relax with one of the award-winning cocktails at the hotel's bar, The Cobbler by Jurgen Nobels. Each of the 38 uniquely themed rooms – boasting names such as Stamp or Postcard – pays tribute to the building's previous life. With personalised service and a storybook atmosphere, this is more than a stay – it's a timeless experience in a building that really has to be seen to be believed. Visit and use promo code POST10% to receive 10 per cent off your stay A quality cruise offers the chance to glide along taking in stunning landscapes, explore cultural gems, savour regional cuisine and relax in refined comfort. It's no wonder this method of travel has seen a significant surge in interest over the last few years. Riverside Luxury Cruises is an expert operator offering meticulously designed itineraries for those wishing to explore the Danube, Rhine, Rhône and beyond. Its cruises come with spacious and comfortable suites and a guest-to-crew ratio that promotes personalised attention for all travellers. Impeccable service, gourmet cuisine and all-inclusive indulgence are standard on board, while the array of charming medieval towns to disembark at – plus exclusive shore excursions – allows passengers to enjoy the rich history and culture of destinations along the way. Book within a limited time and enjoy more exclusive offers, including best-in-market pricing and enhanced on-board experiences. Explore its itineraries and start your journey today at This is a commercial article paid for by our advertising partners If you've enjoyed reading this article and are interested in more inspiration in everything from food and drink to luxury living, motoring, health and wellbeing, why not follow Checklist on Facebook, X and Instagram @ChecklistSocial, or sign up to the newsletter? Checklist provides the best free online competitions too – discover amazing new services and products when you visit the website today.
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Families invited to enjoy summer of play on Brownsea Island
FAMILIES are invited to have a fun summer experience with their kids participating in play events at Brownsea Island. Brownsea Island is offering an 'unforgettable season of fun', 'discovery' and 'adventure'. The National Trust has organised Summer of Play events programme offering a packed calendar of activities designed to 'spark imagination' and 'connect children with nature'. The island's annual summer of play activity trail will be open daily from July 24 to August 30. This year's trail features crayon rubbing, animal-themed games, and ends at the popular natural play area. Dawn Clark, Visitor Experience Officer, said: 'We're so happy to welcome families back for a series of free Summer of Play events this year. 'Brownsea is a place for adventure where imaginations can run wild, and this year it is all about giving children the freedom to explore, create, and connect with the outdoors. He added: "Whether it's building dens, discovering wildlife, or just enjoying a picnic with a view, there's something here for everyone." Mondays are described as 'minibeast days' where children will have opportunity to get close with nature while discovering the world of bugs. Families can head out on a bug hunt then sculpt a clay minibeast to take home. Tuesdays in August will explore the ancient Japanese art of Hapa Zome. Families will have the chance to create botanical prints by hammering leaves and flowers onto fabric, revealing the hidden dyes of nature and crafting a unique keepsake to take home. From July 30 to August 27, On Wednesdays, families can drop in between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm to try their hand at potion making, wild weaving, and crafting natural musical instruments and kites with Dorset Rewilding. During Fridays and Saturdays, families can attend free bushcraft taster sessions led by local expert Joe Peartree who brings a knowledge and a passion for the wild, ensuring each session is both educational and enjoyable. This session will start from July 25 throughout August. All Summer of Play activities on Brownsea Island are free to enjoy, though standard ferry and admission charges still apply. Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank and supported by Sport England.
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Yahoo
I've visited 10 Caribbean islands since April — these are the places I'd go back to again and again
From floating beach bars to secret coves and tight-knit island communities, these Caribbean experiences are calling me back. It started in April. A string of flights, ferries, and barefoot landings. In just a few months, I've touched down on 10 Caribbean islands. Some were new to me. Others were places I thought I knew, until I saw them differently this time. But out of the many piña coladas, passport stamps, and powder-soft beaches, there are a handful of places that grabbed hold of me. This isn't a list of the best resorts of the most Instagrammed beaches. These are the places that felt different — that sparked joy, curiosity, and something a little more meaningful. If you're planning your. Next Caribbean trip and looking for something beyond the brochure, here are the places I'd go back to in a heartbeat. 1. The Floating Dock at Balaou — St. Martin Let's start with one of the coolest experiences I've had all year: Balaou, a floating bar and restaurant just offshore in Grand Case. You call the restaurant, they send a dinghy to pick you up, and suddenly you're sipping a cold beer on a floating couch, surrounded by turquoise water and the hazy silhouette of St. Martin's green hills. There's no elegant way to walk out ot your seat without wobbling, but that's part of the experience. Between the sunset views, the cheeky bartenders, and the fact that you're bobbing on a floating bar, Balaou is an experience you can't duplicate. 2. The Wild Cliffs of Middle Caicos — Turks and Caicos Everyone raves about Grace Bay, and it's beautiful, don't get me wrong, but nothing prepared me for Mudjin Harbour on Middle Caicos. The cliffs, the crashing waves, and the tiny cay that looks like a dragon sleeping in the sea. I hadn't done much research before arriving, which made stumbling onto Dragon Cay Resort and its windswept trails feel even more surprising. There's even a stone staircase that leads down to a hidden cave beach. The whole experience is raw, rugged, and so unlike the curated side of the Turks and Caicos most people know. 3. The Tight-Knit Vibes of Saba Saba doesn't have a beach. What it does have is a ton of personality. This five-square-mile volcanic peak rising out of the sea is one of the most unique islands in the Caribbean. The roads are wild — switchbacks and cliff drops that make your palms sweat. But it's the on-island experiences that will be the reasons you come back. In just a few days, I met the island's only glass jeweler, hiked the Mt. Scenery trail through cloud forest, and attended back-to-back happy hours with locals. If you're into diving, hiking, or just love the idea of an island that feels like a tiny town, Saba is for you. 4. Elvis' Beach Bar — Anguilla I spent only an afternoon at Elvis' Beach Bar in Anguilla, but it was reason enough for me to find a way back to the island. The sand between my toes, the rum punch in hand, the faint sounds of soca in the background, and the slow glow over Sandy Ground. The bar is made from a converted boat, the walls strewn with rusty license plates, knick-knacks, and other lost-and-found items that add to the bar's cobbled-together vibe. It feels like the definition of island time. Anguilla has its five-star side, but this is the side I fell in love with. 5. Cane Bay and the North Shore — St. Croix St. Croix surprised me. Maybe it was the rotisserie chicken at La Reina, or the homemade mamajuana at Spratnet Beach bar, or the drive along the North Shore, with its horses, rum shacks, and wide-open views. But it's Cane Bay that keeps calling me back. The beach here is low-key, with great snorkeling and diving just offshore. I had a local brew at The Landing, a shot of mamajuana with strangers, and conversations with everyone that gave me a different view of this lesser-visited U.S. Virgin Island. 6. Ti Kaye Resort — St. Lucia There's no shortage of luxury in St. Lucia, but Ti Kaye Resort does something special. Perched on a cliff above a private bay, this adults-only hideaway is romantic, but also grounding. The cottages are tucked into the jungle, each with an outdoor shower and hammocks on the private porches. The beach is reached via a cliffside funicular, a comprehensive wine cellar offers weekly tastings, and the resort prioritizes its commitment to its staff by providing subsidized medical care and education funding. 7. Starfish Alley — South Caicos South Caicos only has two resorts, but that's not why I went. I was there for the back roads, the empty beaches, and a quiet little stretch of water the locals call Starfish Alley. The water is clear as glass, and the sandbanks are paved with actual starfish, which you'll see just by wading out knee-deep. There's no official signage. It's just one of those places someone tells you about after you've had a couple rum punches and proven yourself curious enough to deserve the tip. The Caribbean is not one-size-fits-all, and that's exactly why I am so eager to keep visiting. Each island has its own story to tell. While I've been lucky enough to visit 10 islands since April, it's these moments that stay with me the most. Solve the daily Crossword
