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Daily Mirror
3 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Brits heading to Spain issued warning as rules on cash abroad change
Brits on Spain holidays should take note of new rules around Euro notes in holiday hotspots including the Canaries as you could find your cash is refused Brits planning Spain holidays this year will no doubt be looking to withdraw some cash for shopping, food and souvenirs but there's a new rule in place you'll need to be aware of. Although nowadays most people will favour card payments over cash, the latter can still be useful especially if you're out and about and find yourself in a shop or restaurant that doesn't accept card. However, UK holidaymakers heading to Spain, the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands may want to take note of new rules regarding Euro notes. Firstly, if you can, avoid withdrawing €500 notes at the currency exchange or bank. The European Central Bank and the Bank of Spain officially ceased production of these notes in 2016, but a small quantity of these purple notes are still in circulation. Although they are legal tender, their usage is becoming increasingly challenging, reports Bristol Live. The hefty value of the notes, along with their link to illicit activities, has resulted in many establishments refusing to accept them. If you withdraw money and receive a €500 note, insist on smaller denominations instead. You can also take large notes to a Spanish bank for exchange. Of course when it comes to cash, most of us will opt for smaller amounts at a time, but if you're thinking of using up some older €50 notes from previous holidays, you may want to get rid of these quickly. This is because Spain's central bank has started phasing out old and damaged €50 notes from circulation. This scheme, which kicks off this summer, aims to bolster the security of cash transactions and thwart fraud. The new changes are being rolled out, so if you've got a holiday booked this summer you won't suddenly find that all of your cash isn't accepted. However if you do have some Euros lying around the house, you may want to consider using them up on your next holidays. It's also worth checking the state of your banknotes, especially if they've been crammed into a purse at the bottom of a drawer or suitcase for a few months. That's because as part of the new rollouts, old and damaged banknotes will also be gradually withdrawn from circulation. This could mean that tourists might find their worn or torn notes being rejected by cashiers. When you're swapping your holiday money, make sure any €50 notes are in tip-top shape, and ask for replacements if you spot any damage. Tattered notes can be exchanged at any Bank of Spain branch or selected partner banks, but don't forget to bring some form of identification like your passport. They won't exchange counterfeit or deliberately damaged notes. For those who usually toss their spare change into a jar after their holiday, it's worth noting that some countries may soon ditch one and two cent Euro coins too. Countries such as Ireland, Belgium, and Italy have already ceased using these coins, rounding up cash transactions to the nearest five cents instead, and they're no longer being produced. Meanwhile a number of other Eurozone countries are doing the same,
Daily Record
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Alert for travellers on weight-loss jabs going to the airport as they risk 'serious trouble'
Without these two documents, your weight-loss medication could get confiscated or you could be held by the authorities if you try to import it Travel and health experts are advising individuals taking weight-loss injections to exercise caution when travelling abroad, as these medications are prohibited or heavily restricted in certain countries. Despite being approved for use in the UK, including the recent NHS rollout of Mounjaro, other nations have not sanctioned their use, which could lead to confiscation or even detention if attempted to be imported. Experts recommend researching the regulations of your destination and taking necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted treatment. NHS GP Dr Asimah Hanif explained: "There are countries where weight loss injections are restricted or banned - unlike the UK where they are more widely accepted. "For example if you were to go to the UAE you would need pre-approval from the Ministry of Health. Or if you were to go to Japan, you would require an import certificate. "In Singapore - you would need approval from the health services authority before travel. There are many ways you can prepare yourself according to the country you're travelling to. "This will ensure a smooth journey and also allow you to continue administering your weight loss injections." This is especially critical for individuals relying on these injections for diabetes management, in addition to weight loss. GP Dr Ola Otulana has stated: "At the moment weight loss injections such as semaglutide are widely prescribed in the UK for diabetes management and now more recently for weight management. However, people may not realise that rules can differ significantly abroad as in some countries (in Asia and the Middle East), medications like semaglutide can be heavily regulated or banned entirely if they are not licensed for weight loss there. "Even in places where they are legal, carrying injectable medications without a letter from a doctor and proof of prescription can raise issues at customs, which may lead to items being confiscated." "If you are prescribed a weight loss injection in the UK and are planning to travel, the safest approach is to check the embassy website of your destination country in advance to confirm the rules on your medication. You should also carry your prescription, a formal letter from your GP explaining the indication and dosing, and also keep the medication in its original packaging. "Some countries require you to declare any injectable or controlled medications when you arrive. Prepare and bring any necessary documentation to avoid stress while travelling / abroad and talk to your GP or pharmacist before travelling." Travellers have reported encountering problems in several countries where these jabs - and other medicines - could potentially land you in hot water, reports Bristol Live. Isheeta Borkarm, co-owner of Travelicious Couple, warned: " Weight-loss injections like Wegovy are legal and widely used in the UK, but they're not allowed everywhere else. "We've come across a few countries where bringing them in could actually get you into serious trouble. For example, Japan has extremely strict rules around medication import. "Even certain asthma inhalers are banned, so bringing in injectable weight-loss medication, especially with a needle, without prior approval could lead to confiscation or worse. Singapore requires prior authorisation for any injectable medication. "We've heard in Thailand even prescription drugs can be flagged at customs if the paperwork isn't clear." Experts recommend five steps for those travelling with weight loss jabs: 1. You should check embassy websites for the latest information 2. Carry your prescription and a letter from your doctor (ideally stating dosage and medical necessity). 3. Declare it at customs. 4. Avoid packing injectables in carry-ons. Use the original packaging and keep medication with their official labelling. 5. Some of these medications need refrigeration. Call hotels in advance to ensure they had a minibar fridge.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Daily Mirror
'I discovered why UK beach with Hawaii vibe and waterfall is deserted'
Woody Bay in North Devon is a stunning and unspoilt spot that's perfect for wild swimmers and sunbathers - but it's not for the faint-hearted or those seeking facilities A pristine UK beach has remained almost completely free of sun worshippers, despite its excellent coastal features. Even on a weekday, the West Country's top beaches are often still bustling with summer tourists, surfers or dog walkers. This is not the case for Woody Bay in North Devon, where Bristol Post reporter Sophie Grubb didn't spot a single soul during her brief visit on a sunny Monday morning in June. The reason is obvious - the journey to get there is far from a leisurely stroll. In reality, it's a steep, winding path through woodland, with only fleeting glimpses of the sea beyond the dense foliage. There's a lay-by that doubles as a small but free car park nearby on Sir Robert's Path, but even from there it's still about a half-hour walk down. "With each step, I was dreading the uphill return journey, and it struck me that we only passed one other person the entire time. Surprisingly, there were a few cars at the bottom when we approached the beach itself, next to a holiday cottage, so there were signs of life despite its remote location - though I wouldn't fancy tackling the drive along the narrow, pothole-ridden path and visitors are also advised against attempting it," Sophie recalled. The path eventually opens up to reveal stunning views of the neighbouring bay and the tranquil sea in between, which take a beautiful shade of turquoise even when the sun is hidden behind the clouds. From the beach is a narrow footpath that leads to a platform above the water and offers breathtaking views, including of a submerged pier that was built in 1895 but has since been left to languish in the salty drink, reports Bristol Live. Regrettably, the path has recently been cordoned off to the public. The National Trust, which oversees most of the land around Woody Bay, has explained the viewpoint is privately owned by a large nearby property. "We opted for the brief but rocky descent to the beach itself, which is stunningly rugged and has even drawn comparisons to Hawaii. Despite its local reputation as a delightful swimming spot, it was completely deserted during our visit," Sophie wrote. "The tide was rather high so only a sliver of the shore was visible, and we didn't dare get any closer to the waves. On our previous visit, we went paddling and managed to get right up close to the small waterfall cascading down the cliff face, but this time we simply admired it from a distance." Wild swimmers have praised Woody Bay for the man-made Victorian pool that forms among the rocks, although it can be hard to locate when the tide is in. "We hadn't intended to linger here but did find ourselves wishing we had packed a picnic to savour the view. Anyone planning a similar trip should certainly bring a carrier bag for their rubbish, as well as all their provisions. This secluded spot is so pristine that we couldn't even spot a bin," Sophie continued. "Opting for our baby carrier over the pram proved to be a wise choice, given the challenging terrain. However, it's worth noting that Woody Bay isn't particularly accessible for those with disabilities or even many families, due to the absence of amenities like toilets, a cafe or lifeguard. "But if you're not fussed about these shortcomings, the strenuous leg workout is a small price to pay for a tranquil escape from the masses and a sense of having your own secluded piece of paradise."
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Daily Record
Free sticker will get your luggage to baggage reclaim quicker
If you're heading to the airport anytime soon, you might want to check in early and request a free sticker, as it could save you a huge amount of time Anyone jetting off this summer could utilise a simple trick to speed-up their journey - including using one free sticker to try to ensure your luggage is first on the carousel at collection. According to SCS Chauffeurs, there's a very straightforward way to bypass the luggage carousel wait - and it shouldn't cost a penny. The experts suggest you should attach a fragile sticker to your checked bag or request one from staff at check-in. Although intended for items like glassware or ceramics, bags marked "fragile" are often loaded last onto the aircraft, meaning they're among the first to be offloaded upon arrival. Airports can be a stressful experience, and after spending hours stuffed into to a sweaty flight the nightmare of passport control can only add to the stress. So once you've finally made your way onto British soil, the last thing you want is another 30 minutes watching bags endlessly travel around the carousel - with no sight of your own. "Clients regularly tell us that the difference between a good travel day and a stressful one often starts with baggage reclaim," says Hadleigh Diamond, Commercial Director at SCS Chauffeurs. "If you're standing waiting for 30 minutes while the carousel clunks out someone else's bags, your trip can feel so much longer. But the fragile sticker trick is a game-changer and it often works. "We've heard this tip from both airport ground staff and frequent flyers. You don't need to lie or explain - just politely ask the check-in agent to add a 'fragile' sticker to your suitcase. "It's not guaranteed, but more often than not, your bag is among the first out. We've seen it work time and time again." Airport luggage handling tends to follow a standard procedure. "Fragile" items are usually loaded last into the aircraft's hold to prevent them from being squashed, and they're the first out to avoid being buried under heavier baggage, reports Bristol Live. This means that even if you're seated in row 32 at the rear of the plane, your bag could arrive at the baggage reclaim area before you do. For passengers with tight connecting flights, planned transfers, or accompanying children, shaving off 20–30 minutes waiting at the baggage carousel can be quite beneficial. Especially when baggage reclaim delays can exceed 40 minutes at some major airports during the busy season, such small advantages can greatly improve the post-flight experience.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Shiseido giving away £90 anti-ageing serum that shrinks 'fine lines'
Fans of the beauty brand Shiseido are in for a real treat as it is giving shoppers the opportunity to claim a free sample of its 'new and improved' Ultimune Serum Shiseido is giving shoppers to a complimentary sample of its 'new and improved' Ultimune Serum. Touted as a miracle worker for enhancing brightness, banishing dark circles, and smoothing wrinkles, this serum has been clinically proven to combat the seven signs of ageing. The Ultimune serum promises a complexion that's not only smooth and radiant but also well-hydrated, thanks to its "exclusive Patented Power Fermented Camelia+, fortified with Japanese biotechnology. Absorbing into 30 million surface cells, it strengthens the moisture barrier and reduces visible ageing signs". An impressive 95% of participants in a study reported more youthful-looking skin after just one week of using the product, making it seem like quite the wonder serum. And now, with a free sample available through this link, you can experience its benefits without spending a penny. After eight weeks of consistent use, study participants noticed their skin was 86% more elastic, had 51% more radiance, showed a 26% decrease in fine lines, exhibited 40% more even skin tone, and had over 38% firmer skin. If you're on the hunt for a product that's beloved by users and don't mind splurging, the Shiseido serum normally retails at £90, but it's currently £67.50 for a 50ml bottle. Elsewhere, L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler with 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum could be the ticket at £31.99 – and it's been earning accolades for its wrinkle-reducing prowess, reports Bristol Live. Turning to other top-tier options, Beauty Pie offers the luxe £67 Youthbomb 360° Double Vitamin Radiance Concentrate, boasting a formula enriched with 15 active ingredients, such as Vitamin B3. Delighted users report marked improvements — like one effusive fan who said: "I can see a visible difference in my crows' feet. My aesthetician complimented my skin after using for 2 weeks." Another user was thrilled, noting their radiant skin and heaps of compliments, declaring: "Fantastic product. My skin glows and I get compliments on my complexion often." And if you're itching to try the Shiseido Ultimune Serum, simply click on this link to nab yourself a free sample. Fans have been singing praises for its smooth application and residue-free finish. A happy customer shared their glowing review: "I love how glowing my skin looks after using this serum, it absorbs so nicely into my skin without leaving a sticky residue. My skin feels so soft and smells lovely." Another eager shopper, who got their hands on a complimentary sample, lavished a five-star review and expressed: "Sample was enough for 2-3 days, I felt a visible difference in my skin. Would definitely use it." One shopper was amazed by the serum's immediate effects, exclaiming: "Incredible product, make my skin feel and look rejuvenated after just one use." While most feedback on the Shiseido website was glowing, with an impressive 4.6 star rating, a handful of less enthusiastic reviews did emerge. One customer remarked: "It's nice smooth but no difference with one use of course." Another dissatisfied customer shared their experience, stating: "This serum left my skin feeling very sticky upon application and did not blend well with foundation." However, another person said: "This power infusing serum sinks into the skin beautifully and creates brilliant age reversing effects on the skin. My skin feels so soft, radiant, hydrated and supple after using it! I apply it daily morning and evening after cleansing and moisturising the face and neck. The little amount is sufficient to cover the face and neck." They continued to extol the virtues of the serum: "This serum is very light in texture and absorbs into the skin very easily and does not leave greasiness or sheen afterwards. It has turned my dull, dry and saggy skin into radiant, supple and youthful skin after a few uses. I can already see the improvement in my fine lines, dullness and age spots."
