The Holiday Guru tackles readers’ Covid-related travel issues, including a testing fiasco in Kos


The Holiday Guru tackles readers’ Covid travel issues, including a testing fiasco in Kos and a conundrum over whether to pay for a £16k world cruise in 2022 that goes to Australia










The Holiday Guru is always on hand to answer your questions.

This week he provides some valuable advice for anyone who is considering travelling within 90 days of recovering from Covid.

Q. We tested positive for Covid in Kos, Greece, in August and could not fly home. We went to a quarantine hotel and, after negative lateral flow tests, flew back on September 7. On return, we took a ‘day two’ PCR test, as required.

Both of us were positive and had to isolate for ten days. I have since learnt the Government says you should not take a PCR test within 90 days of a positive Covid test. What else could we do?

Clare Friel, via email.

Cafe culture: People enjoy alfresco dining under trees in Greece’s pretty Kos Town

A. The Department of Health and Social Care says people in your position must take travel tests as anyone else would. There is a ‘risk’, it admits, you may have to self-isolate after a ‘day two’ PCR test.

Although the Government says there is a ‘90-day window after a positive test’ during which citizens should not take PCR or lateral flow tests, entry requirements for the UK ‘take precedence’ (gov.uk). Anyone who is considering travelling within 90 days of recovering from Covid, take note.

Q. If I fail the Covid test in Portugal and can’t return, will I go to a hotel paid for by the Portuguese government — or will it be down to my insurance?

Debbie Rowland, via email.

A. Visit Portugal, the tourist office, says that ‘travellers are required to cover the cost of their hotel isolation and should have appropriate insurance in place’.

Q. I am trying to have my deposit refunded for a cancelled safari in Zambia with Scott Dunn. Will I get it?

Eirwen Hopkins, via email.

The Guru helps a reader understand their refund rights on a cancelled safari in Zambia

The Guru helps a reader understand their refund rights on a cancelled safari in Zambia

A. Under the Package Travel Regulations refunds should be given within 14 days if you have paid the full amount of a cancelled holiday.

However, this does not apply to those who have paid the deposit and not met the balance.

In this instance, some companies will simply keep the cash. However, Scott Dunn is, reasonably, offering a future holiday credit.

Q. In August 2020 we booked a 116-night world cruise on MSC Poesia departing on January 7. Sadly, with Australia and New Zealand impossible to visit, the trip is unviable. I have a balance of £16,097 that I am wary to pay in case the trip is cancelled. Advice?

Geoff Aston, via email.

The Guru advises a reader to pay the full amount on a world cruise that goes to Australia. Pictured is Sydney, Australia

The Guru advises a reader to pay the full amount on a world cruise that is due to sail to Australia. Pictured is Sydney, Australia 

A. Pay the balance. If the cruise is cancelled, you will be due a full refund under the Package Travel Regulations. If you wish to take a credit instead, you could rebook. MSC apologises for any miscommunication.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

If you need advice, the Holiday Guru is here to answer your questions. Email us at holidayplanner@dailymail.co.uk.



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World’s largest cruise ship the Wonder of the Seas completes sea trials – and will debut in 2022


Incredible video footage has been produced displaying the world’s premier cruise ship – Royal Caribbean’s Question of the Seas – finishing her sea trials.

And it has been declared that the 1,188ft- (362m) very long behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe upcoming calendar year, sailing from her house in Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean on March 4, 2022, before producing her way to Barcelona and Rome ‘to kick get started the summertime holiday seasons in May’.

The sea-trial footage displays Surprise of the Seas being towed out of the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, exactly where she was crafted – then remaining set through her paces on the open up seas.

Wonderful movie footage has been launched exhibiting the world’s premier cruise ship – Royal Caribbean’s Surprise of the Seas – finishing her sea trials

Over 4 times she lined 1,550 nautical miles (about fifty percent the length from London to New York) and was ‘pushed to the limit on propulsion’, hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph).

A lot more than 40 sea acceptance tests were concluded, alongside with ‘plenty of inspections’.

About 500 personnel were being included in the trials, the completion of which marks a major milestone for Speculate of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s fifth Oasis Course ship.

Following May well, Wonder of the Seas will head to the Mediterranean for 7-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome that will take in places these kinds of as Palma de Mallorca and Capri, Italy.

It has been announced that the 1,188ft- (362m) long behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe next year

It has been announced that the 1,188ft- (362m) extensive behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe up coming year

During the sea trials Wonder of the Seas covered 1,550 nautical miles (about half the distance from London to New York) and was 'pushed to the limit on propulsion', hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph)

Through the sea trials Surprise of the Seas protected 1,550 nautical miles (about half the length from London to New York) and was ‘pushed to the limit on propulsion’, hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph)

Royal Caribbean promises that households and holidaymakers alike ‘will have a new wave of alternatives across Wonder’s eight distinctive neighbourhoods, an Oasis Course first’. These consist of ‘all-new capabilities such as the Suite Neighborhood – which provides Royal Suite Course friends an elevated “Suite Solar Deck”, full with a plunge pool, bar and plenty of loungers and nooks to kick back again in – a cantilevered pool bar named The Vue, and Ponder Playscape – an interactive, open-air kids’ engage in area with awe-inspiring views’.

It provides: ‘With returning favourites also on deck, like The Best Abyss, the tallest slide at sea Central Park, the neighbourhood stuffed with actual crops from end to close and the vivid Caribbean-influenced pool deck working experience, the revolutionary, new ship invitations adventurers of all ages to reimagine, explore and make recollections when all over again.’

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Intercontinental, claimed: ‘The momentum taking off throughout bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is sizeable. With fifty percent of our fleet sailing once more, we are inspired by what we’re looking at. These regions are in the placement to welcome a manufacturer-new, impressive ship like Marvel of the Seas.

Around 500 workers were involved in the sea trials, the completion of which marks a significant milestone for Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's fifth Oasis Class ship

Close to 500 workers ended up concerned in the sea trials, the completion of which marks a considerable milestone for Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s fifth Oasis Class ship

Royal Caribbean promises that families and holidaymakers alike 'will have a new wave of possibilities across Wonder's eight distinct neighbourhoods'

Royal Caribbean claims that households and holidaymakers alike ‘will have a new wave of alternatives throughout Wonder’s 8 unique neighbourhoods’

Wonder of the Seas is 210ft (64m) wide, can accommodate 6,988 guests across 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 guest elevators, will have 2,300 crew members and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph)

Question of the Seas is 210ft (64m) vast, can accommodate 6,988 attendees throughout 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 visitor elevators, will have 2,300 crew members and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph)

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said: 'The momentum taking off across bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is significant. With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we're seeing'

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Worldwide, said: ‘The momentum taking off throughout bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is major. With fifty percent of our fleet sailing once more, we are encouraged by what we are seeing’

‘Wonder will shine shiny as the world’s newest wonder in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. And what’s in retailer is the supreme family vacation working experience that highlights the extremely ideal of Royal Caribbean, reimagines renowned favourites and introduces new adventures each individual guest, no matter their age, can take pleasure in.’

Speculate of the Seas is 210ft (64m) extensive, can accommodate 6,988 guests across 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 guest elevators, will have 2,300 crew customers and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph).

Wonder’s Caribbean itineraries are out there to guide currently on Royal Caribbean’s internet site. The new ship’s European sailings will open on Wednesday, September 22. 

Next May, Wonder of the Seas will head to the Mediterranean for seven-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome that will take in destinations such as Palma de Mallorca and Capri, Italy

Next Could, Wonder of the Seas will head to the Mediterranean for 7-night time cruises from Barcelona and Rome that will consider in places these kinds of as Palma de Mallorca and Capri, Italy



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October holiday guide: Southern Europe is balmy, the crowds have gone and there are bargains galore


Summer in the UK may be gradually fading but October is a fabulous month for a final blast of sunshine in southern Europe.

What’s more, schools are back, crowds have thinned and travel companies are offering tempting deals for couples.

So here are ten suggestions for a week of early autumn sunshine in European countries keen to welcome us and all listed green or amber by our Covid honchos.

RELAXING RHODES

Take the high Rhodes: Lindos Bay is wonderful for couples in October, according to Martin

Savour the beaches and bays of the turquoise-tinged Aegean Sea one moment, then turn culture vulture the next. Rhodes is the largest and historically most important of Greece’s Dodecanese islands.

Small, peaceful Rhodes Bay Hotel & Spa has its own beach on Ixia in the island’s far north. But just ten minutes away, Rhodes town and its lanes lined with Ottoman mansions will spirit you back to Byzantine times. Farther afield is astonishing Lindos, the town crowned with an ancient acropolis.

Average max temp in early October: 26c.

Covid rules for entry: Amber list. Greek authorities require proof of full vaccination, plus a PCR test within 72 hours or antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival, or proof of having recovered from Covid.

The Deal: From £878pp at five-star Rhodes Bay Hotel & Spa with First Choice Holidays (firstchoice.co.uk).

MAGICAL MARBELLA

Martin says Marbella's 'sweeping golden beach' (pictured) is worth a visit - and it doesn't cost a penny

Martin says Marbella’s ‘sweeping golden beach’ (pictured) is worth a visit – and it doesn’t cost a penny 

Long a playground for film stars and royalty, Marbella remains the Costa del Sol with glitz. It is not just the money that smells sweet. In the enchanted Casco Antiguo (old town), squares and courtyards fill with the scent of jasmine. You might need a full wallet for the designer boutiques but the sweeping golden beach — the finest on this coast — is free. Dramatic gorges and dazzling whitewashed villages are within a short drive. The road up to Ronda crosses wide open spaces between jagged peaks, with views across the Straits of Gibraltar to Morocco.

Max temp: 24c.

Covid rules: Amber list. Spanish authorities require proof of full vaccination, plus a PCR test within 72 hours or an antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival.

The deal: From £1,159pp at beachfront four-star Fuerte Marbella Hotel with Thomas Cook (thomascook.com).

STUNNING SICILY  

Take in stunning views of the Mount Etna volcano from the ancient Greek amphitheatre in Taormina, pictured

Take in stunning views of the Mount Etna volcano from the ancient Greek amphitheatre in Taormina, pictured  

Settings don’t get much more spectacular than the Bay of Sirens on the northeast coast, where Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay is built into a cliffside looking across to the toe of Italy. Sicily was freakishly hot this August but those in the know have always understood that prime season here is autumn, not summer. Quaint Taormina, with its Greek amphitheatre, is reached by cable car, while Mount Etna looms nearby.

Max temp: 27c.

Covid rules: Amber list. Italian authorities require proof of full vaccination, plus a PCR or LFT taken within 48 hours of arrival.

The deal: From £1,460pp at five-star VOI Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay (justsicily.co.uk).

FEEL THE HEAT IN POLIS

Those visiting the northwest coast of Cyprus should explore the 'wilds' of the Akamas Peninsula, pictured, according to Martin

Those visiting the northwest coast of Cyprus should explore the ‘wilds’ of the Akamas Peninsula, pictured, according to Martin

Over at the eastern end of the Mediterranean, Cyprus basks in sunshine deep into autumn.

The northwest coast is the calm end of the island, especially the laid-back village of Polis a mile from the sea, with its coffee shops and tavernas spilling on to a bijou square.

Polis 1907 Hotel, with just six rooms, mixes traditional architecture with luxury. It is important to have a car, for getting to the beaches or exploring the nearby wilds of the Akamas Peninsula.

Max temp: 28c.

Covid rules: Amber list. Covid tests are not required if you have proof of full vaccination.

The deal: From £897 at Polis 1907 Hotel with Sunvil (sunvil.co.uk) including car hire.

COSY CALVI

Coastal gem: Pictured is the Genoese-built town of Calvi, Corsica, where temperatures can reach up to 24c in October

Coastal gem: Pictured is the Genoese-built town of Calvi, Corsica, where temperatures can reach up to 24c in October  

As he lay dying on St Helena, Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have reminisced about the aroma of his native Corsica. Gaze up at the hazy mountains above Calvi, inhale deeply and you’ll understand.

It is that perfume of the maquis, the shrubland which blankets Corsica’s wild hinterland, mingling with the scent of pine. There are few places better to experience this than from deluxe La Villa Hotel, high above the walled Genoese-built town.

Max temp: 24c.

Covid rules: Amber list. Covid tests are not required by French authorities if you have proof of full vaccination.

The deal: From £1,249.50pp at Relais & Chateau La Villa Calvi with Just Corsica (justcorsica.co.uk). Flights are via Nice.

ALL GO ALGARVE 

Nature lovers will enjoy touring the wetlands and open expanses of the Algarve's Rio Formosa natural park, pictured

Nature lovers will enjoy touring the wetlands and open expanses of the Algarve’s Rio Formosa natural park, pictured 

Quinta do Lago is the Algarve’s plushest estate. Think of fairways, posh villas secluded in pinewoods, and the boutique Magnolia Hotel facing the wetlands of the natural park, Rio Formosa. A footbridge crosses the estuary to a ten-mile beach, to which there is almost no other access.

Early autumn is prime time for golf, or for enjoying nature and open expanses in a region better known for mass tourism.

Max temp: 25c.

Covid rules: Amber list. Portuguese authorities require proof of full vaccination, plus a PCR test within 72 hours or antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival.

The deal: From £642 at the Magnolia Hotel, with Jet2 Holidays (jet2holidays.com).

GORGEOUS GOZO

Divine inspiration: You could take a trip to see St John’s Co-Cathedral in the Maltese capital of Valletta

Divine inspiration: You could take a trip to see St John’s Co-Cathedral in the Maltese capital of Valletta 

Gozo and big sister Malta are pretty much bang in the middle of the Med, between Sicily and North Africa. Go there for laid-back times in the sun, taking in as much or as little of the extraordinary history as you choose. The smaller island is wilder, greener and good for walking.

Plus, there is the old-world elegance of the five-star San Lawrenz Hotel, with its swimming pools and spa set among olive trees.

Max temp: 27c.

Covid rules: Green list. Covid tests not required by Maltese authorities if you have proof of full vaccination.

The deal: From £1,285.15pp at Kempinski San Lawrenz with Kuoni (kuoni.co.uk), including transfers by ferry and private car from Malta airport.

CRETE SHINES ON 

Head to Stavros beach (pictured), where a classic scene from the film Zorba The Greek was shot in the 1960s

Head to Stavros beach (pictured), where a classic scene from the film Zorba The Greek was shot in the 1960s 

Remember Anthony Quinn in Zorba The Greek, dancing round a lagoon? The scene was shot at Stavros beach, near Chania in Crete’s less-visited northwest. The sun still shines in October, when not a huge amount seems to have changed on the far-flung peninsula of white-sand beaches and ancient churches hewn out of rock faces, since the 1960s.

Max temp: 25c.

Covid rules: Amber list. Greek authorities require one of the following on arrival: proof of full vaccination, a PCR test within 72 hours, an Antigen test taken within 48 hours or proof of having recovered from Covid.

The deal: From £774pp at family-run Hotel Doma on the edge of Chania, with Sunvil Holidays (sunvil.co.uk).

FUN FORMENTERA

The tiny island of Formentera, pictured, is a haven for those seeking fresh seafood and clear blue waters

The tiny island of Formentera, pictured, is a haven for those seeking fresh seafood and clear blue waters

An hour by ferry from Ibiza, tiny Formentera might as well be a million miles from the club beat and foam parties. Instead, people come for a slice of small-island life, undeveloped white sand, clear water, a wildlife expanse of wetland and to break up their days with a plate of fresh fish. True, tales of this haven of tranquillity have spread in recent years, but come autumn it is all yours.

Max temp: 26c.

Covid rules: Amber list. Spanish authorities require proof of full vaccination, plus a PCR test within 72 hours or antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival.

The deal: From £614.80pp with Tui (tui.co.uk) at simple but stylish three-star Hotel Tahiti, with transfers including ferry from Ibiza.

DUBROVNIK DELIGHTS 

The Croatian port city of Dubrovnik is revered for its 'mighty walls, towers and turrets', Martin notes

The Croatian port city of Dubrovnik is revered for its ‘mighty walls, towers and turrets’, Martin notes 

When he first glimpsed the Croatian port with its mighty walls, towers and turrets, Lord Byron extolled Dubrovnik as the Pearl of the Adriatic. Since then, the city and its crinkled coastline have lost none of their allure.

Autumn brings out the best of the old town, a glorious backdrop to the beaches and sparkling sea of the Lapad Peninsula.

Max temp: 23c.

Covid rules: Currently on ‘green watchlist’ (in danger of changing to amber). Croatian authorities require proof of a PCR test within 72 hours or antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival, regardless of vaccination status.

The deal: £939pp at the four-star Hotel Kompas on the Lapad Peninsula, with Tropical Sky (tropicalsky.co.uk).

THE SMALL PRINT 

  • Prices quoted are per person, b&b, for seven nights based on two sharing. Prices include flights from the UK and transfers, departing during the first week in October.
  • In addition to complying with Covid rules for the country you are visiting, you must follow UK rules for your return. From green list countries, you will need to take an antigen test within three days of returning; and to have booked a PCR test to be taken within two days of getting back. For amber countries, you also need to self-isolate if you are not fully vaccinated.

 



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We quit our jobs to convert the train from Branagh’s Murder on the Orient Express into a tearoom


In early 2019, Bassenthwaite Lake Station in Cumbria was in ruins and Di and Simon Parums were working regular nine to five jobs in health and safety.

Fast forward two years and the pair have given up their jobs, having almost entirely restored the station to its former glory – and there’s a rather large piece of Hollywood movie memorabilia sitting on the tracks, previously covered in mud, leaves and weeds.

That piece of movie memorabilia is the prop French SNCF steam train – complete with engine, tender, restaurant car, baggage carriage and salon with bar – purpose-built for the filming of 2017 Hollywood blockbuster movie Murder on the Orient Express, which was directed by and starred Kenneth Branagh, and also featured Penelope Cruz, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer and Dame Judi Dench. It’s now the centrepiece of a new railway-inspired tourist attraction offering tearooms, nature walks and private hire event space. And Di and Si are the proud founders of the whole thing.

The last train departed from Bassenthwaite Lake Station on April 18, 1966. After that the site became derelict, but Di and Simon Parums have restored it and turned it into a tourist attraction (pictured). The replica train that was built to film Kenneth Branagh’s Murder on the Orient Express is the centrepiece of the site

Pictured is the rear of the salon car decorated ready for a wedding celebration. This car is home to an Art Deco bar and can be hired privately for events

Pictured is the rear of the salon car decorated ready for a wedding celebration. This car is home to an Art Deco bar and can be hired privately for events

This shot shows the salon car set up for afternoon tea. Teas like this will be available across the wider site soon. Di and Si source as many ingredients as they can locally

This shot shows the salon car set up for afternoon tea. Teas like this will be available across the wider site soon. Di and Si source as many ingredients as they can locally

Di and Simon’s journey with Bassenthwaite Lake Station – which was on the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith Railway, and where the last train pulled out on April 18, 1966 – started when they noticed that the station master’s house, which had been converted into a holiday let, was for sale.

Di, 54, said: ‘We went to look at the house and we noticed that the rest of the station was derelict next door. We managed to track down the owner, who was a different person to the owner of the holiday let, and we agreed a sale on both sites at the same time.’

However, rather than turn the entire site into a private dwelling, the Parums decided to open it up as a heritage site.

This picture shows Bassenthwaite Lake Station part-way through its transformation by Di and Simon

This picture shows Bassenthwaite Lake Station part-way through its transformation by Di and Simon

Taken before the restorations, this image shows how overgrown the site of Bassenthwaite Station was. Di said: 'The station building itself was completely derelict. It had walls only, no roof, no windows, everything rotten, everything dropping to pieces. It had been stripped bare over the years'

Taken before the restorations, this image shows how overgrown the site of Bassenthwaite Station was. Di said: ‘The station building itself was completely derelict. It had walls only, no roof, no windows, everything rotten, everything dropping to pieces. It had been stripped bare over the years’

Di and Simon, pictured, worked days, nights and weekends to hack back weeds and creepers, clear up rubble, and dig out earth to locate the old trackbed

Di and Simon, pictured, worked days, nights and weekends to hack back weeds and creepers, clear up rubble, and dig out earth to locate the old trackbed

This image shows Bassenthwaite Lake - a truly magnificent backdrop for a cup of tea and a slice of cake

This image shows Bassenthwaite Lake – a truly magnificent backdrop for a cup of tea and a slice of cake

‘We knew that the site had had a lot of attention over the years with people coming back to it with memories of when they travelled on the railway,’ explained Di. ‘So we didn’t want it to become a place that no-one got to see anymore.

‘I was at the stage where I wanted a bit more from life. I wanted something unique and special from it. We both felt like we wanted to give something back to the community, too. So we decided to create a place where everyone could live and breathe the history.’

Once the sales had been completed, Di and Simon – experts in construction health and safety – set about clearing the site themselves.

They worked days, nights and weekends to hack back weeds and creepers, clear up rubble, and dig out earth to locate the old trackbed.

Then they managed a team of stonemasons, joiners and other passionate contractors to restore the old station building, build a new kitchen and toilet area, restore the platform and make the two signalman’s cottages safe.

The discovery of the Orient Express prop train happened by chance. Di and Simon, pictured, had visited a specialist haulage yard in Stoke-on-Trent to see another carriage, but they discovered it was totally unsuitable. The yard owner showed them the salon car from the Murder on the Orient Express film and they fell in love with it

The discovery of the Orient Express prop train happened by chance. Di and Simon, pictured, had visited a specialist haulage yard in Stoke-on-Trent to see another carriage, but they discovered it was totally unsuitable. The yard owner showed them the salon car from the Murder on the Orient Express film and they fell in love with it

Di said of her new train set carriages: 'Because they were never built for longevity, they were starting to show signs of leaking and disrepair, but they were generally in good condition'

Di said of her new train set carriages: ‘Because they were never built for longevity, they were starting to show signs of leaking and disrepair, but they were generally in good condition’

We quit our jobs to convert the train from Branagh's Murder on the Orient Express into a tearoom

‘I feel we are almost custodians of a lovely little piece of heritage,’ said Di

Di said: ‘The station building itself was completely derelict. It had walls only, no roof, no windows, everything rotten, everything dropping to pieces. It had been stripped bare over the years.

‘And the railway line itself, you couldn’t even see it ever existed. It was hidden completely. You couldn’t see the track, the platform edge or anything.

‘The site was covered with trees, which had originally been self-seeding saplings, I suppose, and it had gone wild. These trees were 60ft tall by the time we took over the site and all the leaf mould and detritus had dropped on the trackbed and hidden it.

The replica carriages are slightly wider and slightly taller than normal to allow for the movement of camera crews

The replica carriages are slightly wider and slightly taller than normal to allow for the movement of camera crews

This vintage image shows a steam train at Bassenthwaite Station in 1951. This picture is courtesy of Creative Commons licensing

This vintage image shows a steam train at Bassenthwaite Station in 1951. This picture is courtesy of Creative Commons licensing

‘So we gradually dug it away and found the old trackbed was there, the old station wall was there.

‘We had a very good team of contractors who enjoyed working on the project and took pride in what they did.’

The discovery of the Orient Express prop train happened by chance. The couple had visited a specialist haulage yard in Stoke-on-Trent to see another carriage, but they discovered it was totally unsuitable.

The yard owner showed them the salon car from the Murder on the Orient Express film and they fell in love with it.

Di said: ‘Six months later, we were asked if we wanted to buy the rest of the train because the other buyers had pulled out. We said yes. Only the sleeper car is missing – that went to another buyer.

‘The carriages were transported by a specialist haulier in Stoke by road then backed onto the old trackbed piece by piece on a low loader wagon that lined up temporary rail track against our own track and winched each piece off the ramp. We then pushed each carriage into position manually with the help of a telehandler.’

How much work did the carriages need to make them ready for public viewing once more?

Di explained: ‘Because they were never built for longevity, they were starting to show signs of leaking and disrepair, but they were generally in good condition.

We quit our jobs to convert the train from Branagh's Murder on the Orient Express into a tearoom

‘We’ve had to have some walnut tables made for the dining carriage because the film-set ones were MDF and had bowed in the damp storage conditions,’ Di explained

This is a close-up of the afternoon teas that should soon be available at Bassenthwaite Lake Station. Breakfast, lunch, brunch and cakes are currently all being served in both the restaurant car of the Orient Express and the station house

This is a close-up of the afternoon teas that should soon be available at Bassenthwaite Lake Station. Breakfast, lunch, brunch and cakes are currently all being served in both the restaurant car of the Orient Express and the station house

‘We prioritised sealing up the roof panels, which stopped any further weather-related deterioration.

‘We’ve had to have some walnut tables made for the dining carriage because the film-set ones were MDF and had bowed in the damp storage conditions. Some props and glass panels had been removed and we have repainted all the wall panels to freshen them up and shampooed the carpets. We’ve taken a small section out of the salon bar, which had no access, in order to make it a functional bar.

‘We have now installed heating into the carriages, which has also helped dry them out and make them comfortable. The baggage carriage roof-mounted viewing window had been removed by the haulier and is now fixed back into position.’

An authentic railway dining experience is promised with the retention of the specially adapted features for a working movie set. 

Di added: ‘The carriages are slightly wider and slightly taller and it was to allow the crews to get their angles when they were filming. The tables were actually Velcroed into position so they could be moved easily as well – that’s quite fun.

Di and Simon relax in one of their movie carriages. During filming the tables were Velcroed into position so that they could be moved easily

Di and Simon relax in one of their movie carriages. During filming the tables were Velcroed into position so that they could be moved easily 

The poster for 2017's Murder on the Orient Express

Di and Simon overseeing the installation of one of the carriages

On the left is the poster for 2017’s Murder on the Orient Express. On the right – Di and Simon overseeing the installation of one of the carriages

‘And it has quite a soft suspension so it wobbles around when you climb into the carriages. Because it didn’t actually move when they were filming they needed to make it sway as waiters and waitresses were carrying drinks and food.

‘I still grin from ear to ear every time I go in it.

‘We will get people who will say “that’s not the right train for the track” and ‘what a shame it’s French’. If you look at it like that then the whole world’s a shame, isn’t it? But actually it’s an awful lot of fun. We now have a train in a station that has not had one in it for 50 years and it’s got a really good provenance and history.

Michelle Pfeiffer as Linda Arden in Murder on the Orient Express

Michelle Pfeiffer as Linda Arden in Murder on the Orient Express

In a railway carriage far, far away... Star Wars star Daisy Ridley was in the stellar Murder on the Orient Express cast

In a railway carriage far, far away… Star Wars star Daisy Ridley was in the stellar Murder on the Orient Express cast

Olivia Colman and Judi Dench helped keep Murder on the Orient Express on the right track

Olivia Colman and Judi Dench helped keep Murder on the Orient Express on the right track

Kenneth Branagh, pictured, played Hercule Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express - and directed it

Kenneth Branagh, pictured, played Hercule Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express – and directed it 

‘I feel we are almost custodians of a lovely little piece of heritage. Of course, we are the owners now, but actually this has got another 100 years of history to create for itself so it’s that lovely feeling of making that bit of difference, passing on something special to the next generation who can use it again how they see fit.

‘It’s preserved an old station which allows members of the public to visit, which is really unique down here because they are all converted houses.’

The whole site complete with The Orient Express is now open to the public. Visitors can have breakfast, brunch, lunch and cakes in both the restaurant carriage of the Orient Express itself and the restored station building.

At present a total of 32 seats are available in the restaurant carriage and another 20 in the cafe in the station building. 

Afternoon teas with locally sourced items will be available soon and there are a number of special events like murder mystery nights penned into the events calendar.

This shot was taken in the renovated station building where there is seating for 20 people. Breakfast, brunch, lunch and cakes are served here throughout the day

This shot was taken in the renovated station building where there is seating for 20 people. Breakfast, brunch, lunch and cakes are served here throughout the day

We quit our jobs to convert the train from Branagh's Murder on the Orient Express into a tearoom

‘We now have a train in a station that has not had one in it for 50 years and it’s got a really good provenance and history,’ said Di

This shot showcases the entrance to the restaurant carriage on the right. The seating in this area can be booked. The seats in the station building, meanwhile, are just for walk-in visitors

This shot showcases the entrance to the restaurant carriage on the right. The seating in this area can be booked. The seats in the station building, meanwhile, are just for walk-in visitors

To the right of this image you can see an example of the Art Deco lighting that lines the walls of both the restaurant carriage and the salon with its bar

To the right of this image you can see an example of the Art Deco lighting that lines the walls of both the restaurant carriage and the salon with its bar

This shot showcases the back of the tender and the start of the baggage carriage. In the main station building to the right of this image visitors can see the old ticket office and post office room, which has been decorated with dozens of train jigsaw pictures provided by the owner’s mum and her friends

This shot showcases the back of the tender and the start of the baggage carriage. In the main station building to the right of this image visitors can see the old ticket office and post office room, which has been decorated with dozens of train jigsaw pictures provided by the owner’s mum and her friends

Di and Simon have also planted more than 300 trees and shrubs so visitors can enjoy a woodland walk before or after their visit. Plus, the salon car with its Art Deco bar is available for private functions.

And the couple’s plans for the site have only just started. Over the next two years they intend to restore the signalman’s cottages to create a dark sky viewing area, develop a wildflower meadow and plant an orchard to attract red squirrels.

What’s more, the station isn’t the only addition to Bassenthwaite.

Directly across the lake at Highside Farm Bed & Breakfast, a new collection of glamping pods has just been launched.

Bassenthwaite Lake Station was on the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith Railway

Bassenthwaite Lake Station was on the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith Railway

Pictured is one of the wood sculptures that's part of the woodland trail at Bassenthwaite Lake Station. Di and Simon have planted more than 300 trees, plants and shrubs around the station

Pictured is one of the wood sculptures that’s part of the woodland trail at Bassenthwaite Lake Station. Di and Simon have planted more than 300 trees, plants and shrubs around the station

Pictured are the glamping pods at Highside Farm Bed & Breakfast that have just opened across the lake from Bassenthwaite Station. You can see the water from each of them

Pictured are the glamping pods at Highside Farm Bed & Breakfast that have just opened across the lake from Bassenthwaite Station. You can see the water from each of them

This shot shows the smart interiors of the glamping pods, which sleep up to four or two adults and three children - and they come with ensuite shower rooms

This shot shows the smart interiors of the glamping pods, which sleep up to four or two adults and three children – and they come with ensuite shower rooms

Named after local fells, the pods sleep up to four or two adults and three children and they come with ensuite shower rooms and sweeping views of Bassenthwaite Lake.

Other local attractions include the Lake District Wildlife Park, Bassenthwaite Lake Sailing Club, Dubwath Silver Meadows nature reserve and The Lakes Distillery.

For more information visit bassenthwaitelakestation.com and highside.co.uk. 



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Enchanting woodland ‘Bearbnb’ inspired by the Winnie the Pooh house now available on Airbnb


 Holiday rentals you should not get considerably additional enchanting than this – a ‘Bearbnb’ influenced by the Winnie the Pooh household.

The abode is offered on Airbnb and was built by Disney-appointed Winnie the Pooh illustrator Kim Raymond, who has been drawing the beloved bear – designed by author A. A. Milne – for around 30 many years. 

Designed in the forest that encouraged Milne’s Hundred Acre Wooden, the charming den has tree trunks framing the doorway and, inside, the cabinets are piled higher with ‘hunny’ pots. A several house regulations utilize – selection 1, strictly no heffalumps are allowed inside of.

The enchanting ‘Bearbnb’, pictured above, was encouraged by the original Winnie the Pooh house

A charming illustration of the house that Kim drew for Airbnb. Its design marks Disney's 95th-anniversary celebrations of Winnie the Pooh

A charming illustration of the household that Kim drew for Airbnb. Its design marks Disney’s 95th-anniversary celebrations of Winnie the Pooh

The den has tree trunks framing the doorway. Airbnb describes it as a 'perfect place to do nothing'

A few house rules apply ¿ number one, strictly no heffalumps are allowed inside the property

The den – which is described as a ‘perfect spot to do nothing’ – has tree trunks framing the doorway. A handful of household regulations implement – amount one, strictly no heffalumps are authorized inside of the property

Kim drew inspiration from the first e-book illustrations of E.H. Shepard when it arrived to developing the treehouse, which was built to mark Disney’s 95th-anniversary celebrations of Winnie the Pooh.

He explained: ‘I have been illustrating Winnie the Pooh for 30 years and I carry on to be encouraged by the traditional decorations of E.H. Shepard and the a lot more recent Disney tales. The “Bearbnb” is a one of a kind expertise that provides the allure of Pooh to existence for admirers, whilst honouring the primary adventures that have been so vital to quite a few folks for 95 decades.’

Echoing the kid’s textbooks, ‘Mr Sanders’ is inscribed in excess of the doorway of the household – found in Ashdown Forest, East Sussex – and the walls are lined with bespoke Pooh wallpaper, patterned with acorns and stripes.

The home is kitted out for a cosy night’s continue to be – there is a double bed and friends can clamber up wooden ladders to two matching bunk beds.

According to the house procedures, ‘multiple naps’ in the comfortable Airbnb are encouraged.

Attendees can tuck into a ‘smackerel’ or two in the lounge spot – a snack of ‘a very little something’ is inspired at 11am – which attributes homely seating and a kettle.

Kim drew inspiration from the original book illustrations of E.H. Shepard when it came to designing the treehouse

Kim drew inspiration from the authentic guide illustrations of E.H. Shepard when it arrived to planning the treehouse

Inside, the shelves are piled high with 'hunny' pots

Guests can tuck into a 'smackerel' or two in the lounge area, which features homely seating

Visitors can tuck into a ‘smackerel’ or two in the lounge place, pictured, which functions homely seating and shelves piled higher with ‘hunny’ pots

For even larger feeds, domestically sourced ‘hunny-inspired’ meals will be served in a pleasant picnic area outdoors the ‘Bearbnb’.

There is certainly just one short term lavatory, found ‘a couple of steps’ from the residence, equipped with a bathroom, shower, and sink, as very well as toiletries and towels.

As for pets, only Roos, Tiggers, Eeyores and Piglets and Pooh Bears are permitted to commit the night time.

During their East Sussex stay, guests can enjoy a guided tour of the surrounding Ashdown Forest

During their East Sussex remain, attendees can delight in a guided tour of the encompassing Ashdown Forest

The walls are lined with the bespoke Pooh wallpaper, patterned with acorns and stripes. Kim designed the wallpaper, above, specifically for the 'Bearbnb'

Enchanting woodland 'Bearbnb' inspired by the Winnie the Pooh house now available on Airbnb

Left: The partitions are lined with bespoke Pooh wallpaper, patterned with acorns and stripes. Kim created the wallpaper precisely for the ‘Bearbnb’. Right: One particular of Kim’s sketches for the furnishings in the house. He says: ‘I keep on to be encouraged by the vintage decorations of E.H. Shepard’

Bear in head, a few additional house guidelines use. Hands are to be held out of the honey pots, and it is necessary to perform a game of Poohsticks – the sport that 1st appeared in the 1928 ebook The Dwelling at Pooh Corner. It consists of throwing branches more than a bridge and permitting the stream carry them, waiting around to see which department appears initially on the other side.

Throughout their stay, friends can head to Poohsticks Bridge to play Poohsticks and can appreciate a guided tour of the surrounding forest.

Kim will host two separate stays in the Airbnb on September 24 and 25 for £95 for every night time, and the reserving expenses will be donated to kid’s charity Alongside one another for Quick Lives.

The custom-built home sleeps a family of four, and only current UK residents are eligible to book

The tailor made-crafted property sleeps a loved ones of four, and only existing British isles residents are qualified to ebook

Enchanting woodland 'Bearbnb' inspired by the Winnie the Pooh house now available on Airbnb

Above is a sketch of an armchair and a wooden chair 'for eating honey', drawn by Disney-appointed illustrator Kim

Still left: One of Kim’s sketches of the exterior. ‘The “Bearbnb” is a distinctive experience that provides the appeal of Pooh to lifestyle for enthusiasts,’ claims Kim. Suitable: A sketch of an armchair and a wooden chair ‘for consuming honey’, drawn by Disney-appointed illustrator Kim

The tailor made-developed residence sleeps a spouse and children of 4, and only existing United kingdom citizens are qualified to book.

Ahead of the treehouse’s unveiling, Catherine Powell, Airbnb’s World Head of Web hosting, claimed: ‘Winnie the Pooh is a childhood jewel beloved by households the world around. 

‘This 12 months, the original publications rejoice their 95th anniversary. What improved way to commemorate A.A. Milne’s vintage work than with these two when-in-a-life span stays in the authentic Hundred Acre Wood. A fantastic location to do practically nothing. As Pooh stated, “undertaking ‘Nothing’ generally sales opportunities to the extremely best Some thing”.’

Locally sourced 'hunny-inspired' meals will be served in a delightful picnic area outside the 'Bearbnb', pictured above

Regionally sourced ‘hunny-inspired’ meals will be served in a pleasant picnic spot exterior the ‘Bearbnb’, pictured above 

The house is built in the forest that inspired Winnie-the-Pooh author A. A. Milne's Hundred Acre Wood. This illustration was created by Kim for the Airbnb Pooh house

The residence is developed in the forest that motivated Winnie-the-Pooh writer A. A. Milne’s Hundred Acre Wood. This illustration was developed by Kim for the Airbnb Pooh household

Pictured are a selection of accessories in the Airbnb. Disney says: 'We hope guests are able to sit back and relax in the "Bearbnb", and "be more Pooh" for the day'

Pictured are a variety of accessories in the Airbnb. Disney claims: ‘We hope attendees are equipped to sit back again and rest in the “Bearbnb”, and “be much more Pooh” for the day’

Tasia Filippatos, Senior Vice President of Customer Products, Video games and Publishing at The Walt Disney Company, additional: ‘For in excess of 95 a long time, Winnie the Pooh has influenced generations with his memorable words and phrases, encounters and adventures. These timeless tales examine life’s easy pleasures and in that spirit, we hope visitors are capable to sit back and take it easy in the “Bearbnb”, and “be a lot more Pooh” for the day.’

Booking dates for the home will go dwell on September 20 at 2pm, and Airbnb anticipates a quite large amount of curiosity in the house.

To perspective the ‘Bearbnb’ home on Airbnb, pay a visit to airbnb.com/winniethepooh.



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Ministers plan to axe costly PCR tests for double-jabbed travellers


Sajid Javid today dramatically dismissed the idea of compulsory Covid passports being introduced in England next month after a huge Tory outcry. 

The Health Secretary declared that the government ‘will not be going ahead’ with the controversial move for nightclubs and major events, ahead of Boris Johnson unveiling the government’s ‘winter plan’ on Tuesday.

The U-turn comes after ministers were sent out to defend the proposals last week despite heavy fire from Conservative MPs who branded them ‘unsupportable, coercive and discriminatory’. 

Responding to briefing about the policy being axed in interviews this morning, Mr Javid only initially told Sky News that he ‘hoped we can avoid’ the step. 

But little more than an hour later he was telling the BBC’s Andrew Marr show that although the option is being ‘held in reserve’, ‘we will not be going ahead with plans for vaccine passports’. 

Government sources stressed that it is still possible the plans will be revisited if hospitalisations look at risk of running out of control later in the year.  

The decision draws another dividing line within the UK, as Nicola Sturgeon has announced that a certification scheme will be launched in Scotland from October 1. 

Meanwhile, holidaymakers are poised for a huge boost as ministers indicated that double-jabbed travellers will no longer have to take expensive PCR Covid tests when returning to the UK – potentially in time for the October school half-term. 

In his big set-piece on Tuesday Mr Johnson will also scrap some of the swingeing powers that the government took to manage the response to the disease, and all-but rule out further lockdowns to control an anticipated surge over the coming months – after scientists said vaccinations can be an effective first line of defence. 

A booster jab programme could begin as early as this month, while other measures in the ‘toolbox’ for tackling outbreaks will include masks. 

Asked if Britons will ‘get Christmas’ this year, Mr Javid said: ‘Yes, of course we get Christmas and the New Year.’

He insisted he is ‘not anticipating any more lockdowns’. 

Boris Johnson is set to announce the Government’s winter Covid plan, with a focus being placed on vaccination as he remains reluctant to impose further lockdowns

Ministers plan to axe costly PCR tests for double-jabbed travellers

Britain's vaccine drive is continuing to roll forward, taking the total amount of adults fully protected against the virus to just under 43.9million (80.8 per cent)

Britain’s vaccine drive is continuing to roll forward, taking the total amount of adults fully protected against the virus to just under 43.9million (80.8 per cent)

Ministers plan to axe costly PCR tests for double-jabbed travellers

Health Secretary Sajid Javid has confirmed that mandatory Covid passports will not go ahead as he stressed rising vaccination rates

Health Secretary Sajid Javid has confirmed that mandatory Covid passports will not go ahead as he stressed rising vaccination rates

Double-jabbed travellers ‘to be spared PCR tests next month’ 

Double-jabbed travellers will no longer have to take expensive PCR Covid tests when returning to the UK, the Government is poised to announce.

Officials are working towards scrapping the requirement for green and amber list countries before the half-term holidays next month, The Mail on Sunday can reveal, providing a huge boost for millions of holidaymakers and the beleaguered travel industry.

Travellers will no longer need Covid tests before leaving for Britain, while the unpopular PCR tests currently required on the second day after arrival will be replaced by cheaper lateral flow tests.

The move will slash the cost of family holidays by hundreds of pounds. Currently, the PCR test can cost more than £100, while the NHS offers free lateral flow tests.

The plan will be discussed this week by Boris Johnson, Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove who form the so-called Covid-O committee.

The change would also tackle fears that some PCR firms are profiteering and could provide an incentive for people to be vaccinated, as the new rules would only apply to those who have been double jabbed.

Ministers were sent out to defend the Covid passports proposals last week, with Nadhim Zahawi insisting they were the right thing to do even though he admitted they ‘went against everything I believe in’.

But briefing emerged in the Sunday Times about the U-turn. Firms and venues who are already demanding proof of vaccination will be allowed to continue to do so, but they will not be any legal obligation.

Mr Javid was at first reluctant to give a firm commitment, but then stated that the plan will not go ahead – although the concept will be kept ‘in reserve’.

‘I’ve never liked the idea of saying to people you must show your papers or something to do what is just an everyday activity, but we were right to properly look at it,’ he said.

‘We’ve looked at it properly and whilst we should keep it in reserve as a potential option, I’m pleased to say that we will not be going ahead with plans for vaccine passports.’

The shift poses a challenge for Ms Sturgeon, who again defended her own proposals in interviews this morning.

‘I think it is part of a package of measures, it has a part to play,’ she told Sky News. 

‘Of course any measure we take has upsides and it has downsides. 

‘If we take lockdown for example, very, very effective at halting or sufficiently constraining transmission of the virus but came with enormous costs in terms of the economy and our overall wellbeing as a society, so nothing is straightforward here. 

‘This is a very limited scheme.’

Speculation has been mounting over what increased measures may be brought in this winter, a high-risk time for coronavirus as other respiratory illnesses.

Mr Johnson hopes to avoid locking down the entire country and will send a message by repealling some of the Government’s powers to shut down sections of the economy in England under the Coronavirus Act.

Mr Johnson said: ‘Thanks to the efforts of the public, the NHS and our phenomenal vaccination programme, we reached Step 4 in our road map and life has returned to a sense of normality.

‘These extraordinary times required necessary but intrusive measures. But I’m determined to get rid of any powers we no longer need because of our vaccine defences.

‘I will set out the next phase in our Covid response shortly.’

The powers expected to be repealed include those allowing the closing down of the economy, the imposing of restrictions on events, the power to temporarily close or restrict access to schools, and powers to detain infectious people.

The Government expects the independent Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisation (JCVI) to recommend details of a jab booster programme next week. 

The focus on vaccination in the Covid winter plan comes after claims ministers were considering a so-called firebreak lockdown in October.

An unnamed member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) said a ‘precautionary break’ could be part of ‘contingency plans’, the i newspaper reported.

But Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: ‘I don’t think that’s something we need to consider.’

He said no decisions are ‘risk-free’ but insisted the ‘best defence’ against another wave of the virus is the vaccine programme.

Downing Street denied the Government is planning a lockdown or firebreak around the October half-term.

But the spokesman added that they have ‘retained contingency plans as part of responsible planning for a range of scenarios’.

They said: ‘These kind of measures would only be reintroduced as a last resort to prevent unsustainable pressure on our NHS.’

There are plans in place to begin giving booster jabs to the most vulnerable as early as this month, as more than 65 per cent of the entire UK population have been fully vaccinated.

Mr Johnson is expected to say vaccines will be the first line of defence this autumn and winter, while a decision is expected on how to roll out a booster jab programme (stock image)

Mr Johnson is expected to say vaccines will be the first line of defence this autumn and winter, while a decision is expected on how to roll out a booster jab programme (stock image)

The UK’s chief medical officers are drawing up advice to Government on whether children aged 12 to 15 should be vaccinated after the JCVI said the margin of benefit from vaccinating healthy children was too small to say they should receive a jab. 

The Observer reported that jabs for 12 to 15-year-olds would begin on September 22.

But the UK’s medical regulator has reportedly ruled that the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine cannot be used for third doses in this way.

This means the majority of third doses given out this autumn and winter are likely to be Pfizer.

This could see the Oxford jab, initially planned to be the workhorse of the UK’s vaccination programme, effectively phased out.

The AZ jab is already not offered to under 40s in the UK due to a link with rare blood clots.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said on Thursday that the Pfizer and AstraZeneca jabs are safe to use as boosters, but the JCVI has yet to give its advice to ministers.

The JCVI has already said a third dose should be offered to people with severely weakened immune systems. 

On Friday, Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, whose team developed the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, said he believes the priority should be donating vaccines to countries where people are still awaiting a first dose.

His views have been echoed by his Oxford colleague Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert, who helped design the vaccine and said booster jabs may not be needed by everyone.

Several other countries, including the US, Israel, Hungary, Germany and France, have announced or started third dose programmes for at least some of their citizens. 

Meanwhile, it was reported that hundreds of thousands of long Covid patients were waiting up to six months to access clinics specifically set up to tackle the condition.

Mr Javid (pictured on the Marr show today) vowed Christmas will not be cancelled this year as he insisted ministers are not expecting 'any more lockdowns'

Mr Javid (pictured on the Marr show today) vowed Christmas will not be cancelled this year as he insisted ministers are not expecting ‘any more lockdowns’

Department of Health bosses posted 29,547 new cases on Saturday, down 21 per cent on the 37,578 recorded last Saturday.

But the number of people dying within 28 days of a positive test is continuing to increase, with 156 people falling victim to the virus, bringing the total figure past 158,000. The figure was up 30 per cent on the 120 recorded last week.

Fatalities tend to reflect changes in infection levels at least a week after due to the time it takes for people to become seriously ill. 

Britain’s vaccine drive is continuing to roll forward with 89,832 second doses dished out today. It takes the total amount of adults fully protected against the virus to just under 43.9million (80.8 per cent).

Some 25,019 first doses were also dished out, taking the total number of people to receive at least one jab up to 48.4million (89 per cent) 

Elsewhere, it was reported that PCR tests needed prior to travel will be scrapped, with the day two test required when returning from abroad to be replaced by a cheaper lateral flow test.

Officials are working towards scrapping the requirement for green and amber list countries before the half-term holidays next month, The Mail on Sunday revealed. 

The move will slash the cost of family holidays by hundreds of pounds. Currently, the PCR test can cost more than £100, while the NHS offers free lateral flow tests.  



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Why a sea-view balcony room at The Grand Brighton hotel should be on YOUR bucket list 


How lengthy is your bucket list? It’s one particular quick if you haven’t stayed in a balcony sea-view home at The Grand Brighton.

Rely on me. It’s a sensational seaside practical experience. In particular with a glass of fizz to hand whilst having in the look at.

I checked in to a ‘Grand Assortment Deluxe Sea View Double Room’ with my loved ones on a recent Saturday, and to be frank, I was not pretty anticipating the splendidness amounts of the escapade to soar rather so large.

The sea watch from just one of The Grand Brighton’s balcony rooms, with the stays of the Quality I-detailed West Pier to the correct

The Grand Brighton was officially opened on July 21, 1864, 'to great fanfare and celebrated as the original "Palace By The Sea"'

The Grand Brighton was officially opened on July 21, 1864, ‘to terrific fanfare and celebrated as the primary “Palace By The Sea”‘

For a person, I’d been to Brighton’s seafront, wherever the lodge is found, a lot of periods prior to – so a new angle on some thing familiar surely could not be that momentous, could it?

It can. It was.

Our fifth-flooring eyrie allowed us to consider in this sort of a gargantuan slice of the land-sea threshold and the hive of exercise having area there that it proved astonishingly mesmerising.

From The Grand Brighton's sea-view rooms guests can take in a mesmerising slice of Brighton's seafront

From The Grand Brighton’s sea-see rooms guests can just take in a mesmerising slice of Brighton’s seafront 

The Grand was designed by the renowned architect John Whichcord Jr and when it opened boasted the very first lift outside of London - then referred to as 'vertical omnibuses'

The Grand was built by the renowned architect John Whichcord Jr and when it opened boasted the incredibly first raise outdoors of London – then referred to as ‘vertical omnibuses’ 

A sweep from left to correct as we sipped glasses of Moet took in the Palace Pier and its thrilling minimal funfair, dwell new music at the Brighton Music Corridor venue, volleyball matches, basketball matches, skaters, cyclists, canine walkers, swimmers, sailors, snorkellers, jet-skiers, sunbathers and off to the proper the sedate rise and fall of the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower glass pod and the continues to be of the Quality I-shown West Pier.

The bucket-listing qualifications of the continue to be had been anchored by the gem of a room’s Premier League king-sized bed and its region-model cushions and toss, suave grey hues – carried by the partitions, armchairs, sofa and headboard – and classy wooden floor-standing lights flanking the Tv.

I also appreciated the kettle disguised as a noticed teapot.

The 201-room Victorian hotel has plenty of grand features – as its name promises

The 201-home Victorian lodge has loads of grand options – as its title promises

At the Cyan restaurant bar, pictured, Ted sipped a 'superb' vodka and egg-based cocktail

At the Cyan cafe bar, pictured, Ted sipped a ‘superb’ vodka and egg-dependent cocktail

The Grand has featured in several adverts, documentaries, films and television shows, such as Only Fools and Horses and iconic Brighton cult film Quadrophenia

The Grand has highlighted in numerous adverts, documentaries, movies and tv shows, these types of as Only Fools and Horses and legendary Brighton cult movie Quadrophenia

THE ‘VERTICAL OMNIBUS’ AND AN IRA Attack: THE GRAND BRIGHTON – A Heritage

  • The Grand Brighton was officially opened on July 21, 1864, ‘to good fanfare and celebrated as the first “Palace By The Sea”‘
  • It was designed by the renowned architect John Whichcord Jr and when it opened boasted the really very first raise outside of London – then referred to as ‘vertical omnibuses’.
  • The hotel was bombed by the IRA on Oct 12, 1984 – an attempt to assassinate Margaret Thatcher, who was staying in it for the period of the Conservative Celebration convention. Tragically, five died in the attack. The re-opening of the lodge in August 1986 was attended by Thatcher and Concorde performed a fly-by in celebration.
  • Abba stayed in the hotel soon after profitable the 1974 Eurovision music contest.
  • It has featured in several adverts, documentaries, movies and television exhibits, such as Only Fools and Horses and legendary Brighton cult movie Quadrophenia. 

The 201-area Victorian resort has a good deal of grand capabilities way too – as its title guarantees. They consist of the remarkable ornamental iron balconies and balustrades at the front and on the remarkable central spiral staircase, regal pillars and a lovely wooden bar at the hotel’s Victoria Bar and Lounge.

It seems grand, far too – thanks to delightfully creaky floorboards in the corridors.

The staff present a couple flourishes, as properly, from the perky doormen in their chequered trousers and bowler hats to the bonhomie-imbued reception, bar and restaurant staff.

Following our sunset balcony exploits, we availed ourselves of the cocktail-producing skills on offer you at the Cyan cafe bar – I propose the fantastic £10.25 ‘Travelling Light’, built from Absolut vodka, lemon juice and egg white – and took a window seat at the Cyan restaurant for oysters cod, potatoes and asparagus mushroom and fish risotto and a scrumptious brioche treacle tart with clotted cream.

The early early morning Nespresso espresso on our room’s balcony was just as uplifting as the sunset phase, the sunny seafront peppered with joggers, cyclists and a pair of keen basketball players, but the breakfast downstairs did not gladden the coronary heart in the exact fashion.

It was served in a wide area with eye-catching decorative wall and ceiling flourishes, but the inside designers have not fulfilled its possible.

The massive blinds covering the home windows and non-descript tables and chairs seemed unbefitting of these types of a regal room. And although it was painted a homely dim blue, it was poorly lit, leaving the room sensation oddly gloomy.

It could do with a bit of uplifting finery – a chandelier or two, some drapery and desk linen potentially and certainly a display screen to include up the ready staff’s wood company station and its broken doorway.

It experienced the air of a cross among a motorway support station restaurant and a ballroom. And the whole English I experienced with its run-of-the-mill sausage and bacon was a little bit roadside, too.

Nonetheless, we did respect the scope of the unfold on present – which integrated a excellent variety of pastries and gluten-absolutely free solutions on a wood cart – and the prompt table service of espresso, and toast served in a small wooden box. Cute.

Afterwards, we took the little one to the absolutely free beachside paddling pool, had a pretty pleasant alfresco seafood lunch at Murmur café a couple yards further along and headed again to our London abode with our bucket lists at any time so somewhat shorter.

Journey FACTS 

Ted and his household had been hosted by The Grand Brighton. Rooms from £99 B&B as aspect of its winter season offer and from £140 B&B outside the house this promotion. Stop by www.grandbrighton.co.uk, contact +44 ()1273 224300 and e mail information@grandbrighton.co.united kingdom.

Click in this article to go to the hotel’s Instagram web page.  

Rating: Why a sea-view balcony room at The Grand Brighton hotel should be on YOUR bucket list 





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Staycation hotel review: Inside the new and ‘perfect’ Pig In The South Downs


New little Piggy goes to market: The Inspector calls at the new Pig hotel in the South Downs and declares that it’s ‘perfect’

  • The Pig In The South Downs is the eighth Pig hotel of the litter 
  • The Inspector is in Room 2 – ‘reached by a fabulous cantilever staircase’ 
  • The room’s vibe is ‘green and moody’ and ‘the moody vibe continues downstairs’
  • ‘Some guests have dressed up; others are in shorts. No one shows off,’ he says
  • Remember, The Inspector pays his way… and tells it like it is










The litter now stands at eight. This latest Pig opened on Monday in the South Downs near Arundel and we are here on day two, but you would never know it.

Both guests and staff already seem remarkably at home in what has become a thoroughly tried-and-tested — and hugely successful — format.

Take a splendid old house in lush grounds with plenty of auxiliary buildings ripe for development; redesign the interiors (whatever it takes) from top to bottom with a nod towards shabby chic sustainability; create a superb kitchen garden; hire a talented and enthusiastic chef; find local suppliers within 25 miles; create a sexy bar; light up the firepits and — bingo — you’ve got another winner on your hands.

The Pig In The South Downs is a former family home dating back to the 1770s. Pictured is one of the plush bedrooms 

The Inspector describes the feel of the hotel as 'effortlessly inclusive. Pictured is one of the bathrooms

The Inspector describes the feel of the hotel as ‘effortlessly inclusive. Pictured is one of the bathrooms 

But of course it’s not quite as simple as that. It doesn’t explain the buzz, the lack of pretension, the sheer joy of being here.

We pull up at the front door of what was a family home dating back to the 1770s. I’m frazzled after arguing with the satnav.

‘Just leave the car there and we’ll park it for you,’ says a sparky young Irish woman, who turns out to be the general manager.

We’re in Room 2, reached by a fabulous cantilever staircase that winds past an arched window and up to a long and exquisite first-floor landing.

The overall colour scheme in the room is green and moody. Some people might find it too dark, others will think it soothing; all will marvel at the vast avocado bathtub.

The moody vibe continues downstairs in the slinky bar and sitting room, before you move into the Pig’s signature greenhouse dining room, which spills out onto the terrace and into the garden, with a field of newly planted 4,500 vines (a first for the Pig) beyond.

The garden has a field of newly planted 4,500 vines, a first for the Pig chain

The garden has a field of newly planted 4,500 vines, a first for the Pig chain

Everyone is here: bright young things in their 20s, exhausted parents who have farmed out their children for a night, elderly couples. It’s all effortlessly inclusive and perhaps that’s the secret. Some people have dressed up; others are in shorts. No one is showing off.

We go overboard at dinner, starting with a selection of Piggy Bits, including the best ever crackling with apple sauce. The lobster cocktail is terrific but I’m not so convinced by my main course of scallops wrapped in air-dried ham. Before breakfast (£20 and not included in the price), we walk through the kitchen garden, where there are shepherd’s huts with outside showers and log burners.

This bedroom has wood panelling on the walls and an armchair for cosying up with a book

This bedroom has wood panelling on the walls and an armchair for cosying up with a book 

Then we say hello to the hotel’s chickens roaming in the nuttery (another first, which will produce almonds, walnuts and chestnuts) before inspecting the greenhouses, fruit cages and ‘mushroom house’.

Towards the end of breakfast, we spot a note on our table that says: ‘We know we’re not perfect yet. So please enjoy 10 per cent off your food today.’

It all seems perfect enough to me.

TRAVEL FACTS 

The Pig In The South Downs, Madehurst, Arundel, BN18 ONL. Doubles from £145, room only. For more information call 0345 225 9494 or visit thepighotel.com. 

Rating: Staycation hotel review: Inside the new and 'perfect' Pig In The South Downs



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The world’s best superyachts of 2021 revealed – including a British-built floating ‘work of art’


The world’s most luxurious superyachts have been named at a prestigious awards ceremony in Monaco.

Fourteen trophies were handed out to 12 stunning vessels at Boat International’s World Superyacht Awards, with the British-built 33.9m (111ft) Geist taking home the coveted award for Sailing Yacht of the Year and the 80m (262ft) Artefact – with its tai chi room, spa and ‘cosmic dining table’ – being crowned Motor Yacht of the Year.  

Scroll down to see the full list of swoon-worthy yachts that were recognised by the discerning judging panel of 22 current and former superyacht owners during the ceremony.

Motor Yacht of the Year and Displacement Motor Yachts, 1,600GT to 2,999GT winner: Artefact

Pictured is the 80m (262ft) Motor Yacht of the Year Artefact, which is home to a beach club, a tai chi room and spa and a dining space with a ‘cosmic table’ that features an artistic representation of the cosmos

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

Judges praised the Artefact (pictured) for its distinctive window shapes, large expanses of glass, and custom artworks and furniture

Built in Germany, but with interiors devised by UK-based Reymond Langton Design, the 80m (262ft) Artefact is home to a beach club, a tai chi room and spa and a dining space with a ‘cosmic table’ that features an artistic representation of the cosmos.

Judges praised the yacht for its distinctive window shapes, large expanses of glass, and custom artworks and furniture. 

They explained: ‘The unprecedented 750 square metres of glass [8,072 square feet] draw the natural surroundings into master suites and common areas to infuse the interior with natural light and connect passengers to the environment around them.’

Sailing Yacht and Sailing Yacht of the Year: Geist (33.9m/111ft)

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

The 33.9m (111ft) Geist sailing yacht was built by Ipswich-based Spirit Yachts, after the owner asked it to ‘build me a work of art’

This image shows Geist's super-suave saloon. The seating area alone took 2,000 hours to build and the table pictured has 64 handcrafted legs

This image shows Geist’s super-suave saloon. The seating area alone took 2,000 hours to build and the table pictured has 64 handcrafted legs

Under power, Geist is propelled by a 100kW electric motor powered by four BMW lithium-ion battery banks that can propel it for 30 nautical miles at eight knots or can feed the yacht’s household demand for four days. Pictured here is the master cabin

Under power, Geist is propelled by a 100kW electric motor powered by four BMW lithium-ion battery banks that can propel it for 30 nautical miles at eight knots or can feed the yacht’s household demand for four days. Pictured here is the master cabin

This yacht, the judges said, was 'a refreshing mix of top quality, traditional beauty, innovative interior design and advanced technology and, as such, truly deserves her accolade'. Pictured here is the VIP cabin

This yacht, the judges said, was ‘a refreshing mix of top quality, traditional beauty, innovative interior design and advanced technology and, as such, truly deserves her accolade’. Pictured here is the VIP cabin

The judges were impressed with Geist's 'organic style of interior design'

One of Spirit Yachts' other boats, the handcrafted Spirit 54, featured in Bond film Casino Royale, and its Spirit 46 appears in No Time To Die

The judges were impressed with Geist’s ‘organic style of interior design’. One of Spirit Yachts’ other boats, the handcrafted Spirit 54, featured in Bond film Casino Royale, and its Spirit 46 appears in No Time To Die

 This 33.9m (111ft) sailing yacht was built by Ipswich-based Spirit Yachts, after the owner asked them to ‘build me a work of art’. One of Spirit Yachts’ other boats, the handcrafted Spirit 54, featured in Bond film Casino Royale, and its Spirit 46 appears in No Time To Die.

The judging panel was impressed by the yacht’s ‘new and organic style of interior design’ and its abundance of sustainable materials.

According to Boat International, the seating area alone took 2,000 hours to build, with workers producing a saloon table featuring 64 handcrafted legs.

Under power, Geist is propelled by a 100kW electric motor powered by four BMW lithium-ion battery banks that can propel it for 30 nautical miles at eight knots or can feed the yacht’s household demand for four days, Boat International explained. Under sail, the motors become shaft generators to recharge the batteries, which are then used to power the sailing systems.

This yacht, the judges concluded, was ‘a refreshing mix of top quality, traditional beauty, innovative interior design and advanced technology and, as such, truly deserves her accolade’.

Refitted Yachts: Broadwater (56m/183ft)

This image showcases what the interior of the Broadwater looks like following a refit, carried out by boat-builder Royal Huisman at its Huisfit yard in Amsterdam

This image showcases what the interior of the Broadwater looks like following a refit, carried out by boat-builder Royal Huisman at its Huisfit yard in Amsterdam

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

This photo was taken onboard the Broadwater before the refit, when the interiors looked like a ‘Gentleman’s Club’ with highly varnished woodwork, traditional mouldings and leather seating

According to Boat International, the refit of Broadwater – carried out by boat-builder Royal Huisman at its Huisfit yard in Amsterdam – took two years to complete as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the refit a beach club and swim platform were added and the bridge deck’s exterior dining area was enclosed in a winter garden to make it weatherproof. 

The judges were most taken by the way the interiors had been transformed from looking like a ‘Gentleman’s Club’ with highly varnished woodwork, traditional mouldings and leather seating, into a spacious, bright and modern space.  

Rebuilt Yachts: Istros (42.1m/138ft)

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

Pictured is the Istros following its rebuild. The renovation work was carried out to ensure the new yacht kept some of its ‘period looks’ and featured the ‘timeless lines of yesteryear’

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

This snap shows what the Istros looked like before it was rebuilt. According to Boat International the yacht was originally built in 1954, but it fell into disrepair and lay neglected until 2001

Istros was originally built in 1954, but it fell into disrepair and lay neglected until 2001, Boat International revealed. 

Its rebuild was carried out to ensure the new yacht kept some of its ‘period looks’ and featured the ‘timeless lines of yesteryear’.

The judges commented: ‘While this degree of restoration is not unique, it has been achieved to a higher standard than most and has certainly saved this historic yacht for future generations.’

Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 30m (98ft) to 39.9m (130ft): SX112 (34.2m/112ft)

The judges were wowed by SX112's shaded beach lounge and fold-down side panels

The judges were wowed by SX112’s shaded beach lounge and fold-down side panels 

The judges also commended SX112 for its 'dramatic connection to the exterior surroundings through large windows that flood the interior with light'

The judges also commended SX112 for its ‘dramatic connection to the exterior surroundings through large windows that flood the interior with light’ 

The World Superyacht Award judges revealed that it was the ‘iconic’ rear deck area that first caught their attention on SX112.

It features a shaded beach lounge and fold-down side platforms that further increase the deck space when needed. 

The judges also commended it for its ‘dramatic connection to the exterior surroundings through large windows that flood the interior with light’.

Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 40m/131ft and above: Club M (40m/131ft)

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

‘Club M’s standout feature is its huge and most unusual upper deck alfresco living area,’ the judges said. They also called the exterior space ‘strikingly masculine’

‘Club M’s standout feature is its huge and most unusual upper deck alfresco living area,’ the judges said. 

‘This extends from bow to stern, with its semi-enclosed central portion shaded by a hardtop and edged by lowering side windows to offer a delightful inside-outside dining and conversation area, flanked by wide decks on either side.’

They also called the exterior space ‘strikingly masculine’ and commended the yacht for its well-conceived interior lighting and soft interior curves.

Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and Below, 30m (98ft) to 39.9m (130ft): Aurelia (39.7m/130ft) 

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

This image clearly shows the rear deck of the Aurelia, which can easily be reconfigured from a tender platform to a beach club and more

According to Boat International, Aurelia is a ‘Flexplorer’ yacht, as its 115 sq m (1,237sq ft) rear deck area can easily be reconfigured from a tender platform to a beach club and more.

It was this and the fact that the yacht has ‘purposeful exterior lines’ and a ‘sophisticated interior layout’ that wowed the judges.  

The vessel also features a cinema room, a private hot tub deck and a wine chiller with rotating racks that contain 44 bottles each.

Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and Below, 40m/131ft and above: Rebeca (40.8m/133ft) 

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

Pictured is the rear of the Rebeca with its six-square-metre glass-backed infinity pool, which the judges felt was a rare feature on a yacht of this size

The ‘seamless division between the outdoor living spaces and the spacious accommodation’ was one of the main reasons the Rebeca won its award. 

The judges were also impressed by the vessel’s six-square-metre (64-square-ft) glass-backed infinity pool, which they explained is a rare feature on a yacht of this size. 

In an interview the owner of Rebeca told Boat International: ‘If I get one euro for every picture that people take of this boat, I can buy a 50-metre tonight.’

Displacement Motor Yachts 500GT to 999GT: Blue II (56m/183ft) 

The look of Blue II was inspired by the appearance of mid-20th century tug boats. The World Superyacht Awards judges pronounced the vessel the 'standout winner' of the Displacement Motor Yachts 500GT to 999GT category

The look of Blue II was inspired by the appearance of mid-20th century tug boats. The World Superyacht Awards judges pronounced the vessel the ‘standout winner’ of the Displacement Motor Yachts 500GT to 999GT category

Blue II is an expedition yacht that was designed to perform in high-latitude areas, including the Northwest Passage, and its appearance was inspired by the tugboats and buoy-laying vessels of the mid-20th century.

The judges called it the ‘standout winner’ in the Displacement Motor Yachts 500GT to 999GT category and particularly praised it for being as ‘environmentally friendly as possible’ – thanks to its diesel-electric propulsion and exhausts fitted with an advanced Selective Catalytic Reduction system to meet emission regulations. 

Other highlights of the boat include a spa area with sauna and steam room and master suite with 180-degree views of the sea. 

Displacement Motor Yachts, 1,000GT to 1599GT: Alfa (70.2m/230ft) 

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

The Alfa was praised by judges for its panoramic windows and five distinct deck spaces that the experts said contained ‘every amenity’

Formerly named Alkhor, Alfa was lauded for its ‘handsome, forthright profile’ and ‘modern and unfussy’ interior design. 

The vessel was also praised for its panoramic windows and five distinct deck spaces that the judges said contained ‘every amenity’. 

Another highlight of the yacht is the beach club. It’s located on the lower deck to provide cooling shade and easy access to the sea and it’s only revealed when a set of twin doors fold down from the sides of the hull.

Displacement Motor Yachts, 3,000GT and above: Moonrise (100m/328ft) 

The Moonrise sleeps 16 guests across eight staterooms and judges praised the yacht for its 'attractive masculine character'

The Moonrise sleeps 16 guests across eight staterooms and judges praised the yacht for its ‘attractive masculine character’

This 100m (328ft) yacht sleeps 16 guests across eight staterooms and its facilities include a helipad, beach club and wellness area.

The World Superyacht Award judges praised the yacht for its ‘attractive masculine character’ and ‘pleasingly clean lines’.

They also commented that the yacht’s deck provided ‘every facility imaginable’. 

Voyager’s Award: V6 (48.5m/159ft)

The world's best superyachts of 2021 revealed - including a British-built floating 'work of art'

In 2020, the owners of the V6 sailed from the Canaries to Gibraltar, the Scilly Isles, Ireland, Scotland’s Western Isles, the Shetlands and Arctic Norway and it’s this journey that earned the yacht the ‘Voyager’s Award’

The Voyager’s Award is handed out in recognition of the epic journeys superyachts take rather than their design or looks. 

The V6 won the 2021 award for the 2020 journey it made across the Atlantic to the Canaries, to pick up its new owners, who sailed it to Gibraltar, the Scilly Isles, Ireland, Scotland’s Western Isles, the Shetlands and Arctic Norway.

According to the judges, the yacht punched through extreme weather on its passage to the Svalbard archipelago and the voyage allowed its owning family to have experiences like polar bear spotting and kite-surfing between icebergs. 

THE WINNERS OF BOAT INTERNATIONAL’S WORLD SUPERYACHT AWARDS 2021

Refitted yachts: Broadwater (56m)

Rebuilt yachts: Istros (42.1m)

Sailing yachts: Geist (33.9m)

Semi-displacement or planing motor yachts, 30m to 39.9m: SX112 (34.2m)

Semi-displacement or planing motor yachts, 40m and above: Club M (40m)

Displacement motor yachts 499GT and below, 30m to 39.9m: Aurelia (39.7m)

Displacement motor yachts 499GT and below, 40m and above: Rebeca (40.8m)

Displacement motor yachts 500GT to 999GT: BLUE II (56m)

 

 Displacement motor yachts 500GT to 999GT: BLUE II (56m)

Displacement motor yachts, 1,000GT to 1,599GT: ALFA (ex Alkhor) (70.2m)

Displacement motor yachts, 1,600GT to 2,999GT: Artefact (80m)

Displacement motor yachts, 3,000GT and above: Moonrise (100m)

Voyager’s award: V6 (48.5m)

Sailing yacht of the year: Geist (33.9)

Motor yacht of the year: Artefact (80m)

 



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There’s no better way to experience the majestic Norwegian fjords than on board a luxury cruise ship


Steve Van Zandt (‘Miami Steve’) isn’t just Bruce Springsteen’s guitar sidekick and an idol for bandana-wearers almost everywhere, he is also a fine comic actor.

He starred in a marvelous Television display, Lilyhammer, (the misspelling is deliberate), about a New York mobster who is relocated underneath witness protection to Norway mainly because he appreciated the glance of the location when he viewed the 1994 Winter Olympics.

You get the pitch: tricky-chatting gangster rubs up in opposition to kindly, courteous, reserved Norwegians. But if Norway’s fantastic plenty of for Steve, it’s fantastic more than enough for any of us.

Spectacular: The Every day Mail’s Roger Alton boarded the Viking Jupiter in Tromso for its ‘Into the Midnight Sun’ cruise. A single of the highlights was voyaging as a result of the Sunnylvsfjorden fjord and previous the Seven Sisters waterfall, pictured

Unquestionably, immediately after a seaborne swing together the towns and fjords of the spectacular Norwegian coastline, I can see precisely why individuals tumble in like with this exceptional part of the globe.

The prices may be eye-watering but the landscapes are jaw-dropping, the people pleasant and the weather conditions is out of this entire world. It is early July and we’re listed here to practical experience the midnight sunshine when, for a couple of months, due to the fact of the angle of the Earth, the sunlight never sets. I want to obtain anyone mowing the garden at 1am.

We fly from Oslo to Tromso, in which we will board Viking Jupiter for its ‘Into the Midnight Sun’ cruise. There is just ample time to explore Tromso, where gentle floods the streets as we head to a university student bar for late-evening treats (pancakes and beer).

On the way back to the lodge, the bars are entire and the streets packed with individuals heading house in wide daylight.

Subsequent morning, we tour the town and neighbouring countryside, with its meadows total of wildflowers, lilac and blossoming lupins amid the bracken.

Tromso, known as the gateway to the Arctic, has some outstanding modern architecture, notably the great Arctic Cathedral with its huge overlapping concrete triangles and soaring white roof giving the truly feel of a huge iceberg.

Tromso (pictured), known as the gateway to the Arctic, has some outstanding modern architecture, Roger reveals

Tromso (pictured), recognised as the gateway to the Arctic, has some outstanding contemporary architecture, Roger reveals

One of the most photographed buildings in Tromso is the 'awesome' Arctic Cathedral, with its 'massive overlapping concrete triangles and soaring white roof giving the feel of a vast iceberg'

A person of the most photographed buildings in Tromso is the ‘awesome’ Arctic Cathedral, with its ‘massive overlapping concrete triangles and soaring white roof offering the experience of a extensive iceberg’

And if you go for a bike journey, do not stress about bumping into a reindeer: they are surly beasts but incredibly utilised to folks and not at all fazed when you pedal into look at.

Boarding the Viking Jupiter is simple sailing (sorry) and following settling into a at ease condition place, it’s time for a style of Scandinavia at the Chef’s Table, featuring reindeer consomme, salmon and lamb farikal (practically, ‘sheep in cabbage’, which is much nicer than it sounds — it is Norway’s national dish).

The vessel is somewhat compact, with only 900 passengers, so it’s straightforward to get to know individuals. There is Liane from Milwaukee in the U.S., for occasion, who likes to nip up on deck for a swift smoke. Write-up-divorce, she appears to be to be on the lookout for a Scandi hunk.

There are cinemas and theatres, globe- course cooking in many eating places and functions galore. I plump for the wine-tasting above the scarf-folding workshop and appreciate the lectures, together with one particular from an astronaut and an account of the serious-daily life wartime Heroes Of Telemark.

We sail into the wonderful Lofoten islands, stretching 120 miles into the Norwegian Sea, all tall mountains, large valleys and extensive, lengthy beach locations.

A Viking cruise ship in the stunning Geirangerfjord, which is a UN heritage site, 'and rightly so'

A Viking cruise ship in the gorgeous Geirangerfjord, which is a UN heritage website, ‘and rightly so’ 

Roger sails into the 'beautiful' Lofoten islands (pictured), which stretch 120 miles into the Norwegian Sea

Roger sails into the ‘beautiful’ Lofoten islands (pictured), which stretch 120 miles into the Norwegian Sea

The minimal village of Geiranger has a inhabitants of just 250. It is at the head of the superb Geirangerfjord, which is a UN heritage web site, and rightly so.

On a single aspect the Seven Sisters waterfall cascades some 1,000ft down the mountainside in seven gushing gullies.

Legend has it there have been when just 6 sisters but a neighborhood farmer dug out an extra channel to produce the seventh.

In Bergen, they have a joke: a tourist, baffled by the frequent rain considering that she arrived, stops a young boy and asks if it at any time stops raining. ‘I do not know,’ he replies. ‘I’m only 13.’

It does really rain right here for 240 times a year — but when we take a look at on the last working day of our cruise, it’s baking, with blue skies, deep blue sea and the sun glinting on the wooden structures of Bryggen wharf and the hectic fish marketplace. It’s Norway’s second city, started in 1070.

The location is as thoroughly clean and clean as a Norwegian dawn. Imagining about it, wasn’t Britain meant to be a bit like Norway after we had still left the EU? If so, convey it on.

Journey FACTS 

Roger travelled with Viking Cruises (vikingcruises.co.united kingdom), which has a 15-working day sailing from London to Bergen by means of Edinburgh, Scotland’s Shetland and Orkney Islands, Tromso, Lofoten and Bergen, from £5,290 for each human being (which includes flight from Bergen). Cabins obtainable for 2023 sailings in June and July.



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