Fancy a jaunt to Europe this Spring?

If you’re planning a getaway, Eurostar is often the most convenient way to get to the continent, with trains running to popular city break destinations like Paris and Amsterdam.

And in an exciting turn of events, the train company has launched a huge flash sale, with £35 off selected routes.

But, you’ll have to be quick. The sale will last for a handful of days, ending on April 3 at 22:59.

Which destinations can you book tickets to in the Eurostar flash sale?

The cheap tickets are only available for travel from:

• London and Paris, Lille, Rotterdam, Amsterdam or Brussels between April 23 and July 9, 2025.

How cheap are tickets in the Eurostar flash sale?

Eurostar say that £35 is for a Eurostar Standard one-way ticket from London to Paris, Brussels, Lille, Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

We headed to the Eurostar website to check it out, and there are indeed £35 tickets to be had. Tickets for a long weekend in Paris in May (May 3 to May 6) could be purchased for £35 each way (£70 return), while you can get to Lille for the same price the weekend (May 9 to May 12).

You might have to be a little flexible with your times though. The cheap £35 tickets tend to be available for either early morning or evening routes. On May 3, Eurostar currently only offers £35 tickets from London to Paris at 07:01pm.

However, on the return trip on May 6, you have more choice, with £35 tickets available between 07:12am and 05:10pm.

It’s hard to believe that the idea of the Channel Tunnel itself – the world’s longest undersea tunnel at 31.5 miles long – was actually first conceived way back in 1802, although construction didn’t start until 1988.

Since the high-speed train service began over 30 years ago, connecting the UK to mainland Europe, the fleet of 28 trains has carried an estimated 150 million passengers.

It was finally completely in 1993, and the Eurostar began its service in November 1994.

The best things to do in Lille

While you might have already been to Paris or Amsterdam, Lille is an often overlooked French city that has lots to offer tourists looking for a fun city break. Previously speaking to Metro, Sarah Ewing shared her top tips when visiting:

Don’t leave without: With its Flemish heritage and 17th-century red-brick townhouses, charming Lille has a vibrant art scene. La Piscine de Roubaix is an art museum in a former swimming pool – and a must-see.

Transport advice: The most efficient public transport options are trams and buses.

Best-kept secret: France might be famed for its wine, but Lille is the country’s beer capital, home to historic craft breweries. It hosts a beer festival every September – last year, there were 100 events dedicated to craft beer in bars, restaurants and breweries.

Budget tips: Looking to bring a taste of France home that won’t break the bank? Visit Marché Wazemmes on Place de la Nouvelle – it’s one of the biggest markets in France, selling produce, beautiful gifts like honey and soaps, and is a great place to get lunch-to-go.

Where to eat: ‘L’Atelier Street Food is great value and known for its pre-match atmosphere. Soho Urban Food is a contemporary buffet-style restaurant with a great brunch and cocktails.

Where to stay: Hôtel Brueghel is centrally located and close to Gare Lille Flandres.

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From a nation of experts on sarcasm and self-deprecating humour, to Sunday afternoons strictly consisting of roast dinners at the local, we Brits have plenty of traits and habits they’re fiercely proud of.

However, some traditions or rites of passage have ingrained themselves into British culture, despite not even originating from the United Kingdom.

In fact, some have become so ‘British’ that many people just assume they are.

Intrigued as to what has made the cut?

Here are seven things people think are British but actually aren’t.

1. Tea

There’s no denying that a ‘cuppa’ is a quintessential British staple. According to the UK Tea & Infusions Association (UKTIA), around 84% of the UK population drinks tea every day, consuming roughly 100 million cups daily.

And of course, you’ll also never step foot in a British household without being offered a cup of tea.

Despite this, tea does not come from the UK. Rather, Camellia Sinensis, the tea plant, is believed to have originated in the borderlands of China and northern Myanmar.

One of the earliest accounts of tea drinking dates back to China’s Shang dynasty, which took place between 1600 and 1046 BCE. During this time, tea was consumed for medicinal purposes. It wasn’t until the 17th century when tea drinking became popular in the UK.

The British East India Company introduced commercial tea production to British India to compete with the Chinese tea market

2. Fish and chips

This is a bit of a trick one, because the fish and chip concept we know so well today is British through and through. Not to mention the ‘chippy culture’ that has become so popular up and down the country. (Did you know there are about 11,000 fish and chips shops throughout the UK and Ireland?)

However, in terms of the origin of the humble battered fish, its roots date back to the Middle Ages in the Mediterranean. Like so many iconic dishes, it was created out of necessity, not culinary genius.

During the 16th century, when Jews were facing persecution across Portugal and Spain, many resettled in the UK.

As well as the clothes on their backs, they also brought their ‘pescado frito’ recipe, which literally translates to ‘fried fish’ in English

3. Pubs

From a cheeky after-work pint to a beer garden session as soon as the sun comes out, it’s no secret that the British love pub culture.

But even though 15 million people visit a pub at least once a week, according to London Drink’s Guide, we cannot claim the mighty pub as our own.

Instead, we owe our love of the pub to the Romans, who opened up establishments called ‘tabernae’ to serve wine to soldiers and travellers along the newly constructed Roman road network.

The Romans brought their ‘pubs’ to Britain when they invaded in 43 AD, which later evolved into ‘alehouses’ when they left. Finally, they morphed into the public houses we know today

4. Saint George

Yes, Saint George might be the English patron saint. Yes, there may have a whole day dedicated to him. And yes, the English flag may have a flag representing the patron saint of England. But the ironic thing about it? Saint George wasn’t even English.

He was born in Cappadocia (modern day Turkey) in the 3rd century AD to a Cappadocian father and a Palestinian mother, who was born in Lydda (modern day Lod, in Israel).

It’s also highly unlikely that Saint George ever visited or moved to England. However, his popularity in England grew in the Middle Ages because of his association with chivalry and bravery, especially during the Crusades and the Hundred Years’ War.

King Edward III also had a major influence on Saint George’s popularity. When he founded the Order of the Garter in 1348, he dedicated it to Saint George and made him the patron saint of the Order.

5. Remembrance poppies

Not to be confused with Remembrance Day, originally known as Armistice Day, which originated in Great Britain on November 11, 1919, in commemoration of the first anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I.

As for remembrance poppies, the idea was all down to American humanitarian Moina Michael, who campaigned to make the poppy a symbol of remembrance of those who had died in the war.

She was inspired by Canadian doctor John McCrae’s poem, ‘In Flanders Fields’, which he wrote whilst serving in Ypres in 1915. The line in question read: ‘And now the Torch and Poppy Red, we wear in honor of our dead’.

Following Michael’s campaigning, in 1921, French lecturer, fundraiser and humanitarian, Anna Guérin, had the idea to wear artificial poppies made by French widows and orphans.

Her aim was to remember those who gave their lives during the war, but also to raise funds to support the families of the fallen and those who had survived.

Later that year, the Royal British Legion adopted the poppy as a symbol of remembrance and ordered a million poppies from Guérin in France. Further production in Britain was also commissioned.

6. Werther’s Original

Though you may associate Werther’s Originals with British grandparents (every UK kid will have memories of their grandma or grandad offering them the iconic caramel candy from an old tin at one point in their lives), they’re actually a product of Germany.

Both the Werther’s Original brand and the flavoursome butter caramel recipe were created in the small town of Werther in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

The founder was a confectioner called Gustav Nebel, who developed the recipe in 1909.

7. Tomato ketchup

There’s always been a debate over whether ketchup was invented in the UK or the US. But the funny thing about the whole argument is that the beloved condiment originates from neither.

And you’ll likely never guess its roots, mainly because tomato ketchup never actually featured tomatoes in its early days.

In the 17th century in early China, it began as a fermented fish sauce and resembled more of a soy sauce, dark and thin in texture.

British sailors bought the sauce from Chinese traders, which was called ke-tsiapor ke-tchup at the time, as a relief from the dry salt pork they ate on the seas.

After becoming a popular condiment along the Southeast Asian trade route, British sailors eventually brought it back to Europe, where various regional adaptations took place.

Some of these versions included tomato-based sauces created in the 19th century, which over the years, have evolved into the tasty ketchup we use today.

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‘Barebacking’ the tube – also known as ‘rawdogging’ – involves passengers sitting without any form of entertainment and people-watching, staring at other passengers to pass the time.

The term was first coined by Curtis Morton, co-host of the Behind the Screens podcast, in a TikTok that’s since racked up nearly 100,000 views.

‘You’ve commuted enough times – why are you sitting there without a phone, without a book, just looking at me, looking at what’s going on? Keep yourself to yourself. Read a book – just do something,’ Curtis says in the clip, ranking the most annoying train travel habits.

Now, I’ll happily hold my hands up and admit that I take joy in ‘barebacking’ while I’m on the tube – but not for the reason you’d think.

For the vast majority of journeys, I’m usually either reading a book or listening to music, trying my best to look awkwardly at the floor so as not to irk other passengers.

As a rule, I try to avoid doomscrolling because it only sets my thoughts racing – and I’m trying to cut down on my screen time.

But every once in a while, I actively choose to put my headphones down and just sit with my thoughts. At the end of the day, I’m sometimes so overstimulated (I have ADHD) that I need to abandon all forms of entertainment and just decompress from it all.

And yes, I hate the screech of the tube – so I choose parts of the journey I know to be quieter if I’m going to remove my headphones completely, or sometimes, I just sit with them on top of my ears with nothing at all playing, so I get the muffled effect but without any music.

I never stare at people – I usually just sit and look at the floor, or if there’s a view to be found out of the window, I’ll admire that instead.

Living and working in London, it’s all too easy to become completely absorbed by our phones during the commute – so much so that we’re not really connecting with what’s around us.

So, every once in a while, I like to strip it all back and just sit and digest the day without anything at all. I consider it a treat, and one that’s necessary for me as a neurodivergent person.

Naturally, the concept of ‘barebacking’ has caused quite the stir among Metro readers, as @howard_hennes said that ‘staring at total strangers in a public place is rude and an invasion of privacy.’

However, there were plenty of commuters who, like me, admitted to regularly making it through their journey to work on straight vibes alone.

For @d_bell, it’s clear that ‘not everyone needs to be glued to a phone every minute of the day,’ while @MephistoPD127 said, ‘you often don’t have a signal on the tube’ anyway.

@lexxedit added that ‘staring is obviously rude,’ but they confessed that unless they have a long commute, they don’t use their ‘phone or a book.’

‘I like to see the scenery and look around. Could be my age, I’m nearly 75. But what is wrong with that? Times changed, but I didn’t.’ Fair enough.

And for @agach, ‘people watching’ is essential during their commute, as they ‘take pride in [the] fact that I am not glued to the phone all the time like the rest of the zombies.’

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As a frequent visitor to Dubai, I find myself regularly defending the city.

I’ve written about its varied food scene, desert scenery and local markets — urging travellers to reconsider all they think they know about what is often described as a ‘soulless’ and ‘superficial’ destination.

And so when I headed to Dubai earlier this year, there was one place at the of top my must-visit list, not least to prove yet again that there’s more to this famous emirate than meets the eye.

Located 90 minutes southeast of the city lies Hatta, nicknamed ‘the highlands of Dubai’. Formerly an Omani territory, the same Hajar Mountains that hug Hatta dam, also stretch into Oman. The place started life as a farming village, and is one of the oldest preserved heritage areas in the UAE.

When I first visited Hatta in the late 90s, it felt like the middle-of-nowhere. An ill-fated trip that involved a dead car battery and a mountain rescue made it feel all the more isolated.

But Hatta is enjoying a glow-up, with Dubai officials positioning it as a major tourist attraction — and it’s easy to see why it’s beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Things to do in Hatta

Hatta dam is perhaps the most popular spot for tourists. You can hire kayaks or a variety of different boats, depending on the size of your party (and how much effort you want to put in).

With the Emirati sun beating down, my group and I opted for a donut boat, which had an awning for shade and plenty of room for four adults and one child — we could have fitted more. For the equivalent of £60, we floated around the beautiful dam, taking in the stunning scenery for an hour.

While I was happy to relax on the water, there’s plenty for those looking for adventure. Bikes can be rented to explore the mountains, and there are myriad hiking trails.

The newly opened Aerial Adventure Park has the UAE’s only 12m ‘giant swing’, three zip-line experiences, and a bag jump where you free-fall onto a giant crash bag. There are different packages on offer depending which attraction you choose to swing, jump or hurl yourself off from.

Back on solid ground, a trip to Hatta Honeybee Garden and Discovery Centre is another fun excursion. The largest producer of honey in the UAE, it’s home to 4,000 bee colonies, which produce 20 tonnes of honey per season. Admission is just £10, and guests can don a beekeeping suit to get up close and personal with the buzzing creatures.

For animals that don’t sting, head to The Camel Farm, located inside the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve (general admission is just £6). As well as a chance to ride the camels or try camel hugging therapy, you’ll also see other desert creatures, including gazelles, oryxes, and desert foxes.

And history buffs can learn all about Hatta’s past at the Hatta Heritage Village, and climb the towers of its centrepiece, Hatta Fort, built in 1896, for panoramic views of the region.

Where to eat in Hatta

Al Hajarain restaurant on the edge of Hatta’s heritage village is a top-rated spot, for good reason.

Opt for a seat outside under the awnings for a cool al fresco meal. The vibes here are friendly and laid-back with families and couples alike enjoying traditional Arabic fayre.

When in Dubai, you can’t go wrong with ordering a mixed grill, and the arayes here (a kind of meat-stuffed crispy pita) were particularly good. Sides of hummus and fattoush are also a must, and one of my favourite things to eat when I’m in the UAE.

Prices were reasonable too. Two mixed grills for £30 each were more than enough for five adults and one child (we had leftovers).

The restaurant was dry, but there’s fresh lemon mint juice on the menu (about £3) to quench your thirst.

How to get to Hatta from Dubai

For those staying in Dubai, getting to Hatta takes a bit of effort. If you’re willing to brave the city’s roads, you can hire a car and make the scenic 90-minute drive. Alternatively, you can take the Hatta Express bus.

The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) runs a shuttle from Dubai Mall to the Hatta Bus station for only 25AED (£5).

The journey takes an hour and 15 minutes, and operates every two hours from 7am to 7pm. You can get the same bus back, with the last leaving Hatta at 7pm.

The future of Hatta

In 2021, Sheikh Mohammed announced plans to transform Hatta into a major tourist destination.

Already, there have been dramatic changes. A Hollywood-style Hatta sign now sits on the Hajar Mountains, and what was once a make-shift carpark has been paved over to make way for a small shopping area, with empty buildings awaiting their retailers.

A huge waterfall rolls down the hillside against the world’s largest mosaic — an image of Dubai’s founding fathers. Future plans include a small beach and a mountain railway, and a new cable car route will offer tourists a unique way to view the area.

For those keen to explore an untouched gem, you might want to book your trip to Hatta now. But it’s no surprise that this beautiful area is finally getting the recognition it deserves.

Where to stay in Hatta

If you’re not content with a day trip to the region, book a stay at JA Hatta Fort, Dubai’s only mountain resort.

Perfect for adventurers, the hotel can arrange activities for you in Hatta, including kayaking and mountain biking.

There’s an adult-only pool, but it’s family-friendly too, with large grounds perfect for an evening stroll — you can spot some of the hotel’s resident tortoises and rabbits too.

It’s also pet friendly, and the hotel will provide food and water bowls for your furry friends should you wish to bring them along.

The rooms are spacious and cosy, with a natural aesthetic: think beamed ceilings and wooden accents. Soak up the sun on your balcony, and enjoy a delicious breakfast outside at Café Gazebo, which has panoramic views of the mountains. There’s also a spa when you need a well-earned break from being outdoorsy.

Low season (June – September) rates start from £75, while high season rates (January – June and September – December) start from £150.

For more information visit their website.

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Virgin Group has said there are ‘no more major hurdles to overcome’ in its rail project to operate cross-channel trains, offering travellers an alternative to Eurostar.

Sir Richard Branson recently announced plans to raise £700million to fund a new train service connecting UK passengers with Paris, Brussels, and potentially Amsterdam later on.

The company made the positive claim after the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) confirmed that Eurostar’s Temple Mills maintenance depot could be used by other train operators.

The depot, trains can maintained and stored, is crucial for other operators to be able to compete. The ORR confirmed that ‘operational and maintenance arrangements’ could be made to make this possible.

The ORR’s statement was welcome news to Virgin, who then responded, saying that this was ‘a green signal for competition.’

A spokesman added: ‘Virgin is therefore very pleased with the outcome… There are no more major hurdles to overcome. We expect to be able to make an announcement very soon.’

Having previously operated trains around Britain between 1997 and 2019, Virgin is now keen to get back on the tracks, looking to become Eurostar’s first direct rival in 30 years with a high-frequency service along the same route.

They previously shared aspirations to raise £300m in equity and £400m in debt to fund the project, claiming it plans to be the ‘cornerstone equity investor’ by providing a chunk of the initial funds required.

A spokesperson said of the developments: ‘The cross-channel route is ripe for change and would benefit from competition.

‘While Virgin is not committing to launching a service just yet, we are seeking investment from like-minded partners to invest alongside Virgin, and we are delighted with the progress made so far.’

Despite ideas still being in their infancy – with the company saying in a statement it is ‘not committing to launching a service just yet’ – a Financial Times report claims the hope is to launch as soon as 2029.

Alongside improving choice for passengers, Metro understands that Virgin’s aim is to inject some joy into their journey across the Channel, which suggests the onboard experience itself will be a priority for the firm.

In an effort to win over Eurostar customers, they’ll also be sweetening the pot, with bookings connected to its Group-wide rewards programme, Virgin Red.

Of course, the project will be no small feat, as getting a service like this up and running poses a range of challenges. For one, Virgin Group will need to ensure its trains are compatible with the Channel Tunnel’s safety rules. There’s also the matter of space in overcrowded stations to contend with.

Setting up the service will be a ‘huge undertaking,’ admits Phil Whittingham, a rail project lead at Virgin Group.

However, he adds: ‘We think Virgin is the right brand to signal a new era in cross-Channel travel.’

It comes after a collaboration agreement between the Channel Tunnel operator Getlink and London’s St Pancras railway station to increase the number of services running between Britain and France, and also to open up routes to Germany and Switzerland.

Last month, it was reported that St Pancras station hopes to triple peak time passenger numbers, taking the amount from 1,800 to 5,000 per hour.

And Eurostar is hot on the tracks of its potential competitors, already taking steps of its own to expand.

Last year, it revealed plans for up to 50 new trains and more international services to tap into the ‘huge demand’ for rail travel throughout Europe.

Gwendoline Cazenave, chief executive of the train operator, said the ‘race’ was on to increase capacity, having become one of the continent’s biggest high-speed rail operators.

But more Eurostar trains threaten to thwart Virgin Group’s proposals before the cash has even been raised for them, as it means limited depot space.

Both Virgin and Evolyn have previously argued they would struggle to secure funding or order trains for a new service without access to the depot.

Consequently, the operators have asked the rail regulator to intervene.

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From gate lice, to confusing queuing systems and stuffy waiting areas, boarding a flight is often a less-than-pleasant experience.

But British Airways is aiming to fix this familiar headache with new boarding rules, designed to streamline the process.

Back in 2017, BA introduced a system that divided passengers into not one, not two, but nine boarding groups.

While the intention was to reduce overcrowding, so many groups often had the opposite effect: small gate areas can mean not often seats, and passengers are left standing around, waiting to finally get on the plane.

But now, the UK flag carrier has quietly overhauled its system, scrapping some of its boarding group all together.

On long-haul flights, Groups 7 to 9 have been removed, and Groups 6 to 9 have been removed from short-haul boarding.

This leaves economy passengers boarding in just three groups on long-haul flights (4, 5 and 6) and two groups on short-haul flights (4 and 5).

The approach is organised by seat rows: Group 4 comprises the rear part of the economy cabin, while Group 5 (and Group 6 on long-haul flights) comprise the front part. 

This means passengers in the back can access their seats quickly without being blocked by those at the front. 

Groups 1 to 3, meanwhile, will be called first and are reserved for priority boarding customers, including Executive Gold, Silver and Bronze members.

As usual, your group number can be found printed on your boarding pass.

According to BA’s website, the system is intended to ‘simplify boarding, reduce congestion at the gate and make things easier for you’. 

It’s set to be a welcome relief to BA passenger, who complained that the previous system was difficult to navigate.

On the British Airways Reddit thread user, r/djmno3 wrote: ‘Having flown BA quite a few times, there’s been so many times when I’ve had to squeeze past people queuing for the gate, which created mayhem.’

Another user, r/txe4, said they hated the ‘chaotic’ boarding process. They wrote: ‘Groups not respected, crowds around the gate so you can’t tell what’s going on, displayed going immediately from “boarding at XX:XX” to “final call”, no explanation for delayed.’

Another r/Odd_Bus618 added: ‘Half the time, they never update the signs from group 1 or call later groups, so that’s why people mingle and chance their luck.’

This isn’t the first time BA has tweaked its boarding system. Last year, the airline introduced a Group 0 for select premium passengers, consisting of invite-only Premier card holders, Gold Guest List and Gold Guest List for life.

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If you’ve made the journey from the UK to Australia or Asia, you’ll know it’s long. Like, really long.

From multiple flights to the dreaded jet lag, 24 hours-plus of plane food and a small child kicking your seat for a day in the air, it’s no surprise long-haul travellers are on the lookout for ways to make the journey to the far side of the world more enjoyable.

Whether you’re on your way to beach bliss in Bali and Koh Samui or heading Down Under to Australia and New Zealand, adding a Hong Kong stopover to your travel itinerary will make your epic journey even more thrilling.

The city is a brilliant metropolis mixing East and West. From its heritage and local culture to cuisine and impressive architecture, it’s the perfect spot for a stopover to rest and recharge with direct flights taking less than 13 hours from London.

Here are the best ways to experience the city, while making your journey unforgettable. 

A world-class airport and Express transport

It makes sense to start with Hong Kong’s airport, which is where you’ll first experience this amazing city after you touch down.

There’s a reason Hong Kong International Airport is consistently voted one of the world’s best: its Airport Express whisks you into the heart of the city in just 24 minutes, while convenient luggage storage means you can get the most out of even the shortest of layovers without lugging around a suitcase. 

Check into top-tier hotels

The city’s hotels provide a range of rooms for all budgets, from historic charm to modern luxury, all of which cater to travellers on a stopover.

There are several iconic hotels to choose from, such as The Peninsula (pictured), the Four Seasons – boasting views of Victoria Harbour – and Mandarin Oriental. If you’re after something a little more boutique, try The Upper House, or Rosewood Hong Kong for some local luxury.

While these are central and perfect for a quick visit, there are also great hotels closer to the airport so you need not worry about missing your flight. Novotel Citygate is a hassle-free option, with a complimentary shuttle bus for guests to the airport taking the pain out of organising a cab.

Plus, you’re still only a short trip to the city centre on the subway, or a bus ride from the quaint Tai O fishing village. The best of both worlds, we say!

The mesmerising skyline

We’re sure you’ve seen images of Hong Kong’s expansive, glittering architecture, but that’s nothing compared to seeing it in real life.

A ride on the Peak Tram takes you to Victoria Peak where you can witness amazing vistas of city skyscrapers juxtaposed with the mountains and sea, showcasing the city’s panorama.

Back down off the peak, you can cruise across Victoria Harbour and see the city from the water, or make a reservation at one of the skyscraper’s bars or restaurants where you can sit back (or sip back) and take in the city’s lights from on high.

Don’t forget to set your alarm for 8pm when the daily Symphony of Lights transforms the harbour into an amazing display of laser beams and synchronised lights. Truly, dinner and a show.

The food scene

Speaking of dinner, if you’re a foodie, this city offers up many a dishy delight, with a blend of traditional Cantonese flavours and international influences. While in town, wrap your tastebuds around local dumplings and noodles, teamed with egg tarts and pineapple buns with butter.

Even on a whistlestop tour of the city, you can manage to fit in a range of culinary wonders, such as dim sum at the historic Lin Heung Tea House in Central before slurping down some wonton noodles at Mak’s Noodles.

Don’t forget to take in the amazing street food offerings on the streets of Mong Kok, where you can snap up egg waffles and curry fish balls while on the go. Time is of the essence, and we don’t want you to miss a magic moment.

Come nighttime, the Temple Street Night Market is calling, offering up food for every taste. Here we have everything from open-air restaurants serving seafood, or local cha chaan tengs like Australia Dairy Company keeping travellers fuelled with Hong Kong-style milk tea and toast.

A shopper’s dream

It’s worth leaving a little (or a lot) of free space in your suitcase to stock up the holiday wardrobe with some stopover shopping thanks to Hong Kong’s tax-free status.

If you’re a fan of designer threads, explore Central mall and Kowloon Peninsula’s Tsim Sha Tsui, the latter being home to Canton Road, known for its array of luxury brands. Many of the malls are an air-conditioned welcome for travellers keen to escape the humid heat, where you can shop ’til your heart’s content without breaking a sweat.

Perhaps you’re after something a little more unique to remember your time in the city? In that case, head to PMQ in Central, where you’ll find a multi-level retail space featuring a mix of local fashion labels, pop-ups, and unique boutiques for quirkier keepsakes and gifts for loved ones back home.

A spot for nature-lovers

Off the man-made track, Hong Kong provides an accessible escape for those who want to be at one with nature.

Look no further than the Dragon’s Back hiking trail, which was crowned Asia’s best urban hike – which can be completed in just a few hours (great for those on a flying visit!) – providing dreamy coastal views.

If you’d rather stay central, Hong Kong Park is an oasis nestled among the skyscrapers of the city, even complete with a tea house, aviary and artificial lake that brings the nature downtown. 

For those with a little more time, in 30 minutes you can be on the golden sands of Repulse Bay, paddling in the cool water, or catching some waves at the aptly-named Big Wave Bay. 

There’s nothing like some salt water to bring the holiday vibes.

Year-round cultural highlights

The city never sleeps, so it doesn’t matter what time of year you’re touching down there will always be something special to experience.

Chinese New Year is particularly amazing, as the city is transformed into a tapestry of red lanterns, flower markets and fireworks to celebrate, while art takes over in March with Art Basel.

Riffing on the earlier culinary heart of the city, autumn then brings the Wine & Dine Festival, while March also sees Hong Kong Rugby Sevens come to the city for sport lovers to enjoy.

Before you know it, you’re on the next leg of your holiday, feeling refreshed, inspired and energised by all Hong Kong has to offer!

Visit discoverhongkong.com to find out more.

The crowd gathers in speedos, budgie smugglers, and rainbow bikinis as the progress flag is raised over Bondi Beach.

It’s an annual tradition – the unofficial beginning of Mardi Gras weekend – for the Sydney LGBT+ swim club to take an early morning dip in the rolling surf of the Pacific.

We’re flanked on either side by lifeguards with rainbow flags painted on their surfboards – a welcome safety measure, though it doesn’t feel needed because most of the group don’t even bother to swim.

They’re too preoccupied with splashing one another and sharing the juiciest of last night’s gossip. I realise the point of this isn’t to fit in a morning workout, but rather an opportunity for queer people to socialise in a way that doesn’t revolve around alcohol or drugs.

For context, this wasn’t my first Mardi Gras. I’d come during the infamous Pride celebrations in 2023. That year Sydney had been chosen to host World Pride, so everything was bigger and better, pride at its most superlative. And, like many others, my alcohol consumption had been excessive, to say the least.

That year went down in gay history books as one of the most chaotic Prides any of us had ever experienced. The parties went back to back, for weeks, and it felt like nobody came up for air.

Canadian TikToker Chris Zou went viral for asking the question we were all thinking. ‘When the f*ck do these people sleep?’

This time, however, I wanted something different. I’m currently on a journey to visit Pride events across all seven continents, but I’m also on a personal journey of sobriety.

Having recently hit the 18-month mark, I’ve been spending a lot of time reevaluating my relationship with queer spaces.

For gay men in particular, substance use has become ingrained into our community. I don’t shy away from bars or clubs, but sometimes it can be difficult to connect when it feels like you’re the only one not in line for the bar or the toilet cubicle.

Coming to Sydney I was worried about ‘being the sober one’, but bobbing up and down in the sea with a hundred-or-so fellow swim enthusiasts puts us all on the same level.

Small talk gives way to meaningful conversation, and I realise there’s more to the Harbour City’s LGBT+ community than I’d originally thought. Yes, they know how to throw a legendary party, but it turns out they know how to build a tight-knit community too.

‘These community groups are vital,’ Jeremy James from North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club, tells Metro. ‘They provide spaces where we can find each other and build connections.

‘Just a few decades ago, Bondi was known for sustained violent acts against our community. Today, this event symbolizes the progress we’ve made and the unwavering strength of our community.’

It’s hard to imagine that this was a place once known for violence, but a memorial now stands here as a reminder of what took place.

Between the 1970s and 1990s, LGBT+ people were systematically targeted, with some allegedly being thrown from the cliffs.

Today, however, the cliffs of Bondi have been reclaimed as a place of love and acceptance. Lesbian influencers Gabi and Shanna (@27travels) got married here during World Pride, sending a powerful message that love will always win. The hoisting of the Pride flag above the swim club sends the same message.

This defiance can be felt everywhere across the Eastern Suburbs. At Fair Day – a community-driven Mardi Gras event – I’m overwhelmed by options for LGBT+ sports clubs. Row upon row of different societies are recruiting new members. With everything from boxing to dragon boat racing, it feels like there’s a club for everyone.

I explain that I have zero hand-eye coordination – I was always that queer kid who was picked last for PE – but I get the same answer at every turn: regardless of ability, everyone is welcome.

Against my better judgment, I have my arm twisted into attending the Big Gay Ice Bath Bonanza, an LGBT+ event focused on mental health. I regret my willingness as we gather on the sand before the sun has even risen. It’s already cold on the beach at this hour, and as I watch the baths being loaded with generous buckets of ice, I wonder what the hell I’ve signed up for.

But after ice-breakers and sunrise breathwork, the pieces click into place. ‘Events like these are important to give LGBT+ people a space to connect and build friendships beyond the party scene,’ Nick White – gay men’s coach and founder of the Happy Human Project – explains.

‘In a community where mental health struggles are common, these experiences help us feel stronger, more present, and seen.’

These words resonate as I plunge into the icy waters, laughing and shrieking alongside my fellow queers as if I’ve known them for years. I came here expecting a test of endurance, instead, I found a space where vulnerability was not just encouraged, but celebrated. Sometimes getting out of our comfort zones is the fastest way to new friends.

If ice baths and sports clubs aren’t your thing, however, there’s something for just about everyone.

There’s an LGBT+ dog pageant, a queer fashion show, and – perhaps most importantly – an LGBT+ prom for queer youth. That’s something that resonates with me personally; when I was a queer kid, I skipped prom because I didn’t feel free to be myself.

Sydney goes above and beyond to give everyone this freedom, and I think that’s what draws so many from overseas. Booking.com’s research shows that 51% of LGBT+ people consider how accepting a place is before booking a trip, and by the sheer number of queer tourists I meet, I think it’s clear that the city’s reputation proceeds it.

There’s a diverse offering of events for every member of the community too – there’s the Paradiso Pool Party for those who want to dance in their speedos, and the Kaftana Pool Party for those who prefer to cover up.

There’s the Hot Trans Summer boat party; the Ultra Violet party for queer women; and the renowned Sissy Ball, the largest vogue ball in the southern hemisphere, run by and for the trans community and QPOC.

It’s an opportunity for marginalised voices to be heard, and Kianna Oricci – the ball’s curator – uses her time on stage to educate: ‘This is a learning opportunity for everyone, to know how to protect us – trans women of colour – to make sure we are flourishing in whatever we’re doing, and that we have support from the wider community.’

Her speech is met with thunderous applause. It’s important to remember that seeking support from allies is how Sydney’s celebrations originally began. In 1978, queer activists came together to plan a protest, but knowing they didn’t want things to turn violent, they decided to guise the demonstration as a giant street party instead.

Sydney Mardi Gras was born, and almost 50 years later, it’s one of the biggest festivals in the world. The festivities are broadcast live on national TV – something unheard of for a Pride parade – and as such, they put on a show unrivalled anywhere else.

As the sun sets over Sydney, the city is transformed by the tidal wave of energy that is Mardi Gras after dark. A dancing shark – made from recycled materials – sashays down the street wielding pom poms. There’s choreography and pyrotechnics, and the march of the queer librarians who furiously shush the cheering crowd.

There are light-up costumes, reems of confetti, and more speedos than seems sensible. ‘Is Pride really not like this everywhere?’ a local lesbian asks me as a rainbow firework explodes overhead, beautifully unaware of how special and unique this celebration truly is.

By the time I’m deep into the after-party, all worries of ‘being the sober one’ have escaped me. As Leland brings out queer royalty like Troye Sivan and Trixie Matel, dripping with sweat, I dance alongside friends and strangers alike.

There’s no doubt that Sydney Mardi Gras knows how to throw a party, but if you look beneath the surface, you’ll also find one of the most welcoming (and sober-friendly, if you want that) communities in the world.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

It’s a Monday morning and you’re half asleep on the District Line heading into the office.

Amidst a sea of rucksacks and travel mugs, people sit and read their books or doomscroll on their phones, avoiding eye contact by whatever means necessary.

There are plenty of irritating commuter types out there who disrupt this almost zombie-like journey to our desk.

But one subset of London Underground passengers have been labelled the worst of them all: the ‘barebackers’.

Get your mind out of the gutter – it’s a perfectly innocent term coined by Curtis Morton, co-host of the Behind the Screens podcast, in a TikTok that’s racked up nearly 100,000 views.

Essentially, barebackers – also known as rawdoggers – are people who sit without any form of entertainment and people-watch, staring at other passengers to pass the time.

‘Barebackers are number one,’ Curtis says in the clip ranking the most annoying train travel habits.

‘You’ve commuted enough times – why are you sitting there without a phone, without a book, just looking at me, looking at what’s going on? Keep yourself to yourself. Read a book – just do something.’

It might sound a little harsh, given that a mere 25 years ago this was likely considered perfectly acceptable behaviour. Heaven forbid, people may have even stuck up conversation with their fellow passengers.

According to Curtis though, it’s still not an excuse for someone to stare into your soul.

He tells Metro: ‘I’m honoured to be the unofficial spokesperson in the important fight to eradicate all barebackers from our transport network. 

‘I get that 20 or 25 years ago people commuted without TikTok, Tinder and a podcast for every possible niche. They might’ve had ten songs on a Walkman and pure vibes.

‘Even then, we didn’t have a nation of dirty barebackers! People read books, did crosswords, even flipped through the Metro.

‘But now, at least once a day I seem to encounter someone just sitting there, no headphones, no phone, no distractions, not even pretending to scroll – just staring through me.’

The podcaster says this unwanted attention makes him suspicious of other travellers, and a little paranoid, joking: ‘I think, what are you plotting? Or are my flies undone? Have I accidentally turned the flash on my phone?’

And while Curtis commends people who find the time to keep up with their correspondence outside their daily commute, he adds: ‘I think it’s completely reasonable to ask: pull out your phone. Buy a book. God, even fall asleep.

‘Just leave the barebacking to the privacy of your own home, and not while making eye contact with me on the 7.48am to London Bridge.’

On TikTok, there was a general consensus Curtis was speaking some hard truths, with one comment reading: ‘Every point got me nodding my head ferociously.’

Not everyone agreed though, including Mark Joseph who wrote: ‘Anyone who doesn’t need constant stimulation from a book/phone/iPad, and can just exist in peace for five mins, is awesome.’

Barebackers weren’t the only commuter type under fire either. Curtis’s list of the worst passenger behaviours also featured playing music out loud or having loudspeaker phone conversations, which he ranked at number five.

Not letting people off the train before you get on sat at number four, while prematurely getting ready to alight took the number three spot. People who sit with their legs spread were his second most hated commuter stereotype, just behind barebackers.

Curtis’s co-host James had a couple of honourable mention too, from people who won’t remove their rucksack on a crowded train to those who hog the space on the platform where the train doors will open.

Among the comments, many shared their own additions to the list of commuting no-nos, with @Julian nominating ‘people putting their bag on the window seat and sitting on the aisle seat (especially when the train is busy).’

‘Eating on a train – put that McDonald’s cheeseburger away!’ added @aaron_pacey, while a third user said: ‘People who get on and then stop right in front of the door, so they block anyone else trying to get on.’

So, are you guilty of any of the above commuting offences?

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Walking through the airport, I soon spotted my arch nemesis: Ryanair’s ‘cage of doom’ bag sizer.

Many a traveller has fallen victim to its tight measurements in the past, leaving them with no option but to pay the extortionate on-the-spot fee of £46-£60 – just so they can indeed have clean underwear on their next adventure.

Today, however, I vowed that would not be me – thanks to an impressive Primark 8-Wheel Hard Shell Underseat Suitcase, for just £25.

Lifting my case into the sizer, at first it appeared there was no chance it was going to fit. Luckily, I had a singular trick up my sleeve…

I pressed the release buttons on the sides of each wheel and in seconds, had all four of them in a little bag, which then got stuffed inside my pocket. Then, holding my breath, I once again lowered the now wheel-less suitcase into the sizer.

One deliberate prod later and the case fell neatly into place – and the Primark case fit like a glove. 

‘Bingo!’ called a woman watching on from the queue behind me. She was right, I did in fact feel like a winner and it’s all thanks to Primark’s new suitcase.

As someone who loves to travel but refuses to pay a penny more on a trip than for her cheap airfare, I am always on the lookout for an underseat bag that’s going to help make that a reality.

The problem is, bags that promise to fit the baggage allowance requirements for the likes of Ryanair, WizzAir and EasyJet can often get quite bulky just due to the volume of items people try to cram into such a small space. 

So, when I stumbled upon this gem during a routine trip to Primark – ironically while scouting for a different bag I’d heard about – I was really buzzing.

It was the words ‘removable wheels’ printed on the tag that caught my eye and brought me to my knees with glee.

That may be a slight exaggeration, but I did find myself bounding over to the shelves, eyes practically bulging in anticipation and excitement. ‘Could this case be the one I’d been searching for for all these years?!’ I thought.

Now, admittedly, this wasn’t my first foray into Primark’s ‘viral’ luggage. Last year I picked up its similar-sized soft black bag with two wheels and a hidden handle and was pleasantly surprised at its practicality.

While the measurements were a couple of cm over the allowance, it passed the dreaded airport test, and it even survived a seven day trip to Estonia.

Yet it wasn’t the material of this newest find that gave me pause, rather it was the case itself.

See, I’ve never understood the desire to take a suitcase as part of your small cabin baggage allowance before – when you’re only given 40x20x25cm, in my opinion, the wheels and handle eat up valuable packing space, why not opt for something else?

However, if you were to take the wheels out of the equation, that suddenly makes a lot more sense. Plus, hard sides could also prevent overpacking, which would satisfy many an anxious traveller.

So, suitcase trundling swiftly behind me, I left Primark £25 poorer and ready to put this bag to the ultimate Ryanair test.

At home, I was impressed to find that the suitcase came in at the stated measurements and, when it came to packing, I was able to squeeze in enough clothes, underwear and swimwear for a three day trip.

I even got a spare pair of shoes, a toiletry bag, an electronics bag, a travel adaptor and a phone tripod inside, too. 

But now it was packed to the brim, would it actually fit in the baggage sizer?

En route to the airport, I was happy to find that the suitcase handled well, especially on smooth surfaces. It required a bit more force on hills and cobblestones, but when the wheels hit vinyl floors, I felt close to pure joy.

Then it was time for the moment of truth.

I didn’t have too many concerns going in to be honest as it seemed Primark had thought of everything, even down to the small black bag designed for storing the wheels.

Still, watching it fall so neatly into place was a great moment and one I’m sure all money-savvy travellers would enjoy too.

My only lingering concern is that Ryanair’s baggage policy specifically states that a ‘small bag’ is a ‘small personal bag, such as a handbag, laptop bag or backpack’. It might not explicitly prohibit a suitcase (even one without wheels) but get the wrong member of gate staff and you could have an issue.

Therefore, my advice is to remove the wheels before joining the queue and either store them inside the case or in a pocket so as to avoid attracting more attention than is necessary.

Hopefully this reduces your chance of being stopped and keeps the boarding process smooth for everyone. 

Overall, this new Primark suitcase does indeed get my seal of approval. It’s a great quality find for the price and it’ll certainly turn a few heads at the gate.

In fact, I can’t wait to take it on my next Ryanair flight with me and I think I’ll actually be disappointed if they don’t ask me to measure it. Cage of doom, come at me!

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk. 

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