Travellers flying from UK airports may want to plan their journey carefully, as new data has revealed the airports where you’re most likely to lose your luggage or have your flight cancelled.

Travel company Bounce examined passenger complaints, cancellation rates, and customer satisfaction from 2022 to 2024, finding that several major UK airports have consistently struggled with luggage handling. 

And when it comes keeping hold of your bags Southampton Airport topped the list as the UK airport most likely to lose your luggage.

According to the research, Southampton had the highest number of baggage complaints, with 0.18 per 100,000 passengers.

It also had the highest overall complaint rate at 4.42%, ranked the second worst for flight cancellations at 3.63% and received a low overall rating of three out of ten.

London airports Heathrow and Gatwick also ranked poorly for baggage handling, with 0.16 and 0.15 complaints per 100,000 passengers, respectively.

However, travellers looking for pristine luggage handling might want to consider flying from Liverpool, Bournemouth or Cardiff; the three airports each received 0 complaints per 100,000 passengers for lost luggage, according to the study.

In terms of cancelled journeys, Aberdeen ranked the worst across the UK, with 4.25% of all departures scrapped in 2024 alone.

‘This equates to more than one in 25 flights being cancelled and is more than three times the UK average across all airports in our study, which stands at 1.34%,’ read the Bounce report.

While your bags may be in better hands, as Aberdeen only received 0.08% lost luggage complaints per 100,000 passengers for lost bags between 2022 and 2024, it still only received a low overall score of 4.7 out of 10. 

The Bounce study considered multiple factors for its rankings, including Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) complaints, cancellation rates, flight delay times, and passenger ratings for queuing, cleanliness and navigation. 

It found Manchester Airport to be the most problematic all round, with an overall score of 2.39 out of 10.

The airport scored two out of five for cleanliness, ease of navigation and queuing times – the lowest across each category. 

It also received a high number of complaints to the Civil Aviation Authority, with 2.59 per 100,000 passengers and an average delay time of 20.01 minutes, alongside 0.15 lost luggage complaints per 100,000 passengers.

London Gatwick earned the second lowest overall rating of the study, receiving just 2.6 out of ten. It also recorded a high cancellation rate of 1.43% and had the highest average flight delay of 23 minutes.

Southampton Airport followed closely, ranking as the third most problematic airport overall, with a rating of just 3.01 out of 10.

Cody Candee, CEO and Founder at Bounce said: ‘This research shows that UK airports have a lot of room for improvement when it comes to providing an efficient and streamlined service to travelers. 

‘This poor performance puts a lot of pressure on flyers who have to navigate the often confusing airport signage and long security queuing times.

‘With this in mind, travelers should prepare appropriately for their airport experience to be as straightforward as possible.’

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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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The UK’s best value tourist attraction has been named, just in time for the Easter holidays.

If you’re making plans for the school break, Flamingo Land could be a great family day out – and it won’t break the bank.

The lesser-known theme parkis set in 365 acres of countryside in Malton, north Yorkshire, and guests say they spend just £2.99 per hour during their visit.

Originally a zoo – with some of the first animals to move in being, you guessed it, flamingos – the park has evolved since it opened in 1959, and now has 52 rollercoasters, a swimming pool and a holiday village guests can stay at.

Flamingo Land topped the list by Premier Inn, which analysed admission prices, as well as average time spent, at the UK’s leading attractions to reveal the place where you get most bang for your buck.

Admission to Flamingo Land is just £17.95, which includes access to the zoo, theme park and wider resort, meaning if you spend six hours there, it costs just £2.99 an hour.

And kids and grown-ups alike will find plenty to do. Thrill seekers can take on Sik, a rollercoaster featuring ten inversions, that reportedly cost £18 million to build. Or, there’s Mumbo Jumbo, which boasts a steep vertical drop.

Younger visitors can try out Helitoys, a helicopter ride, or head to Mischief Mansion a not-so-scary haunted house. The on-site zoo is also home to a diverse range of animals, as well as the flamingos, there’s an array of creatures, from reindeer and wallabies to exotic birds.

And guests certainly seem to enjoy their trips to the park. ‘Never had a bad day,’ wrote Ben on TripAdvisor, a visitor and the theme park enthusiast behind TikTok page, Ride Comparisons.

‘A good day out,’ wrote another reviewer. ‘Something for everybody here.’

Meanwhile on TikTok, creators say the park is ‘underrated’ and they ‘can’t believe’ how good it is.

Premier Inn said: ‘This beloved theme park, zoo, and resort has an action-packed average visit time of eight hours, giving families plenty of time to explore.

‘From exhilarating roller coasters to up-close animal encounters, there’s no shortage of excitement, making every penny well spent.’

Elsewhere on the list, Warwick Castle came in second, where the entrance fee of £22 works out at just £3.67 per hour based on the average time spent there.

Drayton Manor came in third, with the Staffordshire-based theme park charging £24.90 for entry — equating to £4.15 per hour for an average visit of six hours.

Alton Towers in Staffordshire, Thorpe Park in Surrey, Legoland in Windsor, and Chessington World of Adventures all tied for fourth place. Each has an entrance fee of £29, which equates to £4.83 per hour.

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Social media is full of ‘advice’ for single people: dating dos and don’ts, and a never-ending discourse on how to land your soulmate.

From red flags and beige flags to relationship ultimatums, it can be difficult to separate the genuinely useful information, from the nonsense that could ruin your love life. 

‘Many trends teach people to test, analyse and categorise potential partners rather than engage with them authentically,’ psychologist, sex and relationships advisor, Barbara Santini, tells Metro.

So, with that in mind, we’ve rounded-up five of the most common social media dating trends, to work out how if they’ll really help you find love.

Ick lists 

Your once gorgeous crush suddenly becomes stomach churningly cringe due to the smallest of reasons (running after the bus, using an umbrella) and suddenly, you have the ick.

We love sharing our icks, and extensive lists with literally hundreds of turn-offs have been circulated on TikTok — but Barbara reckons they’re not as funny as you think.

‘Keeping an exhaustive list of minor turn-offs is a recipe for self-sabotage,’ she says.

‘While preferences are natural, an ‘ick list’ turns dating into a relentless search for flaws.’

Rather than fostering a connection, Barbara adds that these lists create a ‘hypercritical mindset that dismisses potential partners over trivialities.’

Dating tests

Dating tests involve setting up real-life situations and filming partners’ reactions to see if they ‘pass’.

The ‘orange peel theory’ encouraged TikTok users to ask their partners to bring them an orange, and observe whether they’ll take the extra step to peel it for them.

Similarly ‘the ketchup theory’, involves making a deliberate mess on a kitchen surface to see if the partner being tested will automatically clean it up.

However, even if your partner ‘passes the test’, it might not indicate a perfect relationship.

Barbara says these tests can ‘weaponise normal human behaviour, turning harmless moments into pass/fail scenarios.’ 

She adds: ‘They cultivate distrust and a false sense of control, where partners are unknowingly judged.

‘In my view, healthy relationships are built on communication, not hidden assessments.’

So next time, just talk to your partner, and peel the orange yourself.

Boyfriend/girlfriend applications 

Seemingly fed up of dating apps, some singletons have resorted to posting full-blown boyfriend or girlfriend applications online in search for the perfect candidate.

While it might seem a fun way to ensure your criteria is being matched, Barbara says it’s not a good idea.

‘Forcing someone to “apply” to date you creates a power imbalance and reinforces a checklist mentality,’ she says.

It’s also important to note that you may not realise just how many great potential matches are out there for you, if you’re set on a specific type of person.

As Barbara adds: ‘Love goes beyond ticking boxes.’

Rules for dating me 

‘No friends of the opposite sex’, ‘monthly date nights’, ‘surprise me without asking’.

These are just some expectations people have shared on TikTok as their rules for dating them. 

Barbara says that while setting boundaries is ‘crucial’ in relationships, these ‘rigid rules reframe dating as a list of demands rather than a mutual effort’. 

‘I believe relationships require negotiation, adaptability and understanding,’ adds Barbara.

‘Overly strict rules often mask unresolved insecurities and drive away potential partners who seek balance, not a contractual agreement’. 

Dating Up 

The idea of dating someone richer, better looking or with higher status isn’t new – but Gen Z has given it a new twist on TikTok by dubbing the concept ‘dating up’. 

Initially, the trend was a positive way to celebrate setting your standards high. However, it’s also given rise to the problematic idea of ‘dating down’.

Barbara argues that the obsession with ‘dating up’ could foster entitlement, unrealistic expectations and transactional relationships. 

She explains: ‘Prioritising wealth, status, and attractiveness over genuine connection reduces dating to a competition rather than a shared journey. 

‘It creates an imbalanced power dynamic where one partner feels superior and the other struggles to prove their worth.

‘This is when we see love becoming conditional, making real intimacy nearly impossible.’

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Londoners might think waiting five minutes for the tube is pushing it, but in one city in China, commuters face a rather different challenge. 

At Hongyancun Station in Chongqing, the station is so deep underground that it takes 10 minutes and several escalators just to reach the platform. 

Located in the city’s Yuzhong District, the station, which opened in 2022, sits a staggering 116 metres below the surface – the equivalent of 40 storeys.

For comparison, the deepest tube station in London is Hampstead, which lies 58.5 metres below ground level – half the depth of the Chongqing station. Meanwhile, the deepest subway station in New York City is the 191st Street Station – about 53 metres below street level.

Hongyancun Station is located on Line 9 of the Chongqing Rail Transit system in an area known for its winding roads and never-ending hills. 

While the station was being constructed it reportedly took workers 38 minutes to climb to the top from the bottom of the station.

Now, if passengers want to reach the bottom, they can expect to take eight escalators to the platform.

One TikToker, @fischfs, filmed his descent, revealing sleek, grey, modern interiors and escalators which seamlessly connected passengers with the platform.

However, the quick descent can result in the passenger’s ears popping from the pressure change.

There is a quicker option to reach the bottom – a lift that takes just 53 seconds.

Thanks to the station’s unique design, it has now become a tourist attraction, with visitors travelling from all over the globe to experience the transportation system.

And it’s not the only unique attraction in Chongqing.

Its maze of multi-level buildings, neon-lit skyscrapers and futuristic architecture has earned it the nickname ‘cyberpunk city’ – due to its striking resemblance to the dystopian landscape of Blade Runner.

The city boasts 298 skyscrapers over 100 metres tall and 26 buildings exceeding 200 metres, ranking 15th worldwide for the number of skyscrapers and sixth in mainland China.

To put that into context, there are currently just 12 towers in London that exceed 200 metres. 

Its multi-level layout means that many people, especially tourists, struggle to find the ground floor. There are even outdoor escalators that tourists can pay for, connecting them to different levels of the city.

Many are also drawn to a distinctive feature of the Chongqing Transit system – the Liziba Station, which runs between the sixth and eighth floors of a 19-storey building that also houses several apartments.

While it might seem like an example of poor planning, the station and the apartment block were intentionally designed and constructed as a single integrated structure.

The high-rise is composed of two separate areas: seven storeys on the lower part of the building are part of the station, and the other 11 floors make up the residential area. 

Things to do in Chongqing

Once you’ve travelled around Chongqing by rail, it’s well worth taking to the water for a cruise across the Yangtze River, the third-longest in the world.

Not only can you see the famous Three Gorges Dam, you may even be able to get a glimpse ‘puppy mountain’, which has become a tourist sensation due to its resemblance to a dog’s face.

To get a feel for the city’s history, Ciqikou Ancient Town is a must, with a walk around its winding alleyways (largely featuring the likes of craft shops and old-style teahouses) like taking a step backwards in time.

Alternatively, learn all about its past at the Chongqing Industrial Museum, or soak up some serenity at the Laojun Cave Taoist Temple.

Or, if shopping and nightlife are more your thing, head to the upmarket Jiefangbei district for designer stores and bars and restaurants galore.

Chongqing municipality is also known for its springs, so when you need a break from the hustle and bustle, Northern Hot Springs Park, Tianci Hot Springs and Southern Hot Springs Park are the places to be.

This article was first published on January 17, 2025.

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Tesco has issued a warning to Clubcard users ahead of a big change set to be made to its app at the end of the month.

While some still use a physical Clubcard to pay for their shopping, the majority rely on the mobile app to collect points and access discounts. 

However, from March 31, older versions of the app will no longer work, meaning you must update to the latest version to continue using your loyalty card. 

In a message to customers, Tesco explained: ‘To increase your data protection and online security, we’re updating our Tesco app to a newer version.

‘To keep shopping and enjoying all of your Clubcard benefits on your app, make sure you have the latest version before March 31′.

The supermarket noted that the app update won’t affect its website Tesco.com, but urged shoppers to update their Clubcard app via the Apple App Store or Google Play.

If you’re unable to claim Clubcard prices or points due to an app issue, Tesco advises bringing a receipt and Clubcard to a large store within 14 days, where staff can manually add missing points and refund any price differences.

It’s not the only big change Tesco has made to its app recently either. Earlier this month, the retailer removed its popular Pay+ feature. 

Previously, shoppers had been able to open the app and select a ‘pay in store’ option, using a saved debit or credit card and simultaneously collecting Clubcard points.

However, customers now need to make sure they scan their Clubcard after their shopping has been scanned, then pay separately with card or cash instead.

Tesco says the decision was made as alternative payment methods – such as Apple Pay and Google Pay – have become more popular. 

Some shoppers weren’t too pleased though, including one person on Reddit who wrote: ‘Use it daily… it’s pretty convenient to me, no need to scan a Clubcard… just pay with the app. Quite a strange move from Tesco.’

‘So annoying. How is it more convenient to turn what was one step, into two?’ asked another, while a third commented: ‘I literally use this for every purchase, whyyyyyyyyy.’

‘We regularly review the payment options available to our customers,’ a Tesco spokesperson responded at the time. 

‘It’s still quick and easy to earn points on your shopping and fuel and enjoy Clubcard Prices offers by tapping your Clubcard in-store, scanning it via the Tesco App, or adding it to your Apple or Google wallet.’

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Bali has introduced a set of new guidelines aimed at curbing ‘misbehaviour’ among tourists. 

Authorities say the measures are designed to protect the island’s cultural integrity and sacred sites.

The strict rules include dressing appropriately when visiting religious sites and prohibiting menstruating women from entering sacred temple areas.

Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, outlined the new regulations tourists must follow on March 24.

He warned that anyone caught breaking these rules could face legal consequences under Indonesian law.

‘We issued a similar regulation before, but as things change, we need to adapt. This ensures that Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable and in harmony with our local values,’ he said.

‘I am implementing this circular as an immediate measure to regulate foreign tourists while they are in Bali.’

The rules have been outlined by Love Bali, an organisation set up by the Bali government aimed at enforcing new policies.

Under the new regulations, foreign visitors must respect sacred sites and symbols, dress appropriately in public spaces, and behave respectfully whether at religious sites, restaurants, shopping areas, or public roads.

They are also required to pay the mandatory tourist levy and use licensed tour guides when exploring cultural or natural sites.

The new regulations also outline seven things tourists are not allowed to do. 

Foreign visitors are not permitted to ‘enter sacred temple areas unless they are worshippers wearing traditional Balinese attire’.

The directive also states that ‘menstruating women are also prohibited from entering these areas’.

Single-use plastics and littering or polluting the environment—such as throwing waste into lakes, rivers, or the ocean—are prohibited.

Additionally, tourists have been warned against engaging in aggressive or disrespectful behaviour. This includes swearing, causing disturbances, or being rude to local officials or fellow visitors.

As part of the new guidelines, ‘Tourists who fail to pay the tourist levy will be denied access to attractions, and those caught violating the regulations will face legal consequences in accordance with Indonesian law’. 

Governor Koster’s announcement of the new guidelines comes just days before Nyepi – Bali’s sacred Day of Silence- which falls on Saturday, March 29 this year.

During the 24-hour period from 6 am Saturday to 6 am on Sunday, everyone, including tourists, must remain indoors.

Bali has been grappling with the consequences of overtourism for years. In 2024, the island welcomed 6.3 million international tourists, surpassing its pre-pandemic peak of 6.28 million in 2019.

Numerous reports have emerged about tourists misbehaving. In 2023, authorities considered introducing a tourism tax to discourage ‘cheap tourists who cause a lot of problems.’

In 2019, after influencers were caught splashing holy water on themselves at a temple, Governor Koster proposed that authorities should simply ‘send them home’.

More recently, in 2023, a Russian man was deported after posing semi-nude at a sacred site, while a Russian woman was also deported for taking a nude photo in front of a sacred tree.

It’s not the only destination battling overtourism – the number of places pushing back against mass tourism seems to be growing daily.

Last year, Barcelona locals resorted to using water guns to deter rowdy tourists, Venice introduced a controversial day-tripper tax, and hundreds of thousands of locals across Europe took to the streets to protest the damaging effects of mass tourism.

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The journey from the UK to Australia is no easy feat. Passengers can expect a nearly 30-hour trip with at least one stopover on the way.

However, travellers are edging closer to a more convenient flying experience. Australian airline Qantas Airways is aiming to launch the first-ever non-stop flight between London and Sydney in just two years.

The ultra-long-haul flight, known as Project Sunrise, hopes to connect Australia’s east coast with major travel hubs like London and New York. 

While no decision has been made about which route will be launched first, the flights are expected to take around 19 hours and travel over 10,000 miles.

It means these non-stop flights from Sydney to London and New York are will cut passenger’s flight time down by up to four hours.

It’s been in the works since 2017, with Qantas initially hoping to launch in 2025. However, the project faced delays due to the pandemic and manufacturing issues, and flights are now set to take off in 2027.

The name of the route, ‘Project Sunrise’, comes from the idea that passengers will see two sunrises as they travel along what will become the longest flight paths in the world, a record currently held by Singapore Airlines which travels 18 hours from Singapore to New York.

The services will be scheduled after the airline receives the first of 12 dedicated Airbus A350-1000 aircraft at the end of the next year, Qantas chief executive Vanessa Hudson said on Tuesday. 

Qantas will then have to carry out local certification flights and further trials to make sure crew become familiar with the aircraft.

Hudson told media on the sidelines of an Airbus event in Toulouse on Tuesday that Qantas was ‘very confident’ in demand for the services. 

‘We will need three aircraft to be able to have a daily service, either from Sydney to New York or Sydney to London. Then, as the other aircraft come on, we’ll be able to fill out the network,’ Hudson added. 

Hudson previously told Forbes that the new flights will allow Australians to  ‘break out and see the world on the A350’ and will help the company work towards its ultimate goal of making Australia ‘closer’ to the world.

When Project Sunrise finally launches, passengers can expect luxury.

Qantas previously revealed the design of its cabins, and they’re catered to ‘avoid jet lag’. 

The airline aims to use cabin lighting to ‘promote circadian adaption, sleep and wake’, at different times of the flight.

The aircraft will also have a Wellbeing Zone, situated between Economy and Premium Economy Cabins.

The space will include a selection of healthy refreshments and large monitors, where you can follow ‘guided movements’.

More than 40% of the aircraft will have Premium cabins. That includes six first-class suites, 52 Business suites, and 40 Premium Economy seats, while the other 60% will have 140 Economy seats and a wellness space.

For those choosing to fly First class, you can more or less pretend you’re in a hotel room as you will be treated to ‘the pinnacle in comfort and luxury for ultra-long-haul travel’ with your very own enclosed room complete with a flatbed, reclining armchair, a workspace for one to two people, and a full-length wardrobe.

The suite also includes a 32″ touchscreen TV with Bluetooth capabilities and LED lighting. For those who enjoy breakfast in bed, the single bed has an adjustable backrest for added comfort.

It’s not all bad in economy though. It includes an entertainment touchscreen and USB-C charging capabilities.

So when exactly will the flight be available to book? And how much will it cost? Qantas is yet to release those details, but with 2027 getting closer and closer, it’s only a matter of time before passengers get their answers.

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Ryanair has launched a new annual subscription service promising perks for frequent flyers – but not everyone is convinced by the deal. 

For £79 a year, members will get free reserved seats, free travel insurance and access to 12 annual member-exclusive seat sales a month. The Irish budget airline claims customers who fly 12 times a year will save £420.

Announcing the scheme on Monday, Ryanair CMO Dara Brady said: ‘Ryanair “Prime” is a new subscriber discount scheme for frequent flyers that want to fly regularly but don’t want to break the bank to do so.’

Metro readers had plenty to say about the offering – while some couldn’t sign up fast enough, others were sceptical, blasting the service as ‘pointless’ and ‘a con’. 

Some passengers felt the service should have offered more for the £79 price tag. 

‘If you ask me. Not much in it for £79,’ wrote Richie Fine. ‘At least give people priority boarding and two cabin bags to make it worthwhile.’

Kristina Owen added: ‘It should include a bag.’

Alexander Ivanov wrote: ‘Looks like a joke – a waste of £79 for the things one barely needs.’

Others argued that the membership wouldn’t be worthwhile for occasional travellers. Diana Pauzaite-McCurley wrote: ‘For people who fly regularly in a year, it might be good, but for people flying once a year, I don’t think it will work.’

One reader suggested Ryanair should have increased the fee to include additional perks. 

Chris Downing wrote: ‘They should have made it more expensive but added a 10kg bag or something. This seems pointless as the main saving is in insurance and the seat booking and not the flights.’

However, some readers saw real value in the service, Angela Keating said: ‘For frequent flyers, it’s a good deal.’ While Chris Robinson wrote: ‘That’s a game-changer for people who travel a lot. Just think of all the extra holidays you could afford.’

One traveller expressed concerns about Ryanair’s encouragement of frequent flying. Sandra Brady wrote: ‘Absolutely awful. We have CLIMATE CHANGE and Ryanair thinks it’s a good policy to reward frequent flyers! I am totally dismayed and angry.’

For others, no amount of perks could make flying with Ryanair appealing. ‘I would NEVER fly with them,’ Fiona Borges-Da Silva wrote. ‘Once was enough.’

Amanda Tunnincliffe agreed: ‘Would rather swim than get on one of their planes.’

The subscription service is limited to 250,000 members on a first come first served basis, and travellers can sign up at Ryanair.com. 

Ryanair isn’t the only budget airline to offer frequent flyer discounts. Wizz Air has an ‘all you can fly’ scheme for £495 yearly. 

The scheme offers travellers access to unlimited flights to 200 destinations in 50 countries, although you still need to pay a flat fee of £8.27 per booking. 

EasyJet Plus offers travellers perks, such as allocated seating, speedy boarding and an additional cabin bag, for £249 per year. 

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When dealing with headaches, fevers, muscle pain or cramps, many people immediately reach for painkillers. 

These easily available medications can help alleviate discomfort, but knowing which ones to choose can be tricky. And let’s be honest, most of us will use up whatever is at the bottom of our work bag.

Paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen are among the most widely used. While they are all effective for pain relief, they each work in a slightly different way and ideally, tackling different symptoms.

And despite their widespread availability, each of these painkillers has specific safety considerations. Not all are suitable for children, and individuals with underlying health conditions should exercise caution when using them.

To help you reach for the right medication, Metro has consulted health experts to explain how each painkiller works and which one you should be taking.

Paracetamol 

Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used painkillers available over the counter. It’s typically used to treat general aches, headaches, fevers and mild pain. 

It usually takes 30 minutes to start working, and its effects last for around six hours. The typical adult dose is one or two 500mg tablets, with a maximum of eight tablets in 24 hours. For children, it’s often administered in liquid form (such as Calpol), but it should not be given to babies younger than two months unless prescribed by a doctor.

Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor tells Metro: ‘Paracetamol works primarily as a pain reliever (analgesic) and fever reducer. It does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties, making it a suitable option for general pain relief, such as headaches, mild to moderate muscle aches and fevers associated with colds and flu.

‘It is generally tolerated and can be taken by most people, including pregnant women and children.’

However, she says it’s ‘essential’ to stay within the recommended dose. ‘Taking more than the advised amount can lead to serious health complications such as liver failure.’

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing hormones that cause pain and inflammation in the body.

It’s commonly used for conditions like back pain, muscle strains, period pain, and even cold and flu symptoms.

Ibuprofen typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes to work when taken orally, with its effects lasting around eight hours.

It’s available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and gels that you rub into your skin. It should not be taken for more than 10 days in a row or on an empty stomach. While ibuprofen is generally safe for those aged 17 and over, it is not suitable for everyone.

According to the NHS website, ibuprofen should not be taken by mouth or applied to the skin if you are pregnant or have ever had an allergic reaction or symptoms like wheezing, a runny nose, or skin reactions after taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs.

Dr Wylie adds: ‘Ibuprofen should be avoided by people with stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or heart conditions, as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and cardiovascular issues.’

Aspirin 

Aspirin is another type of NSAID with anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used to relieve mild to moderate pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. 

It typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes to take effect, with its effects lasting approximately four to six hours. 

While aspirin can be used for general pain relief, Dr Wylie notes: ‘It is particularly beneficial in inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and can also help prevent blood clots.’

It is also commonly prescribed in low doses to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Dr Wylie says: ‘Aspirin should be avoided by children under 16 due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, and it is not suitable for those with a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or aspirin allergies. The usual dose for pain relief is between 300mg and 900mg every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum of 4g per day.’

She adds: ‘NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin should be taken with food to minimise stomach irritation.’

What type of pain relief should I buy?

When choosing a painkiller, Dr Claire Merrifield, GP and medical director at Selph advises opting for non-branded versions, 

She says: ‘The active ingredient of ibuprofen or paracetamol is the same regardless so cheap, non-branded versions are just as effective. You’re only paying for the marketing.’

She also notes that while paracetamol and ibuprofen can be safely taken together, ibuprofen should not be combined with other NSAIDs like aspirin. 

Additionally, caution is needed with co-formulated medications such as co-codamol or co-dydramol. ‘These contain paracetamol, so be careful of taking more paracetamol on top,’ she explains.

For those using ibuprofen, she highlights the importance of taking it with food to minimise stomach irritation. Long-term use of NSAIDs for issues like headaches should also be avoided due to the risk of side effects such as stomach inflammation and ulceration.

Dr Wylie adds: ‘While painkillers are an effective way to manage pain, it’s essential to use them responsibly. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional before continuing use.’

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Netflix’s Adolescence introduced parents across the country to the terminology of the manosphere, from the red pill to the 80/20 rule.

As horrifying as these concepts are, they’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to online misogynist groups.

If you thought the views espoused by Jamie and his peers were terrifying, the ‘blackpill’ movement takes things to even greater extremes. Scarier still, their dangerous ideology is becoming more and more mainstream.

Like the red pill philosophy, it uses a scene from The Matrix – in which the main character, Neo, is shown the universe as it really is – to symbolise acknowledging the ‘truth’ of gender dynamics.

However, where ‘being redpilled’ means you agree with incel theories around what women find attractive, to be blackpilled is to believe that there’s nothing you can do to change your situation.

It suggests that a man’s social and romantic success is entirely determined by his genetics.

The philosophy takes an even darker turn, as followers of the blackpill believe their only options are to accept their fate or try to force societal change through violent means. 

The Anti-Defamation League likens this to a ‘death cult’, explaining: ‘Taking the black pill leaves a person with relatively few options: Giving up, or in incel parlance “LDAR” (Lie Down and Rot), suicide (incel forums are filled with suicidal fantasies and threats, as well as encouraging comments to those considering suicide) and “going ER.”’ (a reference to incel spree killer Elliot Rodger).

First popularised on the fringe blog Omega Virgin Revolt in 2011, the term has since spread widely across online forums and social media, with thousands of mentions on platforms like Reddit, 4chan, and incel-focused websites. 

Subreddits like r/Braincels and r/TheBlackPill gained tens of thousands of members before Reddit banned them for promoting misogyny and extremist views, but similar communities continue to appear in their place.

‘Many boys and young men are drawn into incel culture because it offers a sense of belonging during times of loneliness, rejection, or confusion about relationships and masculinity,’ Dan Guinness, managing director of Beyond Equality, tells Metro.

‘These communities present themselves as spaces of support but often deepen feelings of self-hatred, and resentment towards women, which feed on and extend more widespread ideas of misogyny. Online algorithms can pull vulnerable young people further into extreme content, reinforcing harmful beliefs.’

Despite the fact this is such an easy rabbit hole to fall into, Dan says the dangers are ‘significant’.

He explains: ‘Many young men caught in these spaces experience declining mental health, and some become desensitised to violent or dehumanising ideas about women.’

In extreme cases,  Dan notes, this has led to acts of real-world violence against women or self-harm. But even without physical violence, he warns, ‘the culture spreads harmful beliefs that damage relationships and emotional development’.

At a societal level, Dan explains, incel ideology fuels a broader backlash against gender equality, undermining efforts to build safer, more respectful communities. 

‘It reinforces harmful gender norms and distorts conversations about sex, consent, and relationships,’ he says. ‘As these views spread through online spaces, they normalise misogyny and hostility, particularly towards women who assert independence or reject male entitlement.’

Left unchecked, Dan warns, this culture risks growing into a larger movement that threatens social cohesion and public safety, especially among disaffected youth. ‘It is already influencing elements of mainstream culture, particularly online.’

The responsibility to address these issues is often left to schools, Dan explains, but teachers are overworked and under-prepared to tackle these cultural attitudes and adequately support individuals.

However, Dan adds: ‘Without intervention, frustration and resentment can prime boys for radicalisation.’

Dan points out that social media algorithms, designed to maximise engagement, are particularly dangerous as they rapidly funnel young men into extremist content. He explains: ‘Vulnerable boys, particularly those who are socially excluded and searching for answers, may be especially susceptible to this pipeline.’

Research shows that what may begin as seemingly harmless self-improvement or entertainment content quickly evolves into extreme misogyny.

He continues: ‘From a video about making friends by improving your looks to one about how women are naturally shallow, and so deny men their “right” to sex and love. Before long, boys are internalising extreme misogyny, including incel ideologies.’

A recent Amnesty polling on social media misogyny reveals these toxic views are no longer confined to isolated corners of the internet – they are now seeping into mainstream platforms. 

The polling found that 73% of Gen Z have encountered misogynistic content online, with half of them reporting it happens at least weekly. Nearly half of those surveyed also said it was having a detrimental effect on their mental health.

Chiara Capraro, Amnesty International UK’s gender justice programme director tells Metro: ‘Social media platforms and their engagement-driven algorithms play a huge role in this. Boys and young men are being actively pulled into these toxic spaces by algorithms that reward extreme, divisive, and inflammatory content. 

‘If a teenager watches one video about dating struggles, the algorithm quickly feeds them more, often escalating into misogynistic and incel content. Nearly two in five Gen Z men (41%) reported encountering content from Andrew Tate in the past month, compared to just over three in 10 women (31%).’

So, what can be done to tackle this issue? Tackling harmful ideologies like the ‘blackpill’ and online misogyny requires a multi-faceted approach.

According to Chiara, proven solutions are available, such as age-appropriate, inclusive Relationship and Sex Education (RSE).

She explains: ‘Discriminatory attitudes start at a very early age and, if not tackled, shape young people for the rest of their lives.

‘Relationship and Sex Education helps children and young people to understand and discuss the nature of gender stereotypes and misogynistic attitudes and develop the skills and confidence to build respectful relationships.’

While RSE is already part of the school curriculum, Chiara says: ‘The government must invest more resources to ensure teachers feel confident addressing these topics, especially given the increasingly challenging classroom environment.’

She also advocates for incorporating a critical approach to social media and recognising online abuse into the curriculum.

Dan agrees: ‘Schools need funding to invest in staff training and draw on expert support so that they can meaningfully address emotional literacy, media literacy and relationship skills.’

However, education isn’t confined to the classroom. Chiara explains that outdated ideas of masculinity should be challenged in schools and beyond. 

‘Young men should be encouraged to talk about emotions, develop empathy, and see that gender equality benefits everyone. Public figures, teachers, and parents all have a role to play in showing boys that masculinity does not have to mean dominance or resentment. 

‘Spoiler alert, that’s basically the conclusion of Netflix’s Adolescence – it takes a village, and we all live in that village.’

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A banana massage, an ice bath and an alarm set at precisely 3.50am.

These are just three elements of Ashton Hall’s morning routine, which is so bizarre, it’s left hundreds of thousands of social media users cackling into their Cheerios.

The influencer originally posted the six-hour routine to his 8 million Instagram followers back in February, and at the time of writing, it has amassed over 6 million likes, with viewers declaring it ‘insane’.

One user, Berry Exley, crowned Hall the ‘least productive human on earth’, pointing out: ‘Almost a quarter of your day is getting ready for the day.’

Hall’s caption reads: ‘Day 191 of the morning routine that changed my life 3:50am to 9:30am. Sin lives late at night… if you’re dealing with a weak mind, bad decisions, or lack of productivity, go to sleep early. 

‘Just try 30 days… send this to your partners. It’s time to better.’

After the video was reposted to X by @tipsformenx, many have criticised it as both unrealistic and unproductive, questioning the need for a six-hour-long routine. 

Hall’s day begins at precisely 3:52am, when he films himself staring into a mirror before removing tape from his mouth – a controversial wellness trend which supposedly improves breathing and sleep quality. 

While some claim it helps reduce snoring and mild sleep apnea, there’s little scientific evidence to support it. 

He then brushes his teeth before stepping onto his balcony for a shirtless workout, followed by meditation, journaling, scrolling through social media and dunking his face into icy water. 

At 6am, he finally gets dressed into workout gear – ensuring he wears a Rolex and gold chain – before heading to the gym.

His routine continues with a swim in the pool, showering, rubbing a banana on his face as moisturiser before eating it, and breakfast. 

Once he’s finally dressed, he dunks his head into the ice water again before an online client meeting. The entire routine wraps up at 9:26am.

Throughout the video, a woman, whose face is not shown, can be seen assisting him with his morning errands, including prepping and serving breakfast.

Hall’s lengthy routine left X users baffled, with many questioning how necessary it is. One user declared Hall either ‘the funniest satirical comedian or clinically insane’. 

Another user, @kirawontmiss wrote: ‘Bro woke up at 4 in the morning to spend 6 hours bulls******.’

User @ParralaxWisdom added: ‘Imagine waking up at 3:45am but literally getting nothing done by 9am.’ While another asked: ‘What is even the point of waking up at 4am.’

Other users noted that the times captioned on the screen did not seem to fit with the activated undertaken – for example, he spent under a minute reading at 4:38am, and over four minutes mid-air when diving into the pool between 7:36 and 7:40am. 

And some compared its similarity to the morning routine in American Psycho. ‘This reminds me of Patrick Bateman’s morning routine,’ @grumpymcsneezy wrote. 

The video is just one example of Hall’s intense routines on his Instagram account, where countless clips show him dunking his head into ice water and undertaking intense exercises, including racing cars. 

He’s not the only influencer to undertake such vigorous morning rituals. Based on social media, it seems the days of simply rolling out of bed are long gone. 

The morning routine hashtag has over 4.3million posts on TikTok, with many influencers beginning their days as early as 3am to exercise, journal, cook breakfast and prepare for the day. 

Some schoolchildren have even hopped on the trend, waking up hours before they need to leave for the day and undertaking excessive skincare routines. 

A few of these routines involve the ‘morning shed’, which includes removing or ‘shedding’ skin, hair and self-care products which content creators sleep in the night before.

These products, which include hair masks, mouth tape, nose plugs, eye masks, heatless rollers and chin tape, are supposed to ‘optimise sleep’ and have also been criticised online as ‘excessive’ and ‘unnecessary’.

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Spain’s battle against overtourism has been making headlines for years, with its popular cities and towns struggling to manage the influx of visitors overwhelming local communities. 

Last year, Barcelona locals resorted to using water guns to deter rowdy tourists, while in Madrid locals protested over rising rent prices, which many attributed to overtourism. 

Countless tourism rules have been introduced to reduce the strain on residents, including restrictions on public drinking, partying, and the use of rental services like Airbnb. 

Most recently, Mallorca residents have written an open letter to tourists, urging them not to come to the island, as they ‘face the worst summer in the history of Mallorca’.

Despite pleas for a slowdown of tourism in hugely popular areas, there are some regions of Spain that remain relatively untouched. 

If you want to avoid the crowds and glares from fed-up locals this summer, Metro has rounded up some lesser-known destinations to visit instead.

Cadiz

Often overlooked in favour of nearby Seville, Cadiz is a 3,000-year-old coastal gem and one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. 

Its quaint streets are steeped in history, lined with sun-drenched plazas, centuries-old churches and whitewashed buildings from its maritime past. 

Beyond its history, Cadiz boasts golden beaches, a coastal promenade and some of Spain’s best seafood. Visitors can soak up the sun at La Caleta Beach, take in panoramic views from Tavira Tower, or explore the old town’s winding alleyways. 

Despite everything it has to offer, it remains far less crowded than Spain’s more famous cities. 

Metro’s Sama Ansari Pour, described Cadiz as ‘a walk through time’, with every corner offering a glimpse into its past.

‘If you’re not a fan of big crowds,’ she writes. This lesser-known gem could be perfect for you.’

Merida

Nestled in the charming region of Extremadura, Merida might not boast beaches or a coastline, but it more than makes up for it with its rich history.

Founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC, it’s one of Spain’s most important archaeological sites.

As the capital of Roman Spain, the city is home to some of the most impressive ruins in Europe, including the Roman Amphitheatre and the Temple of Diana.

Visitors can also discover the Roman Bridge, which is one of the longest bridges built by the Romans and stretches over the Guadiana River.

Located in one of the least visited and underpopulated regions of Spain, it’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. Plus, Extremadura offers up to £12.6k per year to digital nomads who want to make it their base.

Logrono 

Located in the heart of Spain’s La Rioja region, Logrono is frequently hailed as one of Spain’s hidden gems. While it might not attract the same crowds as some more famous cities, it’s considered a must-visit for food and wine lovers. 

Known for its tapas scene, visitors can hop from bar to bar sampling pintox and local delicacies. It’s also the gateway to Spain’s iconic wine region, La Rioja, where visitors can tour vineyards and taste world-class wines.

The city also boasts medieval streets and historic landmarks like the Co-Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Redonda, which features twin baroque towers and intricate interior artwork.

Cuenca 

Located in central Spain, just two hours away from Madrid, Cuenca is known for its hanging houses which hang over a gorge.

The medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is often overshadowed by larger cities in the region, with most visitors being day-trippers from Madrid. 

One of the town’s most iconic features, the hanging houses (Casas Colgadas), are built into the rockface and perch dramatically above the Huécar River gorge.

Dating back to the 15th century, some of these houses have since been converted into museums which visitors can explore. Travellers can admire the view of the houses and the unique architecture of the city from the San Pablo Bridge.

Beyond the houses, visitors can explore Cuneca’s winding medieval streets, walk the hiking trails along the gorge or visit the nearby Serrania de Cuenca Natural Park.

Estepona 

This charming coastal town, tucked away on the edge of Costa del Sol remains a hidden gem despite its location in one of Spain’s most visited regions.

Metro’s Sophie-May Williams visited the ‘humble town’ last year. She noted that while 12 million international tourists flocked to the Andalusian region in 2023, only 253,376 (2%) stopped in Estepona. 

Visitors can wander through its picturesque streets, where whitewashed houses are adorned with colourful flowers, like the vibrant bougainvillaea that blankets the town.

The heart of Estepona is the Plaza de las Flores, a lively square surrounded by cafes where tourists flock for lunch. There are four main tapas bars in the square, and as Sophie says ‘it doesn’t matter which one you go to’.

For beach lovers, Estepona’s coastline offers miles of sandy shores, including the popular Playa de la Rada. Here, you can relax by the crystal clear waters or enjoy a drink at one of the many beach bars.

If you’re seeking something more adventurous, Estepona also has excellent hiking trails, including the scenic path to the nearby Sierra Bermeja mountains.

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One of the best parts of going to McDonald’s as a kid was tearing into your Happy Meal to reveal a tiny plastic toy that smelled strongly of fries. 

Now, nostalgic adults have a chance to relive their youth, as McDonald’s UK is launching a brand-new meal that fans are dubbing an ‘adult Happy Meal’.

The Minecraft Movie Meal lands in restaurants nationwide on March 26, featuring one of six exclusive collectible toys crafted especially for adults.

While plenty of Maccies fans are excited, Metro readers seem to have one very specific question on their minds…

‘Will it include an adult toy?’

It seems there was a slight disappointment among readers over the inclusion of Minecraft collectibles, as they were expecting something a little more X-rated inside.

Scott Dean Lloyd wrote: ‘That’s not the toy I was expecting from an “Adult Happy Meal” – disappointing.’

Bobby-Joe Matt added: ‘The only way most adults are going to want this is if the toy it comes with is an adult toy. Otherwise, why bother?’

Some readers had other creative ideas in mind, too…

Louise Slocombe asked: ‘Are the toys being supplied from Ann Summers?’

Gemma Burt replied: ‘Best idea ever! This definitely needs pitching to Maccies.’

Caroline Morris added: ‘That’s one way of putting a smile on someone’s face.’

Of course, not everyone was after a naughty addition. Some were just hoping for slightly more nostalgic items instead…

Laura Lee wrote: ‘Imagine they brought back the old toys for the adults from the 80s till 2000. So we could all collect the ones we are missing or were never allowed back then.’

Joe Woodhead added: ‘If the toys are just cardboard like they have been for the last 10 years. I’m going to be extremely disappointed.

‘When I was 10 years old they gave me a working battery powered megaphone complete with robot voice changer. I want those days back.’

Ryan Warburton added: ‘How is it an adult happy meal with Minecraft toys? Could have given us something nostalgic from the 90s that we grew up with.’

Meanwhile, others wanted a different kind of adult fun. ‘Does it come with a pint of lager for the men and wine for the ladies?’ one reader asked. 

Suzi Williams added: ‘Be mint if the toys are miniature cleaning products/ laundry items that cost a fortune. That would make lots of adults happy! (Or actual miniatures of the alcoholic kind).’

The adult meal will cost £8.19. Customers can pick between a Big Mac, nine Chicken McNuggets, or four Veggie Dippers for the main event, plus a side of your choosing and a carbonated drink.

There are six different collectibles to get your hands on, featuring iconic McDonald’s characters like Grimace, Hamburglar, and Birdie the Early Bird.

But that’s not all — there are also a few other limited-edition items being added to the menu to celebrate the Minecraft collab, including a new Apple Cake McFlurry and Nether Flame Sauce—all ‘blockified’ like in Minecraft.

Kids don’t have to miss out on the fun either, as the classic Happy Meals are getting a Minecraft makeover for the next few weeks.

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Holidaymakers flying to or from Italy next week have been warned to expect disruption as strike action is set to delay air travel. 

Passengers are facing simultaneous strikes, with EasyJet pilots and Italian baggage handlers preparing to walk out on the same day.

It’s expected that the low-cost carrier’s pilots will begin their strikes at midnight (Central European Time) on March 24, with the walkout lasting 24 hours. 

Meanwhile, Italy’s largest airport handler association, Assohandlers – represents baggage handlers and ground staff at major airports including Milan Malpensa, Rome Fiumicino, Naples, Catania and Venice – will be striking the same day.

But although the action has been backed by powerful European unions ANPAC (National Association of Professional Civil Aviation) FILT (Italian Federation of Transport Workers), and CGIL (Central European Time), it’s set to cause significant disruption.

Thousands of flights will potentially be delayed or cancelled, with an air passenger rights expert warning walkouts pose a ‘dual threat’ to travellers flying on the day. 

There is a silver lining for affected EasyJet passengers though: up to £520 in compensation for any inconvenience caused. 

Anton Radchenko, CEO at AirAdvisor, explains: ‘These strikes present a dual threat to air passengers’ plans. 

‘Pilot walkouts are particularly damaging and regularly lead to flights being cancelled. And, on this occasion, the pilots’ industrial action falling on the same day as handler strikes in Italy could lead to large-scale disruption. 

‘EasyJet is in a particularly troublesome position, with not only its pilots striking, but also staff at one of its key handling partners in Italy set to walk out.’

‘When pilots strike, carriers may draft in standby or management pilots that belong to unions that aren’t striking. However, this is a complicated process that alone doesn’t prevent services from being cancelled.’

What to do if your flight is cancelled due to strikes

Passengers may not receive compensation for disruption due to strikes, because it is outside of the airlines’ control, but there are other things passengers are entitled to if their flight is delayed or cancelled.

Under UK law, airlines must provide care and assistance if a flight is delayed more than two hours for a short-haul flight, more than three hours for a medium-haul flight, or more than four hours for a long-haul flight.

This can include free meals, accommodation and transport to and from the airport.

Anton adds that depending on the distance of your planned journey, passengers affected by the Italian airport strikes could be due up to £520 in compensation from EasyJet.

He explains: ‘EasyJet are obliged to pay up for flights cancelled as a result of their own staff striking as the courts consider the inconvenience to be within the airline’s control – or in other words, avoidable.

‘If you’re due to travel anywhere with EasyJet or on any airline’s flight to Italy on the 24th, make sure you have your airline’s app on your phone and sign up for email and SMS alerts. Keep an eye on your carrier’s website and social media channels too.

‘Use a compensation calculator to figure out what you might be owed if your flight is delayed or cancelled.’

This strike follows a series of previous walkouts earlier this year, which led to widespread cancellations and delays.

Cities across Italy are also facing disruption to local transport services on March 21 due to national industrial action lasting 24 hours. Travellers in Rome, Milan and other major cities are set to be affected.

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Depending on who you ask, Marmite is either a national treasure or a crime against humanity. 

As its age-old slogan claims: you either love it or hate it. And, according to a recent ranking, the haters might be winning.

The survey, based on over 600,000 responses worldwide, named Marmite as the second-worst English food, only beaten by jellied eels.

The news was met with horror at Metro HQ, where one of my colleagues defended Marmite as fiercely as a mother would protect her newborn baby. 

Then, as expected, came the naysayers. ‘Marmite’s awful. It’s the worst thing I’ve ever tasted,’ another person chimed in. 

What did I think?

Well, I didn’t really care. I had no strong feelings – mainly because I’ve never tried it.

Yea, it might sound hard to believe, but I’ve managed to avoid loving or hating Marmite for all of my 24 years. 

Of course, when I made this admission to my colleagues, there was only one thing for it: I must try it immediately.

I swiftly headed to the work canteen to order a slice of toast with butter and Marmite. I braced myself for the worst and it was… okay?

I may be one of the only people in the world who is completely indifferent to Marmite, but honestly, I didn’t mind it. I finished both slices. It was salty, savoury, and similar to soy sauce. Weird, but not awful.

Would I eat it again? Maybe. I think my ‘toast’, which was essentially a lukewarm slice of bread, let it down. I can imagine it being quite nice with some crunchy sourdough. 

I wouldn’t necessarily call myself a convert, and I’m not rushing out to buy a 600g tub of Marmite anytime soon. But if someone offers me a slice of toast with a thin layer on it, I wouldn’t say no.

I could even go all out – maybe take a page from Nigella’s book and mix it with spaghetti and Parmesan.

What I do now know, is that the Marmite hate is massively OTT. It’s far from the worst thing I’ve ever tasted (or second-worst, according to TasteAtlas reviewers), and anyone who thinks otherwise needs to grow up. There are far more disgusting things in this world than some yeast extract on toast.

As for the top-rated worst food? I haven’t tried jellied eels yet, but they might just be next on my list. 

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Ryanair has scrapped flights to plenty of popular holiday spots this year, citing the ‘unjustified’ and ‘bizarre’ introduction of aviation taxes across Europe as the reason why.

Spain was the destination hit the hardest, with the low-cost carrier cutting its schedule over several routes, while Italy, Germany, France, and Denmark have also faced a reduction in flights.

But, thankfully for holidaymakers, the airline has also introduced some new destinations across the continent this summer. 

AeroRoutes, which offers daily updates on the air network, has published a list of Ryanair’s planned route additions for summer 2025. 

And better still, it includes flights from the UK to destinations that have not been served by Ryanair in over a decade. 

All the new Ryanair routes for summer 2025

In January, Ryanair announced seven new summer routes from London Stansted, including the following destinations:

• Reggio Calabria, Italy – from March 19
• Bodrum, Turkey – from March 19
• Linz, Austria – from March 24
• Clermont-Ferrand, France – from April 20
• Munster, Germany – from May 20
• Dalaman, Turkey – from June 2.

Fares for these journeys start at just £14.99, according to Ryanair’s website, excluding London to Dalaman, which will set you back at least £33.69. 

Additionally, flights from Stansted to Lubeck in Germany are expected to begin from April 1, but tickets are not available to book on Ryanair’s website as of yet.

According to Aeroroutes, the carrier is also reinstating some routes that it hasn’t served for more than a decade, including three from Bournemouth airport. 

Ryanair will fly from Bournemouth to both Chania and Rhodes in Greece in June, and to Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands in April. 

All three routes, which have been absent from Ryanair’s website since 2014, will operate twice weekly. 

Those travelling from Manchester can expect two new routes at the end of March too, with twice-weekly flights to both Morocco’s capital Rabat and the southern French city of Toulouse. 

Twice-weekly flights to Toulouse will also commence from Bristol Airport as of May 3. 

Meanwhile, in Scotland, a new route from Edinburgh to Funchal in Portugal will launch on March 30, while a twice-weekly flight from Glasgow to Malta will begin on April 25. 

The budget carrier has slashed a number of flights this year, and many popular European holiday destinations have been affected. 

Spain is among the hardest hit by the cuts, with Ryanair revealing last month that it would cut its Spanish summer traffic by 18% this year. 

The airline will stop all flights to and from Jerez and Valladolid and reduce flights in and out of Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, Zaragoza, Santander and Asturias, with a total of 80,000 seats across 12 routes being lost.

Ryanair previously told Metro: ‘We have been forced to cut capacity to and from short-sighted markets that are bizarrely introducing or increasing aviation taxes.’

This article was first published on March 14, 2025.

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Netflix’s latest crime drama Adolescence is an eye-opener for parents, exposing how teenagers use emojis online as coded messages.

The four-part series follows 13-year-old Jamie Miller (played by Owen Cooper), who is arrested for the murder of his female classmate, Katie,  after being radicalised by incel and misogynistic culture online. 

One particularly unsettling scene highlights just how unaware the adults in the series are. DI Luke Bascombe initially misinterprets a series of emojis left by Katie on Jamie’s Instagram profile, believing they were flirtatious. 

It’s only when his teenage son, Adam, reveals their much more sinister meaning that the true danger becomes apparent.

‘The red pill is like “I see the truth”. It’s a call to action by the manosphere,’ Adam (played by Amari Bacchus) explains in the tense scene. 

‘She’s saying he’s an incel, dad. She’s saying he always will be. That’s why they say you’re an incel, they’re saying you’re going to be a virgin forever.’

Adam’s explanation points to the toxic subculture of the manosphere, a collection of online communities that promote radical misogynistic views, often centred around the idea that women manipulate men and that only a small percentage of men are considered desirable by women. 

Within this dark corner of the internet, the ‘red pill’ – a term borrowed from The Matrix – has come to symbolise awakening to the ‘truth’ about gender dynamics.

In the scene, Adam explains that the comment Katie left on Jamie’s Instagram profile, featuring a dynamite emoji, represents an ‘exploding red pill,’ meaning that someone is an incel.

He then goes on to describe the ‘80/20 rule’, a concept circulating among his classmates, and its connection to the ‘100’ emoji. ‘80% of women are attracted to 20% of men,’ Adam tells DI Bascom. ‘Women, you must trick them because you’ll never get them in a normal way.’

He adds that the kidney bean emoji is also be used to identify or self-identify as an incel, possibly due to its similarity to the coffee bean, a symbol rooted in derogatory memes mocking women online. 

The coffee bean meme, popular on platforms like 4Chan and Reddit, has been used to belittle women and reinforce harmful stereotypes. 

Adam also highlights how seemingly harmless emojis like hearts, which his father uses to express affection, can be completely different when used by younger generations.

In the scene, he explains: ‘Red means love, purple horny, yellow “I’m interested, are you interested”, pink “I’m interested but not in sex”, orange “you’re going to be fine”, it all has a meaning- everything has a meaning.’

How to talk to your children about online culture

DI Bascombe (alongside many viewers) is understandably baffled by the information his son shares and the sinister meanings behind the emojis. 

The scene serves as a stark reminder for parents that the digital world their children inhabit is constantly evolving, as is how they communicate online.

If you’re concerned about your child’s exposure to online subcultures like the manosphere or the incel community, it’s important to approach the situation carefully.

Jenny Warwick, a BACP-accredited therapist and parenting expert, advises that discussing online issues with children should be seen as an ongoing conversation. ‘Keep an open and curious mindset,’ she tells Metro.

‘You want to encourage an open dialogue with no judgment. Ask questions like: “What do you think about how some people talk about gender online?”’

This approach helps create a safe space where your child feels comfortable discussing anything they might have come across, even if it’s disturbing.

Jenny stresses that it’s essential to help children recognise manipulation techniques used by extremist groups online, such as the ‘us vs. them’ mentality. 

She recommends discussing healthy relationships, gender equality, and the echo chamber effect of social media.

‘Encourage critical thinking – teach them to question the sources of online content and why some groups hold certain beliefs,’ she adds.

Instead of resorting to drastic measures like blocking sites or removing screens, parents should take a measured approach.

‘Encourage your child to share their favourite sites and influencers with you,’ Jenny suggests. 

‘Discuss tools like screen time limits and content filters, offering support as they learn to manage their online habits.’

She adds that social media is designed to keep users scrolling, which can be particularly challenging for adolescents. ‘While monitoring software can be helpful, it should never replace open communication.’

Jenny says that if parents notice a change in their child’s personality – such as becoming overly angry, frustrated, or withdrawn – it’s a sign to start a conversation. ‘Defensive or secretive behaviour when asked about their online activity should be paid attention to.’

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For most people, the in-flight food experience is pretty average – especially if you’re flying economy. A lukewarm pasta dish, a dry bread roll, and maybe a small chocolate pudding, if you’re lucky.

However, it’s anything but for Kena Peay, a frequent traveller who packs her own ‘Skycuterie’ boards to elevate her economy-class experience.

From 30,000 feet up in the air, she’s enjoyed everything from spaghetti and meatballs to fresh salads and fried chicken – all cooked at home and taken on board.

And it’s an elaborate setup, to say the least. She transforms her economy tray table with a full spread– bringing silverware, china plates and even a tablecloth for ambience. 

For Kena, it’s about creating her own luxury experience in economy. She carefully preps each meal before flying, packing it in a malleable cooler bag and thermal flask – all of which fits into her carry-on bag.

She tells Metro: ‘I wanted to have a nice meal in economy. I’m not saying that the airlines don’t provide a nice meal for you, but I wanted to have the same experience I have in first class.’

Her in-flight dining ritual, which she calls ‘Skycuterie’ boards, has turned heads, especially from (often envious) passengers in the seats next to her.

Even flight attendants have done double takes, with some stopping to admire her neatly arranged meal, calling it ‘genius’ and taking pictures.

‘I think they’re most impressed by how well compact it is and how much food I’m getting in the little pack,’ she explains. 

Kena began her ‘Skycuterie’ boards back in 2021. She describes herself as a ‘nervous flyer’ and explains that having the setup is ‘helpful’ and makes flying more enjoyable.

She adds: ‘I also wanted to control what I was eating and thought, why don’t I just take my own food on the plane?’

She’s taken the homemade meals on both international and domestic flights. She travels fairly often between California and Washington, where she splits her time living.

While she acknowledges that bringing your own food on board is ‘nothing new,’ she considers herself a ‘trendsetter’ in turning it into an experience that makes in-flight dining feel special. 

In fact, many other creators have since hopped on the trend of ‘romanticising travel’, bringing their own elements of luxury to transport.

For example, content creator @girlllllhouse, filmed herself making martinis and eating caviar from her economy window seat.

Kena shares her elaborate plane meals with her 450,000 TikTok followers (@kenapeay), where they’ve attracted plenty of attention.

While some users have accused her of ‘doing too much,’ she stands by her carefully curated meals, saying: ‘It’s just a way of bringing joy onto planes.’

Kena explains that a lot of preparation and organisation is involved in pulling off her ‘Skycuterie’ boards successfully. 

‘I cook it an hour before I’m set to leave,’ she says. ‘So, I’m still arriving at the airport within the two-hour time frame that makes it comfortable for me to move through and navigate security.’

One of the main questions Kena gets asked is how she keeps the food warm.

‘It’s the thermos,’ she explains. ‘It’s surprising. It will keep your food quite hot for 2-3 hours.’

As for getting through security, Kena has had her fair share of mishaps.

She explains that ‘each country is different’ when it comes to regulations and advises others to check what they can and can’t bring on a flight beforehand.

One time, a homemade McMuffin was thoroughly checked by a security guard, who even opened it up from its tinfoil. 

On another occasion, a security guard opened her thermos to assess her spaghetti and meatballs and almost stopped her from passing through. 

She says: ‘They almost didn’t let me through. I’m glad I had the meatballs in there because he said the soup was not allowed.’

For others who might not want to go as all out as Kena, she suggests a cup of noodles as a travel-friendly recipe.

‘You can get hot water on the plane. I carry a separate thermos, and then I go to a restaurant in the airport to ask them to fill it up with hot water.’

She adds: ‘For a first Skycuterie pack, I would definitely recommend packages of crackers, fruit, and then if you wanted a hot food option, the cup of noodles or a quick stir-fry noodle that you can put into your hot thermos.’

Kena explains that bringing your own food on board is a great way to save money. 

‘Some airports have really good food, but I don’t want to pay $25 (£19) for a hamburger and fries and a little can of soda and take it on the plane with me,’ she says. 

‘I’m frustrated at that point. That’s $25 I could use when I land for a place I really wanted to dine at.’

Kena is so passionate about sharing the ‘Skycuterie’ experience that she is creating packs for beginners. 

These will include snacks, honey, jams, and more, and are expected to be available for purchase in the US in May.

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White sand beaches and crystal clear waters are usually reminiscent of a holiday in the Seychelles. 

But one UK beach has been declared so beautiful you’d be forgiven for mistaking it for the pristine tropical island. 

Travellers have declared Nanjizal Bay in Cornwall the ‘best beach in the UK’. 

With its turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations, it’s certainly a great alternative if you can’t afford a holiday so far-flung. 

The boulder-covered beach lies along the Cornish coast, around 10 miles from Penzance, and is sheltered by rugged cliffs. 

Known for its striking rock formations and tidal pools, the beach is tucked away down a narrow path with no direct road access –  visitors must take a scenic walk to reach it. 

What are people saying about Nanjizal Bay?

Those who have discovered Nanjizal Bay have not left disappointed. The secret spot is being shared far and wide on social media.

One traveller shared a clip of the hidden cove to TikTok. The user, @sammys_sanctuary, wrote: ‘POV: you found the best beach in the UK.’

The video gained hoards of comments, with users declaring it ‘stunning’ and some asking: ‘Surely this isn’t in the UK?’

The beach has gained similar traction on Tripadvisor, where it has a 4.5-star rating based on nearly 50 reviews.

One reviewer, ‘TravekUK’, wrote: ‘When it’s beautiful weather it looks amazing, nearly like the Seychelles.’

Another ‘tootusCornwall’, added: ‘This place is stunning, peaceful, tranquil and awe-inspiring. You would think you were in a tropical country.’

Reviewer ‘MichaelLindaG’ added: ‘What a magical little cove, the beach is just beautiful.’

What is there to see at Nanjizal Bay?

Nanjizal Bay is relatively undiscovered, according to Cornwall Beaches. 

‘Due to its relative inaccessibility, Nanjizal has remained more or less untouched and never gets busy,’ the local guide reads. 

‘There are an abundance of caves and interesting rock formations for those not content with taking the view.’

However, the website notes that the beach has gained popularity in recent years due to its ‘numerous Instagram appearances’. 

One of the beach’s most striking features is the ‘Song of the Sea’.

The tall rock archway, originally known as ‘Zawny Pyg’ or ‘pointed chasm’, is surrounded by emerald water and is a ‘beautiful spot for taking a dip’, when the tide is right. 

The beautiful bay had a brief moment of fame in 1966 when it served as the filming location for Doctor Who’s ‘The Smugglers’ episodes, where the Tardis materialised on the sand.

The beach is a great spot for seal watching, with pups often seen bobbing around the shore. Wild ponies can sometimes be spotted grazing nearby. 

How to get to Nanjizal Bay in Cornwall

There are several ways to reach the hidden beach, but visitors should note that they all involve a hike. 

The most popular route is the seaside trail from Land’s End in the north or Porthgwarra Beach in the south. Both trails are roughly around a mile long and offer official parking.
 
In terms of accessibility, the only way to get down to the beach is via a steep wooden staircase. You’ll then have to navigate some large rocks and pebbles before reaching the sand. 

There are no lifeguards stationed at the beach, and Cornwall Beaches advises checking the tides before visiting. 

The website recommends visiting during low to mid tide as the beach size is reduced during higher tides. 

Things to do near Nanjizal Bay 

If you’re making the trip to Nanjizal Bay, why not explore more of what the area has to offer?

The hidden beach is located a 10-minute drive (or 40-minute walk) away from Land’s End, one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. 

The landmark, located near Penzance, is Britain’s most south-westerly point and features 200-foot-high granite cliffs rising out of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Land’s End is most famous for the iconic signpost which marks the 874-mile distance to John O’Groats.

Porthchurno Beach, just two miles from Nanjizal, is another must-visit. The popular stretch of sand is known for its turquoise waters and is often described as a ‘tropical paradise’.

Minack Theatre, a ‘spectacular’ open-air theatre carved into the cliffs, overlooks the beach below.

For the more adventurous travellers, Sennen Cover is a great spot for surfing. The wide sandy beach boasts consistent waves and is a popular choice for surfers of all levels.

The area boasts a few laid-back cafes and restaurants where you can admire the ocean view.

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There are no stained, squashed seats on this train – and we sincerely hope the UK’s rail operators have taken note.

France’s national train operator, SNCF, has unveiled images of its newly designed high-speed trains, with interiors that will make commuters swoon.

Set to begin service in early 2026, images of the trains (known as TGV INOUI by manufacturer Alstom) have been circulating on X, with some users calling the design ‘incredible’, while others have commented that it ‘looks straight out of the 70s’. 

The trains are set to run on the Paris-Lyon-Marseille route before gradually being introduced across the rest of the network. We’ll be booking a holiday ASAP. So, what can passengers expect?

Inside SNCF’s new TGV INOUI trains

The redesign features a two-storey bar, wider seats, more legroom, and enhanced accessibility for disabled passengers.

The new trains will feature nine passenger carriages, compared to the eight of the current model, increasing seating capacity by 20%, or a total of 740 passengers per train.

Accessibility has been improved with a new carriage designed for wheelchair users, equipped with a platform lift that enables passengers to board independently. 

The redesign also promises more comfort and space in areas dedicated to wheelchair use, as well as a larger circulation area in the lounge. Additionally, there will be a ‘service at the seat’ catering option.

Raised seat numbering will assist visually impaired passengers by making it easier to identify their seat locations.

The new TGV seats are fitted with ‘innovative foam’ for extra comfort, and the integrated equipment includes power USB outlets and adjustable lighting.

First-class seats are now 5cm wider than the current model and feature a wraparound adjustable headrest, electric seat recline, and space to store cabin luggage under the seat. 

In the second-class carriage, seats include a phone holder and an extra 5cm of legroom.

The bar area has been renamed ‘Le Bistro’ and occupies two floors, connected by a staircase. 

The self-service shopping area downstairs includes a grocery shop and fridges, while upstairs offers 28 seats where passengers can enjoy their meals.

Passengers with 5G-compatible devices will benefit from improved connectivity and stronger Wi-Fi.

Due to their aerodynamic design, the new trains will also be 20% more energy-efficient and produce 50% less CO2 emissions than single-deck high-speed trains, according to SNCF.

The trains feature a soft palette of red, blue, and yellow hues, with angular, round seats and angular yellow table lamps, creating a distinctive, inviting atmosphere.

The designers used the concept of ‘flow’ for the interior, drawing inspiration from water currents in nature to inform the placement of furniture and colours.

‘The train makes its way through the landscape, rather like the flow of a river,’  an SNCF press release states.

Images of the train were shared by @juanbuis on X, with the user commenting: ‘France’s new high-speed trains were just revealed, and they look incredible.

‘There’s just something about these 70s space-age vibes that make it feel modern and retro at the same time.’

He continued: ‘Whoever added that lamp deserves a raise.’

The tweet gained thousands of likes and comments from users equally enthusiastic about the design.

User @apostructure wrote: ‘This is an aesthetic that makes you enthusiastic about the future. It’s simple but not dry, it’s colourful, happy. You want to hang out there.’

Some users have claimed they want to fly to France just to test out the trains. User @wimserspam wrote: ‘Anyone want to pay for my trip to France just so I can get on this train.’

Another, @stasreads33 wrote: ‘I will move to France to get pink train seats and cute trains.’

UK rail users didn’t take the news too well, with many seizing the opportunity to complain about the country’s slow and dated transport system.

One user wrote: ‘In England, you can pay £137 to sit on the floor.’ Another added: ‘Oh how I yearn to live in a country where train travel is fast, efficient and fabulous.’

But not everyone is a fan of the design, some have claimed the design is ‘old’ and others ‘hideous’. 

User @therealbcali wrote: ‘Not a fan. The seats don’t look comfortable, they look stiff and dated already. The colours are horrible. The lounge area looks like something you’d see in a hospital waiting room.’

Nevertheless, the excitement signals a wider embrace of rail travel or the ‘rail renaissance’.

Many travellers have looked toward rail travel as a slower, more immersive way to travel and an eco-friendly alternative to other modes of transport, such as flying.

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A sprawling network of secret underground tunnels is being transformed into a major new London tourist attraction.

Hidden 40m below the streets of the capital, the Kingsway Exchange Tunnels were built to shelter Londoners during the Blitz in World War II.

But the deep-level air raid shelter was completed after the war ended — and so never used.

Now, for the first time ever, the tunnels will be opened to the public, transformed into an immersive tourist attraction: The London Tunnels.

Speaking to CNN, London Tunnels CEO Angus Murray commented: ‘This is going to be a massive space, and it’s that impression of “wow!” that makes a difference.’

What are The London Tunnels?

Construction on the tunnels began in 1940, with workers digging the passages by hand — some sections are so deep they can fit a double-decker bus inside. 

But by the time they were completed in 1942, the Blitz had ended, and the threat of bombing had diminished. 

Londoners no longer needed the protection of the shelters, having sought refuge in the underground instead, and so the tunnels were never used for purpose.

Instead, they were used by the government as a telecommunications centre and base for the Special Operations Executive.

This secret British organisation was responsible for espionage, sabotage and supporting resistance movements during Nazi-occupied Europe.

Bond author Ian Fleming even worked in the spy headquarters in naval intelligence.

The location is widely thought to have inspired Q Branch, the fictional division of the Secret Service, where Bond goes to get his specialist equipment.

After the war, British Telecom took over the tunnels and maintained control until they closed in the early 1980s.

The network was also home to the UK’s deepest underground bar and canteen for workers.

The tunnels were kept secret for nearly 70 years, as part of the Government’s Official Secrets Act, until 2007. A year later, BT put them up for sale.

What will the new London Tunnels offer for tourists?

Former investment banker Angus Murray is spearheading the project to turn the tunnels into a memorial to the Blitz, which he says will house a museum, exhibits and entertainment spaces.

Architects Wilkinson-Eyre, who previously worked on the Sky Bridge at Hong Kong International Airport and Gateshead Memorial Bridge, plan to keep remaining historical artifacts in a ‘History and Heritage’ section, while an ‘Arts and Culture’ section will host rotating art exhibitions and immersive displays.

The attraction’s centrepiece, however, is a bar; the ‘deepest licensed bar in the United Kingdom’, with capacity for several hundred visitors, who can expect to be served Vesper Martinis in a nod to the venue’s past.

According to its website, the tunnels could potentially draw up to two million visitors annually and could be ‘one of the most thrilling global destinations’.

When will the London Tunnels open?

Murray likened the expected impact of the Tunnels to the London Eye – which opened in 2000 and draws millions of visitors annually.

But sadly, tourists will have to wait to visit the iconic site.

Work is due to begin upgrading the 86,000-square-foot space towards the end of next year next year, so The London Tunnels likely won’t be open to the public until late 2027 or early 2028.

The estimated the cost of the tourist attraction, which was approved by authorities last year, is around £120 million.

This article was first published on January 31, 2025.

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Most of us take selfies to capture a moment, share online, or just feel good about ourselves – but snapping a quick photo can serve a number of additional purposes.

In a recent video with KLOSS Community, supermodel Aweng Chuol shared some of her most iconic selfies, alongside a habit she swears by that can do wonders for your self-confidence.

The South Sudanese-Australian model, who has walked for top fashion houses and graced the covers of major magazines, flipped through snapshots of her life, with everything from candid shots in kebab shops to glamorous pics at Madonna’s parties.

Ranking her favourite behind-the-scenes pictures, she chose a candid shot taken in a lift in Tenerife, which is one of the numerous selfies in her camera roll.

‘When I’m inside an elevator alone, I always take a selfie,’ explained Aweng

‘Sometimes I don’t even post the images, I don’t even show the images, I just do it for myself but it’s just to have a look at how I left the house. I want to just see it on my phone.’

Megan Watkins, head stylist at Silkfred, recommends the ‘simple yet effective styling trick that can help elevate your outfit’ to all her clients when curating their style.

‘Sometimes an outfit can look great in your head or even in the mirror, but capturing it on camera gives you a more objective view,’ she tells Metro. 

‘You can spot if your outfit needs more structure if accessories are clashing or if the fit is slightly off.’

She says it’s a great confidence booster too, commenting: ‘When you see your outfit from a different perspective and love how it looks, it naturally gives you that extra bit of confidence before heading out the door.’

These aren’t the only benefits though; looking back at the picture can also help you assess colour combinations.

Megan explains: ‘Seeing your outfit through a photo helps you pick up on whether tones are complementing each other or if you need to break things up with a different texture or pop of colour.’

And once you make these for-your-eyes-only selfies a regular part of your routine, you’ll gradually ‘create a reference bank of looks you feel confident in, making it easier to put together outfits in the future.’

Bear in mind before you start, you might find the stark contrast between how you look in the photos and how you look in the mirror getting ready strange initially.

The version of yourself that you see in the mirror has been reversed from front to back, with your facial asymmetries flipped.

Over time, you get used to seeing yourself this way, which is why photos can sometimes feel jarring.

According to aesthetic doctor and founder of Age Well, Dr Sophie Shotter, this phenomenon is called familiarity bias.

‘When we look at ourselves in a mirror, we see a reversed version of ourselves. Our brain gets used to this version and prefers it,’ she tells Metro. 

‘Which is why when you see a photo, which is how others see you, it can look slightly off as it’s unfamiliar to us. This can create a disconnect where we prefer a mirrored reflection over our photographed selves.’

Lens distortion is also an important factor, as Dr Shotter adds: ‘Camera lenses, especially phones and wide-angle lenses, distort our proportions. They can make faces look stretched, squashed or skewed. Mirrors don’t do this.’

Try not to get discouraged if you don’t like what you see from these initial pictures. If you power through and keep up your selfie-taking ritual, you’ll be feeling like a supermodel in no time.

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Singapore Airlines has become the latest international airline to ban the use of power banks on board its flights.

The airline announced that, as of April 1, customers will not be allowed to charge portable power banks via the onboard USB ports or use power banks to charge their devices.

Additionally, power banks must be carried in cabin baggage and are not permitted in checked luggage.

Singapore Airlines announced the new rules – which also apply to customers flying with its low-cost subsidiary, Scoot – via a statement on its Facebook page earlier this week. 

The post read: ‘Customers may bring power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh without special approval, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval.

‘We seek customers’ understanding that safety will always be our top priority.’

The announcement prompted thousands of comments, with some questioning how the cabin crew would enforce the new rules. 

In response, the airline stated: ‘Our crews are trained to remain vigilant and ensure that customers comply with in-flight procedures.’

Its post also explained that the SIA Group complies with the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations regarding the carriage of power banks, which are classified as lithium batteries.

Lithium batteries, including those used in power banks, laptops, mobile phones, and electronic cigarettes, are known to pose a hazard due to a reaction called ‘thermal runaway’ which occurs when a battery overheats, potentially leading to a fire.

According to the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): ‘All lithium-ion batteries are capable of overheating and undergoing a process called thermal runaway. 

‘Thermal runaway can occur without warning due to various factors, including battery damage, overheating, exposure to water, overcharging, or improper packing. It can also result from manufacturing defects.’

This process is believed to have been the cause of a fire that engulfed and destroyed an Air Busan plane at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, earlier this year. 

While all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, three people sustained minor injuries. 

On Friday, South Korea’s transport ministry said the results of an interim investigation suggest the fire could have started due to insulation inside a power bank battery breaking down. 

The device was found in an overhead luggage compartment where the fire was first detected, and its debris showed scorch marks, according to officials. 

However, investigators have not yet determined the exact cause of the battery failure, and the final accident report is expected to be released within a year, according to global aviation standards.

Following growing concerns over lithium battery safety, South Korea implemented stricter regulations earlier this month, requiring passengers to keep power banks and e-cigarettes with them rather than storing them in overhead bins. Charging devices on board is now prohibited.

The aviation industry has long recognised lithium batteries as a safety concern, leading to periodic tightening of regulations in response to incidents. 

According to the FAA, incidents involving overheating lithium batteries on planes have risen, with three cases recorded every two weeks last year, compared to just under one per week in 2018.

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A popular European train carrier has unveiled images of its newly designed high-speed trains, set to begin service in early 2026.

The TGV INOUI (formerly known as TGV-M) is the fifth generation of trains produced for France’s national operator, SNCF, by manufacturer Alstom.

The recently released images have been circulating on X, with some users calling the design ‘incredible’, while others have commented that it ‘looks straight out of the 70s’. 

The trains are set to run on the Paris-Lyon-Marseille route before gradually being introduced across the rest of the network. So, what can passengers expect?

Inside SNCF’s new TGV INOUI trains

The redesign features a two-storey bar, wider seats, more legroom, and enhanced accessibility for disabled passengers.

The new trains will feature nine passenger carriages, compared to the eight of the current model, increasing seating capacity by 20%, or a total of 740 passengers per train.

Accessibility has been improved with a new carriage designed for wheelchair users, equipped with a platform lift that enables passengers to board independently. 

The redesign also promises more comfort and space in areas dedicated to wheelchair use, as well as a larger circulation area in the lounge. Additionally, there will be a ‘service at the seat’ catering option.

Raised seat numbering will assist visually impaired passengers by making it easier to identify their seat locations.

The new TGV seats are fitted with ‘innovative foam’ for extra comfort, and the integrated equipment includes power USB outlets and adjustable lighting.

First-class seats are now 5cm wider than the current model and feature a wraparound adjustable headrest, electric seat recline, and space to store cabin luggage under the seat. 

In the second-class carriage, seats include a phone holder and an extra 5cm of legroom.

The bar area has been renamed ‘Le Bistro’ and occupies two floors, connected by a staircase. 

The self-service shopping area downstairs includes a grocery shop and fridges, while upstairs offers 28 seats where passengers can enjoy their meals.

Passengers with 5G-compatible devices will benefit from improved connectivity and stronger Wi-Fi.

Due to their aerodynamic design, the new trains will also be 20% more energy-efficient and produce 50% less CO2 emissions than single-deck high-speed trains, according to SNCF.

The trains feature a soft palette of red, blue, and yellow hues, with angular, round seats and angular yellow table lamps, creating a distinctive, inviting atmosphere.

The designers used the concept of ‘flow’ for the interior, drawing inspiration from water currents in nature to inform the placement of furniture and colours.

‘The train makes its way through the landscape, rather like the flow of a river,’  an SNCF press release states.

Images of the train were shared by @juanbuis on X, with the user commenting: ‘France’s new high-speed trains were just revealed, and they look incredible.

‘There’s just something about these 70s space-age vibes that make it feel modern and retro at the same time.’

He continued: ‘Whoever added that lamp deserves a raise.’

The tweet gained thousands of likes and comments from users equally enthusiastic about the design.

User @apostructure wrote: ‘This is an aesthetic that makes you enthusiastic about the future. It’s simple but not dry, it’s colourful, happy. You want to hang out there.’

Some users have claimed they want to fly to France just to test out the trains. User @wimserspam wrote: ‘Anyone want to pay for my trip to France just so I can get on this train.’

Another, @stasreads33 wrote: ‘I will move to France to get pink train seats and cute trains.’

But not everyone is a fan of the design, some have claimed the design is ‘old’ and others ‘hideous’. 

User @therealbcali wrote: ‘Not a fan. The seats don’t look comfortable, they look stiff and dated already. The colours are horrible. The lounge area looks like something you’d see in a hospital waiting room.’

Nevertheless, the excitement signals a wider embrace of rail travel or the ‘rail renaissance’.

Many travellers have looked toward rail travel as a slower, more immersive way to travel and an eco-friendly alternative to other modes of transport, such as flying.

Do you have a story to share?

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

Ryanair has scrapped flights to plenty of popular holiday spots this year, citing the ‘unjustified’ and ‘bizarre’ introduction of aviation taxes across Europe as the reason why.

Spain was the destination hit the hardest, with the low-cost carrier cutting its schedule over several routes, while Italy, Germany, France, and Denmark have also faced a reduction in flights.

But, thankfully for holidaymakers, the airline has also introduced some new destinations across the continent this summer. 

AeroRoutes, which offers daily updates of the air network, has published a full list of Ryanair’s planned network additions for summer 2025. 

And better still, this includes flights from the UK to destinations that have not been served by Ryanair in over a decade. 

New Ryanair routes for summer 2025

In January, Ryanair announced seven new summer routes from London Stansted, including the following destinations:

• Reggio Calabria, Italy – from March 19
• Bodrum, Turkey – from March 19
• Linz, Austria – from March 24
• Clermont-Ferrand, France – from April 20
• Munster, Germany – from May 20
• Dalaman, Turkey – from June 2.

Fares for these journeys starts from just £14.99, according to Ryanair’s website, except for London to Dalaman, which will set you back at least £33.69. 

Additionally, flights from Stansted to Lubeck in Germany are expected to begin from April 1, but tickets are not available to book on Ryanair’s website as of yet.

According to Aeroroutes, the carrier is also reinstating some routes that it hasn’t served for more than a decade, including three from Bournemouth airport. 

Ryanair will fly from Bournemouth to both Chania and Rhodes in Greece in June, and to Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands in April. 

All three routes, which have been absent from Ryanair’s website since 2014, will operate twice weekly. 

Those travelling from Manchester can expect two new routes at the end of March too, with twice-weekly flights to both Morocco’s capital Rabat and the southern French city of Toulouse. 

Twice-weekly flights to Toulouse will also commence from Bristol Airport as of May 3. 

Meanwhile, in Scotland, a new route from Edinburgh to Funchal in Portugal will launch March 30, while a twice-weekly flight from Glasgow to Malta will begin from April 25. 

The budget carrier has slashed a number of flights this year, and many popular European holiday destinations have been affected. 

Spain is among the hardest hit by the cuts, with Ryanair revealing last month that it would cut its Spanish summer traffic by 18% this year. 

The airline will stop all flights to and from Jerez and Valladolid and reduce flights in and out of Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, Zaragoza, Santander and Asturias, with a total of 80,000 seats across 12 routes being lost.

Ryanair previously told Metro: ‘We have been forced to cut capacity to and from short-sighted markets that are bizarrely introducing or increasing aviation taxes.’

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The concept of a day for women to show off their best looks at the races is said to date back to Queen Victoria wearing a hat at Royal Ascot in the 1830s.

This tradition has continued for many years, including at Cheltenham Festival, where the second day has long been referred to as Ladies Day.

Previously, Ladies Day was reserved for women to don designer and high-fashion brands, with some planning their outfits months in advance, along with A-list celebrities and high-profile racegoers showcasing their most picture-worthy outfits.

However, in recent years, the iconic day has undergone a transformation.

Follow Metro’s live blog for updates from the Cheltenham Festival 2025

And in 2025, for the second year in a row, the day will officially be known as ‘Style Wednesday’ instead.

The festival has also ditched its Best Dressed competition, instead shifting focus to sustainable fashion with its ‘Slow Fashion’ awards. 

Why is Ladies’ Day now called Style Wednesday at Cheltenham Festival?

Cheltenham Festival quietly stopped advertising the second day as being for ‘ladies’ in 2018, yet the tradition persisted for years to come. 

The shift to Style Wednesday was a move towards promoting a more sustainable and inclusive view of fashion, as was the scrapping of the best-dressed awards.

Organisers now hope to encourage racegoers to ‘make more sustainable fashion choices’ while they showcase their ‘unique and personal style’. 

A Cheltenham Racecourse spokesperson commented on the change at the time, stating the rebrand aims to celebrate ‘fast horses and slow fashion’. 

They explained: ‘This includes re-wearing outfits they already have in their wardrobes, purchasing timeless garments to wear again and again and also buying from retailers specialising in pre-loved clothing.

‘We hope that by no longer placing an expectation upon people of what they should and shouldn’t wear, we can help highlight that racing really is for everyone.’

The spokesperson highlighted that ‘discouraging people from dressing up for a day at the races if they want to’ wasn’t the intention, adding: ‘This is about giving people a choice and the opportunity to come racing dressed however they feel most comfortable and confident.’

What other changes have been made?

Historically, while there is no official dress code for the Cheltenham Festival, attendees were expected to dress smartly. Men typically wore suits, and women smart dresses, with jeans and trainers generally avoided.

However, the dress code was relaxed back in 2023, as organisers looked to be more ‘inclusive’ and help spectators feel ‘confident and at ease’.

‘Horse racing has always been a sport enjoyed by people from all different backgrounds, and it’s really important to us to be accessible and inclusive,’ Jockey Club chief executive Kevin Truesdale said when the change was introduced. 

That being said, high fashion is often on the agenda for attendees, with many using the event as an opportunity to showcase statement outfits. 

And, despite the new, more relaxed dress code, many still embrace the traditional race day fashion, with elaborate hats and fascinators. 

What awards will be handed out on Style Wednesday at Cheltenham Festival?

On Style Wednesday, the Slow Fashion Awards will celebrate racegoers who embrace both sustainability and glamour by donning vintage and borrowed items. 

To enter the competition – which opens at 10.30am and closes at 14.30pm – participants must have their photo taken against the official photography backdrop in The Plaza and fill out a digital questionnaire provided by the promotional team. 

Points will be awarded based on the extent to which the outfit has been sustainably sourced.

The Jockey Club’s website reads: ‘The Slow Fashion awards celebrate vintage and borrowed items, as well as investment pieces that can be passed down through generations. 

‘We encourage all racegoers to showcase their unique and personal style and to share the stories behind their amazing outfits with friends and family on social media.’

Jewellery worth £4,000, a stay in the five-star Ellenborough Park in the Cotswolds and tickets to Ladies Day Epsom 2025 are among the prizes available for the winners.

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Looking for a Sicilian getaway for less than the price of a coffee? It’s not as unrealistic as you’d expect.

The small seaside town of Siculiana is offering a three-night weekend escape for just €1 (84p) to attract visitors during the off-peak season and put the town on the map. 

The initiative is similar to Italy’s €1 home schemes, where buyers can purchase old houses in remote regions for next to nothing, all with the aim of reinvigorating local economies. 

As part of this limited weekend escape package, all visitors will have to pay is Sicily’s €1 tourist tax, with accommodation, meals and guided tours included in the price. 

Other than that, they’ll just have to cover their travel to the picturesque village, which sits around 18km west of Agrigento on Sicily’s west coast.

Fancy your chances of winning? Here’s how to apply. 

How to apply for €1 holiday in Sicily 

To apply for the €1 getaway, you must submit an original video explaining why you want to participate. 

If you’re stuck for ideas, the Siculiana Tourism Board suggests several reasons ‘why’, including: ‘We deserve a holiday,’ ‘We love Sicily,’ and ‘We want to eat Sicilian food.’

Applicants must be over 18 and submit their videos in pairs. You must also include your relationship (such as friends, family, or spouses), ages, city of residence, and telephone and email contact details in your submission. 

Each application will be judged by the Tourism Board based on a number of factors, including originality and creativity, reasons expressed, enthusiasm and desire to discover Siculiana.

A total of 10 couples will be selected, and the first holiday will run from April 4 to April 6, following the announcement of the winners by March 20. 

You better be quick to be in with a chance of winning though, as the deadline for the application is March 15. 

What does the €1 holiday include?

The lucky winners will spend a weekend in Siciliana organised by the Tourism Board. 

The holiday includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with a two-night stay at one of Siculiana Turistica’s partner facilities. 

A welcome drink at the hotel will be provided, as well as a drink to conclude the break by the marina. 

Guided tours of the most historically significant places in the town will also be provided. 

Aside from the €1 tourist tax, winners will be expected to record a video diary of their experiences in Siculiana, sharing the highlights of their day with the Tourism Board. 

What is there to do in Siculiana? 

Like many Italian towns, Siciliana tends to be quiet in autumn and winter – and in recent decades, the population has declined (dropping from 5,000 to 4,000 in the past 20 years) as many young people moved on to larger Italian cities or abroad. 

This new promotion aims to boost tourism and attract newcomers, especially during the slower months. 

Despite its size, the town has plenty to offer; in particular, the Siculiana Marina and the Torres Salsa Nature Reserve, which boasts ‘pristine beaches and breathtaking scenery’, according to Siculiana Turistica. 

There’s also the 14th-century Chiaramonte castle, which perches on the edge of a rocky cliff, and a number of churches and monuments to the region’s history.

Additionally, Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, the Italian Capital of Culture for 2025 is 20-minute drive away.

Here, visitors can discover the archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring the well-preserved ruins of the ancient Greek temples, dating back to the 5th Century BCE. 

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If you thought pineapple on pizza was too much, brace yourself, because a chain restaurant has taken things to a whole new level. 

Bubba Pizza, which has locations all over Australia, is serving up a flavour combo that has proved so controversial people are calling it a ‘culinary abomination’. 

The combo in question? Ham and orange, with a large pizza selling for $16 AUD (£7.80).

Made with a tomato base, mozzarella, smoked ham, and orange segments, the pizza is essentially a twist on the classic Hawaiian, swapping out pineapple pieces for the citrus fruit. 

However, its gone down just about as well as the Hawaiian, if comments on a Reddit thread are to be believed, with many left people horrified. 

User u/cynide4lyf shared a look at the pizza, posting a snap which reads: ‘Break the Pineapple divide. Try orange instead.’

And it’s safe to say people on the r/Melbourne forum had some strong thoughts about the toppings, branding them ‘revolting’ and ‘blasphemy’.

‘This is what is wrong with this country,’ one comment by u/visualframes said. While a user known as u/MakePandasMateAgain proclaimed: ‘Some people just want to watch the world burn.’

‘That’s a culinary abomination,’ wrote u/polichick80, as u/buuuurrp admonished: ‘Straight to jail.’

u/Psalm27_1-3 joked the pizza should be sent ‘to the Italians’, to which u/PKMTrain replied that it would ‘start a war’.

And u/maimeddivinity added: ‘With this one simple trick, pineapple on pizza supporters and haters have been united.’

Others were concerned pizza was becoming ‘too fruity’, with u/FatFad1 saying: ‘I love pineapple on pizza but oranges on pizza? Next it might be peaches or grapefruit or apricots? Pizzas are becoming too fruity.’

However, not everyone was completely opposed to the quriky pizza. Auser called u/Kitsune_seven confessed: ‘I have to admit I am intrigued.’

And u/pitchfork-seller was also on the fence, saying: ‘I’d try a slice, but I’m not willing to pay money to try it.’

One user also suggested the orange would pair well on a pizza with roasted duck instead of ham, as another suggested a cheese and fig pizza ‘could work’.

The controversial pizza topping was introduced back in December as a summer special in Australia but is still available to order. 

At the time of the launch, Bubba Pizza was offering the pizza out for free for anyone with an Italian passport. 

In an Instagram video, the chain said: ‘We understand Italians don’t like pineapple on pizza. It’s been well documented. But we know that you love oranges. It’s like your country’s favourite fruit, right? Especially down in Italy.’

‘We’re trying to bring Italians, Australians and pineapple loving people together.’

The chain described the pizza toppings as being ‘super juicy and super sweet’ and said they were certain they had ‘found the fruit that’s going to bring everyone together’. 

But if you really can’t get on board with orange on a pizza, don’t panic as there are plenty of other options on the menu at Bubba, including the classic ham and pineapple for those craving the original controversial combo. 

There are also other unique flavours, from prawns to pumpkins as toppings.

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If you’re on the hunt for a delicious new breakfast treat, you’re going to want to head down to Lidl. 

The supermarket has just released a Brioche Chocolate Croissant in bakery sections around the country — and it’s already a hit with shoppers.

Priced at 89p, the pastry features a golden crust dusted with sugar and a gooey centre filled with chocolate.

But those who want to try it better be quick, as the item is only available for a limited time.

In the week since it launched, the croissant has drawn widespread praise, with some describing it as ‘insanely good’ and others claiming to be running to the shelves to try it. 

In a TikTok video, @newfoodfindsuk revealed the item alongside other limited-edition products in Lidl. 

The account hailed the chocolate croissant – located inside the bakery’s ‘Special Guests’ section – a 10/10, alongside a number of ecstatic emojis.

Commenting on the video, @hgeldart wrote, ‘Those croissants warmed up are actually insanely good’, while @kirstyclark11, added: ‘That brioche croissant was out of this world.’

TikToker @ellisekerr also shared her excitement of the launch with her followers, captioning her video of the find: ‘Run, don’t walk to Lidl for their new brioche croissant’. 

Commenters have described the treats as ‘so good’ and ‘unreal’, alongside suggesting followers try them warm.

‘Absolutely stunning after a minute in the air fryer,’ wrote one.

While Lidl has not confirmed how long the pastries will be on shelves, limited edition products usually last a couple of weeks. So if you want to get your hands on one, you best act fast.

The retailer’s bakery has a cult-like following, and last year was crowned the nation’s favourite, beating rivals like Tesco and Sainsbury’s.

Videos of Lidl’s baked goods on TikTok have amassed millions of views, with users on the app saying it’s not just a bakery, it’s the ‘love of their life’.

And this translates to sales too, with 122 of its most popular item – classic All Butter Croissant – passing through the tills every minute. 

Other favourite items include the Demi Baguette, Jam Filled Doughnut and Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant, which sell an average of one every second, according to Kantar data findings from last year. 

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