Travel
The beautiful European city getting ‘out of hand’ as tourists swarm island paradise | World | News

Valletta, the picturesque capital city of Malta, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in tourist numbers, cementing its position as one of Europe’s most sought-after travel destinations.
The historic city, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, has witnessed a remarkable influx of visitors from around the globe, contributing to its growing popularity on the global tourism map. However, local residents are worried that this growth in popularity could lead to an influx of rowdy tourists visiting the city.
This surge in visitors to Valetta can be attributed to a variety of factors, including enhanced marketing efforts, improved infrastructure, and a growing reputation as a must-see destination.
One of the key drivers behind Valletta’s tourism boom is its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while offering modern amenities. The city’s well-preserved Baroque architecture, cobbled streets, and historic sites, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace, have been magnets for history enthusiasts and culture lovers.
Simultaneously, the establishment of contemporary art galleries, boutique hotels, and trendy cafes has appealed to younger, more cosmopolitan travellers.
Valletta’s picturesque waterfront, which has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, has also played a pivotal role in attracting visitors. The city’s strategic location along the Mediterranean Sea offers stunning views and is home to a bustling harbour.
Local businesses have thrived as a result of the tourism influx, with restaurants, souvenir shops, and guided tour services witnessing a surge in demand. The economic boost has not only revitalised the local economy but also spurred investment in the city’s infrastructure.
But locals are worried the unexpected number of tourists will turn Valletta into the latest destination in Europe for rowdy holidaymakers.
Last year saw the enactment of a fresh regulation allowing music to play outdoors in Valletta until 1am. This move was made despite objections and concerns raised by residents, who worried that this alteration might lead to the conversion of the UNESCO World Heritage site into a centre of entertainment.
Valletta’s Deputy Mayor Ray Azzopardi told Times Malta: “The situation in Valletta is out-of-hand, residents are tired, and I understand, as I am one of them.
“Residents are not annoyed by the music, but by the noise. I have had residents tell me that there are certain establishments not cooperating with residents. Something has to be done.”
Jaume Ros, founder of travel site New.to, told Express.co.uk: “I get it. Malta, with its azure seas, labyrinthine lanes, and a history that feels like flipping through an ancient, worn-out book, has an undeniable allure. But I’ve seen and felt the locals’ concerns too. The charming narrow streets of Valletta, which I once strolled down feeling the echoes of knights and sailors, might just become another tourist circus. And that’s a hard pill to swallow.
“Now, the naysayers would argue, ‘Isn’t tourism a boon? More visitors mean a bustling economy, right?’ Sure, in theory. But it’s like pouring water into a cup; initially, it’s quenching a thirst, but soon, it’s spilling everywhere, creating a mess. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned from my jaunts, it’s that not all destinations are equipped to deal with the deluge.
“It’s not just about physical space. It’s about the cultural texture, the daily rhythms, and the spirit of the place. Social media’s relentless spotlighting of ‘Insta-perfect’ locales has inadvertently made some of these places victims of their own beauty. A double-edged sword, I’d say. It’s not just the environment at stake; it’s the very essence, the soul of these places, that gets diluted. And once gone, it’s tough to reclaim.
“But hey, it’s not all doom and gloom. There are places bucking the trend, innovating, and finding ways to coexist. Think of entrance fees that go directly into preserving the locale or spotlighting off-beat paths to distribute the footfall. Better yet, how about promoting off-season travel? Malta in the autumn has a charm few have experienced. I remember sipping on a local brew, watching the sunset over the Grand Harbour without the usual clamour of summer. Priceless!”
Travel
Woman ‘kicked off flight’ for wearing something that ‘promotes Trump’ | America | Travel

A woman was left seething after she claimed to have been “kicked off a plane” for donning a mask that promoted President Donald Trump. In a video that went viral on TikTok, the disgruntled passenger voiced her frustration at being told to remove her mask, insisting on her right to select her own travel attire.
The footage of the alleged incident was captioned: “Kicked off Alaska Airlines flight for wearing a Trump mask. They told me to change it, and I did, and then they came back and said they still wanted me off the plane.”
The video shows the woman embroiled in a dispute with a cabin crew member, who explains that staff didn’t “feel comfortable” with her choice of mask on the flight – highlighting that there are safety guidelines advised for aircraft.
Although the timing of the incident is unclear, with some ambiguity over whether it occurred recently or during the pandemic, the presence of masks on planes suggests ongoing caution among some travellers despite lifted restrictions.
In a subsequent video, the scene unfolds with the passenger being escorted off the flight, expressing confusion and labelling the situation “ridiculous.”
The incident sparked debate online, with one commenter stating: “Not a Trump fan at all, but that’s not ok. He’s the leader of our country which, last time I checked, still included Alaska.”
Another individual supported the airline’s decision, commenting: “Nope, airlines are private, not Government. It’s not a free speech issue. The pilot is the absolute and ultimate authority on an aircraft.”
A third person suggested that political statements should be avoided on flights, adding: “No political stuff should be worn on flights, regardless of which side. Just trouble waiting to start.”
Some commenters backed the cabin crew’s actions, with one stating: “Good job. I would have kicked you off too.”
Another supporter praised the flight attendant, writing: “Good job flight attendant.” Yet another concurred: “Great job to the airline.”
However, there were those who believed she had the right to wear her mask, leaving opinions divided. While US carriers may not enforce strict dress codes, they reserve the right to request passengers to remove or alter clothing deemed inappropriate or offensive.
This typically applies to items considered lewd, obscene or potentially disruptive. The Alaska Airlines website states: “We respect the privacy and wellbeing of our guests and employees.
“We do not tolerate inappropriate verbal, digital or physical conduct of any kind, including harassment, sexual harassment, invasive photography/videography, assault, sexual assault or wearing or display of offensive, threatening or intimidating statements or symbols.
“We expect guests to comply with Alaska’s rules and policies, as well as federal regulations and security directives. All crewmember instructions must be followed.
“We encourage guests to report unwelcome behavior to an employee immediately. If a guest feels uncomfortable reporting about these issues to an employee, they may report anonymously to the Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air Ethics and Compliance hotline.”
Alaska Airlines has been asked to comment.
Travel
easyJet passengers can skip bag drop entirely at 1 UK airport | Travel News | Travel

EasyJet passengers flying from London Gatwick airport can skip bag drop queues entirely thanks to a unique service.
Normally, passengers have to wait in long queues to drop off their suitcases at check-in desks on arrival at the airport, but this time consuming process can be avoided entirely at London Gatwick. The budget airline runs a bag collection service for passengers flying from London Gatwick, so you can travel to the airport suitcase-free, skip the bag drop queues and go straight to security, saving you both time and stress on the day of travel. The service is run in partnership with Airportr and allows passengers to select a collection time for their luggage that is convenient.
A driver will then collect it and deliver it to the airport, and check it in on your behalf, so the next time you see your bag will be on the carousel at your destination airport after landing.
Passengers are able to track their bags along the journey so you can have piece of mind that your suitcases have arrived safely. The service is also available to passengers flying from Geneva Airport in Switzerland, as well as London Gatwick.
Easyjet explains: “If you’re flying from London Gatwick or Geneva, you can now get your luggage collected and checked in by our friends at Airportr. So, you can travel suitcase-free to the airport, skip the bag drop queues and head straight to security.
“Landing in Geneva? If so, you can also get your luggage delivered to your hotel, home or office. This means anyone flying from London Gatwick has the option of travelling entirely luggage-free, door-to-door. How’s that for easy?
“Choose a pick up time that suits you. Just so you know, the collection point needs to be within Airportr’s service areas in London and Geneva.
“A friendly driver will seal your luggage and take it to the airport. You can track the journey every step of the way, from collection to check in.
“That’s all there is to it. Your luggage will be waiting for you on the carousel after landing (unless you’ve also booked delivery in Geneva).”
Only passengers flying from London Gatwick in the UK or Geneva in Switzerland can use the bag collection service and easyJet says the pick-up and delivery slots fill up quickly so passengers are urged to book at least 48 hours before their flight is due to depart.
Travel
Two UK beaches named among best in the world — better than Thailand | Travel News | Travel

The UK is not immediately famous for its glorious beaches— but maybe it should be. When you think of a beach holiday it’s probably destinations further afield that spring to mind, from Spain, to the south of France or even Australia.
However, a new list has placed two UK beaches among the best 50 in the world — beating out places in Greece and Thailand. Coming in at number 28 on Enjoy Travel’s top 50 beaches, Whitesands Beach is near St Davids in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
This incredible stretch of white sand is shielded by sweeping cliffs that make for an amazing walk – and jaw dropping views over the ocean.
The beach itself is gorgeous with plenty to explore, and because it’s so large it never feels crowded.
The water quality is excellent, perfect for swimming in the summer months as well as snorkelling and scuba diving – it’s even got Blue Flag status, so you know it’s safe to swim at.
The second UK beach to make the list is the amazing Luskentyre Beach in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.
Coming in at number 12, this beach is famous for its uncanny resemblance to places in the Caribbean, thanks to its incredibly white sand and crystal clear turquoise waves that lap up against the shore.
It’s the largest beach on the Isle of Harris and regularly makes ‘best of’ lists thanks to its peaceful charm and breathtaking views
Like Whitesands, this beach is huge and often completely deserted so you can make the best of its beauty without fighting off crowds.
If you want to visit this award-winning beach, late spring and summer are the best times of year thanks to the longer days.
When the sun does set, you’ll be treated to a stunning show as the day comes to a close.
However, if you choose to visit in winter, it’s just as beautiful — just make sure to wear enough layers.
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