IF you’ve ever struggled to squeeze in your suitcase to the overhead locker on a flight, then you’re in luck.

Lufthansa is rolling out a modernised overhead locker style next year – the first major airline to so.

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The new lockers were revealed by Airbus last year, called the ‘L bins’.

Most overhead bins require passengers to put their suitcases and bags into it while lying them flat, meaning wasted space in the top section.

But the new lockers will see passengers stack suitcases on their side instead – with 60 per cent more bag capacity.

This works out to an extra three bags into each locker, fitting suitcases up to 61cm x 38cm x 25cm.

Not only that, but it hopes to reduce the boarding and deplaning time, with many delays due to passengers struggling to find space for their suitcase.

The new bins will be rolled out in January 2025, with Lufthansa being the first airline.

The airline’s 38 A320 jets will be refitted with them.

Airbus Head of Commercial Services Europe Charbel Youzkatli said: “We know from talking with airline customers that bigger bins are a clear need to enhance the passenger experience.

“The L Bins provide more space with the added advantage of a plug and play retrofit.”

The bins are being made by EFW (Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH) with “ultra-lightweight and highly stable composite products” as well as reusing many of the old parts of the previous bins.

Other airlines are to follow in Lufthansa’s footsteps with the new bins.

Spanish airline Iberia will also roll out the new lockers in 2025.

British Airways also revealed they are to introduce new larger overhead lockers as part of their £7billion makeover.

The welcome move to larger storage on flights is likely to please most passengers, with many being hand-luggage-only travellers.

This is because most airlines now charge economy travellers to check in a bag, leading to travellers opting for smaller suitcases they can take onboard instead.

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But some experts are saying airlines should ditch overhead lockers altogether.

Former Teague cabin designer David Young said airlines were at “breaking point”.

He added: “Maybe we don’t need carry-ons at all.

“Someone needs to step out and say, ‘We’re not doing this anymore.

“This isn’t the right experience for air travel.’”

If you’re adamant in travelling with hand luggage, here is how to make sure you always find space in the lockers.

And a flight attendant has revealed why you should always put your suitcase in the lockers in front of you – not above you.

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A FAMILY in the UK who have spent hundreds of nights holidaying in their caravan have revealed one of their favourite campsites to visit in the autumn.

Known as The Caravanning Mummy, travel expert Rachel often shares her best advice on her social media.

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The mum-of-two purchased her caravan back in 2019, spending the school holidays and weekends exploring the UK with her family in their Bailey Of Bristol Phoenix 650 caravan.

They’ve been on 56 caravan holidays over the last five years – but there is one campsite they have visited for the last for three October half-term holidays.

Talking exclusively to Sun Online Travel, the travel content creator named Longleat Club Campsite as the best place for families to spend the winter half-term.

She told Sun Online Travel: “The site I would 100 per cent recommend is the Longleat Club Campsite, it’s a Caravan and Motorhome Club Site.

“The site is a bit of a hidden gem.”

“You might get a bit wet and rainy staying in Wiltshire over the half-term.

“But the beauty of this break is you can stay on a caravan club site right next to Longleat Safari Park, which means you can be car-free for your entire stay.

“We’ve spent the last three October half-term holidays staying in Longleat, no matter the weather.”

Located within the grounds of Longleat (the first safari park to open outside of Africa), families have praised the campsite because it’s within walking distance of the safari park.

And Rachel isn’t the only holidaymaker who has praised the campsite, with others raving about the site in online reviews.

One person wrote: “Brilliant site with lots nearby and easy access to Longleat. It’s an ideal base, especially if you have kids.”

Another added: “The facilities were spotless and the wardens very friendly. We could even hear the seals from out pitch.”

A third person wrote: “An absolutely fabulous campsite with beautiful surroundings.”

Other facilities on-site include a family washroom, a TV room, dishwashing area, accessible showers and Wi-Fi.

Stays at Longleat Club Campsite start from £18.70 per night, making it ideal for Brits on a budget.

There are other attractions in the grounds of Longleat too including it’s own miniature railway that will celebrate it’s 60th anniversary next year.

Taking around 12 minutes, the train takes passengers around the park’s woodlands and lake, where you might even spot sealions.

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There is also the huge hedge maze, not only the largest in the UK but one of the longest in the world.

Made up of 16,000 yew trees, it can take as long as 90 minutes to explore – depending on your skill level.

Otherwise there is the huge Adventure Castle playground, with zip wires, climbing frames, slides and a medieval fortress.

Visit in the summer and there is even a splash pad to get wet in.

If you’re there with younger guests, there is the Little Explorer’s Garden, with a new play area for under fives.

And adults can make a trip to Longleat House, a 16th-century stately home first opened to the public in 1949.

Visitors can go on a guided tour of Longleat House exploring hundreds of paintings, tapestries, hand-painted Chinese wallpaper and ornate ceilings that were inspired by Venetian Palaces.

Entry into Longleat House costs £29.95 per person.

Away from Longleat, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to keep holidaymakers entertained.

An iconic attraction is the Westbury White Horse – a white chalk drawing etched into the side of a hill.

Once thought to be one of 13 white horse drawings around the UK, only eight remain to this day, with the most recent one added in 1999 to mark the millennium.

Another Wiltshire haunt that’s perfect for Halloween is Avebury, home to 100 huge standing rocks dubbed the Avebury Henge.

The stones are both older and larger than Stonehenge, and date back to between 2850 BC and 2200 BC.

It’s free to visit, and visitors can even touch the stones at the historic site too – something that isn’t allowed at Stonehenge.

Earlier this year, Rachel revealed her favourite place for a UK break in her caravan, with a quintessential seaside town bagging the top spot.

Meanwhile, these are the top-rated holiday parks with on-site waterparks and pools.

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Petco Park in San Diego. Photo by Jill Weinlein

The newly renovated Omni San Diego Hotel is the ultimate hotel for San Diego Padres fans. Located next to Petco Park, Charles Cho, the General Manager of the Omni Hotel said, “Omni San Diego Hotel is thrilled to unveil an enhanced guest experience, providing visitors and locals with a relaxing and rejuvenating place to stay while they immerse themselves in everything the city has to offer.”

Even though this season is over for the Padres, the hotel showcases new amenities and baseball theme decor throughout the public areas and guest rooms. When the season returns, baseball fans will want to take advantage of the hotel’s Skybridge, which directly connects the hotel to the stadium.

Baseball theme decor. Photo by Jill Weinlein

An Urban Retreat With A Baseball Theme

The 21-story hotel’s new interior by New York-based design studio, Jeffrey Beers International, presents an inviting lobby with a soaring ceiling. The dynamic baseball-inspired design pays homage to its connection with Petco Park and the San Diego Padres.

Shades of green and brown are layered throughout the property, complemented by stitched leather panels at the reception desk, stadium-style light fixtures, geometric patterned carpets, and curated artwork of baseball bats that engage guests with the action and motion of baseball through history.

On the 6th floor is a display case with baseball collector items that includes a bat and signed balls.

Lobby Lounge. Photo courtesy of Omni San Diego

The newly refreshed lobby exudes comfort and sophistication with earthy tones, sleek furniture and natural materials that reflect the outdoors. The open-concept lobby lounge area features plush sofas, cozy armchairs and communal tables, fostering a social haven for groups to meet and gather before meal, a ball game or night out exploring the vibrant heart of the city.

Spacious Guest Rooms. Photo by Jill Weinlein

The hotel’s 511 guest rooms and suites have been transformed to showcase intricate craftsmanship. The eye catching long cross-hatched credenzas, chic curved couches and nightstands, and a combination of supple brown leather and rich velvet accents add a touch of sophistication.

Rooms have circular tables that function as a dining area and desk space for those who have a hybrid work schedule.

The sleek spa-like bathroom offers a sleek custom vanity mirror designed by Munnworks, large sinks and artistic green tiles outlining walk-in showers. Luxury robes are hanging in the closet for guests to use throughout their stay.

Omni San Diego. Photo by Jill Weinlein

New Pool Deck

The hotel’s sixth floor has been reimagined into an ultimate resort-style vacation destination. The newly designed, 8,000 square-foot rooftop pool provides sweeping views of San Diego’s bay and skyline to Coronado Island and beyond.

The open-air terrace was designed with natural materials and neutral tones for serene views everywhere one looks. There are palm tree planters, a custom trellis structure, and playful artwork inspired by San Diego’s popular beaches and coastal location.

Shaded daybeds and comfortable padded lounge chairs line the pool deck. There are also a handful of private cabanas designed by Indo Puri to reserve. They come complete with lounge furniture and mounted televisions, ideal for watching a game if you didn’t get tickets to be there in person.

The sparkling pool is open early in the morning through late evening for guests to swim laps, stargaze and soak in the warm whirlpool.

Omni San Diego Pool Deck. Photo by Jill Weinlein

Relax, Unwind & Al Fresco Dining

Guests gather at sunset near fire pits while experiencing Executive Chef Wenceslao Zavala’s Tortuga Baja-inspired menu. The modern bar and dining spaces are ideal for an al fresco meal with savory bites and a refreshing beverage menu.

With roots in Rosarito, Baja California, Chef Wenceslao grills Baja fish tacos and prepares shrimp adovada. Both go well with Tortuga’s signature cocktails such as the Lychee Blossom, made with Yobo soju, lychee juice, cane syrup, fresh lemon juice and aquafaba. 

Dine at AC Porter. Photo Jill Weinlein

New Dining Venues

The hotel’s new street-level restaurant and bar, Ace Porter is by Director of Outlet Operations, Priscilla Reyes, and Executive Chef Wenceslao Zavala.

Located adjacent to the lobby with a separate outside entrance, the inviting communal space features a lively cylindrical bar with a wrap-around bottle display. 

Standout design elements include dramatic stadium-inspired lighting. Guests and the public have an option to sit at the bar, or in the interior or outdoor lounge areas.

Diners can select from a playful menu of “Designated Hitters,” with dishes such as the Blistered Shishito Peppers, Vegetable Meze, and Frings Loaded Nachos for pre-and post-game bites. Additional standout menu items include the Ace Burger and a Porter Cobb Salad.

Pair a meal with a selection of local draft beers, signature cocktails, wines by the glass and mocktails. 

Fres.co Market + Cafe at Omni San Diego. Photo by Jill Weinlein

Guests visit Fres.co Market + Café in the lobby for freshly prepared baked goods, coffee beverages and espresso drinks for breakfast. Lunch menu items are inspired by coastal California and Baja Mexico influences.

The locally sourced ingredients from land and sea are gathered within a hundred-mile radius of the hotel. Beer and wine is also available for lunch and for grab and go later in the afternoon.

Visit Petco Park.

San Diego’s Petco Park

Those seeking to visit every major league ballpark in America will enjoy staying at the Omni San Diego. 

The staff at Petco Park lead daily guided tours of the ballpark to see what the players and staff get to experience. The tour guides share behind-the-scenes experiences, while enlightening visitors about the history of the park and the team. 

Step into the press box, see a private luxury suite, visit the Cutwater Coronado Club, and Padres Hall of Fame presented by Motorola. Tickets for the tour are available at Ticketmaster.

Omni San Diego. Photo Jill Weinlein

Every space at the Omni San Diego Hotel is intended to amplify guests’ imagination and help them feel the true spirit of the city.

Located near the entrance of San Diego’s vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, this AAA Four Diamond award-winning hotel is also near Little Italy, Seaport Village and San Diego’s cruise ship port for pre-cruise and post-cruise stays.

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and constant connectivity have become the norm, the concept of wellness travel has evolved into something much deeper. Luxury villas across the globe are no longer just about grand accommodations—they are about providing an immersive experience that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. These luxury wellness retreats, nestled in some of the world’s most stunning locations, offer guests a chance to disconnect from daily pressures and reconnect with themselves in unparalleled luxury.

For travelers seeking the ultimate rejuvenation, Haute Retreats offers a curated selection of villas that blend opulence with wellness, creating sanctuaries designed for total relaxation. From private yoga sessions to detoxifying meals crafted by gourmet chefs, these villas set the standard for luxury wellness experiences.

Luxury and Well-Being: The Ultimate Escape

Luxury villas that focus on wellness go beyond aesthetics, creating a holistic environment where guests can truly unwind. The breathtaking views, the sound of waves, and the feeling of being immersed in nature combine to create an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Each villa has been meticulously designed with wellness in mind, offering spaces that calm the senses while inviting relaxation.At Villa Emerald Pavilion in Turks and Caicos, located on Grace Bay, you’ll find the perfect balance between Caribbean beauty and holistic wellness. This seven-bedroom villa offers a private gym setting with access to an approximate 4,200 sq. ft. pool terrace enters into a zero-edge beach entry at the pool closest to the home, with a signature perfectly appointed pool pavilion with

two daybeds and infinity edge at the far end. The expansive terrace is punctuated by palm trees designed to provide shade across dining and lounge areas and steps down to a built-in 20 person firepit lounge and hot tub deck beyond at the sand’s edge.

A stand-alone well-equipped gym building boasts Peloton bike, Stair Master, treadmill including an array of functional fitness equipment and free, and an on-site staff cottage frame the gated entrance and parking courtyard with covered pergolas. A 30’ dock is conveniently situated on the canal across from the property.

Exclusive holistic retreat programs offered exclusively to Emerald Pavilion guests, combining plant-based food and juice therapy with yoga, breath and meditation, a great way to ease into your vacation and thread in an element of mindfulness to your trip! With the sea just steps away, the villa is an ideal spot for those looking to incorporate water therapy and beachside relaxation into their wellness routine.

Personalized Wellness Experiences: On-Demand Experts

The essence of wellness travel lies in personalization. Luxury wellness villas don’t just provide a beautiful setting; they come equipped with private chefs, personal trainers, yoga instructors, and wellness specialists. These professionals curate wellness programs based on guests’ specific needs, whether it’s a detox retreat, fitness boot camp, or a focus on mindfulness.

Chalet Zermatt Peak in Switzerland is a prime example of this personalized approach to wellness. Known for its sweeping views of the Swiss Alps and exceptional privacy, this chalet offers a full wellness experience, complete with a private chef, spa therapists, and a wellness center that includes a sauna, steam room, and private outdoor jacuzzi. Guests can request daily yoga and Pilates sessions, or even a personalized fitness plan to enjoy during their stay. Zermatt’s fresh mountain air and world-class ski slopes add an extra layer of health and vitality to this luxurious escape.

Mindful Design: The Perfect Harmony of Luxury and Tranquility

One of the standout features of these wellness-focused villas is their mindful design. Architecture and interior layouts are designed to soothe, incorporating natural materials and open spaces that blend seamlessly with the surroundings. The flow of energy within the villa is important for creating a peaceful environment.

Take Villa  Rinascimento in Tuscany, Italy—a beautiful estate that has been transformed into a modern-day wellness retreat. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Chianti region and views of Florence, this villa combines historical charm with luxury. Its indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to promote relaxation, with natural materials like stone and wood, and soothing color palettes. The villa’s private wellness area includes a heated pool, spa, and gym, offering the perfect space to unwind. Yoga sessions are held on the terrace, overlooking the vineyards, and guests can book in-villa massages to enhance their stay.

Culinary Wellness: Nourishment for the Body and Soul

The wellness experience is not complete without a focus on nutrition. At Haute Retreats villas, culinary wellness is prioritized. Guests are treated to gourmet, health-focused meals created by private chefs, who can customize the menu to accommodate specific dietary needs, from vegan and gluten-free to detox diets and superfood plans.

Villa Amarapura in Phuket, Thailand, is an example of where wellness and cuisine meet. This beachfront villa is known for its wellness programs, which include detox meals and healthy, organic cuisine. The villa’s private chef can tailor menus to enhance guests’ overall wellness experience, with fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients used to prepare nourishing meals. Phuket’s tropical surroundings also provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor dining, whether it’s enjoying a detox smoothie by the infinity pool or a candlelit dinner on the beach.

Activities to Nourish the Mind, Body, and Spirit

Beyond the villa itself, wellness travel is about activities that allow guests to connect with nature, engage in mindfulness, and find balance. These activities vary depending on the villa’s location, allowing guests to explore their surroundings while incorporating movement and relaxation.

At Villa Serena on Lake Como, Italy, guests can indulge in guided meditation sessions in the villa’s serene gardens or participate in lakeside yoga overlooking the tranquil waters of the lake. Villa Serena offers a wellness retreat with a focus on relaxation and mindfulness. Its luxurious interiors are designed for comfort, while the outdoor spaces invite guests to connect with nature. Whether it’s exploring the scenic beauty of Lake Como or enjoying a massage in the villa’s private wellness center, Villa Serena offers a unique blend of Italian elegance and wellness.

Similarly, Ani Private Resort in Anguilla combines wellness with island activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking. Set on a dramatic clifftop, this 10-bedroom estate features a full-service spa and fitness center, with treatments ranging from hot stone massages to rejuvenating facials. Guests can start their day with a sunrise yoga session by the pool, or take a mindfulness walk along the coastline.

A True Wellness Haven: Total RejuvenationFor those who seek more than just a luxurious escape, wellness villas provide the ultimate sanctuary for total rejuvenation. At Villa Cielito del Mar in Los Cabos, Mexico, guests are treated to a beachfront oasis where daily wellness rituals are seamlessly integrated into the villa experience. This oceanfront property is designed with a focus on relaxation and renewal, offering guests a private yoga deck, in-villa spa treatments, and organic meals crafted by the villa’s personal chef. With the sound of the Pacific Ocean in the background, it’s the perfect setting for deep meditation and reflection.

The villa’s location on the Baja California Peninsula also provides access to nature-based wellness activities like horseback riding along the beach, hiking in the desert, and snorkeling in the pristine waters of the Sea of Cortez, ensuring a holistic wellness journey.

Conclusion

Luxury wellness retreats are no longer just about indulgence—they are about finding balance, serenity, and true well-being. From the soothing interiors of Tuscany’s Villa Machiavelli to the personalized wellness programs at Zermatt Peak, Haute Retreats offers a collection of exclusive villas that cater to the needs of travelers looking to rejuvenate in style. Whether you’re seeking peace of mind, a fitness boost, or a complete detox, these villas provide the ultimate setting for a transformative and luxurious wellness escape.

VISIT England has named the best hidden gem attractions to visit in the country from a little-known London brewery and a Sussex vineyard to an aircraft museum.

Yesterday (October 22), the tourism board revealed the winners of its Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2023-2024.

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Visit England awarded accolades to 72 attractions across five categories, with seven being named as top hidden gems.

The awards were dished out based on scores obtained from Visit England‘s annual Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme Assessment.

Sambrook’s Heritage Centre in Battersea has been named as London’s hidden gem attraction.

Located on the oldest continuous brewing site in the UK, the London-based brewery has roots dating back to Henry VIII.

Visitors to Sambrook’s Heritage Centre will learn more about brewing techniques – but that’s not the best bit.

Heritage brewer and historian John Hatch runs guided tours on the weekend, explaining about the history of the site and sampling a selection of traditional ales.

Tours run at 1pm and 4pm every Saturday and cost £25 per person.

In addition to the tours, visitors can even become a brewer for the day.

An Oxfordshire brewery was also named in Visit England’s list of best hidden gem attraction.

The Hook Norton Brewery in Hook Norton is one of the few remaining Victorian tower breweries in England.

Just like Sambrook’s Heritage Centre, guided tours of Hook Norton Brewery also take place.

Other features of the family-run brewery include a visitor centre, a museum and a taproom where its award-winning ales can be sampled.

In addition to the two breweries, the Bolney Wine Estate in Sussex was also named one of the best hidden gem attractions in the country.

The vineyard, which has been running since the 1970s, also runs guided tours of its estate, explaining the wine-making process from vine to bottle.

The Sussex vineyard produces award-winning English wines and there’s also an on-site cafe.

Four museums were also named among England’s best hidden gem attractions, including Sheringham Museum in Sheringham, Norfolk.

The coastal museum explores Sheringham’s maritime history, featuring lifeboats, fishing heritage and local artefacts.

It’s best draw might be the views of the North Sea from its viewing tower.

The St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery in Lymington explores the history and the culture of the New Forest Coast, with exhibitions on maritime history, local art and photography.

Away from the coast, the Avro Heritage Museum was also among the winners.

Located in Stockport, the museum showcases iconic aircraft like the Lancaster Bomber.

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For £2 a pop, visitors can take tours of cockpits too, including an Avro Vulcan XM602 Cockpit and an Avro Lancaster ‘S Sugar’ Replica Cockpit.

The fighter jet museum also has a flight simulator and a virtual reality bombing raid.

Other features include interactive displays as well as memorabilia from the aviation industry.

There’s also the Green Howards Museum in Richmond.

Housed in the historic Trinity Church, the museum tells the story of the Green Howards Regiment.

Its collection of regimental artefacts and military history spans over 300 years of British Military history.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said:  “These accolades highlight the wonderful visitor experiences provided by English attractions, from the warmest of welcomes to amazing food and drink, from great storytelling to outstanding customer service.    

“Our tourism businesses are the bedrock of our industry and it is wonderful to highlight and celebrate the fantastic service and experiences they give visitors, time-after-time.

“From museums, gardens and nature reserves to farm attractions, estates and theme parks, these attractions go out of their way to make visits memorable.”

Meanwhile, this is town in the Lake District has been labelled a “party capital” because of its calendar of festivals.

And this little-known European town has its own pistachio festival every year.

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ENGLAND isn’t short of beautiful little towns – and one is surging in popularity this month.

The tiny town of Rye has seen a boost in train ticket sales, according to a new study.

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Conducted by Trainline, Rye has seen a rise of 167 per cent in ticket sales,

Just over an hour from London (when changing at Ashford) the small ‘seaside’ town isn’t on the beach, although has its own harbour on the coast.

Also called one of England‘s quaintest towns, the main Mermaid Street feels like going back in time.

Many of the Tudor buildings remain, with hidden lanes and paths between each of them.

Originally a fishing port, it was a famous pirate port in the 13th century – although this was sanctioned by the crown, who took a cut of the profits.

Now it is a popular staycation spot with tiny hotels, restaurants and cafes to explore.

Some of the popular attractions include Lamb House, a Georgian house owned by National Trust and once the home of a number of writers.

Or there is the retro independent Kino Cinema, built in a former Victorian library.

Shopping is a must – especially for chocoholics.

The first Knoops store opened in Rye, which is often considered as having the best hot chocolates in the country.

Otherwise there is also the nearby Rye Chocolates shop, all handmade at the harbour.

Interior lovers will enjoy both Sailors and Rae, with beautiful home goods and gifts, as well as Rye Art Gallery for some new prints.

Grammar School Records has more than 20,000 vinyls on sale (the name coming from its location, being built in a former 17th century school) while sweets can be found at the Rye Candy store.

When you need a food break, The Fig cafe is the highest rated, serving both lunch and dinner.

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One of the UK’s top chef‘s Ben Tish told Conde Nast Traveller it was where “all the locals” go, and raved about the aubergine shawarma.

Or head to the burger shack Frankie’s At The Beach, named the best place in the UK for a quick bite by Tripadvisor.

If you want to stay longer than a day trip, there are some stunning boutique hotels to choose from.

There is The Mermaid Inn, with parts of the hotel built back in 1156 and rooms from £90 a night, or the smaller hotel The Regent with rooms from £95 a night,

The fanciest hotel is The George in Rye, right on the high street and named one of the best places to stay in the UK by the Sunday Times.

It’s loved by by celebs too, with previous guests being George Clooney and Helene Bonham-Carter.

Or there is the nearby hotel The Gallivant in Camber, which was named mall Hotel of the Year 2024 by Visit England.

A visit to the nearby Camber Sands is one to do in spring – as it was named the UK beach that gets the warmest then hitting highs of 19C.

There is even a Parkdean Resort there, for a cheap family staycation.

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