AS the leaves begin to turn and a chill creeps into the air, the country is transforming into a playground of eerie delights.

From pumpkin patches to haunted castles, this year’s Halloween attractions promise thrills and chills for all ages.

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Whether you are seeking family-friendly fun or scream-your-lungs-out scares, Jacob Lewis has found the best bewitching Halloween events across the country.

Budget-friendly boos

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FOR those watching their wallets, Pembrokeshire’s Milford Water-front offers a free Halloween trail from October 28 to November 3.

To make it a full getaway, Hotel Ty Milford Waterfront is offering a “kids stay free” deal when sharing a family room, with prices from £116 per night.

See milford waterfront.co.uk.

In Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, history meets mystery with the Ghostly And Macabre guided walking tour.

Running every Friday from Halloween until March, the 90-minute journey through the town’s darkened streets uncovers centuries of grim history.

Tickets £7.50 for adults and £4 for children (aged 14 and over).

See visit-burystedmunds.co.uk.

Or head to Derby for a free event that begins family-friendly but, as night falls, sees the atmosphere shift to an adults-only March Of The Vampires.

Go to visit derby.co.uk.

Grownup goose bumps

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EXTREME scare experience PrimEvil at ROARR! in Norfolk is not for the faint of heart.

Running between October 17 and November 2, the fully immersive event features five terrifying haunts, including Werehouse 51: Toxic Mutation, and roaming street actors.

Other attrac-tions include high ropes courses and zombie archery. Tickets from £28 at primevil-scare.com.

Ghost hunters will find their perfect Halloween treat at Hever Castle in Kent.

This year, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn invites brave souls on an after-dark tour, delving into the castle’s most unfortunate owners and their gruesome fates.

The experience begins with a glass of prosecco (or a non-alcoholic alter-native) at the Moat Cafe, setting the stage for a truly haunting night.

Strictly for over-16s.

Tickets from £35.26 at hevercastle.co.uk.

Pumpkin picking

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DODDINGTON Hall in Lincolnshire is the UK’s best pumpkin patch, according to an in-depth ranking by Outdoor Toys.

The free-entry wonderland boasts 30 varieties of pumpkins, squashes and gourds.

See doddingtonhall.com.

In second place was Tapnell Farm on the Isle of Wight, offering a pumpkin trail and plenty of spooky photo opportunities.

Tickets, £14.50, tapnellfarm.com.

Or check out Millets Farm Centre in Oxfordshire, which secured third spot, thanks to its low £2 entry fee and annual Halloween Spook-tacular that includes pumpkin-picking, a Halloween circus and a spooky disco.

See milletsfarmcentre.com.

For a dog-friendly adventure, head to Cotswold Farm Park.

But as night falls, the patch transforms with live music and UV pumpkin displays.

Tickets from £10.95 at cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk.

Scary mazes

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HAILED as one of Europe’s most- haunted cities, York delivers an immersive experience at its Hallowscream fright nights at York Maze.

The award-winning attraction features five horror mazes, more than 100 live actors and extra-jumpy scare zones.

Strictly over-16s.

Tickets from £28 at yorkmazehallowscream.co.uk.

In Blackburn, Scare Kingdom Scream Park is pushing the boundaries of fear.

Running on select nights to November 9, it boasts 80 scare actors across 130 themed spaces around five scare mazes promising pulse-pounding adventures.

Minimum age of 13 (accompanied by an adult).

With tickets starting at £27.79, this one is an intense experience that’s not for the faint-hearted.

For details, see scarekingdom.com.

Family-friendly frights

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DRAYTON MANOR in Staffordshire has transformed into a Spooktacular Halloween wonderland until November 3.

Included with regular admission, visitors can enjoy the Carnival of Spooks walk-through and daily shows.

Tickets from £27.50 at draytonmanor.co.uk.

The Halloween in the City festival returns to Manchester on October 26 and 27, when the city centre will be overrun by giant inflatable monsters, including eight-metre-long Leech.

As darkness falls, buildings across the city will glow an eerie green, while thousands of pumpkin lanterns line the streets.

See visitmanchester.com.

Warwick Castle is also joining the Halloween fun with ghostly inhabitants taking over the grounds.

Families can enjoy quizzes, discos, songs and sorcery.

Tickets from £22.

For more details, see warwick-castle.com.

Thrilling trails

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FOR those who prefer their scares with a side of natural beauty, Moors Valley Country Park in Dorset is debuting a Halloween illuminated trail.

Running from October 25 to November 3, the after-dark adventure winds through the forest, revealing hidden surprises including a secret cemetery, ghostly undertakers and tree demons.

With thunderstorms, wicked witches and giant spiders along the way, it is a multi-sensory experience that blends the beauty of nature with Halloween theatrics.

Tickets from £12 at moors-valley.co.uk.

Just outside Port Talbot, Margam Country Park is launching Fright Nights – a spine-tingling experience that draws on the location’s haunted history.

The trail begins in the ruins of the gardens where visitors encounter 7ft Cistercian monks before venturing into a forest rumoured to be home to the ghost of a murdered gamekeeper.

The journey continues into the 19th-century castle, considered one of the UK’s most haunted places.

With two scare levels available – one for younger visitors and a more intense version for those 15 and up – it’s a customisable fright fest for those with different terror thresholds.

Tickets from £12.50 at www.margamcountrypark.co.uk.

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

The Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen is more than just a hotel, it’s a portal to a world of relaxation, luxury, and vibrant culture. Nestled on the pristine shores of the Mexican Caribbean, this beachfront oasis seamlessly blends modern sophistication with the laid-back charm of Playa del Carmen. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, the Grand Hyatt offers an unforgettable experience with its impressive amenities, prime beachfront location, and proximity to the bustling Avenida Quinta shopping district.  

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

Designed by the renowned Sordo Madaleno, this 314-room haven seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with Mayan-inspired touches, creating a truly unique and captivating atmosphere. From the moment you step into the striking open-air lobby, you’ll be enveloped by a sense of tranquility and sophistication.

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

Step into a world of tranquility as you explore the Grand Hyatt’s extensive amenities. Three shimmering infinity pools beckon you to unwind, each offering breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Lounge on the plush sunbeds, sip on a refreshing cocktail from the poolside bar, and let your worries melt away. And of course, the pristine white sands of the Caribbean Sea are just steps away, inviting you to swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

For those seeking ultimate rejuvenation, the Cenote Spa is a sanctuary of serenity. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula’s cenotes, the spa offers a range of treatments designed to revitalize your body and soul. Indulge in a Mayan-inspired massage, immerse yourself in a hydrotherapy circuit, or simply relax in the tranquil ambiance of the spa’s relaxation areas. The Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen is not only a luxurious retreat but also a champion of sustainable practices. The hotel’s design incorporates natural elements throughout, in this cenote-inspired spa and the preservation of a section of sacred mangrove jungle on the property. This commitment to environmental responsibility ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of this remarkable region.  

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the state-of-the-art gym, equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training equipment. Stay active with yoga classes, guided meditation sessions, or simply enjoy a refreshing run along the beach.  

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

The Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen boasts an enviable location on Mamita’s Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand caressed by the gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea. Spend your days basking in the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply strolling along the shore. The hotel provides convenient access to a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world.

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a magical setting. Enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars at The Grill at 1 26, savoring delectable seafood and prime cuts while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. Or, gather around a beach bonfire with friends and family, sharing stories and laughter as you create unforgettable memories.

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

Just steps from the Grand Hyatt lies Avenida Quinta, or Fifth Avenue, a vibrant pedestrian street that pulsates with energy and excitement. This shopping paradise is a treasure trove of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and bars, offering something to satisfy every taste and budget. Browse the latest fashion trends, discover unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere as you stroll along the avenue. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at a local cantina, savor international flavors at a trendy bistro, or sip on a margarita at a rooftop bar with panoramic views.

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

The Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen tantalizes your taste buds with a diverse culinary offering. From casual beachfront dining to sophisticated fine dining experiences, the hotel’s restaurants cater to every palate. From La Cocina’s local flair to delicious sushi options, and comfortable room service, the Grand Hyatt is a place of unparalleled service and hospitality. The dedicated staff is committed to ensuring your stay is nothing short of exceptional, catering to your every need with attentiveness and care.

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

The Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen is the perfect destination for a variety of travelers and occasions. Couples seeking a romantic escape will appreciate the hotel’s intimate ambiance, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking beachfront setting. Families can enjoy the spacious suites, kid-friendly amenities such as the kids clubs where kids can learn new skills and brush up on their Spanish skills, and convenient access to nearby attractions. And solo travelers will find a welcoming community, ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration, and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals.  

Photo by The Grand Hyatt

With over 15,000 square feet of flexible event space, the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen is also an ideal destination for meetings and groups. Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, a destination wedding, or a social gathering, the hotel’s dedicated event team will ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Photo by Lavinia Lumezanu

The Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen is more than just a hotel, it’s a gateway to an unforgettable experience. With its stunning architecture, luxurious amenities, prime location, and commitment to sustainability, this exceptional resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.

STARING at the gigantic copper cauldron where the King of England used to bathe, I kick myself for ­forgetting my swimmers.

It’s not often you get the chance to share the same hot tub as the supreme ruler of the British Empire.

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I’m in a spa town deep in a Bohemian forest, unearthing areas of the Czech Republic I’d never heard of.

For three exciting days I would be exploring this beautiful central European country entirely by rail.

My journey begins in Prague. The beautiful capital city on the Vltava River is packed with history.

Climbing the hill up to Prague castle is a must.

The fortress is the largest castle complex in the world. Inside its towering walls are historical buildings and museums including the Old Royal Palace and the city’s gothic temple, St Vitus Cathedral.

That evening I catch a train west.

Unlike those in the UK, trains in Czechia run smoothly and are dirt cheap.

Prague is soon far behind as the IC 558 train trundles along, following the Berounka river’s meandering path through the countryside.

I catch snapshots through the window.

Paddle boarders punt down the river.

Giggling kids tumble down a giant inflatable slide at a village fete.

As the sun sets the train pulls into the serene spa town of Marianske Lazne in the deep Bohemian forest.

Since local monks discovered the mineral-rich springs in the early 19th century, people have been coming here to drink, bathe in, and even inject the healing water and gases that bubble out of the ground.

The town’s heyday was in the Victorian era when spa treatments were popular among high society.

One such spa obsessive was King Edward VII, who visited Marianske Lanze nine times for weight-loss treatments in a purpose-built room at the Nové Lázně spa.

The hotel is still there and for a hefty price, guests can book a session in the large copper bath he used.

My own treatment takes place at the Falkensteiner hotel and spa, a five-star resort with a 2,500sq metre spa complex, 162 rooms, heated pool, excellent restaurant and stylish bar.

After a buffet breakfast, I’m ushered into a dimly lit wood-panelled room where a bath of warm water the colour of milky tea is waiting.

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The slightly sparkling mineral-rich water is pumped directly from the hotel’s own Alexandra Spring, 800 metres away.

The treatment is said to widen blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving circulation to relax the mind and body.

The health benefits of spa treatments like this are taken seriously.
Drinking fountains dotted around the town deliver water from the local springs.

Iron-rich and metallic- tasting it is believed to help alleviate inflammation. I hope it does, because it tastes revolting.

Staying at the spa resort hotels is pricey.

But there are plenty of cheaper hotels in the town and treatments at the spa complexes are available for walk-in customers too.

Czechs are the world’s most prolific beer drinkers, consuming 184.1 litres of it each every year.

Nowhere is this obsession more obvious than in my next stop, the city of Pilsen.

It’s just over an hour away by rail and my train ticket costs the equivalent of £6.

Home of the world-famous Pilsner beer, the town is swimming in the stuff and by the end of the day, I will be too — literally.

Among the most popular brews is the famous Pilsner Urquell. The first ever pilsner beer, it has been brewed here since 1842.

A tour of the Pilsner Urquell brewery is fascinating.

The 90-minute walk-through shows the original brewing method and vats from the early 19th century.

Then, the modern, vastly scaled-up operation, where staggering amounts are brewed, bottled then shipped worldwide.

The tour ends in the miles of subterranean tunnels where the beer was once stored.

Here, brewmasters keep the traditional method alive, brewing the Pilsner in oak barrels.

Comparisons are regularly made to the modern method to ensure it tastes authentic.

And you can judge for yourself, with a glass of cold Pilsner poured straight from the barrel at the end.

I head off to soak up some more beer, this time through my pores.

On the outskirts of Pilsen, at the Purkmistr Brewery, an interesting mash-up has spawned the “beer spa” — a big wooden bathtub full of warm, hoppy lager, minus the alcohol (it dries out the skin).

Submerged up to my neck in barley, hops and yeast with a large keg of pilsner within arm’s reach and Oasis’s Wonderwall playing over the complex’s sound system, I feel I have achieved lager-nirvana.

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Image courtesy of Casa Polanco

For luxury travelers seeking an intimate and artistic holiday escape in Mexico City, Casa Polanco offers a unique blend of modern elegance and rich heritage. Located in the heart of the chic neighborhood of Polanco, this stately boutique hotel provides a serene retreat amid the vibrant urban sprawl of one of Latin America’s most culturally rich cities. The perfect holiday getaway, it exudes a sense of timeless sophistication, making every guest feel as though they’ve stepped into a carefully curated world of art, design, and comfort.

Image courtesy of Casa Polanco

The Ultimate Location

Casa Polanco’s location is as desirable as it is picturesque. Situated in front of the verdant Parque Lincoln — one of Polanco’s many green havens — Casa Polanco is a short and scenic stroll from a number of attractions, including the wide array of high-end boutiques along Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Mexico City’s most exclusive shopping avenue. Guests can also easily access the renowned Museo Soumaya and Museo Jumex, two institutions that make Polanco a hub for contemporary art. For those seeking a taste of the local dining scene, Polanco is a culinary playground, with world-famous restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil just a stone’s throw away. Yet despite the bustle of the surrounding area, Casa Polanco remains a sanctuary of calm, the ideal base from which to explore, and retreat into a realm of luxurious tranquility.

Image courtesy of Casa Polanco

Design: A Harmonious Blend of History and Modernity

Casa Polanco is a masterclass in the art of blending historical architecture with contemporary design. The building itself is a 1940s mansion, painstakingly restored to preserve its original charm while incorporating the modern conveniences discerning travelers expect. The facade maintains its classic colonial elegance, with wrought iron details and lush greenery, offering a hint of sophistication within.

Step inside, and the interiors reveal an effortlessly chic aesthetic. Designer Monserrat Poblador has reimagined the space with a neutral color palette — think soft creams, grays, and beige with unexpected pops of color — that complements the original hardwood floors, arched doorways, and grand windows that frame leafy views of Parque Lincoln, letting in natural light that illuminates the hotel’s spacious suites and common areas, where guests will feel at home in the cozy seating nooks the invite guests to linger with a book or socialize over taste of sipping tequila, specialty cocktail, or glass of wine. A highlight for many visitors during the holiday season is the hotel’s elegant courtyard, where guests can indulge in festive dining experiences under the stars as twinkling lights reflect off the leafy trees — a perfect moment of serenity amid the excitement of the season.

Image courtesy of Casa Polanco

Each of the guest rooms and suites has been thoughtfully designed to offer a unique experience, with rare works of art, bespoke furnishings and high-end touches, such as Italian marble bathrooms and premium linens. The effect is one of understated luxury—there’s no need for ostentation when the details speak volumes. Whether staying in the more intimate rooms or the grand suites, guests are treated to an elegant yet homely environment, perfectly suited for unwinding after a day of exploring Mexico City.

Image courtesy of Casa Polanco

An Art Lover’s Sanctuary

Casa Polanco’s commitment to art is not just decorative; it’s integral to the hotel’s identity. Throughout the hotel, guests will find a carefully curated collection of contemporary Mexican art. The walls serve as a rotating gallery, showcasing works by both emerging and established artists from Mexico’s thriving art scene. Each piece has been handpicked by the owners, who are passionate collectors with deep ties to the city’s cultural community. The hotel’s art collection provides a vibrant counterpoint to its otherwise serene decor, with bold, modern pieces that invite contemplation. For those who wish to dive deeper into the art world, Casa Polanco frequently collaborates with local galleries and hosts private events where guests can meet artists, attend exclusive showings, or even arrange personalized gallery tours. This connection to the local art scene elevates Casa Polanco from a simple stay to an immersive cultural experience, making it a haven for art lovers who want more than just a hotel — but rather a genuine connection to the artistic heartbeat of the city.

Image courtesy of Casa Polanco

Holiday Indulgence: Wellness and Relaxation

For the luxury traveler, few things are as appealing as unwinding in style — especially during the holidays. Casa Polanco offers a range of wellness amenities to ensure guests are thoroughly pampered. The rooftop terrace, with its sweeping views of the park and surrounding cityscape, is an oasis where one can enjoy yoga sessions or simply relax with a good book. There’s also a wellness suite offering personalized massage therapies that will leave guests refreshed and revitalized after a day of exploring Mexico City’s art and culture.

This holiday season, enjoy a visit to Mexico City that’s equal parts luxurious and enriching — where every detail, from the art on the walls to the view from your suite, is designed to inspire. Casa Polanco is more than a hotel, it’s a canvas for a perfect escape in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Whether visiting Casa Polanco for a short stay or a longer holiday retreat, guests will find themselves enveloped in a world of beauty, art, and elegance. From its prime location in Mexico City’s most prestigious neighborhood to its thoughtful design and deep connection to the local art community, Casa Polanco is more than just a place to stay. Casa Polanco is a true home away from home where you can truly experience the rich and vibrant culture of the heart of Mexico City.

For more information visit caspolanco.com

A NEW three-runway system will be going into service this November at an airport recently crowned best in Asia.

Hong Kong International Airport is known for its innovative technologies and systems and was recently crowned leading airport in Asia in the 2024 World Travel Awards.

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It’s the second year in a row the airport has taken home the prestigious title.

Cathay Pacific offers the only direct flights between London and Hong Kong – and the airport revealed in July it had experienced a post-pandemic peak in passenger traffic.

Recently, the airport announced it would be introducing a new security screening system allowing travellers to keep electronic devices and liquids in their hand-carry luggage when going through security checks.

Now, the government has said the airport’s three-runway system will be going into service next month – a project that will increase the airport’s capacity for passengers and cargo. 

There will be a northern runway for landings, central runway for takeoffs, and a southern runway for both.

The system will come into effect after the Airport Authority acquires the needed licences and completes the final round of tests.

Transport and Logistics Bureau officials have also said they would expand Hong Kong’s aviation network to fill new capacity arising from the system, revealing that eight airlines would launch 11 new routes under a subsidy scheme managed by the Airport Authority.

Authority executive director Steven Yiu Siu-chung told lawmakers the final crucial task was to designate the third-runway system as a restricted zone and obtain the licence from the Civil Aviation Department.

“Obtaining the licence is like taking an exam with 900 aspects to pass, including meeting the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

“We need to provide blueprints, test records and conduct on-site coordination with the Civil Aviation Department and then obtain the licences hopefully in mid-November.

“We then need to test the Civil Aviation Department’s landing system using an aircraft, stimulating taxiing on the taxiway or runway.”

The airport’s expansion project cost HK$141.5 billion (£13.9 billion) and includes a new 3.8km (2.3 mile) third runway, a second terminal building opposite the existing one and new concourse.

The main primary construction of the terminal building was finished with all glass curtain walls in place, ensuring weather protection, and evaluation of power generation procedures are under way.

The 650-hectare (1,606-acre) project is expected to increase the airport’s capacity by 50 percent to accommodate 120 million passengers and 10 million tonnes of cargo annually.

The airport has many unique features, including The Journey of Discovery, a multimedia experience that includes three installations – Crystal Elevator, Waterfall Gardens, and Totems of Joy.

The Crystal Elevator welcomes travellers with digital images and videos about Hong Kong.

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The Waterfall Gardens features waterfall, ponds, creeks, and lush plant life, and visitors can interact with the digital elements, including the waterfall, pebbles, water lilies, turtles, and frogs.

And Totems of Joy are photo-friendly stations that feature a series of video clips that change over time. 

The video clips include a toy crane machine with cartoon characters, aerial views of the world, and fireflies illuminating plants.

Alongside plenty of dining and shopping opportunities, the airport has an open-air terrace called Sky Garden, with plant boxes and metallic silhouette art pieces like goldfish, birds, butterflies and leaves, where passengers can go to relax before their flight.

The airport’s also home to the world’s first airport IMAX theatre, in case you want to squeeze in watching the latest blockbuster prior to boarding your plane.

Or for golf enthusiasts, there’s even a golf course called SkyCity Nine Eagles Golf Course.

The world’s best airport has direct flights from the UK too – as its found in Europe.

And we’ve rounded up five new mega airports set to open in Europe.

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