It goes without saying that summer has taken the UK by storm this year, with large parts of the country enjoying some of the best weather for over 40 years. But just as we had acclimatized to daily temperatures in excess of 30Cs, the mercury is set to increase even higher this week as record-breaking temperatures from Spain and Portugal heads our way. 

Sweltering temperatures pushing past 40C + have recently hit these popular beach holiday resorts, with red flags waving as the heat travels northward. Temperatures in London today are expected to reach 29C, with forecasts looking to rise to 36C by Friday.

While many tourists will no doubt be jet setting to Spain and Portugal for their summer holiday this year (firmly grasping a factor 50, we hope), a warning has been implemented to ensure travellers take extra care in the heat. With this in mind, we've highlighted our top tips on the best ways to cool down if you plan on spending your summer on the Iberian Peninsular...

1. GO ALL INCLUSIVE

2. DIVE IN 

Spain and Portugal are two of the most popular beach holiday destinations, with thousands flocking to the golden sands for sun, sea and spectaucular watersports. The Spanish Costas and Algarve are renowned for their abundance of exhilerating water activities, with everything on offer from daring jet-skis and parasailing, to banana boats, windsurfing and bodyboarding. When the temperature gets tough, ditch the deckchair and instead tackle the cooling waves for a splash of relief - those visiting Portugal's Algarve in particular will thank the Atlantic for its chill-factor...

3. HIT THE SLIDES

You'll find some of the best waterparks in Europe dotted around these two destinations, and what better way to cool down than a splash-tastic day out that excites the whole family? If you're staying in the Algarve, ZooMarine and Aquashow Park are among the best for entertainment, with a medley of thrilling slides, flumes, shows and lazy rivers to leisurely float down. Located near Costa Adeje, in Tenerife,  Siam Park is Spain's most iconic water park, this Thai-themed metropolis is brimming with adrenalin slides, oversized shark tanks, killer 'coasters, live shows, restaurants and more. Portaventura Caribe Aquatic Park is a close second (located next to sister park Partaventure Park), with a balmy Bahama Beach to lounge on when you need a 5-minute break from the flumes.

4. SENSIBLE EXCURSIONS

While boat trips and sightseeing tours are high on the excursion list, there's a whole realm of tourist attractions worth heading to where you can escape the sun and soak up the local culture. Museums,  shopping malls, grand cathederals and pincho parlours are just a few ways you can cool down while exploring more of the country.

5. BE A NIGHT OWL

Lounging on the beach is a summer holiday pastime, but with weather forecast's due to reach dangerous high's this week, it's best to steer clear of the sands in the midday heat. Whether you book in a sumptuous spa treatment at your all inclusive hotel, or spend the day flitting to and from your villa pool, it's best to wait until the sun starts to set before heading out of your hotel suite. Wandering the bustling beachfront promednades is a nice way to start the evening, before dining in a waterfront restaurant overlooking the harbour. If you're a party lover, make up for the hours you missed out on during the day after dark, when the resort towns spring into action!