Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast

The view from the frontline of the UK travel industry

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 09:45:04 GMT

Richard Slater, Founder and Managing Director of Henbury Travel of Macclesfield,, tells me that traveller confidence took a knock when the US and Israel began their attack on Iran – but that people are now booking again in normal numbers.

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Driving tests and dual citizenship: my conversation with rock legend Suzi Quatro

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Today's podcast is rather different from usual. For the first time, I am talking about driving tests but not any driving test. This one involves the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll – Suzi Quatro – who has been on the road, and on the roads for almost 60 years.

This year, though she was told she must take a British driving test. Susie has also become a British national. And Tonight she is playing the London Palladium.

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Dispatch from Kosovo, Europe’s youngest nation

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Eighteen years ago, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia after years of turmoil following the break-up of Yugoslavia. Serbia still regards Kosovo as part of its territory, but more than 100 countries recognise the nation. I flew into the capital, Pristina, which sprawls surprisingly far for a city of under a quarter-million people – but which has a compact and walkable centre. Among the highlights is the Ethnographic Museum, where I met curator Ilir Sopjani.

I also visited Prizren, a city close to the Albanian border – which has a handsome Serbian Orthodox cathedral. I got talking to a guide there, Angela, who told me this is a community with room for everyone.

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British Airways’ pilot academy open for fresh applications tomorrow

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:02:43 GMT

In 2023 I covered the launch of the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy: recruiting young people to be the pilots of tomorrow. I am delighted to be back at Heathrow to meet newly qualified pilot Jasmine Campbell, one of the inaugural intake and now flying A320 family aircraft across the UK and Europe for BA.

Recruitment for the next intake begins tomorrow, 14 April, and Senior First Officer Genevieve Pearmaine – the programme lead – told me more.

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All change at European frontiers? Not exactly ...

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

From today, the EU’s “entry-exit system” is expected to be running at all Schengen area frontiers – bringing to an end the stamping of passports. The digital borders scheme aims to keep a central database of British travellers – as well as many other nationalities. But several EU countries are far from ready, and officials in Brussels have conceded that passports will still be stamped. Here's the inside story.

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Beond: The new business-class only airline flying from London Heathrow to the Maldives from December 2026

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Could you be tempted by the prospect of an exclusive 44-seat aircraft?

All-business-class carrier Beond is set to take passengers in some luxury to the Indian Ocean. Rhys Jones, aviation editor for Head for Points, has sampled the cabin. We also talk about Relax Row, the clever three-seat flat bed in economy that Air New Zealand conceived and United Airlines has now picked up.

And will there ever be a proper flat bed experience in economy or premium economy?

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Welcome to Derry/Londonderry, one of my favourite UK cities

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:11:42 GMT

My guest today is Charlene McCrossan of Martin McCrossan City Tours – which has been introducing tourists to this corner of the far northwest of Northern Ireland since the 1990s. She tells me that the Channel 4/Netflix series is bringing in visitors: "People all over the world are watching that show and loving it," she says.

Charlene started a Derry Girls tour in 2020 – starting at the spectacular Guildhall, and incorporating the Derry Girls mural and the mighty walls that wrap around the city.

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Tourism is coming slowly to Greenland, but that's part of the charm of it

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:33:53 GMT

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, is currently enjoying over 14 hours of daylight, a figure that is climbing swiftly towards midsummer. But how much fun is the Arctic territory? My excellent colleague, global travel editor, Annabel Grossman, says: "Tourism might be coming slowly, but that's part of the charm of it ... It's difficult to do on the cheap, but it feels very authentic." She recommends a combo of Reykjavik in Iceland and Nuuk, the Greenlandic capital – with added exploration.

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Hotels are magnets for criminals’ – so what needs to be done to make them more secure?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 09:10:33 GMT

You will probably have heard of the shocking case of a woman who was sexually assaulted in a Travelodge by an attacker who was handed a key to her room by a member of staff on the reception desk. Bob Quick spent 32 years with the Police, then moved on to GSA – Global Secure Accreditation Ltd – where he is Managing Director.

He has strong views on the weaknesses in hotel security, and what needs to be done.

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Travel without fear: the world should be accessible to everybody, no matter how you identify

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

To round off the week, I'm talking to travel expert Rob Staines about queer travel around the world. He and his partner have just returned from India – a nation that, he reports, has become much more enlightened in recent years. “There's lots of places in the world that we can go and visit where we can feel safe and be free and actually enjoy who we are and celebrate who we are with wonderful people,” he tells me.

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Should British Airways be flying from airports such as Liverpool and Leeds Bradford?

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

That might look an odd question. In the past there have been links from these airports to London Heathrow, which were ditched because the slots could be used more profitably on other routes. But Rob Burgess, founder of the frequent flyer website Head for Points, says that not enough attention is paid to the value of creating loyalty through co-branded credit cards – allowing people who live in areas currently not served by BA to “get a kickback from their spending”.

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EU entry-exit system is stepping up – or is it?

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT

The much-delayed digital borders scheme for the Schengen area is supposed to be up and running in full from 10 April – but Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, is sceptical to say the least. She and I also talked about the prospect of surcharges on holidays this summer.

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Travel Desk Tuesday with Natalie Wilson

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Talking with my excellent colleague, senior travel writer Natalie, about a wide range of travel stories: the shocking business of hotel security, a new Center Parcs Scotland begins to blossom, buy a twist of the Eiffel Tower and new rail prospects across Europe and Central America.

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King Charles III England Coast Path – meet the man who helped it happen

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 02:00:00 GMT

The 2,700 mile-long trail around the shore of England is the longest managed coastal walking route in the world. It gives unprecedented access to the shoreline, thanks to many years of painstaking work by today's guest – Neil Constable, who led the project for Natural England. We caught up on a breezy day...

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Jet2 launches from Gatwick – and the company boss has plenty to say

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:25:53 GMT

Just when you thought London Gatwick couldn’t get any more competitive, Britain's biggest holiday company has launched at scale from the Sussex airport. Jet2 chief executive Steve Heapy has been telling me why there is room for his company at a location already chock-full of easyJet, British Airways, Wizz Air, Tui, Ryanair.

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'Dubai will come back – the influencers will see to that'

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:40:41 GMT

That's the surprising view of an eminent commentator on travel, tourism and geopolitics: the formidable all-rounder, Ash Bhardwaj, who has served around the world as an infantry officer in the British Army Reserve. I hope you enjoy our wide-ranging conversation.

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Mind the doors – and the escalators, and other rail passengers

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:43:43 GMT

Govia Thameslink Railway, which runs Gatwick Express, Southern, Great Northern as well as Thameslink – has brought out a new safety video which is designed to reduce the number of injuries – currently running at 16 a week – sustained by passengers at its stations. Writer and comedian Diane Morgan presents it.

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Travel Desk Tuesday with Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

We talk about the effects of the Iran conflict on travel in the immediate and more distant future. Plus: how will it affect travellers' views on visiting America?

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Views from the top: three aviation leaders assess the state of travel after three weeks of the unfolding tragedy in Iran

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:11:22 GMT

Michael O'Leary, chief executive of Ryanair and Kenton Jarvis, CEO of easyJet tell me how the crisis has affected their airlines, while Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association (Iata), assuages concerns about flying.

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Natural History Museum become the most popular UK tourist attraction in history

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

I'm talking to Bernard Donoghue OBE, director of the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions. Today he has revealed the stars of the visitor attraction world, led by the Natural History Museum in London. And he looks ahead to the most exciting openings of 2026.

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Lost bags and inefficient airports: can things really only get better?

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:15:43 GMT

On a typical holiday plane with 160 passengers, one piece of checked baggage will go missing. That’s the shocking statistic from Sita, the IT provider for the aviation industry.

But Georg Oschmann, VP Product Management for Sita, has been telling me how tech will reduce the number of stray bags and improve the response when cases do go missing. His colleague, Nick Batchelor, VP Strategy & Innovation (Airports), says that airports can increase capacity and reduce disruption by using smarter technology.

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Changing planes in the danger zone

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:31:01 GMT

I am reporting from Abu Dhabi airport, where I have been transferring between Etihad flights. Even though the Foreign Office is warning against travel to anywhere in the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, many British travellers are taking the chance. I have been hearing from them.

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Heathrow airport Terminal 4: the ghost hub

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Today I'm reporting from London Heathrow Terminal 4. This is the main Middle Eastern hub at the UK's busiest airport. But with so many of its regular airlines axing most or all of their flights right now due to the Iran conflict, it feels like a ghost terminal.

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In Indonesia, let the train take the strain

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:02:02 GMT

Today I'm reporting from on board an express train on the Indonesian island of Java. It's a relaxing and fun way to get around this fascinating nation, as well as being very good value. Buying tickets online is also reasonably straightforward and in my experience the trains are ultra reliable.

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Video masterclass from award-winning cameraman Douglas Bolton

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

In the second half of our focus on the lens, this top cinematographer reveals the mistakes that people most often make when shooting video. Hoping your footage will be shared widely? Make sure you are filming in a landscape rather than portrait.

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Photo masterclass from the man with the sharpest eye in travel

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

In the first of a two part series, top cinematographer and photographer Douglas Bolton tells me how to take better stills – even if you are using your phone rather top of the range camera equipment. Just don't touch that digital zoom.

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What will the current crisis mean for travellers in future?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

“People will think, maybe I’ll fly Singapore Airlines next time.” So says Lonely Planet co-founder Tony Wheeler, in the last episode of a travel trilogy about the impact of war in the US. But he predicts travellers will soon leave their fears behind.

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US and Israel didn’t think Iran would respond by hitting Dubai

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

The attack on Iran that began on 28 February closed the nation’s airspace, as well as that of neighbouring Iraq. But within hours, the whole Gulf region was out of bounds for civilian aircraft. In the second of a three-part series, Lonely Planet co-founder Tony Wheeler assesses the damage so far.

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How does the current disruption in the Gulf compare with previous crises?

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 13:16:37 GMT

Perspective is important in travel. There is one person who can put the current chaos arising from the US Israeli attack against Iran into context: legendary Lonely Planet co-founder Tony Wheeler. In the first of a three part series, Tony tells me how dramatic world events over the decades have impacted travellers – and the industry.

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Esther, Queen of the Desert

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

I am in Broken Hill, New South Wales: the Silver City. Besides being a classic Australian mining town, it has been the location for some cult movies – including Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. The central set for the music was the marvellous Palace Hotel, whose co-owner is today’s guest. Esther La Rovere has been telling me what makes Broken Hill so special.

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We've got to get out of this place!

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

I have been talking to stranded travellers in Sydney – probably the location with the highest number of people keen to get to the UK, but scuppered by the airspace closures in the Gulf. Today meet Keith Wood, who with his wife Jan is trying to get back to Belfast

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Could you be tempted by a political tour?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

My guest today is Nicholas Wood, founder and director of Political Tours: friend of the podcast, to whom I talked to last May. Since then a vast amount has happened politically and in the travel realm – most recently the Foreign Office putting Cuba on the no-go list. He's been telling me tours are selling out fast. But what sort of people travel with him?

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Finland: In the far-from-bleak late winter

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Travel desk Tuesday – and today's excellent colleague just back from a big trip is Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman. She has returned from wintry Finland, where she adored the handsome capital Helsinki – and in particular its amazing library – as well as South Karelia, bordering Russia.

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Gulf crisis: my assessment of the aviation impact

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 03:16:15 GMT

Just before I boarded a flight to China, I set out the scale of the problem caused by the closure of the three biggest Middle East air hubs – And considered what might happen next.

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National Lottery Open Week is back from 7 to 15 March 2026

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Each year, heritage venues and attractions funded by the National Lottery offer special deals for anyone who can demonstrate they have played the lottery – a single ticket is all it takes. Darren Henley, CEO of Arts Council England and Chair of the National Lottery Forum, has been telling me more about the opportunities.

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‘Heathrow’s third runway should have been built 10 years ago’

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

That's the message from Thomas Woldbye, chief executive of Europe's busiest airport, who is keen to build a third runway and opening it to flights within a decade. He also tells me the passenger operation had run better than ever in 2025: “Ninety-eight per cent of our passengers waited less than five minutes in security, and we halved the amount of bags that didn't reach the intended flight.”

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Red tape gets even more tangled from today

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:17:01 GMT

For many British travellers who plan to travel to Ireland, or who happen to be dual nationals, red tape has become a lot more complicated from today. Aer Lingus, the Irish national airline now insists that passengers flying between Great Britain and the Republic carry passports – until now, many other forms of ID were accepted.

And any British citizens who also have a passport from another country face tougher controls when entering the UK. To try to make sense of it all

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First time in Africa for senior travel writer Natalie Wilson

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:09:30 GMT

Travel desk Tuesday – and the joy of working at The Independent is that my excellent colleagues are constantly returning from exciting places. Senior travel writer Natalie Wilson tells me about her first experience of Africa. She visited Borano Conservancy in Kenya – and can't wait to return to the continent.

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Mexico: UK Foreign Office issues urgent warning as flights are cancelled due to drug cartel violence

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:34:14 GMT

Many thousands of tourists are stranded in the resort of Puerto Vallarta after violence erupted following the killing of narcotics kingpin ‘El Mencho’. Most are American and Canadian visitors – dozens of flights were diverted or cancelled at Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara due to the upsurge in violence.

The vast majority of British travellers are in and around Cancun, 1,000 miles from the trouble. Should they be worried?

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"Huge, massive beautiful place" – welcome to Mongolia

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:49:34 GMT

Ulan Bator, the capital, is a busy, creative location, says Anna Butler – Tour Manager for Expat Adventure. She has lived in the vast land – six times the size of Britain – for 10 year. But beyond the city there is much more to be discovered.

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Dual citizens may now be able to use expired passports to enter the UK

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:14:15 GMT

From Wednesday 25 February, people who are British but also citizens of another country were told they can travel to the UK only with a valid British passport or “Certificate of Entitlement”. But now it seems an expired UK passport may work.

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Forget travel with family or partner – the trend is to explore with friends

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:17:26 GMT

Andrea Godfrey, head of the long-standing and highly innovative travel company Regent Holidays, tells me about the new Holidays with Friends portfolio – taking groups of pals to destinations as diverse as Kosovo and the Philippines.

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Are you tempted to travel to the frozen north?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Greenland, Iceland, Lapland – their names alone might make you shiver. Then there's the geological instability of Iceland (remember the volcano?) and the geopolitical instability of Greenland – the 51st state, if Donald Trump gets his way. But Clive Stacey, founder of specialist operator Discover the World, says there is a special appeal to the far north.

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Egypt: new opportunities in an ancient land

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:02:33 GMT

The Grand Egyptian Museum is finally fully open on the edge of Cairo. It tells the story of this amazing nation in what has become one of the world's key cultural attractions. Philip Breckner of Discover Egypt says the museum is turning Cairo into a city break destination – with nearby Alexandria also worth visiting.

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'Please, let's get on with expanding Heathrow'

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:18:40 GMT

That's the perhaps surprising message from Paul Griffiths, chief executive of the world's leading international airport: Dubai, whose code is DXB. Paul also tells me about Dubai's remarkable growth trajectory – and how close DXB will come to the magic figure of 100 million passengers this year.

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The expert's guide to the great cities of the world

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

What makes a great city? The man who knows is top geographer David Gilbert, Professor of Urban and Historical Geography at The Royal Holloway Centre for the GeoHumanities. He tells me the key virtues of cities, and kindly takes part in a quickfire round in which he has less than a second to decide whether a city is great or not. You may be surprised by some of his answers ...

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View from the flight deck

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Captain David Sanders, who has a long and distinguished career in aviation, tells me how passengers could help themselves by turning up on time and not drinking to excess; the joys of flying; and the most beautiful flightpaths.

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How does river cruising compare?

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

It's Travel Desk Tuesday, and cruise writer Marc Shoffman is bringing me up to speed on the joys of river cruising – in Europe and beyond.

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Insider’s guide to Portugal’s Algarve

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 12:58:37 GMT

Sharon Cleator has been travelling to the lovely south coast of Portugal for 40 years. She knows the Algarve like the back of her hand, and now offers a travel concierge service that you can track down online at Sharon’s Solutions

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Rome's most celebrated public space now costs €2 for admission

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

The Trevi fountain in the Italian capital has been overrun by tourists for many years, and now the Roman authorities are seeking to impose some order. But top Rome cultural guide James Hill is unimpressed.

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Your audio guide to Argentina

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

In the second part of my conversation with Buenos Aires local Stephen Melton, we discuss the highlights of Argentina beyond the capital.

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Insider tips on Buenos Aires

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:53:34 GMT

In the beautiful wrought-iron market of San Telmo in Buenos Aires, British teacher and all-round Latin legend Stephen Melton has been telling me about the Argentinian capital – what to see, and what to watch out for.

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Is flying really cheaper?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

That’s the title of a challenging event being organised by campaigning group Flight Free UK. Director Anna Hughes talks to me about exploring Europe by rail, bus and ferry rather than taking to the skies – ahead of an online event on Thursday 5 February that anyone can attend.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/flightfreeuk

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China: 'Go before you get too old' – because so much walking is involved

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT

The first UK tour operator to China in the 1970s was Regent Holidays. Neil Taylor, now a tour leader and travel guide writer, was the man behind the trips behind the "Bamboo Curtain". He contrasts then with now, and offers advice for anyone seeking to take advantage of the new visa-free status of British holidaymakers.

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China visa for UK holidaymakers could be dropped as early as Monday, says top tour operator

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:56:05 GMT

I am talking to Wendy Wu, founder of Wendy Wu Tours, a leading provider of holidays in the People's Republic. She believes red tape for China could be untangled in just a few days.

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How do passengers feel about the luggage rules on budget airline?

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Britain's biggest budget airline, easyJet, has had its knuckles rapped over its charges for larger pieces of cabin baggage. I have come to London Gatwick airport, its main base, to explain the issue – and what lies behind it – and hear from passenger Helen Baillie who never pays more than she needs.

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What are the world’s most useful currencies for travellers?

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Once again I am talking to Kaya Niedenthal of the Currency Online Group – but in unusual circumstances. He is a busy man so I could interview him only on the move, from his high-rise office in London’s Waterloo to the nearby station. The dollar is king, the euro is queen and the pound is still more a prince than a joker, is my conclusion.

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Skyscanner expands its price-comparison service to include package holidays

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Travel desk Tuesday, and my excellent colleague Sophie Dickinson gives her thoughts on the highly popular airfare comparison site moving into the realm of Mediterranean package holidays. She and I discuss how useful this might be for your next family trip.

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It's Australia Day – but how to make the most of the vast and distant nation?

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

For insights and advice I've been talking to top expert Lauren McLeod, who heads up the Australia product portfolio for Trailfinders – the largest independently-owned travel company in the UK.

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Liverpool John Lennon airport sets a new passenger record

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 11:42:17 GMT

The UK has a fabulously competitive bunch of airports as well as airlines. Today, I’m talking to John Vincent, chief executive of Liverpool John Lennon – about rivalry with Manchester, what sets the Merseyside airport apart and how important the inbound market is from Beatles fans and football supporters.

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Michael O'Leary on Elon Musk, air traffic control and drinking at airports

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 10:58:57 GMT

In which the chief executive of Ryanair – Europe’s biggest budget airline – challenges the world's richest man to an arm-wrestling contest.

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If the earth is actually curved, we’ll be able to tell

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:15:01 GMT

Fifty years to the day since the first British Airways Concorde took off with passengers on board, a final interview with Blake Scholl, founder of Boom Supersonic – and a word from Cuveé founder, Larry Mueller, about whether there is demand for breaking the sound barrier.

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Who knows where the tourists go?

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:36:44 GMT

Patricia Yates does: she is chief executive of Visit Britain, which has just delivered a major survey on the value of inbound tourism to the UK.

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Wish it could be Concorde every day? Hear what a leading environmental campaigner has to say

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:54:49 GMT

Back by popular demand: more on supersonic flying. But Anna Hughes, director of Flight Free UK, does not believe we should return to the era of breaking the sound barrier. She recognises the achievement getting Concorde into the skies – but wants a different approach 50 years on from the first passenger flight.

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What is the market for supersonic flying?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

All week I've been hearing about Boom Supersonic's plan for its Overture aircraft, 50 years after Concorde first flew with paying passengers. For an assessment of the routes on which there could be demand for faster travel, I turned to Oliver Ranson – editor of Airline Revenue Economics.

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New York? Sydney? Boom Supersonic wants to take you there more swiftly.

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Blake Scholl, CEO and founder of Denver-based Boom Supersonic, tells me in part 4 of supersonic week, that the longer the route, the better the appeal of his Overture aircraft,

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Fly supersonic between London and New York for £4,000 return?

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 11:55:56 GMT

That's the plan from Blake Scholl, CEO and founder of Denver-based Boom Supersonic. In part 3 of supersonic week, he has been telling me about the pricing for his Overture aircraft – and who will be on board. First though, what was wrong about Concorde?

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Boom Supersonic's big idea for a small impact on the planet

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:16:04 GMT

Part 2 of my exclusive interview with Blake Scholl, CEO and founder of Denver-based Boom Supersonic. His Overture aircraft aims to be the first supersonic passenger jet since Concorde was grounded in 2003. The Anglo-French supersonic aircraft was incredibly noisy and thirsty. Overture will be neither, he believes.

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Welcome to Supersonic week! Will passengers ever break the sound barrier again?

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 03:02:08 GMT

It’s 50 years this month since the first-ever passenger flights on Concorde, the Anglo-French supersonic jet that travelled at 1,350mph. All this week I’m talking about the prospects of a new supersonic plane taking to the skies – with Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic. I talked to him at HQ in Denver.

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In search of the UK's most beautiful railway station

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:49:40 GMT

I am stuck at Crewe, the rail junction in Cheshire, but I have been hearing from two of the presenters of an excellent new Channel 4 series, Britain's favourite railway station: Si King and Siddy Holloway. The first episode is available now at channel4.com

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Greece: is it really a year-round destination?

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Eleni Skarveli, director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in London, says Athens and Thessaloniki are excellent winter destinations – and also reveals some of her favourite islands.

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How tourism can help endangered species

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

My guest today is Paul Goldstein: photographer, expedition guide, and campaigner for protecting wildlife. He’s also author of a book out this week called Nine Lives: One Photographer, Nine Persecuted Species.

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Travel Desk Tuesday: top tips for '26 from Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:52:34 GMT

Uganda and northern Argentina are off the tourism mainstream, but high on Annabel's recommendations for the year ahead. Adventure travel in Africa and South America sounds a joy – can't wait to find out for myself.

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Preston to Carlisle – the pretty way

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 09:44:46 GMT

Avanti West Coast is providing a glorious workaround to the closure of the main rail line between Preston and Carlisle: a scenic train diversion along England’s most beautiful line, the Settle-Carlisle Railway. I went on a test run with Avanti West Coast managing director Andy Mellors, and talked to him when the train paused at Appleby.

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How the Eurostar chaos should have been handled

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Right at the end of 2025, tens of thousands of passengers had their New Year plans wrecked when a problem in the Channel Tunnel.

30 trains linking London St Pancras International with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.

Paul Charles, chief executive of the PC Agency, used to be director of communications for Eurostar – and gives me his no-holds-barred view of how events unfolded.

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How to be a responsible tourist

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT

To start 2026, I'm talking to Mark Tanzer, well respected chief executive of Abta, the travel association – about reasons to be cheerful, challenges from the EU entry-exit system and the environmental impact of tourism.

As well as: What's the point of Abta?

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How does a hotel keep going through Christmas and into New Year?

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

I'm talking to Mike Vincent, General Manager of the Langdale Chase Hotel overlooking Windermere in Cumbria – who has been working through the festive season along with his staff.

"We're nice people looking after nice people," he says.

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The secret behind Manchester Airport's growth

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

I've been talking to Chris Woodroffe, managing director of Manchester airport, about plans for the future in terms of passenger numbers – and also public transport connectivity to MAN. With a brief mention of the thorny subject of drop-off charges.

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Part 2/2 – 2026 predictions with travel CEO

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Paul Charles, chief executive of travel consultancy the PC Agency, is back to talk about travel in 2026.

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Part 1/2 – From cake to caterpillars: Travel boss reveals 2025 highs and lows

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Paul Charles, chief executive of travel consultancy the PC Agency, flies more than anyone else I know.

So in the first half of a two-part interview, I’m talking to him about the best and worst of aviation in 2025.

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Coming to a bus stop near you this Christmas Day?

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

For people living in the UK without a car, Christmas Day has long been a problem.

No trains are running, and in most areas local buses remain in the depot too – leaving car-less people dependent on friends, family or taxis to get around.

But this 25 December things are getting better, according to Graham Vidler, CEO of the Confederation of Passenger Transport.

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Part 3/3 — Dubai airport CEO's advice to the UK

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive of Dubai Airports, used to run Gatwick airport. In the third and final part of our conversation, the boss of the world's busiest international airport offers advice on expansion at both Heathrow and Gatwick.

"The boost that will give to the economy, the advantages it will drive for trade for the UK are all desperately needed. Make the decision, stick to it,"

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Part 2/3 — The future of aviation according to Dubai airport boss

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

In the second part of my exclusive conversation with Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive of Dubai Airports, we gaze deep into the future of aviation.

Not only does Dubai International expect to be the first airport in the world to handle 100 million international passengers – along the road, Dubai World Central airport is planned to outpace the DXB and the rest of the world.

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Part 1/3 — How Dubai became the world's biggest international hub

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 15:34:03 GMT

Today and for the following two days, I am bringing you a conversation with the man who is responsible for more "passenger miles" than anyone else on the planet: Paul Griffiths, chief executive of Dubai Airports.

For the first of three parts, we talked about how Dubai International airport has blossomed into the biggest hub for international passengers in the world.

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Essential airline etiquette for the festive season and beyond

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

I'm joined by The Independent's US travel editor, Ted Thornhill, for his insights on the tricky business of reclining seats, sharing armrests, stowing baggage and whether you can ever upgrade to the business class bathroom?

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Your city-break dream list for 2026 – part two

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 03:29:18 GMT

Amelia Neath, travel writer for The Independent, continues her romp through the best-value European city breaks for 2026. Today: the top five are revealed.

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What's on your city-break dream list for next year?

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Travel writer for The Independent Amelia Neath has compiled a brilliant list of best-value European city breaks for 2026. It's another two-parter: today she is counting down from 10 to six, and tomorrow the top five will be revealed.

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Joy to the world – if you go by train

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 07:39:53 GMT

Travel desk Tuesday, and today senior travel writer Natalie Wilson is reporting on the Belmond British Pullman Christmas lunch trip from London Victoria to Kent – and looking ahead to Interrail travel for 2026. The current 25% discount offer, for passes that you can start any time in the next 11 months, ends at 9am GMT on Wednesday 17 December.

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Guatemala 2026: risks and rewards

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:30:03 GMT

Starting a new year with a journey to a new destination is always rewarding, and one of the most memorable 1 January departures took me to Guatemala. As you will hear from Harris Whitbeck, minister of tourism for the Central American nation, diversity awaits from Maya culture to pizza baked freshly on volcanic rock. Yet the Foreign Office advice for Guatemala is strident – and Harris has plenty to say about it.

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Fast track to America – from Scotland?

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Could Edinburgh airport be the first in the UK to offer pre-clearance for travellers to the US? That's the hope of today's guest, Gordon Dewar – chief executive of the Scottish hub. Allowing passengers to go through US Customs and Border Protection before they board a flight to America "would be incredibly powerful for Edinburgh, and we are pursuing it", he tells me. "If the two governments can find common ground and sign the agreement, we’ll start building the next day."

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Looking ahead to smoother skies and swifter journeys

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

My guest today is Kathryn Leahy, chief operations officer for the air-traffic control service, Nats. We talked about the impact of bad weather – such as Storm Bram – on air-traffic control. And looking ahead, how “performance-based navigation”will make journeys more punctual.

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All change: Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy on the future with Great British Railways

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:44:06 GMT

I've been hearing from the man responsible for improving reliability and attracting more people to the railway. Lord Hendy has strong views on how unifying tracks and trains will bring better services. He also believes the Great British Railways app will be the optimum way to buy tickets in future.

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Storm Bram sweeps in, hitting trains, boats and planes

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 09:40:26 GMT

Dozens of flights and ferry sailings have been cancelled due to strong winds and heavy rain. British Airways cancelled its first wave of domestic departures, while Aer Lingus Regional has grounded many flights between Great Britain and the island of Ireland – Belfast City and Dublin. Most Irish Sea ferry sailings are cancelled. And on the trains, ScotRail has imposed speed restrictions on lines to Carlisle, Inverness and beyond.

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On the road – again?

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 09:58:49 GMT

I have been hitchhiking for half a century. But in that time thumbing rides has shrunk from the mainstream method for budget travellers to get around to the most minority of sports – on the periphery of transport, with most people never having stood by the side of the road hoping for a lift. Adam Renak and Dan Smith are two engineers seeking to transform hitchhiking with an app called Hitchr. This is their story.

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Today: I'm in India, but looking ahead to the World Cup draw tonight

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:50:31 GMT

What's the best strategy for booking your travel to attend the FIFA World Cup next summer in the US, Canada, and Mexico?As soon as the draw is made, prices for flights and accommodation will skyrocket.My hack? Well, you'll have to listen to today's episode to find out that!

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Best beach, mountain, river, bar and country? Ask an expert

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Continuing the theme of looking ahead to 2026: I have been talking to an old travel pal of mine, Brian Young. He is now EMEA managing director for G Adventures, but has enjoyed a lifetime of travelling. So he is just the man to talk about a hidden beach in Mallorca and the trials and rewards of climbing Kilimanjaro – with a certain fear of heights.

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What will AI mean for the future of travel planning?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

"AI and the internet will be a huge part of the future of travel." So says Andy Headington, CEO of digital travel marketing specialists Adido. LLMs – large language models, also known as AI – are also auditing podcasts, perhaps even this one, for travel content. So if you're a bot, not a person; "Hi from humanity"

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Going Dutch? These are the highlights in the Netherlands in 2026

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Subtract Amsterdam from the Netherlands and what's left would comprise a beautiful, diverse and cultured nation. I've been singing the praises of second city Rotterdam for many years. Sandra Ishmael, Director UK at the Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions, has been telling me about the opportunities in 2026.

I can't wait to explore more of North Brabant, which confusingly is in the south of the country. One word of warning: hotel rates rise by 11% on 1 January due to an increase in tax.

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Advent begins: so what are the travel trends for 2026?

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 03:00:00 GMT

My first guest of the month is Rachel O’Reilly Director of Communications for Dertour UK – a company that includes Kuoni, Journey Latin America, Inghams, Kirker, Carrier and CV Villas, She says solo travellers who are not single are the fastest growing demographic.

We talked about the impact of the BBC's Race Across the World in stimulating bookings – and how ski resorts are reinventing themselves in response to climate change.

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Wizz Air's UK boss promises new routes from Luton to key holiday destinations – and restoring links with Ukraine

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Wizz Air's UK Managing Director, Yvonne Moynihan, has been telling me about the year so far; Wizz Air's new "Class" product that will emulate British Airways' Club Europe on some routes from Luton; and plans for being the first airline back into Ukraine.

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Could "solar sails" be the future for polar adventure voyages?

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Exploring the Arctic is one of the greatest experiences open to tourists – visiting remote locations such as Svalbard and Greenland – but there are concerns about the environmental impact of such voyages. Now Heather Thorkelson, founder of Minimal Impact Expeditions, is working on the launch of a new vessel, Captain Arctic – "powered entirely by nature".

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What a way to go to India – reminiscing about overland travel 50 years ago

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

In the 1970s, air fares were so high that the best way to reach India from the UK was on public transport – which Butterfield's Overland Tours was happy to organise, via Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan. Now one of the perpetrators, Richard Loosley, has written a book about his experiences – and has shared secrets of the road with me.

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Cambodia, a nation transformed

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

I first visited Cambodia in 1993, as the south east Asian country was recovering from the genocide of the appalling Khmer Rouge regime under the dictatorship of Pol Pot. In 2025, Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman has just returned from Cambodia and describes a nation transformed – except for the warm welcome that visitors enjoy.

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'Your primary audience is you in 10 years. That's who you're writing your updates for'

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Claire Jones is chief executive of Polar Steps, a travel planning up that takes you worldwide (not just the Arctic and Antarctic). The idea is that all your plans and photos are in one place, so a close group of friends and family can follow your journey. As you go along, it generates a diary for you. And at the end of the trip, you can create a book of your experiences.

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Why a short hop from Newcastle to London Heathrow might involve going around in circles

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

In the second part of my conversation with Martin Rolfe, chief executive of NATS – formerly National Air Traffic Services – we discuss the need to modernise the skies, why aircraft holding to land at London Heathrow are necessary and how air-traffic controllers will handle extra runways at Gatwick and Heathrow.

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Keeping the skies safe – and open

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Today and tomorrow I'm talking to Martin Rolfe, chief executive of NATS – formerly National Air Traffic Services – about the work air-traffic controllers do to keep the skies safe for passengers and crew. He also tackles the systems failure on Bank Holiday Monday, and warns that technical issues are an inevitability in an industry as complex as aviation.

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I'm on the train – and the wifi is superb

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Great Western Railway has just unveiled "Formula 1" high-speed internet connectivity on one of its intercity express trains, connecting London Paddington with the West of England and South Wales. It uses technology from the world of motorsport to harness satellite and phone mast signals to maximum effect.

I have been on a train from Paddington to Newbury in Berkshire and back, sounding out the views of Nick Fry from Motion Applied, Andy Jasper of the Eden Project and GWR managing director Mark Hopwood.

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Indian autumn: Sophie Dickinson is just back from her first trip to the world's most populous country

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Travel Desk Tuesday, and The Independent's Deputy Travel Editor has top tips on travelling around by rail and road. Sophie's highlight: the Golden Temple at Amritsar. And, she adds:"The food was the best thing about the trip."

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Women are extremely under-represented in senior roles in aviation – how could that change?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:09:45 GMT

Katherine Moloney is founder of Elevate(her) Aviation. She started flying at 18, and is licensed to fly both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Katherine has been telling me: "Aviation as a whole is actually 30% female, but less than 5% in key roles such as engineering, pilot roles, and air traffic control." And she intends to change that ...

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All along the watchtowers – with self-guided tourism where they lend you the key!

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Heilbronn is a small city in western Germany. It is notable for being selected as European Green Capital for 2027. But what I find rather more amazing is that there are two medieval towers that you can climb, on your own, having picked up the key from the tourist office.

Wild and wonderful: I hope you will try it too.

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"The jungle has everything you need to survive, but also things that can kill you"

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

I'm finding out about how to survive in jungles and other wildernesses with Dr Joshua Allison, Medical Director at Unique Expeditions. All you need to know about them is that they are, quote, “experts in the extreme.”

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Should premium passengers pay a £500 climate levy?

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:27:25 GMT

That's the plan being discussed at COP30, the UN climate summit in Belem, Brazil. France, Spain and Kenya want to see business class, first class and private jet passengers taxed much more heavily, with the money going to help less developed countries. The International Air Transport Association (Iata), representing the world's airlines, does not agree. I'm talking today to Thomas Reynaert, senior vice president for external affairs at Iata, about the COP30 plan – as well as air passengers’ rights rules and the impending UK budget.

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November 11th - Ryanair is about to insist that everyone uses a smartphone boarding pass*

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

(* Though, as Dara Brady, Chief Marketing Officer of Europe’s biggest budget airline has been telling me, if you need a boarding pass printed out at the airport staff will do that for free, so long as you have already checked in online.)

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November 10th - Meet Byway – which harnesses tech to deliver slow travel across Europe

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Five years ago, Cat Jones created a start-up to use smart tech solutions (coupled, often, with Interrail passes) to deliver tailor-made journey by rail, sea and bus across Europe.

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November 7th - 30th birthday – on Monday – of Britain's biggest budget airline

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

I am at London Gatwick airport, location of easyJet's biggest base, to celebrated the 30th birthday – on Monday – of Britain's biggest budget airline. Since 10 November 1995, aviation has been democratised, giving us wider horizons than ever. I've been talking to Bill Rivett, captain of the first historic flight from Luton to Glasgow. Turns out he was on secondment from British Airways to GB Airways, the small airline easyJet initially hired to do the flying ...

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November 6th - Discover your inner scientist - on holiday

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Today I'm at World Travel Market, the UK's biggest travel trade event, and talking to Lara Paxton of New Scientist Discovery Tours about the prospects for a new kind of adventure: whether searching for dinosaur traces in the Gobi Desert, or visit the Large Hadron Collider at CERN outside Geneva.

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November 5th - Meet the new minister – Stephanie Peacock MP, promoting tourism to Britain

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Four weeks ago the MP for Barnsley South took over the tourism brief: a real challenge, in my view, with visitor numbers and spend last year lower than pre-Covid. I've been hearing about her vision for boosting business, and in particular broadening the appeal of the UK beyond London. To places such as Yorkshire ...

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November 4th - West Midlands to the West Highlands – by overnight train

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:21:32 GMT

The Caledonian Sleeper has long linked London Euston with Fort William in the West Highlands of Scotland, as well as Inverness and Aberdeen. From 15 January 2026, the overnight train will call at Birmingham International, serving the city's airport. I've been hearing more from two Caledonian Sleeper executives: Interim Managing Director Graham Kelly and Head of Sales & Marketing, Steven Marshall.

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November 3rd - Horror on the 6.25pm from Doncaster to London King's Cross

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 07:55:49 GMT

Everyone's heart must go to the injured and their families, as well as passengers and train crew, after the appalling knife attack on an LNER train south of Peterborough on Saturday night. The horrifying incident was handled with great professionalism and heroism by LNER staff and the police. But it raises wider questions about security on trains. I have also heard an account from Adam Gill, who was travelling in the opposit direction – and also has nothing but praise for the way train staff responded.

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October 31st - Eurostar gets competition from London to Paris and beyond from Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Trains

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

After airlines, domestic railways and a cruise line, the bearded billionaire is set to bring better service and lower fares on international trains to the Continent – but not until 2030.

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October 30th - Inside the world of Jack's Flight Club

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:20:29 GMT

Jack's Flight Club is an enterprise that specialises in finding exceptional deals on tickets to Europe and beyond. I've always been intrigued about how it works – and Head of Community and Content, Katy Maclure, has been revealing the inner workings. “We're the guys who do the hard graft and let you know when the price is right.”

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October 29th - 'You'll feel like at home, only better': Chisinau tourist guide Irina Iacoban

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

In the Moldovan capital, deep set in autumn, I've been enjoying a walk and talk with Irina – who helps tourists make the most of a beautiful and intriguing city. Just search for "free tour Chisinau" – and of course tip, between 100 and 200 lei (£4.50-£9).

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October 28th - Eastern Airways closes down – what happens next?

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The latest UK regional airline to closed down is Eastern Airways, which linked Aberdeen with Teesside, Humberside and Wick airports as well as flying between Gatwick and Newquay. What happens next?

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October 27th - How badly wrong can an Airbnb booking go?

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 15:12:54 GMT

At the weekend I was in the Moldovan capital, Chisinau, to report on the finish of the latest Lupine Travel race across Europe.

Chatting to past winner and pal of mine Bram Houtenbos, I learnt he had a fabulous city-centre apartment with a spare room. Yes, I could split the cost with him – a real win-win! Except that in the early hours of the morning, things started to unravel...

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October 24th - Winter is coming ... on Sunday 26 October the northern hemisphere winter season begins for the world's airlines

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Aviation analyst Sean Moulton tells me about some of the new routes, which include Pakistan International returning to the UK. Aberdeen to Paris and Manchester to Ljubljana are among his other highlights.

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October 23rd - Secret Maps: Unlocking a world in which travellers are not supposed to know where's where

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

The British Library, right next door to London St Pancras International, has a new exhibition – opening tomorrow, Friday 24 October – about the way that cartography has been used to conceal and confuse through the ages. I toured a preview with Tony Wheeler, co-founder of Lonely Planet, who has supported the project.

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October 22nd - Is there really a future in "Green Travel?"

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:45:09 GMT

My guest today is Richard Hammond, founder of Green Traveller – an organisation that aims to provide news and inspiration about lower-carbon holidays. We're talking at a time when the Berlin-Paris sleeper train is about to come to a shuddering halt. But Richard says competition between rail firms can lead to the kind of growth we saw with low-cost airlines. And we bonded with our mutual fondness for FlixBus.

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October 21st - Can Sweden enhance your mind and body in winter?

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Travel desk Tuesday – and my colleague, senior travel writer Natalie Wilson, has been writing about a Visit Sweden initiative that seeks to promote physical and mental well-being for the traveller to Scandinavia (as well as boosting the fortunes of the local travel industry). Travel anywhere, in my experience, is always a restorative.

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October 20th - Is Manchester really a key force in UK aviation?

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:48:41 GMT

That's the claim from aviation analyst Sean Moulton, who I met in his home town, Manchester. We talked about the way Britain's third-biggest airport – after Heathrow and Gatwick – is getting more intercontinental links, and becoming a hub between Asia and North America.

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October 17th - 25 years on: Kicheche Safari Camps – a model for wildlife tourism?

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

In the year 2000, two travel professionals with experience across Africa teamed up to create a safari camp that brings together nature, community, energy and inspiration in Kenya's Maasai Mara. A quarter-century on, my guest Greg Monson and his partner Paul Goldstein are still working their socks off to provide great travel experiences that support the community and preserve the environment.

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October 16th - New trains for old on Chiltern Railways, linking London Marylebone with Banbury and Birmingham

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

On a shiny 21st-century train with just one careful previous owner, I am talking to Richard Allan – managing director of Chiltern Railways – about new rolling stock for a network that currently relies on trains nearly half a century old.

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October 15th - EU entry-exit system: UK borders minister on the new challenges for travellers

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

At London St Pancras International, hub for Eurostar – and one of three locations in the UK where passport control is carried out before departing for France – I caught up with Alex Norris, Minister for Border Security and Asylum.

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October 14th - Inside the world of British Airways cabin crew

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

My colleague, senior travel writer Natalie Wilson, has been telling me more about the making of a film about training to be cabin crew.

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October 13th - Entry-exit system arrives – and I try it out

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I'm in Prague, tackling the Kafkaesque bureaucracy of the new Schengen area digital borders scheme.

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October 10th - Entry-exit system starts on Sunday – hear from Abta's EES expert

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 02:11:52 GMT

This weekend it's not exact all change for British holidaymakers going to the European Union and wider Schengen area – but some of us will have our fingerprints and facial biometrics taken. I've been talking to Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs for Abta, the travel association, who – like me – has been reading EU directives and regulations on the subject for the past few years.

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October 9th - How to make the most of Mallorca

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 02:39:17 GMT

Today I'm talking to Alex Smith – who has lived and worked in the travel industry in Mallorca for two decades. Five years ago she created the YouTube channel Mallorca Under the Sun, helping prospective visitors to our favourite Mediterranean island. She's been telling me about the highlights of the island – and why it's worth getting out of the resort of Magaluf.

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October 8th - How to start – and run – a successful travel business

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:54:01 GMT

Jacqueline Dobson, president of Barrhead Travel and Internova Leisure, tells me that this chain of travel agencies grew from a single branch in a suburb of Glasgow half a century ago. Its key difference: staying open later, seven days a week, which in 1975 was revolutionary.

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October 7th - "The universe is looking favourably on northern Spain"

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

So says Jessica Harvey Taylor, head of press for the Spanish Tourist Office in the UK, who's been telling me about the increased appetite among British travellers for northern Spain – namely Galicia, Asturias and the Basque country. And on 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse will sweep across the north of the country from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, before ending at sunset on the island of Mallorca.

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October 6th - The amazing city tour that invites rewards in the form of donations to charity

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:21:23 GMT

Meet Dr Nick Brown, resident of Palma in Mallorca. His day job is as data sleuth, but he also does all he can to help tourists make the most of the island that he has made his home. He offers tours on an entirely pro bono basis – with a request that satisfied customers donate to a homeless charity.

More details here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563615153343#

Nick also provides in-depth advice on public transport in Mallorca, https://www.facebook.com/groups/3028730957433776/

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October 3rd - Flight cancellations – what is the best way to deal with them?

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

That's the discussion I've been having with my excellent colleague, global travel editor Annabel Grossman. In September we both had flight cancellations, and without a buffer that can trigger stress and disappointment. It's worth politely and respectfully pushing back to ask for better replacement flights. Best of all, have your flight cancelled on your homebound leg, with a day available.

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October 2nd - The insider's guide to "status matching" with travel loyalty schemes

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Rob Burgess, founder of the frequent flyer website Head for Points, explains how to benefit from this quirk: could status with one airline earn you the equivalent of British Airways Silver with the help of a $199 payment?

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October 1st - Is the Airbus A321 XLR the biggest gamechanger in aviation?

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

That's the belief of Rhys Jones of the frequent-flyer website Head for Points, who explains why the economics of the extra long range narrow-bodied twin jet makes it the perfect plane for many unserved routes. But watch out for meal times ...

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September 30th - Play, a low-cost Icelandic airline, has shut down

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

The carrier is telling passengers: “All flights have been cancelled.” Around 500 staff have lost their jobs. It follows former Icelandic carriers Primera Air and Wow Air into aviation oblivion; those airlines failed in 2018 and 2019 respectively. Last summer I talked to the chief executive, Einar Örn Ólafsson, who set out his vision. Sadly, it was not to be.

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September 29th - Entry-exit system: 'We're ready, so bring it on'

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:50:37 GMT

That's the message from Yann Leriche, chief executive of Getlink – the company that runs Eurotunnel and LeShuttle car-carrying operation between Folkestone and Calais. He's been talking me through the planning and the experience once the EU's digital border scheme begins.

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September 26th - Meet Linger, the company that wants to organise the ultimate career break for you

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Steve Wilson, founder of Linger, tells me that many legal and financial services firms are happy for their top people to take sabbatical – a break to help them re-energise – and he and his team can deliver life-changing experiences.

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September 25th - All change for British travellers to Europe from 12 October

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:54:21 GMT

Hi from London St Pancras International – most beautiful railway station in the world, and also the hub for Eurostar. I am talking to Simon Lejeune, Chief Safety and Stations Officer for the cross-Channel rail firm, about the big changes the impending entry-exit system will bring.

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September 24th - Gatwick – what will expansion mean, and when will passengers get to benefit?

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

My guest is Stewart Wingate, Vinci Airports Managing Director for United Kingdom, overseeing future development and strategic direction of London Gatwick, Edinburgh Airport and Belfast International.

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September 23rd - Check out this guide to the Czech Republic

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I am in Brno in the Czech Republic, where I have come to meet Kevan Vogler – a Canadian who has been living in his adopted homeland of the Czech Republic for more than 20 years, and is therefore the ideal person to write Culture Smart! Czech Republic: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture.

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September 22nd - Gatwick's second runway gets government go ahea

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 08:39:40 GMT

I've been covering airport expansion in south-east England for decades. Could this finally be the moment when an additional runway is pressed into service, or will it get tangled up in controversy?

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September 19th - Should the retirement age for pilots be raised from 65 to 67?

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

That's the recommendation of the International Air Transport Association (Iata). Opponents say the airlines see raising the age limit as an attempt to deal with a temporary shortage of pilots. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency says the risk of a serious health incident on the flight desk increases with age, and that skills decline with the years.

But Willie Walsh, a former pilot himself and now director general of Iata, believes the age limit can safely be raised.

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September 18th - What happens in the wake of an aviation tragedy?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Flying is incredibly safe. But as we have seen over the past nine months, accidents happen with tragic consequences. I am talking to Elmarie Marais, the chief executive of GoCrisis – a company that works with airlines to prepare emergency procedures, and gets to work to care for the loved ones of the victims. As I make clear, aviation has an outstanding safety record.

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September 17th - Andorra in summer?

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I am still in southwest France, specifically at Toulouse airport departure lounge, where I am talking to Jackie Banfill and Frank Epstein – who have been in the high Pyrenean co-principality of Andorra. I know the place mainly from winter, but they say it is glorious in summer.

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September 16th - What happens when your flight is cancelled at the airport?

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I'm just on the French side of the Pyrenees, but I reached here – with my hiking friend Mick – after some extreme stress, when our Vueling flight from Gatwick to Barcelona was cancelled at the airport.

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September 15th - Checking in bags for a flight? Don't head for the airport without hearing from Steve Kelso from Gatwick

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Steve is Head of Engineering at the UK's second-busiest airport, and responsible for the baggage systems. Almost all the time things work well for the passenger, the airport and the airline.

But sometimes bags with loose straps and the like can gum up the system. And if you leave old barcodes on your case (those little labels) your bag might end up in Bangkok while you are waiting in Barcelona.

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September 12th - As the Tube strike ends – what was it all about, and will we see more?

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

All week I have been covering the strike by members of the RMT union working for London Underground, which has paralysed the capital. While some Tube trains have been running on each day, they represent only a tiny fraction of the network.

I took one of the rare trains running from Baker Street to Harrow-on-the-Hill, sharing the journey with a pigeon and a handful of humans.

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September 11th - What's happening in aviation? Jeremy Bowen is the man who knows

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

The summer has actually been excellent in terms of coming out of the UK," says Jeremy. While the peak day for flights from the UK is still back before Covid, in October 2019, and UK-US flights are showing a downturn, the trend is unrelentingly upwards. North Africa bookings doubled this summer and the Middle East is expanding ...

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September 10th - Not Hot List – places off the tourism mainstream, from Nevada to Sierra Leone

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Today is the day that Intrepid Travel has revealed its Not Hot List – places off the tourism mainstream, from Nevada to Sierra Leone. I've been speaking to Hazel Maguire, chief marketing officer for the adventure travel company.

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September 9th - Walking from Scotland via England to Wales – what are the highlights?

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Paul Goldstein, adventurer and wildlife campaigner, successfully completed 25 Marathon-length walks from Tigerton in Scotland to Tiger Bay in Wales to raise money for the conservation of four-legged animals – particularly the tiger. He's been telling me the highlights ...

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September 8th - Autumn and winter in Austria: what awaits the traveller?

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I'm talking to Martina Jamnig, director of the Austrian National Tourist Office in London, about the activities on offer in autumn and winter – which range from Christmas markets to ice-bathing in Carinthia. News about more flights to Austria, too.

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September 5th - Today is National Travel Agent Day – and here's a top travel figure on a mission

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

5 September is the day to celebrate travel professionals, and therefore a good day to hear from Julia Lo Bue-Said OBE, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership. She believes school holidays need to be transformed so that they better meet the needs of families – and wants to start a national conversation on cutting the summer break to a month, with extra weeks added in May and October.

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September 4th - The freedom of Europe – how to make the most of the current Interrail flash sale

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Nicky Gardner, co-author of Europe by Rail, tells me the best places to make the most of all-you-can-travel rail.

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September 3rd - Dollar dives, euro strengthens, and the surprise third currency

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

At the end of the summer I'm talking to Kaya Niedenthal of Currency Online Group in London about trends in the currency markets: what's worth buying now, the use of the dollar and euro in many developing countries, and the currency that is selling extraordinarily well to Brits.

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September 2nd - Travel Desk Tuesday: the joys of St Lucia

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 02:00:00 GMT

The Caribbean is a mosaic of delectable isles - but what makes St Lucia distinctive? Senior travel writer Natalie Wilson was there in the summer and was smitten by the island's beauty, friendliness and culture.

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September 1st - How do you solve a problem like overtourism? The story from Dubrovnik

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 10:36:38 GMT

"The pearl of the Adriatic" has been enticing millions of tourists every year, with its spectacular setting and mighty walls wrapping around the old city. More recently Dubrovnik's starring role as a backdrop in Game of Thrones has brought even more visitors. The pressure from tourism has been evident – but the Mayor, Mato Frankovic, has been telling me how he plans to rebalance the relationship between visitors and the citizens.

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August 29th - Entry-exit system begins 12 October – and these could be the worst-affected European airports

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

From 12 October, the EU's much-delayed entry-exit system (EES) will begin to be rolled out. Using some mathematical modelling, Oliver Ranson from Airline Revenue Economics has worked out the European airports most at risk of collapse on first contact with the EES. Milan Malpensa, Bucharest and Athens top the chart.

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August 28th - The most successful and resilient figure in aviation? Meet Michael O'Leary

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Since he took over as chief executive of Ryanair in 1994, Michael O'Leary has guided what was an ailing Irish regional airline to become Europe’s biggest budget carrier.

I've been talking to him about a crackdown on cabin baggage, his plan for smartphone-only boarding passes and the EU entry-exit system. Listen up!

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August 27th - Going solo: how travelling on your own can be a joy more than a challenge – especially for women

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

My guest is travel expert Gilly Bachelor, who is a champion of solo travel for women. Tomorrow (Thursday 28 August) she is organising a special evening aimed at women preparing to go it alone abroad – under the brand "No stopping her".

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August 26th - "You feel like you’re giving back as much as you’re taking”

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Travel Desk Tuesday, and Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman has been telling me about her experience in Bali – the Indonesian island that has been under attack for the quality of the travel experience.

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August 25th - Cabin air quality: what’s the problem – and the solution?

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 18:09:40 GMT

Today I am talking to a campaigner on cabin air quality, Captain Tristan Loraine. He believes passengers and crew are often at risk because of engine oil contaminating the air inside commercial aircraft. He is the spokesperson for the Global Cabin Air Quality Executive, gcaqe.org

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August 22nd - Beach safety thanks to public-spirited local volunteers

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 10:33:39 GMT

On the eve of the last bank holiday weekend before Christmas, I'm in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire – at the home of Andrew Smith, part of the crew of the Runswick Bay Rescue Boat – which does amazing work helping holidaymakers who get into difficult on the water.

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August 21st - 10 Marathon-length walks down, 15 more to go

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Adventurer, photographer and wildlife campaigner Paul Goldstein is walking, in a Bengal tiger suit, from Tigerton in northeast Scotland to Tiger Bay in Cardiff to raise money for animal protection. I caught up with Paul, his walking companions and support team, at Caldbeck in Cumbria. How has the walk been so far?

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August 20th - The American Way of Life

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Every time I visit the US, I am fascinated by the differences between British and American habits. To get the latest, I have been talking to top cinematographer Douglas Bolton, who spends a lot of time in Colorado – and kindly offered me a lift along Interstate 70.

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August 19th - What is the ideal flight time for a trip from the UK to Europe – and coming back?

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Natalie Wilson, senior travel writer, is back for Travel Desk Tuesday. We have sharply differing views on the best time to choose a flight – and I've also heard from West Midlands teachers Jilly and Glenda, who are firmly of the belief you should make the most of your time away.

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August 18th - Escape from Canada – two families tell their stories of being caught up in strike mayhem

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:43:46 GMT

The Dearing family and the Robinson family, from Beverley in East Yorkshire, enjoyed a dream holiday in Canada – until they reached Calgary the night before their planned nonstop Air Canada flight back to London Heathrow. They discovered that Air Canada had cancelled their flight and left them high and dry. They have been telling me their story ...

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August 15th - Meet the most upmarket travel company in the world

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 04:48:51 GMT

I'm in Aspen, Colorado – the mining town-turned-celebrity mountain resort. And I've been talking to Susan Farrugia, co-founder and chief operating officer of Cuvée, a company that promises luxury, privacy, and adventure in some of the most alluring destinations around the world – with prices up to $50,000 per night. How do you build a business like that?

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August 14th - How far would you go for 5 million frequent flyer points?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:23:59 GMT

Etihad, the airline based in Abu Dhabi, has launched the Extraordinary Challenge - a global competition promoting 15 new destinations. The first person to visit all 15 will win five million Etihad Guest Miles. But one of them is Sochi in Russia. I’ve been hearing more from Mark Potter, Etihad Airways’ Director of Loyalty.

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August 13th - The total eclipse of the century

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

The second half of our total solar eclipse special with the astronomer Dr John Mason, who for decades has been leading trips to see the light go out.I have never heard him so passionate about the prospect of the 2 August 2027 total eclipse – the longest total eclipse of the century.

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August 12th - Look ahead a year from now to the skies over Europe

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

One year from now, on 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse will sweep across the surface of the earth, from the Arctic across Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. The astronomical event, at the height of the tourist season, could provide an outstanding experience for millions. But the astronomer Dr John Mason, who has been leading eclipse trips for decades, says you need to be careful with your choice of location.

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August 11th - Is this the only defunct control tower tour in the world?

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 10:18:05 GMT

Denver Stapleton Airport – then the fifth-busiest in the world – closed down in 1995. The last flight out was Continental 34 to London Gatwick. You would never know an airport was here – everything has been demolished, except for the control tower, which has somehow survived. Sean Henson started running Tower Tours this year, and I joined him last Friday.

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August 8th - Race across Europe: a brutal challenge to get from London to Tallinn

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Bram Houtenbos is a charming Dutch financial services executive living in south London. He also self-identifies as a travel nerd. He is one of the foremost contenders in the Lupine Racing challenges that require contestants to get from A to B via a sequence of checkpoints using only terrestrial public transport (including taxis within cities). I caught up with him in the Estonian capital after an exhausting race ... hear how he got on.

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August 7th - Could holiday roulette be the antidote to overtourism

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Booking.com chief executive Glenn Fogel believes so. He says a lottery arrangement could keep numbers down without disenfranchising less wealthy travellers. But could this cunning plan encounter problems?

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August 6th - What's happening with aviation security?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Many airports have state-of-the-art scanners now, but only some of them are able to drop the annoying 100ml limit for containers of liquids, aerosols and gels. And we still seem some way from the "checkpoint of the future" at airports, where you don't even notice you're being security screened. An update from Richard Thompson, Vice President Portfolios, Innovation & Digital at Smiths Detection.

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August 5th - Tall ship cruising around the Greek islands

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

After my Explora I cruise that I reported on yesterday, I have today talked to my excellent colleague, cruise writer Marc Shoffman. He has just returned from a trip on Star Clipper, a tall ship where climbing the mast is part of the appeal

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August 4th - The joy of cruising, with Explora I's entertainment director

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 15:40:46 GMT

I have just spent an expensive but excellent week aboard the cruise ship Explora I. I talked to Martyn Moss, who has 28 years experience in the business and much of interest to say.

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August 1st - Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 02:00:00 GMT

That's the title of the latest series from the great historian Bettany Hughes – being broadcast starting Saturday 2 August on Five at 6.30pm. I caught up with Bettany during her latest shoot, and she told me more ...

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July 31st - Another air-traffic control meltdown in the UK

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 09:24:29 GMT

Thousands of airline passengers are waking up where they did not intend to be after the temporary shutdown of UK airspace on Wednesday. What are passengers' rights?

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July 30th - Destination X

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I'm talk to executive producer Dan Adamson about the new BBC series.

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July 29th - Is Emirates premium economy worth the extra?

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Global travel editor Annabel Grossman tells me: the slightly posher seats and service are excellent, shame about the inflight food.

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July 28th - Europe hots up: what are your risks, and options?

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 07:57:19 GMT

I'm overlooking the harbour in Mytilene on the Greek island of Lesbos. Even at 7.30pm, the heat is intense. Over the weekend we have seen more wildfires in Greece, as well as soaring temperatures in Turkey. What are travellers' risks, and options?

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July 25th - 25 years on from the tragic Concorde crash, what are the prospects for supersonic travel?

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

On 25 July 2000, all 109 passengers and crew aboard an Air France Concorde departing for New York JFK died when the supersonic plane crashed shortly after take-off from Paris CDG. Four people on the ground were also killed. Concorde was grounded shortly afterwards and, despite a short resurgence with British Airways, made her final passenger flight in October 2003. Leading aviation figure Jonathan Hinkles has been telling me more – and explaining why supersonic travel may never return.

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July 24th - Heathrow boss on why it will take 10 years to build a third runway

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I've been talking to Thomas Woldbye, chief executive of London Heathrow – the busiest airport in Europe. He explains why there won't be another runway until at least 2035 ... who will pay for the multibillion-pound project ... and what he plans for passengers in the meantime.

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July 23rd - This weekend will be the busiest so far of the year at UK airports

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

With figures from aviation analyst Cirium, this coming Friday, 25 July, will see 3,255 flights out of the UK with 585,189 seats on board. Paul Charles, chief executive of PC Agency – and former Virgin Atlantic communications director – has advice for the days ahead, and advises visiting Puglia and Provence.

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July 22nd - United business class – present and future

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

It's Travel Desk Tuesday, and joining me today is The Independent's US Travel Editor, Ted Thornhill. He's been to the US and back in business class on United – by most measures, the biggest airline in the world. Besides the experience itself, he was in New York to learn about what is in store with the launch of Polaris Studio suites.

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July 21st - Over from Dover in the busiest week of the year

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I'm at the UK's busiest port, watching ferries zipping back and forth across the Channel while I talk to Doug Bannister, chief executive of the Port of Dover. He has useful advice for a smooth journey to Calais or Dunkirk this summer.

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July 18th - 'Fuel prices on some motorways are extortionate'

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

So says the president of the AA, Edmund King. He's urging motorists to plan their journeys with care in order to save on petrol or diesel.

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July 17th - Airport charges: Drop-off rip-off, says RAC

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Some of the UK’s top airports now charge a fee of £7 for dropping off passengers at the airport. Only one, London City, has no charge. In contrast, almost every airport abroad allows drivers to stop outside the terminal for free. Rod Dennis of the RAC says this is another example of “rip-off Britain”.

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July 16th - Ryanair: cheesed off about air-traffic control

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Europe’s biggest budget airline cancelled hundreds of flights earlier this month due to a strike by French air-traffic controllers.

Most of those were so-called "overflights" that weren't landing or taking off in France. As Ryanair's communications director, Jade Kirwan, has been telling me, the airline is demanding that flights using a country's airspace simply to reach the final destination should be protected in the event of a strike.

Also, what about increasing the free cabin baggage limit?

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July 15th - Those annoying extras...

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

It's Travel Desk Tuesday, in which one of my excellent colleagues fills us in on what's happening around the world – and, in this case, around the UK. Amelia Neath has done so much work on tourism taxes she's now our correspondent on the subject.

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July 14th - Wizz Air UK has a new boss

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Yvonne Moynihan has taken over running the British offshoot of one of Europe’s top three budget airlines (the other two being easyJet and Ryanair, where Ms Moynihan used to work). We talked about the move into Saudi Arabia, punctuality and service.

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July 11th - Aviation security eases – but only at some UK airports

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Rejoice! For the first summer since 2006, passengers at some UK airports can leave all electrical items and liquids inside their cabin baggage at the security checkpoint. Al Titterington, Birmingham Airport Terminal Operations Director, has been telling me more.

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July 10th - Just how affordable is Switzerland?

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Ahead of the key England v Wales match in the Women's Euros in St Gallen, Switzerland, I have been assessing the cost of being a tourist in the Alpine nation. For more advice, I am talking to Alex Herrmann, director United Kingdom & Ireland for Switzerland Tourism – about Big Macs and much else.

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July 9th - Tourist taxes and a Lake District congestion charge?

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

An entry fee for the Lake District on busy days, and the prospect of many more tourist taxes? I’ve been hearing from Henri Murison, chief executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership – and an advocate for more funding and decision-making for local leaders.

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July 8th - Happy birthday, Ryanair: 40 years old today

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:10:48 GMT

I've been back through the archive to bring you a report of the first departure from Waterford to London Gatwick – including an interview with chief executive Michael O'Leary from the end of 2019, which is entirely pertinent today.

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July 7th - Why Napa Valley should be on every traveller's wish-list

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I'm talking to Adam Lechmere, publishing director of the Academie du Vin Library – which has just brought out The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide to Napa Valley, north of San Francisco in California.

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July 4th - Could the guidebook be making a comeback?

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

That's the contention from Rene Frey, chief executive of Rough Guides and Insight Guides

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July 3rd - Check in is a 20th-century procedure that has no place in the modern era

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

When you buy a rail ticket, that's it: you just show up at the station and board the train. Flying should be like that. But instead, passengers are obliged to check in with the airline. I think the aviation industry could do away with it.

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July 2nd - Interrail deal: save 20% if you book by close of play on 3 July

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I am reporting from a speedy Austrian train on the former route of the Orient Express - and talking about the many benefits of Interrail.

You can get 1/5th off if you buy today or tomorrow.

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July 1st - Uber: how to rate drivers and how to tip, from an expert

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

An unusual way to start the month: talking to my friend Daniel Bettendorf outside the Art Inn in Linz, Austria, where we have cycled. Since the early day of Uber, he has been a regular user of the ride-sharing app – and has strong views on rating and tipping drivers, partly based on his knowledge of Game Theory as a mathematician.

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June 30th - Don't worry, travel happy: the message from top industry leader

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT

On the eve of the peak summer months of July and August, Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, looks ahead to the main holiday season at a time of uncertainty.

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June 27th - When global geo-politics and your holiday converge ...

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT

What a week it has been, as conflict surged and then waned in the Middle East – with dozens of flights cancelled and tens of thousands of people stranded by the sudden closure of Qatari airspace. To put current events in perspective, I'm talking to Jane Kinninmont, chief executive of UNA-UK – the United Nations Association.

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June 26th - Celebrating Everest pioneer Howard Somervell

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT

I'm at the Alpine Club in Charlotte Road, Shoreditch, London – where, between 11am to 3pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays to 18 July 2025, you can find a fascinating exhibition of the work of Everest pioneer Howard Somervell.

He was one of the world's best climbers – and an artist of high repute. And Graham Hoyland, who is writing a biography of Howard Somervell, provides a fascinating insight into his life and work.

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June 25th - Careful with the free wifi – and not so fast plugging into that USB socket to recharge

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Just ahead of the summer peak, a warning from Lloyd Figgins, CEO of the Trip Group, about cybersecurity while on the road. Are you sure that is the coffee shop's wifi, and doesn't belong to that chap sitting in the corner with a laptop?

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June 24th - Doors to automatic and cross-check: understanding the role of cabin crew

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 02:00:00 GMT

Young, gifted and cabin crew. No, not me – my excellent colleague Natalie Wilson, who reports in from an experience day at British Airways' global training academy, where she was drilled in some of the skills required to work on commercial aircraft.

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June 23rd - Heightened tension in the Middle East, with British Airways diverting a Dubai flight to ... Zurich

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:39:18 GMT

I am at Gatwick airport, busy as always, but keeping tabs on the unfolding disruption in the Middle East. British Airways has cancelled a series of flights to and from Dubai and Doha.

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June 20th - Flyaway Friday – but how early will you arrive at the airport?

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:14:26 GMT

I am talking to my excellent colleague, Natalie Wilson, about how much time people should allow to reach and get through the airport. It follows a social media trend about "airport theory" in the US.

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June 19th - Cruising – a force for good?

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 14:44:46 GMT

Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK – which includes P&O Cruises and Cunard – says cruise is a benefit to all.

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June 18th - Small ship river cruising

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 10:38:06 GMT

I'm talking to Powell Ettinger, founder and director of the Small Cruise Ship Collection – covering vessels from eight to 250 people. Most carry 40-100 passengers. River cruising on one of these vessels has many advantages

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June 17th - How could Middle East conflict affect your holiday flight?

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:56:00 GMT

Hundreds of flights are being diverted around closed airspace – these are the key impacts, and your rights.

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June 16th - Norway's new polar bear rules are conservational fascism

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:33:50 GMT

Norway has strict new rules in place to protect polar bears in Svalbard (Spitzbergen) from encroachment by tourists. The government in Oslo says: "It is important for them to be able to search for food, hunt, rest, and take care of their cubs without interference from humans." But my guest today, expedition leader and photographer Paul Goldstein, says the rules go too far.

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June 13th - Tragedy in Ahmedabad

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:22:25 GMT

24 hours after the heartbreaking loss of Air India flight AI171, my reflections on the tragedy and what investigators will be looking for.

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June 12th - A taste of Mallorca: meet Michelin-starred chef Marc Fosh

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 10:23:17 GMT

I am in Palma, where I met up with an English chef who has made a name for himself – and his restaurant. Marc Fosh talks about Mallorca as an island of plenty, with all the ingredients for a feast – including outstanding wine.

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June 11th - Cascais, Estoril and Sintra – all worth adding to a trip to Lisbon

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 15:45:32 GMT

I’m on something of a personal campaign to persuade more people to add a day or two to their trip to visit one of my favourite Portuguese locations – Cascais, the port planted elegantly on the shoreline west of the capital, Lisbon, on what’s known as the Portuguese Riviera. It was settled in turn by Romans, Visigoths and Moors and today the centre of Cascais is an intriguing combination of sun-worn houses, cafés shops and smart hotels – including the Farol, whose sales director is Teresa Saramago.

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June 10th - UK to Germany and Switzerland by direct train – but not this decade

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:39:40 GMT

Eurostar promises a new Golden Age of rail with new direct links from London to Frankfurt and Geneva, as I've been hearing from the cross-Channel train operator's chief executive, Gwendoline Casenave.

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June 9th - Remote medicine training

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 11:54:10 GMT

I'm talking to Lloyd Figgins of Travel Risk & Incident Prevention about a course designed for adventurers.

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June 6th - Vilnius: the intriguing capital of Lithuania, formerly part of the Soviet Union

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:09:35 GMT

I'm back in the USSR – or at least what was a small part of that vast and brutal empire.

Today, Lithuania is a modern, democratic nation and a member of the European Union. Its capital, Vilnius, shook off its communist chains 35 years ago.

As excellent tourist guide Ieva – from Vilnius With Locals – told me, the scars still run deep. But there is much to celebrate...

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June 5th - Expedition cruising: what does it involve?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 08:26:18 GMT

Today I'm talking to Martin Johnson, chair of the Expedition Cruise Network, about the ships that take travellers to the ends of the world.

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June 4th - Staying safe on your holidays – and the allure of Venezuela

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:55:08 GMT

I really enjoyed talking to Christine Shacklady, Managing Director of the TRIP Group – Travel Risk & Incident Prevention. She began with some top safety tips, and then the conversation veered off towards wonderful Venezuela.

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June 3rd - Travel Desk Tuesday: reflections on Sweden from Natalie Wilson

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:54:13 GMT

My excellent colleague, Natalie Wilson, has just returned from a short but intensive exploration of Sweden with Intrepid, and talks about the food, drink, coffee culture and beauty ... as well a welcome encounter with a moose.

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June 2nd - Arvinda Bahal, world traveller, shares his philosophy

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 09:49:20 GMT

My friend Arvi has just returned from Uzbekistan, and – aged 80, having visited every country in the world, is now planning his next adventure. After a lifetime of travelling, Arvi has much to share with us.

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May 30th - Would you go on a Political Tour – or is the news quite bad enough for you without spoiling a holiday?

Fri, 30 May 2025 14:25:12 GMT

I'm talking to Nicholas Wood, director of Political Tours, who organises trips to various frontlines around the world. The 2026 offering has just been published. It includes Taiwan, under threat from China; Poland and Lithuania, bordering on Russia; and the US for the mid-term elections late next year.

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May 29th - Heathrow: what went wrong on 21 March when the UK's busiest airport closed down due a power outage?

Thu, 29 May 2025 11:29:58 GMT

I have been talking to Ruth Kelly, author of the review into the shutdown of Heathrow airport on 21 March, following a fire at the North Hyde electricity substation.

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May 28th - What’s wrong with air passengers’ rights rules?

Wed, 28 May 2025 11:54:41 GMT

Air passengers’ rights rules have been around for a couple of decades now – spurring the creation of a side industry in claims handling. Companies such as AirHelp offer to pursue claims for delays and compensation on your behalf in exchange for a sizeable chunk of any payout. Today, though, AirHelp has launched a new app that monitors your flights for you and lets you know if there is trouble ahead. I have been speaking to the chief executive of AirHelp, Tomasz Pawliszyn.

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May 27th - Are budget airlines being unkind to passengers with "hidden charges" for cabin baggage?

Tue, 27 May 2025 12:06:57 GMT

A pan-European consumer group is urging the EU to force airlines to allow passengers to bring a wheelie bag on board planes as well as a smaller item without paying extra. Frankly I think they are on a hiding to nothing – and talking of hiding, the accusation that these are "hidden charges" does not stand up. Airlines are extremely clear about their baggage limits, and the costs for taking more.

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May 26th - First train in Great British Railways colours departs London Waterloo

Mon, 26 May 2025 08:44:55 GMT

I was on board the 6.14am train to Shepperton, along with the transport secretary, Heidi Alexander. What is the big idea behind renationalising the railways?

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May 23rd - Summer flight disruption: easyJet spells out what it's doing to minimise delays

Fri, 23 May 2025 18:30:55 GMT

The boss of Britain's biggest budget airline, easyJet, reveals pre-emptive action:

Sharper turns between arrival and departure.

Spare parts and planes judiciously deployed.

More slack in crew rosters in case of air-traffic control delays.

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May 22nd - Summer travellers warned: strikes and overbooking could hit your holiday flight

Thu, 22 May 2025 13:37:12 GMT

I have been talking once again to Gediminas Žiemelis, boss of Avia Solutions Group – which runs 14 different airlines including Ascend of the UK. He's been talking about how his company helps meet peak demand, but also warning of possible strikes in Scandinavia and France. Also: check in early is his advice, to swerve possible overbooking.

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May 21st - Stratford, east London: gateway to Europe?

Wed, 21 May 2025 17:11:58 GMT

The transport tech giant Uber is to take on Eurostar through the Channel Tunnel – but you may need an Uber to reach the departure station in east London. Uber has teamed up with a start-up operator, Gemini Trains, to promote a planned rival service linking London with Paris and Brussels. If the partners are permitted to launch trains to Continental Europe, they will not start from the terminal at St Pancras – but six miles down the track at Stratford International.

Chief executive of Gemini Trains, Adrian Quine, has been telling me more.

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May 20th - How much??? Why it makes sense for airlines to price a one-hour flight at close to £1,000

Tue, 20 May 2025 10:21:05 GMT

Many people grumble at soaring air fares. But if an airline is setting fares at a preposterous level, such as £900-plus from London to Edinburgh, that's because it doesn't want you to buy it – rather, the hope is that a long-haul passenger will use it as part of a more lucrative trip. Aviation economist Oliver Ranson has been telling me more.

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May 19th - Rotterdam has a new must-visit enticement

Mon, 19 May 2025 07:35:47 GMT

Fenix, which has just had its opening weekend, is a breathtaking new museum that explores the deep-rooted human instinct of migration. “In every family, there is a migration story to tell,” says director Anne Kremers. “As long as we exist as human beings, we move, we migrate, and we will always keep on doing that.”

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Special Podcast - A new British airline is taking to the skies

Thu, 15 May 2025 10:25:16 GMT

A giant Airbus A380 plane in the colours of Global Airlines will lift off from Glasgow airport in Scotland, destination New York JFK. The founder, businessman James Asquith, has pledged to “take passengers back to the Golden Age of Travel, reinvigorating the onboard experience with elevated service”. But not everyone agrees that a newcomer flying a very large aircraft is what the world needs.

So what is the story behind Global – and what are its chances of success? I have bought a ticket for the inaugural departure.

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May 14th - There are bitey things all over the world’ – but mosquitoes are the worst

Thu, 15 May 2025 10:15:34 GMT

As the UK basks in unusually warm weather, everyone is in holiday mood. But beware the natural world, says the doyenne of travel health, Dr Jane Wilson-Howarth. She has been telling me about protection against the most dangerous creature on earth for humans: the mosquito. Pack that EX4 insect spray.

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May 13th - Farewell to my excellent colleague, UK Travel Editor Ben Parker

Tue, 13 May 2025 10:30:20 GMT

Ben is sadly leaving The Independent this week after two years with the travel team. He looks back over the highlights during that time – with Scottsdale well ahead of Santorini – and predicts a summer of travel calm. Ben will be missed.

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May 12th - Cross-Channel by catamaran?

Mon, 12 May 2025 10:16:50 GMT

Foot passengers and cyclists across the Channel from Dover to France have a tricky experience with the traditional ferry operators. But this summer there is an alternative, in the shape of a catamaran sailing from the port to Boulogne in northern France – taking advantage of the winds and tides to provide a refreshing alternative to conventional international travel.

Andrew Simons, the skipper of the Sail Link enterprise, has been telling me more.

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May 9th - Trailfinders: the secrets of Sir Mike Gooley's success

Fri, 09 May 2025 11:43:25 GMT

For the final part of my exclusive week-long series with Trailfinders founder and chairman, Sir Mike Gooley, I learn about his relationship with the late Queen, his succession planning for his travel firm and what he does with his considerable cash – and that doesn’t include buying a superyacht.

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May 8th - "We wanted to call the company Pathfinders"

Thu, 08 May 2025 11:26:15 GMT

Day four of my conversation with Trailfinders founder and chairman Sir Mike Gooley, in which he reveals how the company name was chosen; why booking online isn't always brilliant; and how the firm very briefly owned a light aircraft.

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May 7th - Trailfinders: the ethos of one of the UK's most successful companies

Wed, 07 May 2025 12:09:30 GMT

Sir Mike Gooley CBE, founder and chairman of Trailfinders, has given The Independent an exclusive, in-depth interview about his innovative company – which has been unlocking the world for millions of people since its inception in 1970.

Today: the mission of the firm, and how he kept it afloat in the early days by instructing motorists on the overland trail to Africa.

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May 6th - The Trailfinders story – part two

Tue, 06 May 2025 11:49:11 GMT

All week I am talking to Sir Mike Gooley CBE, founder and chairman of Trailfinders, about the story of this innovative company – which has been unlocking the world for millions of people since its inception in 1970.

Today: why he thinks booking travel through a human being is better than going online, and how Trailfinders could pay instant refunds to customers when Covid struck.

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May 5th - The Trailfinders story – part one

Mon, 05 May 2025 14:10:19 GMT

Today: how he spotted a gap in the market.

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May 2nd - Bank holiday travel chaos has begun early

Fri, 02 May 2025 12:14:51 GMT

LNER is saying don't travel on the East Coast main line between Doncaster and York unless you really have to. On the West Coast main line there will be planned disruption all weekend. And the skies aren't looking too clever.

Good luck everyone.

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May 1st - Grand Central journey: we need to talk about pricing

Thu, 01 May 2025 12:14:55 GMT

I'm aboard the 8.26am from London to Sunderland, run by "open access" train operator Grand Central. My ticket cost £42. Grand Central had to pay around £2 in commission to rival LNER, with whom I chose to book because of a cashback offer.

I think train operators should behave more like budget airlines.

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April 30th - WhatsApp – the key to a successful day trip?

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:44:30 GMT

I have been enjoying an excellent day out from the Croatian city of Split to Krka National Park and the town of Skradin. The excellent local guide, Mate (pronounced Matay) used WhatsApp to keep everyone in the loop – sending out maps, coordinating movements and ensuring everyone was on the bus at precisely the right time. Eye-opening in all senses.

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April 29th - UK trains and buses – the latest twists and turns

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 07:47:57 GMT

It's Travel Desk Tuesday so I'm talking to my excellent colleague Natalie Wilson about the curtailment of Britain's longest rail route, the bus vs the train and the upcoming South Wales Metro.

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April 28th - Spain and Portugal – travel chaos as the power goes off

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 17:38:31 GMT

Hundreds of thousands of travellers to, from and within Spain and Portugal have faced chaos after a massive power cut across the Iberian peninsula. These are the key issues for British travellers.

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April 25th - Ryanair fury at Civil Aviation Authority refusing to allow rescue flight after diversion

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 15:25:22 GMT

On Thursday night a Ryanair flight from Agadir to Manchester was diverted due to a disruptive passenger. A tech issue was found. Ryanair wanted to lay on a rescue flight using its EU, rather than UK, subsidiary. But the CAA said no.

Eddie Wilson, chief executive of Ryanair DAC (the EU part) is furious.

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April 24th - UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic) – why it's a good plan for travel to Europe

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 14:44:08 GMT

A report says the number of applications for these cards – which get you free or reduced-rate health care – is falling. I think that's no surprise, but it's a good moment to remind travellers about why they are worthwhile.

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April 23rd - Travel round-up: planes, cruises and all roads leading to Rome

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:06:03 GMT

Today I've discovered the average plane flying in and out of Heathrow have three fewer passengers than they did a year ago.

P&O Cruises has disappointed 1,800 passengers with the abrupt cancellation of a voyage with 24 hours' notice.

And after the sad passing of Pope Francis, what are the effects for tourists in Rome?

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April 22nd - Earth Day: How are travellers' attitudes changing?

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:41:24 GMT

That is the question on Travel Desk Tuesday for my colleague, Natalie Wilson. So many factors are at work when deciding where to go and what to do on holiday – does care for the planet figure strongly?

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April 21st - On their way to an airport near you: aircraft with folding wings

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 11:31:26 GMT

A special Easter Monday edition. I've been talking to Sue Partridge, head of the Wing of Tomorrow programme at Airbus, about how folding wings on short-haul aircraft will reduce the damage caused by aviation.

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April 18th - Passport Waiting Time – a valuable online resource

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 11:30:47 GMT

I'm talking to Andy Anderson, founder of Passport Waiting Time – which does what it says and helps travellers with their expectations of how long it will take to get that all-important document. So how does HM Passport Office rate?

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April 17th - Careful with that tech when you are on your airport journey

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:32:41 GMT

Many travellers have welcomed speculation that facial recognition combined with digital passports could allow smoother journeys through the airport. But as I have been hearing from tech writer and broadcaster, Kate Bevan, the concept raises serious concerns – from digital exclusion to privacy.

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April 16th - We're going to Barbados

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:16:44 GMT

Sandra Greig, senior cabin crew for Aer Lingus, says Barbados is her favourite destination anywhere in the world. Sandra kindly took a call from me while on the island, to which she had flown from Manchester on one of the three weekly flights the airline offers.

Sounds like I should get back there soon ...

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April 15th - Malta: gem of the southern Mediterranean?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 15:28:53 GMT

It's travel desk Tuesday, which means I am talking to one of my excellent colleagues. Today it's Natalie Wilson, just returned from the fine island of Malta.

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April 14th - Driving in the UK at Easter? Prepare for congestion on key holiday routes

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 09:57:46 GMT

Rod Dennis of the RAC is telling me how to avoid getting caught in the worst of the traffic over Easter, which is projected to peak on the M25 anticlockwise from the Gatwick turn-off (M23) to the M40 to Oxford and Birmingham at 11.45am on Good Friday.

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April 11th - Birmingham airport – only 32 minutes from Old Oak Common

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 10:01:04 GMT

That's the long-term prospect for the West Midlands airport, which aims to compete with the London airports. In the very short term, Birmingham is expecting its busiest Easter ever. I'm talking to the airport's chief executive, Nick Barton, who says the restoration of flights to New York can't come soon enough.

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April 10th - Step on the train in London, step off in Milan, Geneva or Bordeaux

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:16:27 GMT

That's the hope of London St Pancras Highspeed, the company that runs the UK's only functioning international rail station – as well as the High Speed 1 rail link to the Channel Tunnel near Folkestone in Kent.

Chief executive Robert Sinclair has been telling me about the prospects for trebling the number of international passengers between the UK and Continental Europe, adding new destinations and cutting fares.

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April 9th - How online scammers pretending to be airlines could plunder your bank account

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:09:13 GMT

Villains are stalking social media in search of passengers frustrated at the lack of contact from their airlines.

I've been hearing from Karen Welsh, who told me: "Potentially being scammed out of a fortune is upsetting and worrying, but more than anything, if I could get there then goodness knows who else could get there as well."

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April 8th - The world's ten best airport approaches revealed

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:26:49 GMT

It's Travel Desk Tuesday, and I'm talking to travel writer for The Independent Amelia Neath about a survey that rates the most beautiful approaches to airports around the world – including three that are reasonably accessible for British travellers.

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April 7th - Continental Corridor through Dover

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 08:43:34 GMT

When Europe’s much delayed entry-exit system finally takes effect, motorists departing by ferry from Dover will face a two-stage process to enter the EU – with the locations for each element taking part a mile apart. AI will be deployed to detected any unusual activity between the two checkpoints.

Doug Bannister, chief executive of the Port of Dover, has been telling me all about it.

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April 4th - Easter rush gets under way

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 07:48:52 GMT

Many schools break up on Friday 4 April, and I've been looking ahead to the likely pain points on road, rail, air and ferry.

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April 3rd - Luton gets the go-ahead for expansion

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:05:10 GMT

London's fourth airport is to expand by 90% in the next 15 years. I've been looking back at its history – and forward at possible long-haul expansion.

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April 2nd - Heathrow – what went wrong on 21 March?

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 13:40:46 GMT

MPs on the Transport Select Committee spent the morning grilling Thomas Woldbye, chief executive of London Heathrow, about the decision to close down Europe's busiest airport following a power outage. A lively session, and you can hear some of it here.

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April 1st - Busy week for budget airlines in southeast England

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:04:07 GMT

Yesterday I was at Southend airport for the opening of a new easyJet base. Today the target is Luton airport where Jet2 has opened a new base – at the home of easyJet. Steve Heapy, chief executive of Jet2.com and Jet2 Holidays, says the customer will be the winner.

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March 31st - Exclusive interview with Michael O’Leary

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:28:14 GMT

Ryanair has just announced it has carried 200 million passengers over the course of a year. A good moment, then, to catch up with Michael O’Leary, who has been chief executive for the past 31 years. We talked about his quest for “intergalactic domination”, fares and delays this summer, cabin bag size and the new Ryanair Prime subscription offer.

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March 28th - CNN's Richard Quest warns travellers to be wary of visiting the US because of tighter borders

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 10:54:52 GMT

US immigration is going to be looking more closely at everybody coming through the border. How this translates into travel and decision making, we don't know yet, but you cannot ignore these very high-profile cases and ask yourself what is the effect going to be?

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March 27th - Ryanair has launched a loyalty scheme of sorts – but how good is it?

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 08:58:12 GMT

"Ryanair Prime" costs £79 a year, and its benefits are – to be polite – modest. Rob Burgess, founder of the excellent Head for Points frequent-flyer website gave me his expert assessment as we walked together in Toulouse, southwest France.

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March 26th - Diversionary tactics: should the UK do more when planes can't land where they are supposed to?

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 08:57:33 GMT

“Passengers don’t deserve to end up on random Atlantic islands,” says Matt Purton – group aviation services director at Air Charter Service – after last Friday's closure of Heathrow. He says we must have a national conversation about how to cope better next time.

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March 25th - London to Sydney nonstop via the North Pole!

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 13:55:25 GMT

I'm talking today to Vanessa Hudson, chief executive of Qantas, about Project Sunrise – connecting London and Sydney nonstop.

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March 24th - Heathrow: what went wrong?

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:29:13 GMT

I've spent the weekend covering the airport shutdown. Around a quarter-million passengers who were due to fly to, from or via Heathrow on Friday and over the weekend saw their travel plans wrecked when the airport closed for nearly 24 hours.

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March 21st - Taking the temperature of UK tourism

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 11:11:53 GMT

Today the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions has released its figures for 2024 – showing a "slow but steady" increase in visitor numbers. But the backdrop is tough times for attraction providers, exacerbated by successive governments putting up the barriers to foreign visitors.

I'll been catching up with ALVA director – and top tourism thinker – Bernard Donoghue.

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March 20th - Electric ferry for pedestrians and cyclists starts crossing the Thames in East London soon

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:51:48 GMT

I've been talking to Sean Collins, chief executive of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, about his shiny new ferry – and how it will transform travel across the river downstream of Tower Bridge in London.

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March 19th - Visit this museum to understand divided Berlin

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 12:10:57 GMT

Today, the German capital is a busy, fun and coherent city. But I first knew Berlin when the Wall carved through its streets, dividing families. Some of those oppressed in East Berlin were allowed to leave – along with curious tourists like me.

The main way out was at Friedrichstrasse station, where the Tränenpalast – or Palace of Tears – is now the most powerful reminder of division.

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March 18th - Welcome to Liechtenstein

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:25:31 GMT

Cheese dumplings, the castle of the princely family, a national trail and some excellent skiing. That’s some of the offering from one of Europe's blink-and-you-miss-it countries: Liechtenstein, a mountainous crumple of territory measuring 15 miles by four.

I have been talking to tourism spokesperson Claudia Agnolazza.

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March 17th - Five years on from the first UK Covid travel restrictions

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 16:49:52 GMT

Hope you don't get flashback anxiety – I have been looking back with many a shudder at the extraordinary tangle of travel restrictions that blighted our movements for two years from 17 March 2020.

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March 14th - Is April the new August?

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 10:23:25 GMT

This year Easter is unusually late ... and that spells a very different holiday pattern for many people, especially families. Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive, Advantage Travel Partnership, tells me some are swapping an August fortnight in Mallorca for two weeks in Thailand at Easter for much the same price.

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March 13th - Game fishing from the Algarve shore

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:51:44 GMT

I'm in Portugal, and talking to Captain João Melo about the prospects for serious fishing 40 miles off the coast of the Algarve –and how the tuna are tagged and released, rather than eaten. Sounds one heck of a day out (and, forgive my maths error, the cost is €258 per person based on six sharing the vessel).

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March 12th - Etias postponed yet again

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:54:56 GMT

BREAKING NEWS! British travellers will not need an online permit to visit the European Union and wider Schengen Area until April 2027 at the earliest.

In this episode, I break down the full timeline of what we can expect from the rollout of this new service over the coming two years.

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March 11th - Could you soon be skimming along the River Thames at 30mph?

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:47:02 GMT

I am talking to Mikael Mahlberg of Swedish e-ferry manufacturer Candela. His firm makes the electric hydrofoil that darts between the islands of Stockholm and will soon be gliding across Lake Tahoe. He explains how a low-impact ferry can transform urban transport.

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March 10th - Could the post-Brexit rules we demanded be eased?

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:54:42 GMT

One of the many triumphs of the Brexit agreement was that British travellers to the European Union are now counted as “third-country nationals” – limited to stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180 days.

But Steven Jolly, of the France Visa Free group is campaigning for friendlier relations between the British government and the EU.

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March 7th - "We want to make cruising sexy again"

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:13:32 GMT

Explora Journeys might sound like an overland adventure company, but in fact it is an upmarket cruise line.

The president of the organisation, Anna Nash, told me how it differs from mass-market cruise firms, and says she welcomes competition from land-based companies such as Ritz-Carlton dipping a toe into the water and offering voyages.

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March 6th - Could the UN World Tourism Organisation finally get a female leader?

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:07:07 GMT

Gloria Guevara is campaigning for the post of Secretary-General of the United Nations body that works to promote sustainable tourism around the world. She told me why she is the person for this tricky role.

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March 5th - Wednesday 5 March is the first day that Europeans can apply for the UK ETA

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:46:49 GMT

I've been looking into Electronic Travel Authorisation ahead of the 2 April 2025 deadline – after which every foreign visa-exempt visitor to the UK, with the exception of the Irish, will need to pay £10 and register online.

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March 4th - Travel: Things can only get better

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:57:52 GMT

March hasn't started brilliantly on the travel disruption front, with ultra-long passport queues at Stansted, a delayed flight from Gatwick and a cancelled train.

But I had an appointment to talk to Decius Valmorbida, president of travel for technology firm Amadeus – and finally caught up with him at McDonald's opposite Strasbourg station.

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March 3rd - Roaming the railways of Italy

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:39:28 GMT

For the past five days I have been rattling around the southernmost province of mainland Italy, Calabria. Most of the ground has been covered by train, which is a joy: affordable, usually reliable and with superb scenery. I reckon you should stick to the cheap, “classic” network rather than the high-speed trains.

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February 28th - Annual increase of rail fares across England and Wales

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:34:33 GMT

On Sunday 2nd of March, rail fares across England and Wales will rise by 4.6 per cent. Alex Robertson, chief executive of the consumer watchdog Transport Focus, has been telling me that passengers need to feel that they are getting value for money – by increasing reliability of trains.

Also a reminder to buy that railcard on 28 February or 1 March, before they increase by £5 to £35.

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February 27th - Cash is king – but where are the best deals?

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 11:57:35 GMT

Despite the spread of contactless payments around the world, it's always useful to have some cash. And, more broadly, where are the locations where you might be wise to change some money now for a trip later in the year.

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February 26th - Heathrow eyes a third runway by 2035

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 13:03:49 GMT

Heathrow has just announced record passenger numbers for 2024 – but it has a much bigger prize in its sights.

I have been talking to Thomas Woldbye, the chief executive of the UK's busiest airport, about his plans for the future – and the natural environmental concerns about expansion.

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February 25th - Dubai – the destination at its best in Ramadan?

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 16:58:48 GMT

I'm talking to Issam Kazim, responsible for Dubai Tourism, about the remarkable visitor numbers and "key performance indicators" (KPIs) – and, with Ramadan about to start, the prospects for a visit during that Islamic month of fasting.

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February 24th - Decision day approaches for new runway at Gatwick

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:35:41 GMT

It’s a busy week for airport announcements in the London area. On Wednesday Heathrow is likely to say more on its expansion plans for an added runway – and Gatwick is hoping to hear a decision from the transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, about its hopes to bring the standby runway into permanent use. I’ve been speaking to Stewart Wingate, chief executive of London Gatwick.

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February 21st - The SAS million-point challenge – Part 2

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:00:55 GMT

Today the second episode of a special two-part podcast with Barry Collins – a property developer from Eastbourne who decided to take up the SAS million-point challenge. He had to fly on 15 of the 17 SkyTeam airlines in the last few months of 2024 to learn 1,000,000 frequent flyer points. We last heard from him when, at Jakarta, a fellow frequent-flyer broke it to him that some of his flights didn't actually count ...

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February 20th - The SAS million-point challenge – part 1

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 13:58:14 GMT

On Thursday and Friday I am bringing you a special two-part podcast with Barry Collins – a property developer from Eastbourne who decided to take up the SAS million-point challenge. Fly 15 of the 17 SkyTeam airlines and you earn 1,000,000 frequent flyer points. All began well …

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February 19th - Russia: international pariah, but well connected

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 17:47:09 GMT

As talk of a peace deal intensifies, Russia remains on the no-fly list for the UK and European Union. But many airlines from outside Europe are happy to fly to and from Moscow, St Petersburg and elsewhere – with the UAE better connected than ever, including flights on Air Arabia for only £80 one way between Abu Dhabi and Moscow. Access from the UK via Belgrade and Istanbul is easy. But be warned that the Foreign Office says Russia is a no-go zone.

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February 18th - Trainline isn’t the only answer

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 10:36:39 GMT

“You won’t find cheaper tickets anywhere else”: that is the remarkable pledge from rail retailer Trainline.

A poster campaign outside one of the UK’s busiest railway stations creates the impression that the market-leading ticketing firm is at least as cheap as other sources. But I have different recommendations to save money when you travel by train.

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February 17th - North Korea reopens to tourists this week

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:42:37 GMT

An exclusive for you today. After five years of closure to tourists, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea will receive its first Western visitors this week. As Simon Cockerell, general manager of Koryo Tours has been telling me, only a small and remote region, Rason, will initially open.

NB: The Foreign Office warns against visiting North Korea.

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February 14th - Britain's busiest rail line to be hit by strikes this month and next

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:20:05 GMT

Mind the gap – between what train drivers on London's Elizabeth line have been offered, and what they believe they deserve. The employers have offered a 4.5% raise which would take their annual salary above £75,000, but the members of the train drivers' union, Aslef, have voted overwhelmingly to strike on four days in February and March. Are they pushing their luck?

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February 13th - The King's Cross station sprint

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:00:38 GMT

Network Rail wants passengers to stay safe at stations – not running for their trains – and to avoid delays to trains at London King's Cross, the hub for the East Coast main line. So it is trialling removing trains from the departures board three minutes before departure.

In response, I have been trialling how long it takes to walk from the concourse to the mysterious platform 0.

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February 12th - The things that can go wrong with flights

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 11:22:06 GMT

After a trip involving six intercontinental flights, I have arrived back at Birmingham airport over an hour behind schedule. The sequence since leaving the UK two weeks ago goes: Cancelled, Late, Cancelled, Late, Late, Late.

Don't put too much store by the airlines' schedules.

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February 11th - Valentine destinations: Paris? Puglia? Prague?

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:39:48 GMT

On Travel Desk Tuesday, I’m talking to Annabel Grossman, global travel editor for The Independent, about Lonely Planet’s selection of alternative romantic destinations for 14 February.

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February 10th - Heathrow airlines and hotels deplore "vast overcharging and declining service"

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:30:06 GMT

In an unprecedented and coordinated attack, the airlines that use Heathrow airport – as well a prominent hotelier – are demanding lower charges and higher standards.

Virgin Atlantic, British Airways’ parent IAG, the Heathrow Airline Operators’ Committee (AOC) and the Arora hotel group say the current way that charges are set by the Civil Aviation Authority are not fit for purpose.

Heathrow says it wants a better long-term arrangement, but that expansion – in the form of a third runway – must be paid for.

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February 7th - We need to talk about upgrades

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 11:52:45 GMT

When do airlines give upgrades, and who are the beneficiaries?

Spoiler alert: it will help if you marry a captain. But I wonder if upgrades are actually worth a huge amount? My very limited experience of business class travel suggests they may be overrated.

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February 6th - Ryanair Boss Michael O'Leary Puts The Aviation World To Rights

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:00:12 GMT

Michael O’Leary has been chief executive of Ryanair since 1994, and over the past three decades he has taken the carrier from a small and unprofitable regional airline to the biggest in Europe in terms of passenger numbers.

Today he’s talking about Heathrow’s third runway, Air Passenger Duty and his plans to base aircraft in Ukraine when the skies reopen to passenger flights

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February 5th - British Airways Softens Revenue-Based Loyalty Scheme

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:20:02 GMT

At the very end of 2024, British Airways revealed comprehensive changes to its loyalty programme, which will mean access to its top tiers will be aligned with high spending on the airline and its holiday operation.

After 43 years, the BA Executive Club is to be renamed The British Airways Club from 1 April, 2025.

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February 4th - Asia: Access All Areas?

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:47:03 GMT

Access to most areas of China is getting easier, with a new light-touch online visa and an extension of the valuable "transit without visa" option. With travel to Asia surging, I have been talking to top tour operator Wendy Wu. She says her firm, Wendy Wu Tours, can untangle the red tape.

Also: why a visit to China right now will prove especially rewarding.

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February 3rd - When will North Korea reopen to tourists?

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:17:55 GMT

The “Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” is arguably the strangest nation in the world (although Turkmenistan gives it a run for its money).

It has been closed to Western tourists for five years, but could it be on the point of reopening? Simon Cockerell, Koryo Tours General Manager and frequent North Korea, says nothing is certain – and meanwhile his company can offer more accessible destinations.

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January 31st - Travel trends: turning Japanese

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 17:49:18 GMT

January seems to have been going on forever, which has been dismal for many – but promising for travel agents. I’ve been talking to Ashley Quint, director of Hertfordshire agency Travel Time. There’s intense interest in exotic-but-safe Japan, though manage your expectations on the price.

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January 30th - The village standing in Heathrow's way

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 16:41:03 GMT

After Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced government backing for expansion at London Heathrow airport, I've been to Harmondsworth – the pretty village that will be half-demolished if the plan for a third runway goes ahead. I met Rob Barnstone, coordinator of the No 3rd Runway Coalition, and Justine Bayley of the Stop Heathrow Expansion group.

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January 29th - What we can do about poor airport connectivity

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:34:47 GMT

On the day chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to back expansion at Heathrow, I'm talking to Paul Charles, chief executive of the PC Agency and former communications director for Virgin Atlantic. He spells out the problem of airport connectivity, and what he believes should be done.

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January 28th - The aviation jargon you didn't know you needed

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 11:00:45 GMT

It’s Travel Desk Tuesday, and today I’m talking to my excellent colleague Natalie Wilson about new aviation jargon creeping into the travel lexicon: lice, of the gate and aisle varieties; check-in chicken; and rawdogging, which, frankly, sounds dismal.

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27th January - Seeing the world through a reporter’s lens

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 13:17:35 GMT

Nicholas and Karen Wood run Political Tours, which aims to help you "see the world like a reporter does". On their travel agenda this year: Mexico (the country, not the Gulf), Trieste to Rome in Italy, Ireland, Cyprus, Taiwan, and South Africa. But not currently Israel/Palestine, Russia, or Iran.

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January 24th - The worst weather-related travel chaos of my career

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 09:51:13 GMT

It's grim out there! Today I'm at London's Kings Cross station reporting on what might just be the worst weather-related travel chaos I've ever seen. There are cancellations and closures in the skies, on the railways and on the roads across the UK and Northern Ireland.

If you're trying to travel today, this is essential listening!

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January 23rd - Is Heathrow nearer to a third runway?

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 11:50:24 GMT

I'm still hearing views on Heathrow, today from John Strickland of JLS Consulting – who wonders if he will still be around when a third runway is built? As the Labour government inches nearer a decision, this political football that has been round and round may be reaching a conclusion. But we've said that before, haven't we?

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January 22nd - Heathrow Hubbub

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 17:57:28 GMT

I'm back at Heathrow – where, as I discussed yesterday, reports suggest the third runway could be given the green light. Several developments since then: Environmentalist George Monbiot has revived calls for a frequent-flyer levy. easyJet chief executive Kenton Jarvis has said that his airline would only be interested in going in to Heathrow if it can do so at scale. And I speculate that "mixed mode" – landings and take-offs on both runways – could be brought in ahead of a third runway opening.

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January 21st - Green vs growth: London airports set to expand

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:38:20 GMT

As Labour backs airport expansion to boost growth, what’s the future of Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton?

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January 20th - Internet on the Move: travel connectivity with Matt Sims

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 10:41:12 GMT

Simon Calder chats with Matt Sims, host of the Motorhome Matt podcast, to uncover the secrets of hassle-free internet access while travelling. From budget-friendly hardware to choosing the best mobile data plans.

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January 17th - Avanti disruption despite strike cancellation: Sunday services in chaos

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 15:26:45 GMT

Simon Calder discusses the impact of Avanti West Coast's cancelled strike on Sunday, January 19th, which leaves most trains between Manchester and London running on a reduced schedule. Learn why reinstating services isn’t as simple as it seems and the ongoing challenges facing UK rail travel.

This podcast is free, as is The Independent Travel newsletter, which you can subscribe to here and have delivered every Friday.

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January 16th - Arvinder Singh Bahal's global adventure

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 12:38:17 GMT

I’m at London Heathrow Airport with my good friend Arvinder Singh Bahal, author of The Tireless Traveller, and one of the few people to visit every country on Earth. From skydiving above Mount Everest to navigating Turkmenistan visas, we discuss his incredible journeys across the globe.

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January 15th - Ticket Trouble Tales: The ORR Wants Your Train Fare Fiascos!

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 14:28:26 GMT

Have you ever been subject to a Penalty Fare on a train, or even been prosecuted for allegedly travelling by train? If so, the Office of Rail and Road wants to hear from you. As Stephanie Tobyn, the organisation's Strategy, Policy & Reform Director told me, they are interested in understanding how the current rules are working.

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January 14th - Part two of my Florida exploration: Anna Maria Island

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Part two of my report from the west coast of Florida – and I am in Anna Maria Island, meeting independent retailers and the local oyster hero, as well as finding out about the secret life of dolphins.

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January 13th - Escaping the cold in a Florida Fishing village

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:06:34 GMT

I have managed to swerve the worst of the wintry weather in the UK. I booked a £501 return flight to Tampa on the west coast of Florida and headed south to the city of Bradenton, which offers kayaking through revived mangrove – and a working fishing village.

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January 10th - Driving Mr Calder through Florida

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 13:23:40 GMT

Motoring in America is different from the UK. I'm driving along in an automobile with the cinematographer and director Douglas Bolton, who's an expert on US motoring. He's been putting me right about the key points to be aware of.

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January 9th - Bradford’s moment in the spotlight: UK city of culture 2025

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 08:30:10 GMT

Bradford begins its year as the UK City of Culture with an extraordinary opening event on January 10th. Simon Calder speaks with Shanaz Gulzar, creative director of the program, about the city's rich industrial heritage, stunning architecture, and diverse culture. From the Brontës’ wild moors to the newly reopened Science and Media Museum, Bradford promises a year of artistic innovation and exploration.

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January 8th - Flight Tax or fuel future? the truth behind airfare headlines

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 11:52:33 GMT

Amid headlines warning of skyrocketing airfares due to a new "flight tax," Simon Calder unpacks the reality of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate. It's not a tax, nor Labour’s policy, but a step towards greener aviation adopted under Conservative leadership.

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January 7th - The 21-day train journey that doesn’t exist

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 09:49:54 GMT

Mark Smith, the Man in Seat 61, joins Simon Calder to unravel the myth of a 13-country rail journey. They discuss the route’s logistical impossibilities, the story’s viral origins, and how it fuels excitement for international train travel.

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Janaury 6th - Christmas is over but flight disruptions are still going

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 11:20:58 GMT

A third chaotic weekend in a row for the UK's airline passengers. Normally we expect disruption over Christmas but by the time it's the 6th of January things clear up, but not this year I'm afraid. We are talking serious flight disruption, the fog and snow are partly responsible.

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January 3rd - Jet2’s year ahead: new horizons and a final flight for the 757

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 14:14:47 GMT

In today’s podcast, I speak with Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2 Holidays and Jet2.com, about the airline’s ambitious expansion in 2025, including new bases in Bournemouth and Luton. We discuss the growing holiday demand, the company’s award-winning customer service, and the retirement of their last Boeing 757 this weekend, marking the transition to a cleaner, quieter Airbus A321neo fleet.

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January 2nd - Grounded at Gatwick: BA staff misapply post-Brexit passport rules

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 12:18:52 GMT

Sue Heath was removed from her British Airways flight to Malta just before Christmas, despite her UK passport meeting all post-Brexit EU entry requirements. In today’s podcast, I explore the alarming misunderstanding of passport rules by BA staff at Gatwick and the implications for travellers, sharing insights into Sue’s experience and advice for passengers facing similar issues.

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January 1st - My recommendations on where to visit in 2025

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 12:03:45 GMT

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2025 and with it I'm sure there's a renewed optimism for places to visit and sights to see. So, I've run down the list of where I think is a great place to visit - all within five hours travel time of the UK.

This podcast is free, as is The Independent Travel newsletter, which you can subscribe to here and have delivered every Friday.

That list in full:

January - Bradford

February - Vienna

March - Tromso

April - Sarajevo

May - Rotterdam

June - Belfast

July - Kyiv

August - St John’s

September - Thessaloniki

October - Tangier

November - Constantine

December - Krakow

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December 31st - BA’s Executive Club revamp: spend more, earn more

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 12:13:38 GMT

In today’s podcast, British Airways’ controversial changes to its Executive Club are now rebranded as the British Airways Club. From April 2024, loyalty will be tied directly to spending, making it harder for budget travellers to earn perks like lounge access and seat upgrades. I discuss how the revamped system impacts frequent flyers, with insights from industry experts on whether this shift rewards loyalty—or alienates economy travellers.

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December 30th - My favourite spot to enjoy Heathrow Airport

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 09:59:56 GMT

I'm at my favourite airport hotel anywhere: the Thistle Terminal 5, which is not quite at London Heathrow Terminal 5 but has a priceless terrace overlooking the northern runway. I list the reasons why you'd enjoy stopping here before flying out of Heathrow Airport - as well as asking a plane spotter what he's taking a look at.

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December 27th - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas doesn't like Eurostar

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 11:19:30 GMT

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas doesn't like Eurostar. Last year, a sudden strike by Eurotunnel staff thwarted thousands of passengers. And today the first London-Paris train broke down in the Channel Tunnel. Elsewhere, issues with some services from London Euston but train services on a whole are looking ok for what was scheduled to be running today.

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December 26th - Boxing Day and we're on the move again, but how far can you get?

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 09:50:54 GMT

Boxing Day – and many people are on the move around Britain. But how easily will they be able to travel? I’m at London St Pancras International, the UK’s best connected rail station – at least in normal times. In this episode, I run through what the train timetables look like as Network Rail runs engineering works across the network but if you're looking to catch the Boxing Day races in Liverpool, you're in luck.

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December 23rd - Travel tangles & festive fiascos

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 12:33:05 GMT

A round-up of all the festive travel disruption!

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What Vienna has over Budapest and Prague

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 10:29:50 GMT

While travel unravels across the UK, I have escaped to Vienna – where I caught up with Helena Steinhart of the Vienna Tourist Board. She tells me about Christmas celebrations, why January to March is a good time to be in the city and how Vienna differs from central European rivals Budapest and Prague.

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December 18th - How to stay safe on the trains at Christmas

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:11:13 GMT

A week before Christmas, loads of people are going to be travelling by train. I'm at London Blackfriars talking to Samantha Facey, Health, Safety and Security Director at the UK's biggest train operator, GTR, about staying safe.

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December 17th - Storm Darragh's Damage and Disruption

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:16:10 GMT

Thousands of Christmas travellers hoping to cross the Irish Sea by ferry face disruption due to Storm Darragh damage. The port of Holyhead – which provides the main ferry connection between Great Britain and Ireland – has been closed since last weekend, with no sailings to or from Dublin. Normally Stena Line and Irish Ferries have four daily ferries each way between the Anglesey and the Irish capital. Hundreds of motorists and foot passengers use the link each day, with “Rail & Sail” fares offered from stations in Wales, England and Scotland to Dublin. Holyhead-Dublin is also the main freight connection between Great Britain and the Republic. The port was damaged during “two separate berthing incidents” during Storm Darragh – the wild weather that swept across Wales on 6 and 7 December. No injuries were reported. Stena Line and Irish Ferries have cancelled all sailings between Dublin and Holyhead until Friday 20 December at the earliest.

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December 16th - The drive behind National Express

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 13:04:22 GMT

I'm joined by National Express chief executive Alex Jensen.

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December 13th - Not such an unlucky day for Avanti West Coast passengers

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 16:39:47 GMT

Lucky for some, in particular passengers on Avanti West Coast who have just been told the train managers' strike for 22, 23 and 29 December has been called off because an improved offer has been made. Plenty of problems remain, however.

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December 12th - Frantic Friday, Slow Saturday and Messy Monday

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:07:20 GMT

Today's travel podcast is all about Frantic Friday, Slow Saturday and Messy Monday, the unholy trinity of busy days on the motorways of Britain in the build-up to Christmas.

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December 11th - Dreaming of a train strike free Christmas? Keep dreaming

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 11:30:58 GMT

Over the past few years, rail strikes have become as synonymous with Christmas as Mariah Carey and Wham! The incoming Labour government vowed to “move fast and fix things” in transport; ministers and officials quickly settled the train drivers’ dispute with a 15 per cent pay award covering three years. But stoppages are back for Christmas 2024 on the intercity network linking London Euston with the West Midlands, northwest England, North Wales and southern Scotland. Train managers belonging to the RMT union and working for Avanti West Coast will walk out on some of the busiest days of the year: Sunday 22, Monday 23 and Sunday 29 December.

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December 10th - How could UK trains be the most expensive in Europe?

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:12:54 GMT

A recent survey has revealed that the UK has the most expensive domestic trains in Europe. It does not compute for me.

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December 9th - Planes, Trains, and Travel Pains

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:18:37 GMT

Today I'm looking back at the damage from Storm Darragh and Storm Burt to travel plans, and wondering if aviation and rail could be more resilient.

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December 6th - System failure brings UK rail services to a halt

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 12:09:25 GMT

I am at London Paddington station, hub for the Great Western Railway serving the West of England and South Wales. There's disruption to many trains here and elsewhere in the country due to the earlier failure of the Network Rail communications system, known as GSM-R.

This is an embarrassment for the government in a week in which ministers have assured the public that train delays can only get better.

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December 5th - It's groundhog day with me on Delta Airlines

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:22:31 GMT

I'm at the junction of Andrew Young International Boulevard and Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta, Georgia, which is a complete surprise to me because I'm supposed to be in London, England. Unfortunately Delta Airlines had different ideas.

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December 4th - It's back to public ownership for three railways

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 10:25:25 GMT

I'm trying to make sense of the government's announcement of the first three train operators to be brought back into public ownership.

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December 3rd - Catch-up with Wizz Air on how the budget airline is handling its operation at Gatwick airport

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 10:28:59 GMT

I'm talking with Marion Geoffroy, Managing Director of Wizz Air UK, about the airline's operation at London Gatwick airport. The disruption on 22 November caused by a security scare was a headache for airlines and their passengers; Marion tells me about how the airline handled it. March 2025 will see the deployment of a new mid-to-long-haul aircraft for Wizz Air at Gatwick, which initially will serve Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

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December 2nd - Expect the Spanish Inquisition

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:41:52 GMT

Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition when they travel on holiday to our favourite foreign destination, but from today, the government in Madrid is expecting to collect a lot more data from travellers.

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November 29th - Travel Visa Vortex: Navigating Global Red Tape with Samantha McKnight

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 14:13:01 GMT

Untangling the red tape of global travel with Samantha McKnight, vice-president of Client Solutions for CIBTvisas in London.

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September 28th - Why our railways need support

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 16:35:02 GMT

Today I have been covering two big railway stories: the roll-out of a new £1bn fleet of trains, known as Arterio, at London Waterloo; and, the remarkable news that the taxpayer is currently subsidising the railways to the tune of £12.5bn a year. That is a difficult figure to conceive, so I have calculated a less-cumbersome figure: £400 of public money per second. To his credit, Stuart Meek – interim managing director of South Western Railway – explains why the railways deserve support. He also believes his new suburban trains are as good as any in Europe, and will delight tourists heading for attractions such as Hampton Court.

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November 27th - Easyjet's past and future discuss the latest financial results

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 15:15:18 GMT

I am talking to the present – and future – bosses of Britain's biggest budget airline, easyJet, about the latest financial figures and the year ahead. Current CEO Johan Lundgren is leaving at the end of the year, and current CFO Kenton Jarvis is taking over at the top.

Apologies for the less-than-perfect audio quality, as I explain, the interviews were done on the hop.

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November 26th - Marketing, Mountains, and the Backpacker Spirit

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:59:02 GMT

Ant Stone, Director of Marketing EMEA for G Adventures, tells me about how Pakistan and Tibet are opening up – and that he's a backpacker at heart.

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November 25th - School's out, prices up

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:53:46 GMT

Holiday prices and air fares surge during school holidays compared with term times – two, three or four times as much. Always has been the case, always will be. Or will it?

I'm talking to aviation expert Jonathan Hinkles, who is hoping to persuade the government that action short of legislation is the answer.

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November 22nd - Prowling the Pantanal: Paul Goldstein’s Jaguar Tales

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 10:09:09 GMT

Today's travel podcast guest is Paul Goldstein, wildlife guide and photographer who is just back from leading a tour in the Pantanal of Brazil – where he reports dozens of jaguar sightings.

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November 21st - Tracking down the busiest rail station

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 11:38:21 GMT

The Office of Rail and Road has released the latest figures on the UK's busiest – and quietest – rail stations. London's Elizabeth Line dominates the table – but worryingly, there are three stations with fewer than two passengers a week.

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November 20th - Changing Times, Changing Trains

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 09:27:36 GMT

Richard Brown CBE has been one of the leading railway figures in the UK for four decades – including 11 years as chief executive and then chairman of Eurostar, the Channel Tunnel passenger rail service. He has just brought out a book – Changing Times, Changing Trains – in which he prescribes what is needed to turn around the fortunes of the UK's increasingly unhappy rail industry.

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November 19th - Planes, trains, and travel pains

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 17:35:06 GMT

It's Travel Desk Tuesday for The Independent's travel podcast, and today I am talking to travel writer Amelia Neath about a new Wales-England-Scotland train link; an unfortunate legal case of Norovirus on a cruise ship; and Spirit Airlines entering bankruptcy – though not in a way that should alarm anyone with a forward booking on the US budget carrier.

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November 18th - First-Class Steam Dreams

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 09:53:12 GMT

On today's travel podcast for The Independent, I am talking to Ranjiv Bhalla – founder and chief executive of Veenus Travel, which organises high-end heritage steam train journeys in the UK. What's the appeal of a Bristol to Plymouth day-trip costing nearly £1,000. Ranjiv says: you'll feel like a superstar.

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November 15th - Which is the best London terminus station, Part 2

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:31:21 GMT

I’m at London St Pancras International with transport guru, Thomas Ableman. How do Paddington, Marylebone and Euston compare – and which is his overall winner?

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14th November - The best London terminus station, Part 1

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:15:05 GMT

I’m at London St Pancras International with transport guru Thomas Ableman. How does he rate the station, King's Cross, Liverpool Street, London Bridge, and Victoria?

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November 13th - Celebrating 30 years since the first Eurostar

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 10:23:17 GMT

It's 30 years tomorrow since the first ever Eurostar train. I'm talking to the culture and history specialist from France 24, Florence Gaillard. We're talking about how the French look at the UK.

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November 12th - What makes Dorset a hidden Gem

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:07:53 GMT

On Travel Desk Tuesday I'm talking to Ben Parker about Dorset about how it's become a cool trendy secret. Perched on the south of the UK, Dorset is a hidden gem between Devon and Cornwall. If you head there you could try Sherborne Abbey amongst the hills, or you could check out Shaftesbury or go in land and explore the area Thomas Hardy wrote about.

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November 11th - Fast track to Luxor

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:58:16 GMT

Today will see the first easyJet flight from Gatwick to Luxor take off, opening up southern Egypt to travellers. Philip Breckner, director of Discover Egypt, tells me about the opportunities around Luxor and Aswan on the Nile.

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November 8th - Wall's Well That Ends Well: Remembering the Fall of the Berlin Wall

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 10:05:03 GMT

I am talking to Harald Henning, director of the German National Tourist Office in the UK, in a tiny Trabant car. Almost 35 years ago he bought one in Berlin for £25 and drove it to London as a competition prize. He recalls the unification of German – and talks about what makes the capital so special.

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November 7th - Peaks & Perks: A Kathmandu Chat about trekking the Himalayas

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 10:59:44 GMT

I'm in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, in the company of Roland Hunter – founder of The Mountain Company and an expert on trekking in the Himalayas.

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November 6th - Feeling curious about Travel Guides For The Wine Curious

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:27:08 GMT

I love a new niche guidebook and I'm particularly curious about Travel Guides For The Wine Curious. Today I'm interviewing Adam Lechmere, Publishing Director of Acadmy Du Vin, to find out more.

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November 5th - How a billionaire would enjoy Monaco

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:18:58 GMT

It's Monaco Grand Prix week and I'm interviewing out Global Travel Editor, Annabel Grossman, who has been there, about the travel and hotel experiences of the super rich in Monaco.

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November 4th - Are people moving back to using travel agents?

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:31:16 GMT

I'm interviewing Mark Tanzer the CEO of Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) to discuss the travel industry and the European entry-exit system. According to him the travel industry appears to be recovering steadily from the pandemic. Investors are looking to join the industry, people are continuing to prioritise experiences and travel agents could make a comeback.

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Novemeber 1st - Why airlines overbook seats

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 11:16:16 GMT

Most airlines overbook their seats, in fact you and I have probably both flown on an overbooked flight. How do you feel about that? I don't mind at all, I think it's great that you can ask an airline for a last minute flight and they're more likely to give you a seat, worrying about the specifics later on. Here's how I benefit from overbooking.

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October 31st - Oh mon Dieu! How to avoid Eurostar's high fares

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 18:05:13 GMT

I've been travelling on the Eurostar for nearly 30 years now since it's launch in November 1994. But recently, I've been finding that the eye-watering prices has meant I've rather fallen out of the habit. In this episode though I take a look at Eurostar Snap, which is a ticket scheme aimed at making the most of an opportunity for the right price.

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October 30th - The Eurostar Bargain Hunt

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:11:29 GMT

Snap up a Eurostar bargain? I’m back at London St Pancras International, home of the Channel Tunnel rail firm, with an exploration of the new discount tickets for passengers prepared to book late and have no choice about the departure time on the day they choose to travel.

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October 29th - Why Pembrokeshire is our Global Travel Editor's favourite place to visit

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 10:09:46 GMT

It's Travel Desk Tuesday which means we're interviewing Annabel Grossman, Global Travel Editor for The Independent, who says that when asked about her favourite place to go in the world she keeps thinking of Pembrokeshire. From St Davids to Tenby to some of the most beautiful coasts in the world the county has a lot to offer.

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October 28th - Allies in the sky: What happens when airlines make alliances

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 16:59:19 GMT

SAS airlines recently made the shift from Star Alliance to Sky Team. Rhys Jones, writer at Head For Points, explains what that actually means. Rhys talks us through how alliances work and why they exist, as well as what 'codesharing' mean in airline lingo.

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October 25th - More holidayers are choosing unusual months to travel

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 11:18:59 GMT

As we enter the cusp of winter you might assume that travellers are reducing however according to my guest, Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of advantage today people, who have the option, are increasingly choosing unconventional times of the year to go away.

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October 24th - The airline you can't buy a ticket for

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 08:53:49 GMT

Today I'm speaking to Alastair Willson, Chief Executive of Ascend Airways. His airline help other airlines overcome operational difficulty by supplying the aircraft and the cabin crew for them. As the industry becomes increasingly seasonal, with there being a huge difference between the number of summer flyers compared to the winter, Ascend Airways can step in for these disparities.

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October 23rd - How Taylor Swift gave Heathrow Airport take off this summer

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:53:37 GMT

The third-quarter financial results from the UK’s biggest airport are out –I’ve been hearing the details from chief financial officer Sally Ding about passenger numbers and how Taylor Swift's Era Tour gave a late-summer surge for travel hubs like Heathrow Airport.

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October 22nd - The new singles friendly couples resort

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 08:56:47 GMT

What happens when a single female goes to a couples’ resort in the Caribbean? Find out from Natalie Wilson, who recently returned from Sandals St Vincent.

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October 21st - Pounds, Dollars, and plastic: navigating travel currency

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 08:08:00 GMT

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Kaya Niedenthal of Currency Online Group to discuss the recent fluctuations in currency markets, how the strength of the pound and dollar impacts travel, and why cash still plays a vital role—even in an era dominated by plastic payments. We also delve into tips for getting the best rates and why some places still prefer good old-fashioned cash.

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October 18th - The real business with business-class

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 09:48:23 GMT

You pay a fortune for a business-class ticket because you want to experience the sumptuous new comfort of the latest generation of the premium product – and then the airline changes the plane type and you're back with a seat that is almost prehistoric in modern aviation terms. Rob Burgess, founder of the frequent-flyer website Head for Points, is demanding a suite guarantee.

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October 17th - Heathrow's layover letdown

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 08:47:08 GMT

Yesterday I was at Gatwick – today it's Heathrow, the one true hub airport in the UK. Within six months, transit passengers changing between international flights will need to pay £10 and fill in an online form for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – making the UK's policy completely at odds with other nations. Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Paris CDG, Istanbul, and Dubai will be celebrating yet another goal.

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October 16th - Winter is coming

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 13:18:19 GMT

Winter is coming – and for UK airports that can spell trouble. I'm at London Gatwick, talking to Chief Operating Officer Mark Johnston about preparations for ice and snow at the world's busiest single-runway airport. Plans include polar bears and yetis...

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October 15th - Surfing the Royal waves

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:55:57 GMT

Travel Desk Tuesday today features Ben Parker, UK travel editor (and secret surfer), who has returned from an island-hopping trip around Hawaii – where he learned about the links between Hawaiian royalty and the British monarchy.

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October 14th - Craving a sunny winter retreat? I recommend Egypt

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 09:36:41 GMT

By mid-October many of us are looking at options for winter sun. For my money, the optimum combination of great weather, ancient history and good value is to be found in Egypt. I'm talking to Philip Breckner, director of Discover Egypt, about the options – and the prospects of the much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum opening later this month.

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October 11th - The EU Entry Exit System won't darken our doorways just yet

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 09:32:25 GMT

The EU Entry Exit System has been postponed again. But when it is rolled out it could delay our entrance to the Schengen Area. Here's what it means for you ...

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October 10th - Airlines land back in city shops!

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:32:35 GMT

The airline city-centre ticket office is making a comeback. In the 20th century, every airline had walk-in shops in all the major cities served. But that was in the bad old days of extremely high fares that could pay for lavish rentals in areas like Mayfair. They disappeared when online booking took hold. But this week Emirates has opened a fancy new store in Kensington, west London, where prospective passengers can try out posh seats and buy merchandise – and plane tickets.

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October 9th - The worst motorway in England

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 12:56:33 GMT

England's worst motorway is the M42 south and east of Birmingham, according to a new survey of over 9,000 motorists by Transport Focus.

I've been finding out more about this despised dual carriageway – and what can be done to improve the driver experience – with Alex Robertson, chief executive of the independent watchdog.

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October 8th - Frozen trails: skiing Norway’s "little Antarctica"

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 08:20:19 GMT

In this episode, Simon Calder chats with Annabel Grossman about her intense skiing journey through the isolated landscape of Fins, Norway. Known as “Little Antarctica,” this region tests even the most experienced explorers. Annabel reflects on her trek, led by polar explorer Wendy Searle, and shines a spotlight on the untold stories of women thriving in extreme adventure travel.

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October 7th - The Great West Way prepares for Jane Austen's 250th anniversary

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:30:02 GMT

The Great West Way is a marketing enterprise for the corridor from London to Bristol – taking in Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Blenheim Palace, and the Roman Baths in Bath. Next year promises to be busy, with the 250th anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen. I heard more from Fiona Errington, head of marketing, and Florence Wallace, head of travel trade for the GWW.

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October 4th - The best region to buy wine according to Jilly Goolden

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 08:24:06 GMT

Ahead of the weekend, where's best to be a wine tourist around the globe? I'm talking to the doyenne of wine experts, Jilly Goolden – who has great things to say about English wine, and visiting vineyards in Sussex and the Cotswolds. But don't offer her a glass of prosecco ...

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October 3rd - How Finnair is dealing with the closed Russian airspace

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 09:08:36 GMT

Finnair is an intriguing airline. The national carrier of Finland carved a Nordic niche offering great connections through its Helsinki hub between western Europe, including London Heathrow and Manchester, and east Asia – thanks to a fast track across Siberia. The closure of Russian airspace means it has had to rethink its strategy. I've been talking to Turkka Kuusisto, the new chief executive of Finnair.

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October 2nd - Is it possible to have a sustainable cruise ship?

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 09:56:39 GMT

Cruise lines are often condemned for the environmental impact they have on the planet. But Ponant, the upmarket French small-ship expedition line, has a head of sustainability, Wassim Daoud, who is focused on cutting emissions – and the impact on nature and communities. He also talks about "training" tourists – we could do with more of that.

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October 1st - How you end up eating KFC in a hotel in a Mallorca

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 09:20:18 GMT

In a new feature, Travel Desk Tuesday, I talk to one of my excellent colleagues at The Independent about their recent journeys. First up: Natalie Wilson, who flew to Mallorca with some trepidation after a summer of writing about over tourism – but her worst experience was having to dine on KFC in her hotel room because all the restaurants had closed.

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September 30th - A blockbuster exhibition at the British Museum

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 09:12:05 GMT

I'm at the British Museum in London where a blockbuster exhibition called Silk Roads has just opened – exploring the tangle of connections that linked communities as far apart as Scotland, Ireland, Ethiopia and Japan, as well as the more familiar lands of China, and central Asia. My guest is the world's foremost expert on the Silk Roads, and guiding mind for the new exhibition, Professor Peter Frankopan.

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September 27th - There was a strange message on the Network Rail landing page

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 09:37:01 GMT

I'm at London Waterloo, home of Network Rail. But I am not using the public WiFi – the system has been taken down since the landing page was replaced by a strange message about terrorist acts in Europe. It appears this was not a hack, but the act of someone working for the company that provides the landing page. Hopefully the system will be up and running by the weekend. Meanwhile, if you are using on-train WiFi, you may struggle to connect with the podcast ...

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September 26th - Should we have a frequent flyer levy?

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:25:24 GMT

Anna Hughes, the distinguished director of FlightFree UK, has been telling me about how she believes a frequent-flyer levy could and should work to reduce the amount of flights we take.

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September 25th - How far would you fly without any in-flight frills?

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:23:48 GMT

Today's travel podcast: How far would you fly in no-frills (dis-) comfort? Natalie Wilson, travel writer for The Independent, says she would gladly go all the way to Australia if it saved her cash.

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September 24th - The business of business class in Europe

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 07:40:00 GMT

The all-knowing Rob Burgess, formidable founder of the Head for Points frequent-flyer website, explains the intricacies of business class flying within Europe; how you can sample long-haul comfort on a short-haul flight; and why you don't want to be further back than row 12 on a British Airways A320.

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September 23rd - Holiday horizons

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 08:23:38 GMT

It's all about booking horizons. How long in advance are people committing to holidays – and what "new" destination are in sight? Questions for Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, representing 750 travel agents.

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September 20th - From Poros with Love

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:28:19 GMT

I have the good fortune to be on the Greek island of Poros in the company of Melanie and Andy McCreddie – Londoners who are in love with this place. Andy was first here, under less-than-optimal circumstances, but now they both love the island and its people.

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September 19th - The top ten most crowded trains list is out

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 10:48:32 GMT

Commuting can be no fun if you happen to use the morning rush-hour trains from Bedford to London. Here's the top 10 most crowded trains in England and Wales, just published. But the most concerning point of the new Department for Transport (DfT) figures is the degree of undercrowding, with barely half of seats filled on the average peak-hour service.

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September 18th - A lawyer's take on airport drop off charges

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:29:13 GMT

Most UK airports now charge for drop-offs and pick-ups at the terminal. They enforce the rule by imposing heavy penalties on motorists who breach the rules. But the leading consumer lawyer, Gary Rycroft, believes many of the "fines" imposed by airports – or the firms to which they have outsourced – may not have followed the correct procedure and may not be enforcible.

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September 17th - Stretching the Limits

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 16:23:29 GMT

Wizz Air says it will fly the narrow-bodied Airbus A321XLR from London Gatwick to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. What's the future for "long, thin" routes flown by, well, long, thin aircraft? I've been talking to long, thin Rhys Jones from the frequent-flyer website Head for Points.

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September 16th - Here's the Not Hot List 2025

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 08:09:46 GMT

My guest is Hazel McGuire of Intrepid Travel, who has just unveiled the Not Hot List 2025 – countries off the beaten tourist track.

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September 13th - How many of us can get by without a car?

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 08:46:49 GMT

Can you really enjoy life without a car? I'm talking to the transport guru Thomas Ableman, who also happens to be co-author – with his wife, Helen – of the Carefree Car-free blog. Helen has a unique claim to fame: she passed her driving test first time aged 17, and has not driven since then. Thomas has never learnt, and tells me he's very happy like that.

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September 12th - What new travel charges will mean for Northern Ireland

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:25:55 GMT

The new ETA for visitors to the UK could cost Northern Ireland tourism £250m a year. I've been hearing why from Dr Joanne Stuart, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance.

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September 11th - Are UK Airports soaring higher than ever?

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 11:35:37 GMT

As Heathrow, Manchester, and Stansted airports announce record passenger numbers, I'm talking to Anna Hughes – director of Flight Free UK, who has a different perspective on travel.

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September 10th - Life under communism in Durres, Albania

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 10:23:22 GMT

I'm in Durres, Albania, the most historic city in the nation – finding out about life under communism with former student revolutionary, now tour guide, Arjana Isaku.

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September 9th - When will we see our "beautiful British -built busses"?

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:32:07 GMT

Today's travel podcast is from the top of the 148 bus in west London. Four years after Boris Johnson promised to “level up across the country” with “beautiful, British-built buses that are cleaner, greener, quieter, safer and more frequent”, the new transport secretary, Louise Haigh, has vowed to start a "bus revolution". But will it work?

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September 6th - Is there a chronic problem with BA?

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 09:02:12 GMT

I'm in Hyères in southern France, at my usual breakfast spot, the Café Regence, but picking up news of dozens of flight cancellations on British Airways to and from London Heathrow. Is there a chronic problem with BA at the UK's busiest airport? Do passengers have any hope of compensation? And will events like this lead people to book on more resilient airlines?

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September 5th - How to bring your pet overseas post Brexit

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 15:28:04 GMT

Do you have to be barking mad to take a dog from the UK to Continental Europe these days? I'm talking to Dr Julia Ferguson, who is in the south of France with her lovely dog Bonnie.

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September 4th - Why you should travel all the way to Fiji

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:17:53 GMT

I'm talking to Jane West who represents Fiji, the South Pacific archipelago that's hard to reach but loads of fun when you get there.

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September 3rd - Waterloo Spoons: A Toast to the New Lion's Den!

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 09:30:45 GMT

What makes a railway pub different? Wetherspoon's The Lion & The Unicorn pub in London Waterloo is the company's biggest so far. I've visited on the pub's opening morning and talked to Barry Brewster of JD Wetherspoon.

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September 2nd - Flightradar24 have a treat for aviation enthusiasts

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 08:45:56 GMT

Where's my plane? That call has gone out thousands of times this summer with so many delays. Flightradar24 can usually supply the answer – bringing an incredible amount of real-time aviation intelligence to the world. Ahead of the publication of a Flightradar24 puzzle book called You're the Captain (for which I have contributed the foreword) I have been talking to co-founder Mikael Robertsson and one half of the FR24 AvTalk podcast, Ian Petchenik.

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August 30th - Gatwick's plan for a second runway: a game changer?

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 07:00:45 GMT

Gatwick Airport is planning to add a second runway to improve resilience and capacity. I discuss how this could benefit travelers and the London aviation market, while also addressing the environmental concerns and potential hurdles the project might face

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August 29th - London's bike wars

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 09:00:27 GMT

London bike wars: the cycles you can pick up here, and leave there. In the green corner, Anthony Smith, transport supremo, is championing the Lime electric bikes that are allowed to roam free (as are the people who hire them, within limits). In the red (and grey) corner, I am a true believer in Santander Cycles.

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August 28th - Ryanair's Michael O'Leary talks air rage, cabin luggage and fares for the year

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 08:03:05 GMT

I'm talking to Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary about record amounts of air rage; European Union plans to standardise cabin baggage; and how he expects air fares to fall during the autumn and winter.

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August 27th - From source to sea: Trekking the Thames path

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:00:54 GMT

I'm sitting down with Tony Wheeler, the co-founder of Lonely Planet who revolutionised travel guides with his iconic 1970s journey, Across Asia on the Cheap.

Tony has now completed a dream trek through southern England, walking the entire length of the River Thames, from its source to the heart of London.

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August 26th - Bank holiday chaos...How well we know thee

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:45:21 GMT

It's bank holiday Monday in England and Wales, which spells chaos on trains, planes and automobiles.

I take you through the weekend's troubles and what is being done to mitigate it.

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August 23rd - Dover gears up for Bank Holiday and biometric future

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 07:58:57 GMT

What will the entry-exit system mean for car drivers and coach passengers using the UK's busiest ferry port, Dover? I've been talking to Doug Bannister, chief executive of the Port of Dover. He says they can cope with the new rules on fingerprinting and facial biometrics until April 2025, but once things get busy new options are needed.

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August 22nd - UK travellers to Europe: separating fact from fiction

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:07:43 GMT

In today’s podcast, I tackle the confusion surrounding new travel requirements for UK citizens heading to Europe. I clarify the timeline and facts about the upcoming entry/exit system and ETIAS, debunking myths and explaining what you need to know.

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August 21st - It's Not Fare

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:28:18 GMT

Once again I'm at London King's Cross station, a hub for the East Coast main line to Yorkshire, northeast England, and Scotland. Two significant fare changes, neither of them beneficial:

ScotRail's experiment to abolish peak fares will end in late September after it failed to lure enough travelers out of their cars.

And LNER is expanding the area where off-peak fares are unavailable to include the whole line between Newcastle and Edinburgh.

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August 20th - A race to remember: Bram Houtenbos on the London to Tirana challenge

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 10:25:10 GMT

Join me as I chat with Bram Houtenbos, who earned third place in the thrilling race from London to Tirana. We explore his race strategy, the challenges that came his way, and his reflections on finishing in the top three once again.Join me as I chat with Bram Houtenbos, who earned third place in the thrilling race from London to Tirana. We explore his race strategy, the challenges that came his way, and his reflections on finishing in the top three once again.

This podcast is free, like the Independent Travel newsletter. Get it delivered every Friday to your inbox.

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August 19th - Gatwick's global reach: how London stands tall in airport connectivity

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 10:07:36 GMT

I’m at London Gatwick Airport in today's podcast, delving into an exclusive survey that ranks the world's best-connected airports. Gatwick impressively secures 15th place, highlighting London’s dominance in global air travel.

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August 16th - Rail Strikes resolved, but what’s next?

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 11:05:25 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, and I'm sharing insights on the end of the ASLEF rail strike from London Euston Station. While the pay dispute is settled, significant hurdles remain for the UK rail system, requiring urgent action from Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.

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August 15th - Taylor Swift at Wembley: your travel game plan

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 08:39:43 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, and in this podcast, I guide Taylor Swift fans on the best ways to reach Wembley Stadium. You'll be well-prepared for the eras tour with tips on avoiding the busiest routes and selecting the most efficient transport options.

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August 14th - The final pandemic reopening

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:28:46 GMT

The first country in the world to close at the start of Covid pandemic in January 2020 will finally open this winter.

Simon Calder hears the latest from Simon Cockerell of specialist operator Koryo Tours.

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August 13th - Hoping to leave your Greek holiday early?

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:50:21 GMT

What's happening in Greece and what are travellers' rights if they are there and want to come home early or cancel a pre-booked holiday?

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August 12th - The second Race Across Europe

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:02:14 GMT

On Saturday 17 August, 180 competitors will set off from Trafalgar Square in London, destination Tirana in Albania, in the second Race Across Europe staged by Lupine Travel – using only public transport. Today I'm talking to the organiser, James Finnerty.

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August 9th - Taking off with Vision 2030: The future of Leeds Bradford Airport

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 10:40:09 GMT

Leeds Bradford Airport has unveiled its Vision 2030 strategy, aiming for more flights and more passengers but a more gentle environmental footprint.

Simon Calder speaks with Vincent Hodder, the airport’s chief executive, about plans to boost the transform the gateway to – and from – Yorkshire.

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August 8th - A tale of three stations

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 10:10:16 GMT

London Euston, London King's Cross and London St Pancras International. I've visited them all this morning to explain what will happen to intercity trains on north-south routes over the impending August bank holiday weekend. Network Rail engineering work will lead to some interesting changes. A mention, too, for London Paddington to South Wales services, diverted via Gloucester from 24 to 26 August.

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August 7th - Train fares to Paris are out of control

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 14:06:37 GMT

I'm at London St Pancras International, hub for Eurostar trains to Paris and Brussels. The lowest return fare from London to Paris, looking a day ahead for a 48-hour stay, is £338. Airlines are charging at least £100 less. What we need on this most essential intercity link is proper competition between rail firms.

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August 6th - Why Jordan and Egypt should be on your travel list

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:48:33 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, and today I discuss why Jordan and Egypt are excellent travel destinations despite current travel advisories. With rich histories and welcoming atmospheres, these countries offer unforgettable experiences. Plan your trip to these underrated gems today.

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August 5th - With tension rising in the Middle East, what are the implications for travellers?

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 15:04:42 GMT

With tension rising in the Middle East, what are the implications for travellers? A range of airlines have suspended their operations to Tel Aviv although a couple haven't. If you want to continue flying to a no go area you may also want to check your travel insurance.

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August 2nd - A journey begins at Land’s End: Tips for hiking the Appalachian Trail

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 13:14:33 GMT

I’m at Land’s End, but not the one you might expect. This is Cap Gaspé in Québec, Canada, the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. It’s also the start of the Appalachian Trail, a breathtaking 1,000km journey that winds through the scenic landscapes of Québec and crosses into the United States, passing through Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

Join me as we explore the stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and rich history along this remarkable trail, discovering the unique beauty of each state along the way.

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August 1st - British Airways puts right its incorrect advice on passport validity

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 12:13:24 GMT

On the first day of the peak travel month of the year, Simon Calder gives you the lowdown on BA’s misleading advice on passport validity - which it has now finally corrected.

British Airways had claimed, wrongly: “To travel on an international flight your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter a country.”

The airline now says, correctly, than non-EU nationals who wish to travel to an EU member state (except Ireland) or the Schengen Area nations of Switzerland, Norway and Iceland must carry a passport “issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country”.

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July 31st - All about Play, the three year old airline based in Iceland

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 14:19:51 GMT

Play is the latest Icelandic airline to join the fray between the UK and Keflavik International Airport near Reykjavik – with onward connections to five North American destinations. I've been talking to the chief executive and largest shareholder, Einar Örn Ólafsson – and heard about starting an airline during Covid and the unusual appeal of Iceland in winter to Brits (with everyone else it's summer).

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July 30th - Three airports in 24 hours

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 09:22:59 GMT

In the past 24 hours I have been to three different airports – Paris Orly, London City and Dublin. Here's what you need to know about the different security procedures at each for your own travels.

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July 29th - Why you need to visit Paris during the Olympics

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 08:26:18 GMT

France attracts more international visitors than any other country, and in summer its capital is usually rammed – particularly with big tour groups from Asia and North America. But this year they are staying away from Paris during the Olympics.

In today's pocast, Simon Calder gives you the lowdown on his budget weekend in France's capital, and why you too should visit before the end of the Games.

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July 26th - Olympics travel chaos as sabotage strikes Eurostar

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 13:27:56 GMT

As planned, I am at London St Pancras International station, the UK hub for Eurostar trains to Paris. I had intended to report on the great getaway to the Olympics, but sadly once again I am reporting on travel chaos – after sabotage on the high-speed line between Lille and Paris closed the main route.

Trains are heavily delayed and cancelled – though most get through eventually.

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July 25th - A nostalgic look back at the 1924 Winter Olympics (only don't call them that)

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 14:10:41 GMT

I’m celebrating the Olympics – no, not Paris 2024 but Chamonix 1924, the first Winter Games. Skiing has had an intriguing history, as I’ve been discovering in the company of Nic Oatridge of the Ski Club of Great Britain. Our location: the club’s archive at De Montfort University in Leicester.

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July 24th - What we can look forward to in aviation

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 11:17:46 GMT

Lots of aviation news this week, so a good moment to catch up with Paul Charles, chief executive of The PC Agency and former communications director for Virgin Atlantic.

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July 23rd - Interviewing one of the UK's foremost thinkers on transport

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:25:24 GMT

I'm in wonderful Walthamstow, northeast London, in the company of one of the UK's foremost thinkers on transport: Thomas Ableman, founder of innovative bus start up Snap, recent director of strategy at Transport for London and now a leading consultant.

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July 22nd - If your weekend was a travel nightmare here are your rights

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 16:59:14 GMT

After the calamitous busiest weekend of the year so far for UK airline passengers, these are your rights if it all went wrong.

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July 19th and 20th - Your rights if caught up in the Crowdstrike IT meltdown

Sat, 20 Jul 2024 12:23:22 GMT

The Independent’s travel correspondent Simon Calder has explained what your rights are if your flight has been cancelled or delayed by the global IT outage.

A botched software update brought down systems worldwide on Friday (19 July), resulting in a massive disruption to flights across the country.

I explain your rights as a passenger caught up in the resultant mayhem.

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July 18th - The summer rush begins for the UK's airports

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 07:57:39 GMT

As the summer rush gets fully under way, I'm at London Gatwick talking to Nick Williams, head of passenger operations at the world's busiest single-runway airport. On a really busy day, there are more than 900 take-offs and landings: around 50 in a typical hour, or one every 72 seconds. The wait for security, says Nick, is rarely more than five minutes.

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July 17th - My thoughts on Labour reforming the railways

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:42:39 GMT

For today's travel podcast, I'm at London Liverpool Street station – the busiest in Britain – ahead of the King's Speech, in which Labour's plans for reforming the railways will be revealed. Nationalisation on its own will do little to improve the ramshackle service and mad fares that passengers endure at present ... good luck, transport secretary, Louise Haigh.

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July 16th - How to get a good exchange rate with your cash

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 10:42:50 GMT

Many people are organising holiday money. These days, paying with plastic or contactless is getting more and more universal – but cash can still be handy. I've been talking to Kaya Niedenthal of Currency Online Group about how to get a good exchange rate, even if you live a long way from hypercompetitive London. and why you shouldn't buy many Turkish lira in advance.

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July 15th - Where in Europe is cash still king?

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 12:44:52 GMT

Join Natalie Wilson, Annabel Grossman and Ben Parker from The Independent's travel team who discuss where in Europe (if anywhere) cash is still king.

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July 11th - How to beat the queues at Dover during the great summer exodus

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:39:48 GMT

New EU border checks and travel for the Olympics will make the Port of Dover “exceptionally busy” this summer, its boss has warned.

In today's travel podcast, I talk to Doug Bannister, the port's chief executive, about the great exodus that begins next weekend, and how to beat the queues.

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July 11th – A guide to Berlin for the Euro 2024 final

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 17:21:14 GMT

As the late, great Leonard Cohen so rightly predicted: "First we take the Netherlands – then we take Berlin."

Want to be in the German capital on Sunday for the Euro 2024 final? Here's my guide.

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July 10th – A walk (and a train) in the Black Forest of southern Germany

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:19:29 GMT

I've been taking a walk – and a train – in the Black Forest of southern Germany. I visited the ticket office in the town of Triberg, where the person behind the counter is sitting at a desk 20 miles away.

Remote ticket office staff are already a reality on German railways, as staff are still able to give advice, take money and print tickets.

But could video ticket kiosks catch on in the UK?

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July 9th - Ryanair is announcing a big expansion in Morocco

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 17:02:45 GMT

Today I'm with Eddie Wilson, chief executive of Ryanair DAC, the main operating division of Europe’s biggest budget airline. He's in Tangier, announcing a big expansion in Morocco. I talked to him about the plan.

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July 8th – Navigating flight cancellations

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:05:22 GMT

Yet more carnage of airline schedules on Sunday, with British Airways and easyJet both cancelling 32 flights in and out of their main hubs, London Heathrow and London Gatwick respectively.

Booking a flight departing early in the day is a good plan – but if your trip is grounded your airline must get you to your destination as soon as possible.

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July 5th - From road to rail: A brief briefing for the next Transport Secretary

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 14:28:25 GMT

Are you in line to be the next transport secretary? You're in luck. In just 10 minutes, I’ll give you free advice on everything you need to tackle, from road, to rail, to air.

Tune into today's podcast for a concise guide to transforming our transport system.

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July 4th - Paris is calling as Olympics come into view

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 11:09:19 GMT

Three weeks tomorrow, the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024 takes place. Yet I think the French capital will be a bit of a ghost town. Air France has just said: “International markets show a significant avoidance of Paris.

Here's my take on what will be happening in the city – and how you could benefit.

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July 3rd - Transforming Rail disruptions: The Great British Rail Replacement Initiative

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 15:45:59 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, and in today’s podcast, I speak with Ian Jeffrey, who leads Great British Rail Replacement. This new company aims to improve the often-dreaded experience of rail replacement by enhancing bus, coach, and taxi services during disruptions. We discuss how they plan to make this service more efficient and customer-friendly.

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July 2nd - Easing the airline crisis: a look inside Avia Solutions Group

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:02:31 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, and today’s guest is Gediminas Ziemelis, chair of Avia Solutions Group. With peak holiday season underway, we discuss how his organisation is tackling the aircraft shortage affecting airlines like EasyJet and British Airways, ensuring that flights operate more reliably for travellers across Europe.

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July 1st - Greener skies ahead: the promise of sustainable aviation fuel

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:04:22 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, and on today's podcast, Chris Hancock, CEO of Avioxx, discusses how his company is pioneering new methods to produce sustainable aviation fuel, potentially transforming the aviation industry's environmental impact.

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June 28th - A week to forget for air travel with major disruption at Gatwick

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 15:52:56 GMT

What a miserable week it has been for air passengers. Monday saw Manchester airport hit by a power outage, train delays caused problems at Stansted and now today a plane stuck on the runway caused major disruption to the Gatwick airport. I take a look at what's gone wrong.

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June 27th - Exploring new air routes

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 08:56:25 GMT

The day began with an announcement by easyJet of new flights from Edinburgh and Liverpool to City of Derry in Northern Ireland. Also this week, Delta announced a winter series from London Heathrow to Orlando. And Jet2 will offer Manchester, Leeds Bradford and Birmingham to Jerez from May 2025.

In today's travel podcast, I assess these new routes.

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June 26th - Aer Lingus pilots begin industrial action

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 11:15:03 GMT

I'm Simon Calder. Today, Aer Lingus pilots start an indefinite work-to-rule and plan a strike on June 29th. I discuss the reasons behind this action and its impact on passengers.

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June 25th - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 05:18:09 GMT

Can you believe it's six months until Christmas Day? Never too early to plan your 25 December travels, and so today I have enlisted the support of Lyn Hughes, founding editor of Wanderlust magazine. Listen to her surprising choice of Christmas getaways.

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June 24th - Why Venezuela is back on travellers' maps

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 15:57:09 GMT

For many seasoned travellers, Venezuela was the first South American destination, thanks to Viasa's competitive fares from the UK to the wonder-filled continent.

Currently, Venezuela is on the Foreign Office's no-go list. Despite this, travellers from other countries are flocking to the troubled republic bordering Guyana, Brazil, and Colombia.

Blas Fabian from HoverTours in Caracas and Daniel Santin from Inspiring Destinations have been encouraging me to return.

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June 21st - The Independent travel desk insider's guide to booking the best flight deals

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:08:19 GMT

As summer approaches, we explore how to book international flights. Annabel Grossman and Ben Parker reveal their thorough processes, contrasting sharply with my approach.

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June 20th - Train ticket tactics: the Independent’s travel desk shares their tips

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 08:36:03 GMT

As the summer travel season heats up, Simon Calder sits down with global travel editor Annabel Grossman and deputy travel editor Ben Parker to discuss their methods for booking train tickets in the UK. From using the Trainline app for convenience to seeking out cost-saving options, their approaches vary widely.

This podcast is free, much like our weekly travel newsletter. Subscribe here to get it delivered every Friday to your inbox.

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June 19th - High-speed Rail revolution in France: meet Kevin Speed

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 12:40:56 GMT

Today, I talk with Claire Bonniol of Kevin Speed about their ambitious plans to bring competitive high-speed rail services to France by 2028. We discuss their affordable pricing strategy, the inclusion of lesser-known stations, and what this means for UK travellers heading to France.

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June 18th - Why turbulence could be getting worse

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 16:05:32 GMT

It's four weeks today since Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 hit severe turbulence on a journey from London to Singapore. Tragically, one passenger lost his life after suffering a heart attack, and many more were injured. My guest today, Professor Paul Williams of Reading University, says turbulence is getting worse because of climate change.

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June 17th - Exploring the joy of Rail travel in the Czech Republic

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 08:26:54 GMT

I’m on a train adventure in the Czech Republic with Steven Ollive of the Railway Correspondence and Travel Society. Listen as we explore the region's rail network and discuss the state of UK railways in comparison to those in Europe.

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June 2014 - Euro 2024 fever... In Prague

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:04:45 GMT

I'm in Prague, having flown in last night with a lot of Scotland football fans who were finding a roundabout route to reach Munich for the opening match in the Euro 2024 tournament tonight. Want to experience the atmosphere? Wait till the knock-out stages. Meanwhile, travel and accommodation for the Paris 2024 Olympics are wide open.

If like football, you'd like our weekly travel newsletter to come home with you, subscribe here.

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June 13th – Flight delays: Your rights when it all goes wrong

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:58:24 GMT

I'm at a very busy Manchester airport, studying the latest flight delay stats: on average each Wizz Air flight from a UK airport left 32 minutes late. Even the best British carrier, Virgin Atlantic, had an average delay of 14 minutes. And of course many delays are much longer. Here are your rights when it all goes wrong.

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June 12th - Freudian trip: Inside Hampstead's Freud Museum

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:45:57 GMT

Today's travel podcast comes to you from the garden of the Freud Museum in Hampstead, London. I'm talking to the director, Dr Giuseppe Albano, about this wonderful museum – days ahead of the release of a new film, Freud's Last Session, starring Sir Anthony Hopkins.

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The aftermath of the liquid bomb plot

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 10:03:35 GMT

I'm beneath the flightpath at London City airport in the Docklands area of the capital. And trying to make sense of the bizarre series of announcements on airport security.

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June 10th - A plan for British railways at last, but will party manifestos support it?

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 07:58:40 GMT

A manifesto at last! Not from Labour or the Conservatives, but from the Railway Industry Association. As many passengers see a rail network in chaos and decline, what does this trade association want from the next government? I've been talking to the RIA's chief executive, Darren Caplan – who doesn't hold back with his anger about the ditching of most of HS2 – and policy director, Rob Cook.

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June 7th - The future of hospitality with Dillip Rajakarier

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 12:15:59 GMT

I'm with Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and The Wolseley Hospitality Group. He's one of the top people globally in hospitality – with brands such as Anantara, NH Hotels and Tivoli – and has ambitious plans for the future.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe to The Independent's newsletters here.

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June 6th - Everest’s unsolved mystery: Did Mallory and Irvine Reach the Summit?

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 16:52:24 GMT

It’s the centenary of one of the most celebrated mysteries in the history of mountaineering: did George Mallory and Andrew ‘Sandy’ Irvine reach the summit of Everest on 6 June 1924 – nearly three decades before the first documented climb to the top of the world?

Mallory’s body was found in 1999 on a research expedition organised by today’s guest, Graham Hoyland – who himself has reached the summit of Everest, and is the author of Last Hours on Everest: The Gripping Story of Mallory & Irvine’s Fatal Ascent.

Graham will be speaking at the annual Sir Edmund Hillary Memorial event takes place at the Royal Geographical Society in London on Saturday 8th June – tickets are still available from HimalayanTrust.co.uk

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June 5th - Everything you need to know about Birmingham Airport's new security rules

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 13:10:10 GMT

Today's podcast looks at aviation security, with Birmingham airport coming up with its own variant on rules for liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs).

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June 4th - Back at passport control explaining the post-Brexit rules

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 15:26:48 GMT

Unbelievably, I'm back at the boarding gate explaining post-Brexit passport rules. What they are, and how airlines should respond when they get them wrong.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe to The Independent's newsletters here.

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June 3rd - Business jets and climate change: a new perspective

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:48:40 GMT

Join me as I discuss with Kennedy Ricci how the business aviation sector is at the forefront of efforts to minimise climate impact. Learn about the latest advancements and sustainable practices in the industry.

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May 31st - Is this England's most scenic railway line?

Fri, 31 May 2024 12:31:28 GMT

Today's travel podcast is brought to you from the line that runs across the Pennines – the Settle to Carlisle railway. It threads through mighty landscapes and across viaducts, and you can make the journey as part of an Anglo-Scottish rail trip.

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30th May - Cash to Ca$h

Thu, 30 May 2024 16:14:43 GMT

Is this the future of travel money? The UK's first "cash to cash" ATM has been installed at Waterloo station in central London. I've been testing out the automatic foreign exchange terminal with Kaya Niedenthal, Director of International Payments at Currency Online Group.

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May 28th - Taking The Risk with Hilary Bradt

Tue, 28 May 2024 07:33:37 GMT

I'm talking to Hilary Bradt, who is celebrating 50 years of publishing travel guides with her autobiography, Taking the Risk.

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May 27th - How to handle allergies on planes

Mon, 27 May 2024 15:10:56 GMT

Everybody has the same rights to travel... don't they? For those with severe food allergies, travel risks being complicated, expensive and even deadly.

Just last week a 12-year-old girl with a peanut allergy and her family were thrown off a SunExpress flight from Gatwick to Dalaman, Turkey after the captain refused to ask other passengers not to eat nuts.

Travel can be a tricky for those with such allergies. Here's my advice.

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May 24th - Seoul-searching in linear parks

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:30:35 GMT

Today I'm looking at linear parks – effectively, old road or rail lines that are now green vectors for hikers and bikers. Some, like my location today, are in the middle of busy cities: I am in Seoul, South Korea, on a 1970s flyover that was threatened with demolition yet rescued and turned into a leafy, elevated walkway above the tumult of the city. New York has a similar option, the High Line, which has taken over a former elevated freight line in Manhattan.

Two rail links now turned into cycle/walkways that I particularly like: Singapore's Rail Trail and the Great Western Greenway between Westport, Co Mayo and Achill Island in the west of Ireland.

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May 23rd - Travelection!

Thu, 23 May 2024 14:23:25 GMT

What effect will the general election have on travel? It's Thursday, the 23rd of May, meaning that we are six weeks away from the next general election. What on earth has this got to do with the general election? Well, I will be studying the party's manifestos to see what they are going to do about, for example, airports and sustainable travel.

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May 22nd - What could change following the tragic result of turbulence to Singapore Airlines flight SQ321?

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:02:04 GMT

Yesterday, the world was shocked by the news that a passenger had died following extreme turbulence on Singapore Airlines flight SQ321. The very sad episode was a reminder of the threat that turbulence can unfortunately have upon all flights - but can airlines do anything to mitigate the effects of such events?

I take a look at what the industry guidelines currently are, and what may have to change to improve safety during moments of turbulence.

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March 21st - This Metro is good for the Seoul

Tue, 21 May 2024 09:13:57 GMT

Clean, efficient, and amazing value for money. No, not me: the Seoul Metro system, which has some foibles but overall is an excellent and incredibly far reaching network.

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May 20th - The long and winding route from Zagreb to Seoul

Mon, 20 May 2024 08:14:03 GMT

When choosing the optimum flight path gets tangled with geo-politics, the results are never positive. My report on the long and winding route from Zagreb to Seoul on the world's longest budget airline link.

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May 17th - A closer look at rail reform plans

Fri, 17 May 2024 15:15:15 GMT

Reporting from King's Cross, I explore the recent Commons debate on rail reliability. I offer my perspective on Labour's approach to rail reform and the challenges of improving UK rail services.

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May 16th - Celebrating 30 years at The Independent

Thu, 16 May 2024 11:18:38 GMT

Today's travel podcast, in which my excellent travel desk colleagues – Annabel Grossman, Benjamin Parker and Natalie Wilson – quiz me about 30 years at The Independent.

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May 15th - Looking skyward with astronomer Dr John Mason

Wed, 15 May 2024 11:51:21 GMT

Good heavens! Today I'm looking skyward with astronomer extraordinary Dr John Mason, who reports on the total eclipse last month, and the biggest display of Northern Lights for decades, last weekend.

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May 14th - An open goal for Berlin with Euro 2024?

Tue, 14 May 2024 17:04:38 GMT

One month to go before Euro 2024 kicks off in Munich, and two months before the final (England v Scotland?) in Berlin. Today I speak to Charles Wilson of CW Sports Travel.

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May 13th - "I'm on the train" – but is the wifi any good?

Mon, 13 May 2024 14:58:02 GMT

South Western Railway is shortly to bring in ultra-fast wifi on trains between London and Hampshire. But almost everywhere else in the UK, connectivity on rail is lousy. Why is this, and what can be done about it?

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May 10th - M25 shutdown: a test of traveler patience

Fri, 10 May 2024 10:22:07 GMT

I explore the weekend closure of the M25 and its impact on travellers between Heathrow and Gatwick Airports. From Central London, I delve into the reasons behind the closure, the detours, and how to navigate the changes.

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May 9th - Laying the track for Summer 2024

Thu, 09 May 2024 14:21:24 GMT

We're now at the end of the latest round of rail strikes by the train drivers’ union, Aslef, and so it's a good moment to look forward with some anticipation to the new rail options when the summer timetables come into effect on 2nd June.

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May 8th - What's going on with the UK's eGates system

Wed, 08 May 2024 11:32:54 GMT

Tens of thousands of airline passengers arriving at airports across the UK faced waits of several hours last night after another collapse of the eGates system that automatically check passports. The IT failure took over four hours to fix, during which time large queues built up.

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May 7th - Strike updates from Waterloo station

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:46:59 GMT

Once again I am at London Waterloo station reporting on another strike by members of the Aslef union. But as a third summer of strikes by train drivers belonging to Aslef begins, a glimmer of hope for an end to the conflict. Negotiations with rail firms could shortly resume after a year. Union boss Mick Whelan tells me a ‘relatively’ clean pay deal could end the dispute.

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May 6th - Britain's last embrace of Europe?

Mon, 06 May 2024 15:48:46 GMT

Thirty years ago Queen Elizabeth II and French president Francois Mitterand officially opened the Channel Tunnel between Folkestone in Kent and Calais in northern France. So how much has the link transformed travel – and what does the future hold? Unfortunately, it’s been a tale of broken promises so far in terms of direct services between the UK and Continental Europe. The only prospect of improvement: cutting costs and opening up to new budget operators.

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May 3rd - The Ghost of the Orient Express

Fri, 03 May 2024 14:52:27 GMT

I'm on the route of the (actually scheduled) Orient Express, 15 years after that legendary train last left Vienna to cross Germany into France overnight. My transport is an Austrian Railways Nightjet, destination Amsterdam and Hamburg. And I'm rather impressed ...

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May 2nd - Lounging about with Rob Burgess

Thu, 02 May 2024 08:08:30 GMT

I'm still in Newcastle Airport admiring the recently opened three-tier lounge experience. It's a great place to catch up with Rob Burgess, editor of the frequent-flyer website, Head For Points. I picked his brains about what makes a good airport lounge experience, who's doing it right, wrong and what the modern lounge traveller is really looking for.

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May 1st - Taking in the new frontier of passenger lounges

Wed, 01 May 2024 07:26:14 GMT

I'm in Newcastle, whose international airport is the venue for a world lounge first: three tiers, loosely corresponding to economy, business and first class travel. My guest in the Aspire lounge – or lounges – is David Collyer, Global Vice President of Executive Lounges at Swissport. He tells me his vision for the lounges and how it sets a possible path forward for other airports.

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April 30th - Track troubles: a preview of May's Rail disruptions

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 12:29:47 GMT

Today, from Euston Station, I explore the looming disruptions poised to challenge UK rail passengers this May. From Network Rail's engineering projects during the bank holiday to a series of planned strikes affecting key routes.

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April 29th - Heathrow strike insights: A day at Paddington station

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:43:35 GMT

Today's podcast brings you to Paddington Station, where I speak with passengers just off the Heathrow Express. Despite the ongoing UK Border Force strike, travellers report unexpectedly quick entries, highlighting the efficiency of e-gates and minimal queues.

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April 26th - From Italy's tracks: assessing UK's proposed rail reforms

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:27:44 GMT

In today’s podcast, I’m aboard an Italian train, reflecting on the Labour Party's vision for the UK's railways. From the comfortable and punctual Italian rails, we dive into the Labour Party’s initiatives to address the UK’s rail system issues.

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April 25th - Navigating Venice’s new tourist fee: insights and impacts

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 13:42:16 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, in today’s travel podcast as I navigate the newly implemented entry fee at Venice's Santa Lucia Station. This fee, targeting daytrippers with a €5 charge on peak days, aims to reduce overcrowding and preserve the city’s heritage. I provide a firsthand account of the inaugural day, including reactions at the checkpoint and insights from local officials on how this fee might reshape tourism in Venice.

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April 24th - Heathrow hits high marks: a look with CFO Javier Echave

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:53:45 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, in today's travel podcast as we delve into Heathrow's bustling activity and strategic outlook with Chief Financial Officer Javier Echave. We discuss the record-breaking passenger traffic of 18.5 million in the first quarter of 2024, the challenges posed by upcoming strikes, and the introduction of new security scanners. Amidst financial hurdles and operational updates, discover how Heathrow maintains its status as a top global hub and prepares for a busy summer season.

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April 23rd - Continuing Rail strikes: what it means for UK commuters

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:59:21 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I explore the persistent rail strikes impacting the UK's train services. In this episode, I'll delve into the Aslef Union's ongoing dispute with the government over pay and working conditions, which has now extended into a third summer.

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April 22nd - Heathrow strikes Alert: what you need to know

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 12:28:50 GMT

I unpack the impending strikes at Heathrow Airport, scheduled by PCS and Unite union members. I'll delve into the potential impact on travelers and discuss the roles of the UK Border Force and AFS Aviation refueling service staff.

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April 19th - Reevaluating wildlife tourism with Paul Goldstein

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:03:44 GMT

Over 20 years in the travel industry, Paul Goldstein has gained a reputation as a forthright commentator on all things related to travel.

In today’s travel podcast, the wildlife guide and photographer shares forthright opinions on "eco-tourism", the value of visitors in preserving wildlife, and the value – or otherwise – of influencers.

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April 18th - Stranded at Dubai: a travel crisis examined

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:51:55 GMT

I, Simon Calder, break down the crisis at Dubai International Airport where a storm has left many travelers stranded. I'll cover your entitlements and the broader impacts on global travel, providing essential advice for navigating disruptions and securing your rights as a traveler.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to get it delivered every Friday.

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April 17th - Global wanderer Arvi Bahal on his holiday in one of the world’s most dangerous places

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 11:31:15 GMT

It's possible that no one's bucket list is more complete than Arvi Bahal's.

He is one of the rare human beings who has travelled to every single country on earth - and not just the tourist spots.

I talk to the global wanderer about his lust for extreme travel, and why he chose to holiday in Mogadishu, Somalia - one of the world’s most dangerous places.

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April 16th - What to know if you're flying to the Middle East

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:21:52 GMT

I'm at Heathrow airport – assessing the prospects for travellers who are flying to and from the Middle East, Asia and Australasia in the light of increasing tensions.

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April 15th - Is JFK the worst airport in the world?

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:07:02 GMT

Some say New York JFK is not the worst airport in the world. It's my first visit here since early 2020, and I hoped the main US gateway had improved. But it's even worse. And if you take the Airtrain (one good thing about it), beware the Jamaica jive.

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April 11th - "I’ve come to look for America"

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 13:46:54 GMT

Today I'm on the Greyhound bus from Albany New York to Boston, celebrating 110 years of this remarkable transportational institution.

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April 10th - Greetings from the Ethan Allen Express

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 16:24:45 GMT

I am aboard the Ethan Allen Express train from Middlebury Vermont to Saratoga Springs New York State. There's only one such southbound train a day. Fares are heavily subsidised, and yet it's barely one-third full.

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April 9th - The solar eclipse from Montreal

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:42:18 GMT

I'm speaking to you from Montreal where I marvelled at yesterday's solar eclipse. Have a listen to the excitement I recorded as night descended for roughly 90 seconds over the crowds. Sadly what you can't hear is the confused seagulls who had no idea what was going on. But no animal behaves as strangely as humans during an eclipse.

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April 8th - Awaiting the Great American Eclipse: an airport diary

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:31:56 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I navigate the suspense and excitement at Heathrow's Gate B32, waiting to board the Eclipse Express to Montreal. Discover the celestial mechanics and the fervent hopes of eclipse chasers eager to witness the solar spectacle sweeping across North America.

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April 5th - That Friday feeling as more rail strikes hit

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 08:17:22 GMT

National rail strikes by train drivers have entered their 22nd month with a series of “rolling” walk-outs, one region at a time, planned for early April.

Members of the Aslef union plan to halt thousands of trains on 5, 6 and 8 April. The aim is to disrupt services on the 14 rail firms in England that are controlled by the UK government and represented by the Rail Delivery Group (RDG). Rolling strikes cause maximum disruption for minimum loss of pay.

Today I'm talking to Mick Whelan, general secretary of the train drivers' union, Aslef, on the first day of the latest round of strikes.

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April 4th - The battle for smoother airport security

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:07:00 GMT

Passengers are under stress at airports – they’ve all got a plane to catch, it’s an unfamiliar environment and now a stranger is going to rummage through their belongings. Many airline passengers say the worst part of any journey is the airport security check. People resent having to pack liquids in small quantities and then extract them – and electronics such as laptops and tablets – from cabin baggage. New scanners are being installed at checkpoints at all the UK’s main airports – but not fast enough to meet a government deadline of June this year. This morning the transport secretary has given airports an extension, but warned that they could be fined if they further delay the roll-out of smoother security.

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April 3rd- Train strikes across the UK: a traveler's strategy

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 13:53:26 GMT

Join me as I unravel the upcoming train strikes by the Aslef Union, highlighting the key issues and offering advice on coping with the travel chaos. From alternative transport options to essential travel advice, get prepared for the strike days.

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April 2nd - Reimagining night travel: Europe's Rail revolution

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:31:33 GMT

In this episode, Bernhard Rieder shares insights on Austrian Railways' pioneering efforts with Nightjet. We cover the expansion of their network, the allure of night train travel, and the impact on European tourism and sustainability efforts.

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April 1st - A little bit of history on your travels with Bettany Hughes

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 11:41:17 GMT

TV historian Bettany Hughes is about to take viewers on more journeys across the world, with Estonia, Albania, Bulgaria and beyond featuring on the Channel 4 series, beginning 6 April. I sat down for a chat about the series.

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March 29th - Manchester Airport reaches for the skies

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 09:50:03 GMT

I'm at Manchester airport on the busiest Good Friday ever for the UK's third-biggest aviation hub – talking to the managing director, Chris Woodroofe.

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March 28th - Jet2 takes liverpool: a new chapter begins

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:41:31 GMT

Under the iconic gaze of John Lennon at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, I engage with Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com, on the dawn of the airline's latest venture. Heapy reveals the strategy and passion fueling Jet2.com's growth and its commitment to enhancing the travel experience.

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March 27th - Passport validity exposed: Truths behind the tales

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 13:02:05 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I debunk widespread passport validity myths, ensuring you're not wrongly denied boarding or renewing prematurely. From EU rules to multiple passports, let's get the facts straight together.

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March 26th - Flight path to the future: aviation innovates and greens

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 10:25:52 GMT

Explore aviation's exciting developments and eco-conscious shifts with Rhys Jones. From anticipated airline amenities to sustainable aviation fuels, discover how the skies are becoming greener and more innovative.

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March 25th - Chasing shadows: the 2024 North American eclipse

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 12:46:50 GMT

With the total solar eclipse on the horizon, I explore the phenomenon's wonders with Dr. John Mason. Learn about the path of totality across North America, the unique experiences it offers, and how to secure the best vantage points. We also look ahead to 2026's eclipse in Spain, offering early planning advice for those seeking their next astronomical adventure.

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March 22nd - The sky's new hue: hydrogen-powered planes by 2035

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:16:08 GMT

In this episode, I chat with Airbus' Julie Kitcher about their bold steps towards environmental responsibility, including the exciting future of hydrogen passenger planes set to take off by 2035. We delve into sustainable aviation fuels, Airbus' sustainability strategies, and the collaborative efforts needed for a greener future in aviation.

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March 21st - Rail and tube strikes: a new wave of disruptions

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 10:01:55 GMT

Today, I explore the enduring rail strike saga from Bristol Temple Meads, examining the causes, the unions involved, and the profound effects on the UK's rail network. I discuss the complex negotiations, the striking strategy of the ASLEF Union, and what lies ahead for travellers amid these disruptions.

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March 20th - The secret world of frequent flyer schemes

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 10:13:26 GMT

Inside the secret world of frequent flyer schemes, credit cards with inbuilt perks and the joys of airport lounges, with Head for Points founder Rob Burgess.

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March 19th- Navigating Easter in Rome: insights from a tour guide

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 09:31:27 GMT

Joining me, James Hill shared his expert advice on visiting Rome during the bustling Easter season and the significance of the papal jubilee. Offering practical tips for crowd avoidance and spotlighting Italy's hidden treasures, James advocated for the enriching experience of guided tours.

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March 18th - Reviving UK tourism: Insights and innovations

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 14:58:39 GMT

In today's podcast, Bernard Donoghue, director of the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions, highlighted the ongoing recovery of the UK's visitor attractions and the need to bridge the remaining gap from pre-Covid levels. We explore the detrimental policy changes affecting European visitors and the push for fiscal incentives to boost the sector, underscoring the shift towards more engaging and immersive visitor experiences.

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March 15th - GWR unveils battery-powered train in London

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:20:15 GMT

In West Ealing, I met Mark Hopwood, GWR's managing director, to discuss an innovative battery-powered train trial aiming to transform branch lines and boost environmental sustainability. We also navigated GWR's challenges, the M25 closure's impact, and strategies to attract more passengers in a changing travel landscape.

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March 14th - National Express goes green: an electric transition

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 10:05:53 GMT

I caught up with National Express's John Balton to discuss their first electric coach trial and its implications for the travel industry. From enhancing the passenger experience to competing in a crowded market, we explored how National Express is steering towards a sustainable future.

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March 13th - M25 Shutdown: unpacking the weekend's traffic challenge

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:34:34 GMT

In conversation with Jonathan Wade from National Highways, I discussed the unprecedented weekend closure of the M25, highlighting the project's necessity and its ramifications. Advice for affected travellers and a look into future closures were also shared, aiming to mitigate the impact.

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March 12th - Paris prepares for the world's visit during this summer's Olympics

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 11:43:51 GMT

I travelled to Paris to talk to the people who are handling tourism this summer. The 33rd modern Olympiad opens in the French capital on 26 July 2024, closing on 11 August. While accommodation rates have surged ahead of the Games, in this exclusive interview, tourism boss Corinne Menegaux said: “We expect an occupation rate between 60 and 70 per cent.” So you can expect some bargains if you wait patiently.

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March 11th - Flying with confidence

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 12:12:34 GMT

Today's travel podcast shines a light on fear of flying. Commercial aviation has never been safer, with no fatal crashes involving scheduled passenger jets in 2023. But anyone anxious about flying need not look far to feed their aerophobia – I'm thinking of events such as the fire on board the Japan Airlines Airbus A350 approaching Tokyo, and the Alaska Airlines incident involving a door plug on a Boeing 737 Max.

Thankfully I don't but many people do have concerns, and so British Airways has a one-day course called Flying With Confidence that seeks to allay the fears of prospective passengers – culminating with a short flight. I've been hearing all about it from course director and presenter Captain Steve Allright, who has 33 years of flying experience.

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March 8th - Stranded in paradise: TUI's handling of a flight fiasco

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 15:58:27 GMT

I examined a significant flight disruption case with TUI in Barbados, questioning the airline's compensation strategy and underscoring the necessity for passenger rights enforcement for appropriate support and reimbursement.

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March 7th - A critical piece of infrastructure shuts down for repairs

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 15:56:10 GMT

Next weekend, 15-18 March, will see the first closedown of a stretch of the M25 for engineering work. The shutdown of this critical piece of national infrastructure will cause problems for many travellers. What is the recommended diversion? (Don't even think about trying it.) How should you travel between Gatwick and Heathrow airport? On Thameslink and the Elizabeth Line, via Farringdon station in central London.

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March 6th - What Jeremy Hunt's budget has in store for travellers

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 15:11:21 GMT

In the Budget, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has said Air Passenger Duty will increase beyond the rate of inflation for travellers who travel in all but the cheapest seats. I’m talking to Paul Charles, former Virgin Atlantic communications director – who doesn’t pull his punches about what it will do for the British travel industry.

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March 5th - BA's Strategic Return to Southeast Asia: A Delicate Balance

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 10:43:49 GMT

I explore British Airways' cautious return to Bangkok with limited service and compare it to the extensive offerings by Gulf carriers to Southeast Asia. Despite BA's modest re-entry, the move signifies a strategic step towards increased competition and choice for travelers. I also touch upon BA's full-scale return to Kuala Lumpur, highlighting the competitive landscape and alternatives for reaching popular Thai destinations like Phuket.

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March 4th - Ukraine Eyes Post-War Tourism Renaissance

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 17:11:35 GMT

I spoke with Marianna Oleskiv, chair of Ukraine's State Agency for Tourism Development, about the future of tourism in post-war Ukraine. She detailed the importance of domestic tourism during these times and the potential for international tourism to aid economic recovery once peace is restored, focusing on the natural and rural attractions awaiting global explorers.

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March 1st - The Future of Rail: Expanding Access and Embracing Sustainability

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:49:54 GMT

Today, I chatted with Martin Gilbert about revolutionising UK rail travel with open access services like LUMO and Hull Trains. We delved into their success in expanding access, fostering sustainability, and offering competitive fares, painting an optimistic future for rail innovation.

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February 29th - Navigating the Skies: The Future of British Airways Pilots

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 17:33:32 GMT

Today, I had the pleasure of exploring the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy's induction of 100 new cadets, including Jasmine, Maria, and Lux. This significant initiative highlights BA's dedication to fostering a diverse and skilled future pilot workforce, emphasising safety, innovation, and inclusivity. As these cadets begin their rigorous two-year training, it underscores the airline's commitment to shaping the future of aviation.

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February 28th - Flight Deck Futures: BALPA's Vision with Amy Leversidge

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:15:42 GMT

Amy Leversidge, BALPA's pioneering general secretary, discusses the critical balance between technology and human expertise in aviation, expressing concerns over reduced crew proposals. She emphasises the importance of addressing air pollution for passenger safety and champions a more inclusive future for the industry.

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February 27th - Wendy Wu: Pioneering Unique Journeys in the World of Travel

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:21:16 GMT

Wendy Wu's innovative approach transformed a personal travel setback into a thriving global business, Wendy Wu Tours. Expanding beyond Asia to new, unique destinations, the company champions sustainable, specialised travel, ensuring memorable experiences while prioritising environmental care and customer delight.

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February 26th - Are Boeing going to cost holidaymakers more for European holidays?

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:04:19 GMT

Could your holiday flight cost more because of an inflight scare and a problem with contaminated “powder metal”? Delays in Boeing aircraft deliveries because of safety concerns, combined with an issue affecting some Airbus planes, mean some airlines are struggling to fulfill their planned operations. That could mean air fares in Europe will rise by as much as 10 percent, according to the boss of Europe’s biggest budget airline. So, should travelers book their summer flights now to avoid further fare hikes?

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February 23rd - Is this Ireland's most beautiful coastal trail?

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 18:26:21 GMT

Welcome to today's independent travel podcast with me, Simon Calder. I have the great fortune to be looking at the Irish Sea from Skerries Beach, north of Dublin and the northernmost point of the Dublin Coastal Trail.

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February 22nd - The UK's ETA on Electronic Travel Authorisation

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 13:13:31 GMT

You might have missed it, but today the UK extended its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to cover another six Middle East countries. Visitors from these countries must enroll online and pay £10 before boarding a flight to the UK. But how does it differ from schemes with similar acronyms – Esta and Etias – and why is the insistence on transit passengers relevant to British travelers?

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February 21st - How Heathrow is flying back to profits

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 15:51:51 GMT

Heathrow’s new chief executive, Thomas Woldbye, tells me about the return to profitability for the UK's biggest airport; how to plug a £400m gap in revenue; the possibility of a third runway; and asks for the onerous ETA requirement for transit passengers at the hub is removed.

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February 20th - How can Wizz Air compete with other airline giants?

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 17:53:12 GMT

For today’s travel podcast I’ve been talking to one of the UK aviation leaders: Marion Geoffroy, UK managing director for Wizz Air. We talked about the potential for more air-traffic control problems in Europe in 2024, the issues of competing with Ryanair and easyJet – and, first, the remarkably young fleet of Wizz Air’s UK operation.

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February 19th - Sailing Home: A New Zealand Odyssey Aboard Queen Victoria

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:36:02 GMT

In today's podcast, I'm thrilled to share the unique story of Al and Colin, a couple emigrating from London to Auckland, not by air but via a six-week cruise on Queen Victoria. Their journey encapsulates a love for adventure, a strategic avoidance of jet lag, and an opportunity to fulfil bucket list dreams like witnessing the Panama Canal.

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February 16th - Journey Through Sarajevo: Echoes of the Past Meet Modern Skies

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 16:27:34 GMT

In today's podcast from sunny Sarajevo, I explore the legacy of the 1984 Winter Olympics and delve into the current fare wars shaping travel to Bosnia. Walking the historic luge track, now a woodland path adorned with street art, offers a unique window into Sarajevo's past and present.

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February 15th - From Aslef Strikes to French Rail Chaos: A Turbulent Journey for Train Travellers

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 11:06:30 GMT

Today, I discuss the multi-dimensional rail disruptions in the UK, spotlighting the Aslef union strikes and separate disputes affecting LNER and Northern. I also touch on the dire situation in France, where weekend rail strikes pose significant problems for families returning to the UK.

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February 14th - The Scales of Air Travel: Addressing the Needs of Plus-Size Travellers

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 11:42:51 GMT

Today's discussion focuses on the implications of passenger weight for airline safety, fuel use, and the comfort of plus-size travelers. We explore how airlines like Finnair and Air France are addressing these concerns.

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February 13th - Motorhome Adventures Across Europe: A Unique Group Travel Concept

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:49:25 GMT

Today, I uncover the charm of travelling Europe in a motorhome with a twist: escorted tours that offer social interaction, guidance, and peace of mind. We discuss the popular routes, the logistics of flotilla travel, and why some travellers choose to return year after year.

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February 12th - Election Year Adventures: Exploring Global Politics with Guided Tours

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:01:21 GMT

Join me as I explore the concept of political tours with Nicholas Wood, revealing how travel can deepen our understanding of global political events. From witnessing the tension in Kosovo to anticipating elections around the world, we discuss the unique blend of journalism and tourism that makes these tours truly one-of-a-kind.

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February 9th - Redefining the City Break: New Favourites and Timeless Tips

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 15:41:45 GMT

Join me as I explore why Krakow and Reykjavik are now among the favourites for city breaks, and I reflect on my own experiences to recommend the perfect duration for urban adventures.

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February 8th- Aviation Legacy: A Tour of Air Museums with Experts

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 11:35:13 GMT

In this episode, join me and Alistair Gunn as we navigate the fascinating world of aviation museums and graveyards. We highlight must-see exhibits like the Fokker Friendship and the Concorde and share tips for visiting places like Duxford and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.

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February 7th - The Pandemic and Beyond: Dragoman's Overland Odyssey

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:00:40 GMT

Hear from Charlie Hopkinson on how Dragoman Overland weathered the storm of COVID, managed a fleet stranded worldwide, and the brand's exciting transition to new ownership, ensuring its adventurous spirit lives on.

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February 6th - Cultural Journeys: Saudi Arabia Through the Eyes of an Adventurous Accountant

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 11:22:35 GMT

Join Sanna Daw, the adventurous accountant, as she shares her unique Christmas experience in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the cultural nuances and the evolving role of women.

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February 5th - Breaking the Sound Barrier: Memories of Concorde with Captain Andy Mills

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:24:40 GMT

Join me as Captain Andy Mills shares his experiences flying Concorde, from the unmatched thrill of supersonic travel to the iconic aircraft's untimely retirement.

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February 2nd - Central American Departures: Patience Required at Guatemala City Airport

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:39:05 GMT

Today, I share my experience navigating the bustling, chaotic Guatemala City Airport, revealing the unexpected hurdles from arrival to departure.

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February 1st - On the Road in Antigua: Exploring Guatemala's Colourful Buses

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 13:26:21 GMT

From Antigua, Guatemala's bus station, today's podcast takes you on a sensory journey through the heart of Central American transport. Discover the artistic 'chicken buses', the bustling crowds, and the distinct aroma of diesel, all integral to the local travel experience."

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January 31st - Boutique adventures in Panama City

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 14:27:26 GMT

I'm in Panama City, talking to Robin Faulkner about the boutique hotel he created in the capital's old town – and, more widely, about the wonders of this Central American nation.

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January 30th - Navigating the 2024 Rail Strikes: Aslef vs Train Operators

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 13:43:46 GMT

Today, I am examining the persistent rail strike by Aslef, now impacting the UK's rail system into 2024. The strike, involving 14 train operators, has entered its third calendar year, leading to widespread travel chaos. Our discussion includes an analysis of the strike's causes, its current status, and potential future developments.

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January 29th - Luxury or liability? The Debate Over Giant Cruise Ships

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 11:56:06 GMT

Today I explore the complex narrative surrounding the 'Icon of the Seas', the world's largest cruise ship. I discuss its extravagant offerings against the backdrop of environmental concerns, probing the moral and ecological dilemmas posed by such grandiose voyages.

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January 26th - Gratuity Grievances: The Tipping Debate Continues

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 14:51:24 GMT

The contentious issue of tipping in the wake of a disappointing meal. Today I present a compilation of listener opinions on tipping etiquette, dissecting the practice's rationale and offering guidance on navigating these often-tricky situations in restaurants.

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January 25th - To Tip or Not to Tip: A Global Dilemma

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 09:51:51 GMT

Join me as I share my experience with tipping etiquette around the world and discuss the appropriate tipping etiquette in various regions, from the non-tipping culture in Continental Europe to the mandatory gratuities in the United States.

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January 24th - Uncovering the Secrets of Currency Exchange

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:32:50 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I explore the world of currency exchange at Currency Online Group in London Waterloo. In today's episode, I speak with Lee Davey about the nuances of foreign currency transactions, the impact of digital payments, and predictions for exchange rates.

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January 23rd - The Great British Rail Sale: A Chat with Rail Minister Huw Merriman

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 16:38:38 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I converse with Rail Minister Huw Merriman about the Great British Rail Sale. We explore enticing rail deals amidst potential strike disruptions, focusing on the benefits for passengers and the future of UK rail travel.

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January 22nd - A Week of Disruptions: UK Travel's Rough Ride

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 10:41:37 GMT

In this episode, I unpack the chaotic week of UK travel. From railway strikes to unexpected flight diversions, we take a closer look at how these disruptions are reshaping the travel landscape for thousands of passengers.

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January 19th - Booking flights to Australia next Christmas

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 15:18:56 GMT

Today's travel podcast. Christmas/New Year flights to Australia are now on sale. Should you book now at high prices, or risk fares increasing still further while hoping a late-booking might bag a bargain?

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January 18th - Will discount train fares go off the rails?

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 13:57:48 GMT

Today's podcast is all about the UK's cheapest rail ticket, just 70p from Manchester to Stockport! How long will you be able to take advantage of this mega-deal?

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January 17th - Inside the aviation industry with Ryanair

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:23:35 GMT

Today's podcast: an exclusive interview with Michael O'Leary, chief executive of Europe’s biggest budget airline, Ryanair.

He tells me about his worries about air traffic control problems this summer; how Boeing is dealing with the 737 Max; how cheap air fares are here to stay; and why the government's probe into drip pricing is wrong.

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January 16th -The Future of UK Rail Travel: LNER's Ticket Revolution

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 14:49:04 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as we explore LNER's innovative approach to train tickets, replacing traditional off-peak tickets with a new flexible system. This pilot programme might just be a glimpse into the future of rail travel in the UK.

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January 15th - UK Rail Strikes: A Never-Ending Saga

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 18:10:11 GMT

I, Simon Calder, explore the unceasing rail strikes by Aslef and their impacts. We'll navigate through the complexities of the dispute and how it's shaping the UK's transportation landscape as it enters another year of discontent and disruption.

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January 12th - The pitfalls of "Sixth Freedom" flying

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 11:49:26 GMT

Airlines offer some great deals for flying from outside their home nation, via their home nation, to somewhere else outside their home nation. This is known as "Sixth Freedom" flying. But beware: even though British Airways is offering some amazing deals for Dublin-London-New York flights, you can't simply get on (or off) at London and leave out the Irish connections.

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January 11th - Aviation's Remarkable Recovery: A 2023 Overview

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:01:32 GMT

Today I bring you an insights from the bustling corridors of the UK’s top airports. 2023 has seen a tremendous upswing in air travel, with Heathrow, Manchester, and Stansted airports leading the charge in passenger numbers, underscoring a remarkable year in aviation.

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January 10th - Why Boeing 737 Max 9s are still in operation

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 14:00:53 GMT

I'm at Heathrow Terminal 2, where Boeing 737 Max 9s are operating. Now, following Friday's incident in Alaska it's quite reasonable for many of you to be screaming, "Why?!" but I'll explain why they are and what the flight carriers are doing to make sure there's not a repeat of the incident.

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January 9th - Heathrow's Time Adjustment: BA's Updated Connecting Policy

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 14:05:46 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as we delve into British Airways' decision to extend the minimum connecting time at Heathrow Terminal 5 from 60 to 75 minutes. While it eases passenger stress, this change impacts travel dynamics, offering competitors like Lufthansa and Air France an edge in attracting transit passengers who prefer shorter layovers.

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January 8th - Mid-Air Mystery: Unpacking the Alaska Flight Door Mishap

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 12:30:44 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, reporting on the curious case of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282. Departing from Portland, Oregon to Ontario, California, this journey on a Boeing 737 Max 9 took an unexpected turn when a panel detached mid-flight at over 16,000 feet. As we await detailed investigation results, join me in assessing the situation, exploring potential causes, and reaffirming air travel safety measures.

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January 5th - Tube Tensions Rise: A Week of Disruption Ahead in London

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 11:35:43 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, reporting from London Waterloo, where we're on the brink of a major Tube shutdown, spanning from January 7th to 12th. With the RMT Union's strike imminent, London's transport network faces significant upheaval, affecting commuters and travelers alike.

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January 4th - Navigating Travel Insurance: A Family's Cautionary Tale

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:33:46 GMT

In today's episode, I discuss the Kalinic family's challenging experience with a £100,000 medical bill during their trip to Africa. This story highlights the crucial importance of comprehensively understanding travel insurance, especially for non-standard travel arrangements. Join me as we unravel essential tips for secure and informed travel planning.

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January 3rd - Aviation Safety in Focus: The Tokyo Airport Incident

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 13:29:15 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I discuss the collision at Tokyo's Haneda Airport involving a Japan Airlines Airbus A350. In this podcast, I delve into the incident's implications for aviation safety and highlight the importance of emergency procedures and safety briefings, which contributed to the successful evacuation and survival of all passengers on board.

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January 2nd - 2023 was the safest year ever for passenger aviation

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:00:21 GMT

The saddest part of my job as a travel correspondent is to write about tragedies, which includes airline accident. But compared with previous years, the tragedies have been about three times under the average of the last ten years. It is a remarkable to the people who do all they can to ensure we're safe as airline pasengers

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January 1st - Smart passport gates

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 10:12:04 GMT

Happy New Year! There will be new electronic passport gates according to a report in The Times. It's really just an improvement on e-gates making them more efficient. This will be made possible with the new travel electronic authorisation system which the UK is introducing. Although it means that the country will need to have a lot more information on a lot more travellers.

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December 29th - New Year's Travel Guide

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 16:03:41 GMT

I'm at London Bridge station assessing the problems for travelers in the run-up to New Year.

See you all in 2024!

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December 28th - Scenes of Chaos and Confusion

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 11:08:30 GMT

Thousands of people have been affected by the unexpected travel issues across the UK during the holidays.

What has caused these scenes of chaos and confusion? I go over the biggest problems and how it has impacted travelers with long wait times and the possible risks of not making their destinations on time.

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December 27th - The UK's Christmas Transport Policy

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 09:14:37 GMT

As usual, no passenger trains ran in the UK on Christmas Day, with very few running into Boxing Day.

Do you think that’s the right policy? Should everyone get time off on two low-demand days?

Or is the Continental Europe approach, often with a near-normal service on 25/26 December, better?

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December 26th - Boxed in on Boxing Day?

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 18:25:55 GMT

Simon Calder debates whether the national rail trains should run on Boxing Day and if it effectively eases travel stress.

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December 25th - A Special Church on Christmas Day

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 09:59:49 GMT

I'm at the Church of St Nicholas celebrating the Christmas legend. If you come to this church you'll see a mural to Santa Claus. It wasn't until the late 20th century that archeologists decided to excavate this area and the result is exquisite, especially the Marble mosaics.

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December 22nd - The aftermath of Storm Pia

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:04:05 GMT

I'm at from Kings Cross reporting on the problems with overhead wires after the havoc that Storm Pia caused yesterday. Not to mention the strikes in Paris. I also meet someone who might just be Britain's unluckiest passenger.

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December 21st - Storm Pia is causing chaos

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:19:40 GMT

Travel pod here: How is Storm Pia affecting travel in this all-important week? I'm (once again) at London Waterloo.

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December 20th - Navigating the maze of Krakow train station

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 13:14:54 GMT

Krakow is difficult to leave. Partly that is because this extraordinary city in southern Poland is so rich in culture, history and gastronomy. But it is also because the railway station is nigh-impossible to find, as I discovered on my way to the airport train.

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December 18th - Calder's Christmas Chaos

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 09:44:05 GMT

A week before Christmas Day, and the strains in the UK’s transport industry are showing. I’m in a long security queue at Gatwick. With many train cancellations too, this looks like a tough week for travelers.

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December 15th - How school closures create Christmas chaos for your holidays

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 16:53:47 GMT

Last year one in 25 children at school in England was taken out of school for a holiday – resulting in a £60 fine for parents. Clearly, some parents see paying fines as worthwhile because of the enormous savings that can be made. Why are families penalised – and should the government clamp down on holiday prices?

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December 14th - Eurotunnel's vow for 2030

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 17:54:48 GMT

Cologne, Frankfurt, and Geneva should appear on the train departure screens from London by 2030, the boss of Eurotunnel has vowed.

Yann Leriche, chief executive of the tunnel firm’s parent, Getlink, says he expects new entrants to start competing with Eurostar – and to double the number of direct rail routes from the UK.

Eurotunnel is the infrastructure operator between Folkestone and Calais. It currently runs the LeShuttle car-carrying operation as well as trains carrying trucks. Freight trains and Eurostar passengers expresses pay for the right to run through the tunnel. Eurotunnel collects €20 (£17) for each passenger on Eurostar trains.

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December 13th - The Berlin to Paris sleeper train reawakens

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 12:26:49 GMT

Nine years to the day after German rail operator Deutsche Bahn scrapped the Paris-Berlin sleeper train, a revived overnight service rolled into Gare de l’Est in the French capital. Simon Calder reports on the train's return and interviews the French Travel Minister about his thoughts.

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December 12th - A look at Tirana and Albania Since My First Visit In The 1980s

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 14:32:57 GMT

I'm today speaking from a cafe in Tirana, taking stock of what's changed in Albania since my first trip in the 1980s. Albania has almost completely changed from my first visit, especially for the men with long hair amongst us. To find out a little more, I spoke with Mirela Kumbaro, Albanian Tourism Minister.

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December 11th - How to avoid 'Frenetic Friday' this Christmas

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:56:35 GMT

With just two weeks to go to Christmas, I'm in Tirana airport giving you an update on how to avoid the dreaded 'Frenetic Friday' great getaway. In this episode I'll be talking about the situation at UK airports, across Britain's rail network and also what the situation will look like on the roads.

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December 8th - How the UK is getting school travel groups back from the EU

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 17:42:54 GMT

The Brexit ban on tourists from the EU using ID cards has begun to be reversed. Insisting on passports almost obliterated school group travel to the UK. From next year the ban has been lifted for children attending French schools, with others likely to follow.

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December 7th - How (un)reliable is the London Underground?

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 13:55:42 GMT

On Wednesday, the day of a rail strike that wiped out almost all South Western Railway trains, London’s Northern Line shut down for an hour. With many travelers switching from rail to Tube, the closure was doubly damaging. It is not clear what caused the problem, and Transport for London has not responded to my request about it. But while I was part of the Tubeful of travelers wondering what was going on, I thought I should look at the best and worst Underground lines for cancellations.

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December 6th - Taking the temperature of the holiday industry

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 12:02:12 GMT

Europe's biggest tour operator, Tui, is reporting souring profits and passenger numbers. Holiday bookings for the current winter are 11 per cent up from the same time last year. What does this mean? That your holidays won't be getting any cheaper.

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December 5th - Something odd has been happening with Ryanair's boarding passes

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 15:21:42 GMT

The great Ryanair boarding pass mystery. Has Ryanair come up with a new moneymaking scheme just in time for Christmas? That is the question that has been exercising a good few of you in the last couple of days. The short answer, according to an airline spokesperson, is no: “There is no new procedure in force.” But something odd has been happening. Here's what we know, and what I am guessing.

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December 4th - Day Four in the 2023 advent calendar of travel misery

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:04:56 GMT

After a miserable weekend for travelers in large parts of the UK, the working week has begun with more disruption. Thousands of airline passengers woke up on Monday morning where they did not intend to be after dozens of weekend flight cancellations. Rail firms are warning of major disruption on day four of an overtime ban by train drivers. Some roads in Cumbria and the Peak District are blocked due to snow, and the Met Office has issued four yellow weather warnings for Monday.

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December 1st - Simon Calder catches up with Mick Lynch following RMT pay deal

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:42:19 GMT

I’m speaking exclusively to Mick Lynch, general secretary of the RMT union, just after members voted overwhelmingly to accept a pay deal. But, he warns, strikes could be back next summer if negotiations in the New Year do not go well.

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November 30th -Navigating the Rail Chaos: A December of Disruption Ahead

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 09:46:52 GMT

On today's podcast, I'm stationed at Manchester Piccadilly, exploring the impending rail challenges this December. From driver strikes to altered schedules, I'll break down what this means for UK travellers and how to best navigate the disruptions.

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November 29th - Downgauging is a sneaky airline trick you should know about

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:31:33 GMT

Another bit of aviation jargon unravelled. Some listeners and readers have been in touch about “downgauging" – when an airline uses a smaller plane than planned. What happens if two dozen passengers are unable to travel as booked? The same rules apply as for overbooking.

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November 28th - Shai Weiss Unveils Virgin Atlantic's Sustainable Aviation Milestone

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 10:08:42 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I chat with Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, about their groundbreaking 100% sustainable fuel flight across the Atlantic. We discuss the significance of this pioneering step and its impact on the future of sustainable aviation.

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November 27th - The only public transport you can use this Christmas Day

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 14:09:12 GMT

Wish it could be Christmas every day? Probably not if you, like me, rely on public transport, because on 25 December all the UK trains close down. But this year the long-distance coach operators are providing more intercity links than ever.

And on Boxing Day, ScotRail will offer the highest number of trains for three decades.

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November 24th - Eurostar's shock Amsterdam and Rotterdam service announcements

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 16:29:40 GMT

News has just broken that Eurostar trains from Amsterdam and Rotterdam to London will be canceled from June 2024 to January 2025. The Channel Tunnel passenger rail firm will still run London-Rotterdam-Amsterdam; the problem is space for London-bound frontier formalities while Amsterdam Centraal station is renovated. And Brexit is playing a part ...

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November 23rd - How train strikes could stop Santa Claus coming to town

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 17:29:02 GMT

Traveling home for Christmas by rail? Good luck. Festive engineering works mean two key London stations, Paddington and King's Cross, are closed on Christmas Eve. So unless you travel by 23 December to/from Yorkshire, northeast England and Scotland (King's Cross) or the West of England/South Wales (Paddington), you could be scuppered.

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November 22nd - The future of Planes, Trains and Runways at Gatwick Airport

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:56:00 GMT

I'm at London Gatwick Airport talking to the chief executive, Stewart Wingate. He says that if a second runway gets the go-ahead, the Sussex airport would almost double the passengers it presently handles.

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November 21st - Gatwick Airport gets easier to navigate to

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 09:03:50 GMT

I'm on a rail route I've not done before today. That's right, I'm on the new course that's cost quarter of a billion pounds to build to transform the railway experience at London's Gatwick airport. Listen in as I explain what's different, what the owners of Gatwick are hoping to achieve and how I fared on my first journey.

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November 20th - Tourism in Transition: Julia Lo Bue-Said's Expert Perspective

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:38:27 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I chat with Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of the Advantage Travel Partnership, about current challenges in tourism, including Egypt's downturn and Brexit travel complexities. We also look ahead to 2024 and discuss how general elections influence customer behaviour in the travel sector.

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November 17th - Navigating the UK Rail Crisis: Strikes, Shortages, and Engineering Woes

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:01:01 GMT

Today, I'm exploring the impending rail difficulties in the UK. As we brace for a difficult period, with strikes and operational challenges, rail journeys face numerous hurdles. Stay informed on what to expect and how best to adjust your travel plans.

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November 16th - More rail strike action coming this December

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 08:59:31 GMT

Rail strikes will resume in early December – but with a difference. Train drivers belonging to the Aslef union will walk out during the course of the first week of next month. But rather than being an all-out national strike, cancellations will instead ripple across Britain during the course of the week as drivers at different operators stop work. I explain how this will work and how its aim is to maximise the disruption caused to Britain's rail network.

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November 15th - Rediscovering Sharm El Sheikh: A Resort Town in the Spotlight

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:46:05 GMT

I'm in Sharm El Sheikh, assessing the state of tourism during these turbulent times. Despite challenges, there's remarkable value and a chance to support this vital industry, all while enjoying the resort's famed hospitality.

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November 14th - Decoding Luxury Travel: Insights from Kuoni UK's Mark Duguid

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 10:04:10 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, in a captivating conversation with Kuoni UK's Mark Duguid. We're delving into what defines luxury travel today, how preferences have evolved, and where the savvy high-end traveller is heading next.

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November 13th - Southwest Iceland is seismically seething

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 17:32:20 GMT

Southwest Iceland is seismically seething, causing some alarm for travellers. Is it safe to visit Iceland when the island is so geologically excitable? And will we see another Europe-wide shutdown caused by volcanic ash if it all goes pop?

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November 10th - Volotea's UK Launch: A Fresh Path from Gatwick to Strasbourg

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:12:12 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, at Gatwick Airport, where I'm about to experience Volotea's first UK flight to Strasbourg. We'll uncover how Volotea is carving out its niche in the bustling European air travel market and the significance of this newly restored route.

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November 9th - Will the rail strikes be over by Christmas 2023?

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 09:51:36 GMT

In the long and bitter rail disputes between the rail unions and the train operators, a glimmer of hope has emerged – with the RMT for the first time making an offer to its members. The online referendum concludes on 30 November. So could it be all over by Christmas? I’m at the UK’s busiest rail station, London Waterloo.

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November 8th - Going global with Global Airlines

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 17:03:50 GMT

Today’s travel podcast features James Asquith, founder of Global Airlines – a start-up that aims to fly the Airbus A380 “SuperJumbo” across the Atlantic and to other destinations with an unbeatable inflight experience. I caught up with James at World Travel Market 2023 in London – where he told me that the double-deck plane is the key to success.

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November 7th -Daring Travels and Sector Challenges: Chatting with Darrell Wade

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 15:20:41 GMT

Join me as I sit with Darrell Wade to uncover the raw thrills of his travel exploits and tackle the big issues in tourism. We cut through the noise, revealing how travel shapes our world and our selves.

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November 6th - Bradt Guides give their views on where you should be heading to in 2024

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 15:15:28 GMT

Legendary travel guide writer Tim Burford, who's been writing for Bradt Guides for three decades, gives the inside track on his world – and where you should be going in 2024. We're talking at World Travel Market in London.

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November 3rd - Meet the director of the Ski Club for Great Britian

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 16:04:38 GMT

It's early November, some fresh snow is promised in the Alps and so a good time to catch up with Chris Radford, director of the Ski Club of Great Britain. He has advice for novice skiers – starting with lessons on a dry ski slope.

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November 2nd - What storm Ciaran is doing to travel

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:13:20 GMT

Due to Storm Ciaran British Airways have made weather adjustments across the UK and Europe. Around 50 flights have been affected.

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November 1st - Meet the largest independent travel agent in the UK

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:35:20 GMT

I'm talking to travel royalty: Dame Irene Hays, chair of Hays Travel, the largest independent travel agent in the UK.

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October 31st - What will our prime minister do about the railways?

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:01:57 GMT

The government makes a screeching U-turn on closing rail ticket offices. What was a really good idea in the summer is now not a good idea at all, it seems. Anyone would think there was a general election on the horizon. And talking of which: Labour really needs to explain what it would do, if elected, with the railways.

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October 30th - A Ferry Crossing from Rhodes: Bridging Greece and Turkey

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 10:08:29 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, on a ferry sailing from Rhodes towards Marmaris. Integrating the charm of the Greek Islands with the allure of Turkey is quite an experience, though ferry connections are sparse.

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October 27th - Navigating the Numbers: Heathrow’s Q3 Analysis

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 13:40:52 GMT

Simon Calder here, taking you through Heathrow's Q3 financial intricacies, where passenger numbers still haven't rebounded, and retail revenue is facing a downturn. With an increase in average plane size, we also ponder the future of the third runway.

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October 26th - Cruising Conversations: The High Seas and Hipster Coffee

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 12:11:14 GMT

I'm Simon Calder, coming to you from a trendy café, joined by Andy Harmer of the Cruise Lines International Association UK. We're chatting about the cruise industry’s impressive bounce back post-pandemic and addressing environmental worries. Andy sheds light on new ship launches and cruising’s rising popularity, plus we touch on the industry’s careful coordination with major tourist cities

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Which are the best airport lounges?

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:05:40 GMT

Following on from the amazing airport lounge survey, my thoughts on the cheapest/most expensive/best/worst – with a little help from my friends at frequent flyer website Head for Points, who have rather more experience of these oases of calm than I do.

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October 24th - Why there are so many airport Lounge Lizards

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:44:49 GMT

Lounge lizards: one in four people say they pay for an enclave of calm for a couple of hours before their flight.

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October 23rd - The Heathrow Hassle: Navigating London’s Biggest Airport

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 08:49:39 GMT

Today's episode I share my personal journey and insights on the various public transportation options available for commuting to and from Heathrow Airport, explore the intricacies of the Piccadilly Line, introduce the newly launched Elizabeth Line, and provide my top tips and tricks to ensure your travel experience is as smooth as possible.

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October 20th - Why I'm immune to Concorde nostalgia

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 13:12:40 GMT

Concorde 20 years on. The last supersonic passenger jet flew from New York to London on 24 October 2003. Good riddance, say I!

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October 19th - Storm Babet travel chaos: What are my rights?

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 12:45:55 GMT

Trains, planes and ferries are being affected by Storm Babet – which, warns the Met Office, will bring “exceptional rainfall and impactful wind for some”.

Forecasters have issued a red warning for rain for parts of eastern Scotland, affecting Angus and Aberdeenshire, because of “a danger to life from flood water, extensive flooding to homes and businesses and severely disrupted travel conditions”.

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October 18th - My favourite A-roads

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 16:55:28 GMT

I'm at Highways UK at Birmingham NEC, but I'm dreaming of my favourite UK A-roads – one in each of the four nations. All better driven than cycled!

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October 17th - Wondered which airport terminal is the busier? Wonder no more...

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 15:40:03 GMT

Today's travel podcast is an exclusive report about the busiest airport terminals in the UK – if you agree with Jean-Paul Sartre that "Hell is other people" you might want to use Heathrow T4 rather than T5. The inside story is all laid out in today's podcast and here.

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October 16th - Travel to the Middle East

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 11:07:15 GMT

Judging from my inbox, there are growing concern about visits to Jordan, Egypt and other locations in the Arab and wider Islamic world. My view: if the Foreign Office says it is safe enough to go there, then there is no reason to cancel.

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October 13th - Competition in the Chunnel: A New Era for Eurostar?

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 09:08:03 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, from the old Eurostar terminal at London Waterloo. We explore Eurostar's storied past and discuss exciting prospects of fresh competition on the London-Paris route. Will this be the rail revolution we've been waiting for? Tune in to get the latest scoop from the heart of Britain's busiest station.

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October 12th - Travel Law Unpacked: A Conversation with Matt Gatenby

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 15:25:46 GMT

I'm joined by Matt Gatenby from TravLaw, and together we dissect the potential changes to the Package Travel Regulations. What does this mean for travelers and businesses alike? And just what is 'Covid-24'?

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October 11th - How the car park fire at Luton Airport is affecting flights

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:59:46 GMT

At around 9pm on the 10th October, a car catching fire in a car park at London Luton Airport quickly engulfed the car park, subsuming other cars parked nearby. The fire has caused structural damage to the car park and led to the grounding of all flights from the busy airport until later today. I give you the lowdown on what's happened and what's going to happen next.

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October 10th - The Tel Aviv Flight Debate: Safety or Gamble?

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:49:50 GMT

Today, I, Simon Calder, discuss airlines' decisions to continue flying to Tel Aviv amidst regional tensions. How do major carriers weigh safety against service in such situations? Join me as we dive in.

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October 9th - Travel Implications Amidst Israel-Hamas Conflict

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 11:29:27 GMT

In the midst of the escalating events between Hamas and Israel, I discuss the unfolding repercussions for travellers. From recent travel advisories to how airlines are adapting, join me as I shed light on the shifting travel landscape against this backdrop.

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October 6th - From Paris With... Bed Bugs?

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 13:37:55 GMT

My final podcast of the week is about the travel itch. And not in a good way. I tackle the apparent infestation of bedbugs in Paris, and what your rights may be if you are booked to travel there.

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October 5th - Navigating the £36bn Transport Shift

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 10:44:21 GMT

In this episode, I unpack the government's bold move to redirect £36bn from HS2 to other transport projects across the North and Midlands. From new rail lines to road upgrades, I explore what this means for UK travellers.

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October 4th - End of the line for HS2

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 09:09:49 GMT

Yes, it’s another rail strike day in England. I’m at London Waterloo, normally the busiest rail station in the UK. Train drivers belonging to the Aslef union are walking out for the 15th day in a long and bitter dispute over pay and working arrangement. Meanwhile in Manchester, the prime minister is set to announce cancellations from Manchester to Birmingham – not just of all trains today, but of all high-speed in the future, as Rishi Sunak axes the important parts of HS2.

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October 3rd - The HS2 Debacle: Hopes, Hypes, and Harsh Realities

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 09:32:17 GMT

In this episode, Simon Calder shares his observations and insights on the High-Speed 2 (HS2) project from his usual spot at Euston station. Reflecting on the project's 14-year history and recent developments, Calder discusses the impacts, both realised and potential, of this major transport endeavour. As he unpacks the decisions, delays, and deviations of HS2, the episode also touches on impending rail strikes, providing listeners with a holistic understanding of current UK rail challenges.

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October 2nd - Hiking Highs: Tales from the Pyrenean Trail

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 09:03:42 GMT

In this episode, Simon Calder takes listeners on a journey from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Along the way, he encounters trail markers, rustic refuges, and navigates occasional misdirections. From tales of majestic mountains to moments of uncertainty, explore the wonders and challenges of the Pyrenees with him.

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September 29th - Rail Disruption Resumes Amid Union Strikes

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 09:56:49 GMT

Join me, Simon Calder, as I navigate the rail disruptions causing upheaval across England. Dive deep into the ongoing tussle between the Aslef union and the government over pay cuts. It's more than just train delays; grasp the underlying politics, frustrations, and aspirations for a resolution.

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September 28th - A visit to Le Volcan in Le Havre and another exquisite library tour

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:14:24 GMT

Another day, another spectacular library. This one is the hulk at the heart of Le Havre, the French port just 100 miles south of Portsmouth. It is part of a cultural centre known as Le Volcan – The Volcano – designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, who also built the UN HQ in New York and largely designed the city of Brasilia.

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September 27th - Exploring Helsinki's Unique Library

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 14:34:54 GMT

Join me, Simon Goer, as I wander through Helsinki's Central Library, a modern marvel blending culture and innovation. It's more than just books; imagine playing a Fender Stratocaster, diving into 3D printing, and embracing creativity. Step inside with me and see a library in a whole new light.

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September 26th - Gatwick Grounds Flights: The Impact of Staff Shortage

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 09:07:57 GMT

With 30% of Gatwick's air-traffic controllers falling ill, we're seeing unprecedented disruptions. In this episode, I'll walk you through the emerging cancellations, unexpected diversions, and what you as a passenger need to know.

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Sep 25th - Scottish National Gallery project

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 09:12:39 GMT

I’ve been given a preview of the Scottish Galleries at the National in Edinburgh, Scotland’s leading art museum. From Saturday 30 September, you will be able to enjoy a wealth of Scottish art in spectacular new surroundings, as I heard from Dr Tricia Allerston, co-director of the Scottish National Gallery project.

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September 22nd - An ode to carpooling

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 19:47:42 GMT

Compulsory car-sharing has been officially scrapped by the prime minister. The announcement took many in transport circles by surprise, since the only place in the known world where the practice has ever been mandatory is communist Cuba; there were no proposals to adopt it in the UK. But at least a practice that is environmentally and economically advantageous is now being talked about.

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September 21st - Out go the green taxes on travel, though did they ever exist?

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:25:02 GMT

Rishi Sunak told the public on Wednesday. “The proposal to create new taxes to discourage flying – I’ve scrapped that.” I was unaware of any government proposal to create new aviation taxes. But just in case anyone was in doubt about the government’s attitude to aviation: deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden has used the RAF Airbus A330 to fly to New York JFK. At a time when many other commercial flights were available. It takes me back to Liz Truss, when foreign secretary, taking a private plane to Australia rather than slumming it on Qantas.

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September 20th - Strikes & Shifts: The Balance of Transport Rights

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 14:41:11 GMT

In today's chat, I tackle the Tube and National Rail strikes. Whilst the right to strike is clear, what about the traveller's right to reliable transport? I'll discuss whether unions are treading on thin ice.

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September 19th - Ryanair still won't compromise

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 11:34:45 GMT

Ryanair are back in the news with the airline’s no-compromise attitude to online check-in. This concerns Damian Lloyd and his family, who were told their pre-printed boarding passes were not valid and that they would have to pay £165 if they wanted to fly to Gran Canaria. Ryanair says they had “unchecked” themselves the day before travel; Mr Lloyd says he has no such recollection. My thoughts ahead of a Ryanair flight …

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September 18th - The future of travel with emerging tech

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:12:12 GMT

I’m exploring the technological future of travel with brainbox Kate Doodson, joint chief executive of Cosmic UK – a social enterprise that works with destinations on travel tech.

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September 15th - Another air traffic control problem hits Gatwick

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 08:00:33 GMT

Gatwick: Another night of chaos for thousands of passengers after an air-traffic controller went sick. It was the third bout of air-traffic control disruption in 18 days. What went wrong – and could it happen again next week?

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September 14th - Abolishing peak-time rail tickets

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 11:44:46 GMT

Scotland is to abolish peak-time rail fares for a six-month trial.

The only “walk-up” fare for immediate purchase and travel will be the cheaper off-peak ticket.

Savings for rush-hour commuters will range from 20 to 48 per cent, with passengers between Edinburgh and Glasgow seeing the price almost halve, falling by £14 to £14.90.

Could it happen in the rest of the UK?

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September 13th - World’s best-connected airports

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 06:54:47 GMT

At the start of 2023, I asked the aviation data analysts, Cirium, for the top 20 airports by unique destinations. This week, I asked the brainy boffins to crunch the numbers to the final three months of the year, and the results are intriguing.

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September 12th - First Choice is back – kind of

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 09:32:50 GMT

One of the most familiar names in travel over the turn of the century is back – with a very different proposition.

First Choice offers flight-free travel and backpacking experiences including camping and hostels stays, in an attempt to lure younger travellers who currently are more likely to put together trips independently.

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September 11th - Morocco After the Earthquake

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:34:12 GMT

The weekend saw a hugely destructive earthquake occurring in Morocco, with thousands unfortunately losing their lives. One of the worst-hit areas was Marrakesh, a longed-for destination for travellers. The earthquake and repercussions as Morocco tries to find survivors and recuperate has left many wondering what they should do about bookings that are still going ahead. Simon explains the situation on the ground, what airlines are saying and what you can ask for if you had a holiday booked for Marrakesh.

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September 18th - How augmented reality and AI might change the travel industry

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 12:00:57 GMT

I speak with the joint CEO of Cosmic UK, Kate Dodson, about how augmented reality might change travel in the future and whether AI is going to be used for marketing destinations.

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September 8th - Do independent travel agents agree with me about the scale of the disruption?

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 10:22:42 GMT

I’m speaking to one of the leading lights of the travel industry: Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive, Advantage Travel Partnership – a members' group of about one in five of the travel agents in the UK. These independent travel agents sell everything from cruises to business travel. Does Julia agree with me about the scale of disruption in the travel industry this summer?

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August 7th - Are things getting worse?

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:14:25 GMT

How many more things can go wrong this summer? Floods, staff sickness at Gatwick's air traffic control, and missed flights and ferries due to a manhunt. All exogenous events – but are they getting worse?

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September 6th - I've read the report into the air-traffic control shutdown so you didn't have to

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 16:37:16 GMT

Recently we saw one of the busiest travel days of the year and a complete failure of the National Air Traffic Service. This meant that controllers had to reduce their workload to just 15%. With thousand of cancelled flights and hundreds left stranded, I've gone through the key events to try and get everyone some answers.

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September 5th - Airlines have been under attack for adding extra charges for baggage and seating. Is this fair?

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 12:06:02 GMT

They say “no” – all the charges are published and highlighted, and these are optional extras. If you’re prepared to travel with just a small bag and don’t mind where you sit on the plane, then the fare you see is the fare you pay.

My view: it’s perfectly fair to charge people extra for the extra cost of providing services. In the UK easyJet started that in 1995 when they started charging 50p for a cup of tea. When charges for luggage started in 2006, the cost of checking in a suitcase was just a couple of pounds – reflecting the cost of handling. But now the prices are ridiculous. In a couple of weeks I’m flying from Newcastle to Dublin. The flight is £17 but if I want to bring a decent sized piece of cabin baggage on board, I will pay £20 – more than doubling the cost. Charges for seating people together are also disproportionate.

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September 4th - British Airways' U-Turn flights

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 14:46:18 GMT

No fewer than four British Airways flights turned back after take-off from London at the weekend – on one occasion flying two-thirds of the way to the destination before making a U-turn. The considerable disappointment of the passengers will be assuaged by hundreds of pounds in compensation. But what happened, and should passengers be worried?

(Spoiler alert: No)

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September 1st - There's no solution in sight to national rail strikes

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 11:08:19 GMT

I'm at Euston today for the latest national rail strike. I've counted that it's the 16th month since the strikes began. I spoke to Mick Whelan, general secretary of the Aslef trade union. He says that national rail workers have run out of capacity and considering that they have gone for five years without a pay rise the strikes will continue until they get what they want.

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August 31st - Copenhagen travel has it's perks

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 14:15:57 GMT

I’m approaching Copenhagen airport on a driverless train, and enjoying what the Danes ever did for travellers – making journeys intuitive and smooth.

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August 30th - What did go wrong with the UK's air traffic control system?

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 14:04:50 GMT

We're still feeling the effects of the air traffic control fiasco that crippled flights into and out of the UK on the bank holiday with little in the way of answers. After speaking with Martin Rolfe, the managing director of National Air Traffic Services (Nats), I've found out a little more - and importantly what everyone is trying to do to fix the problems people have encountered with flights since.

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August 29 - Travel chaos from a technical issue

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 09:14:34 GMT

Hundreds of thousands of passengers booked to travel to or from the UK have had their flights cancelled or delayed after the air-traffic control system was hit by a technical issue.

The National Air Traffic Services (NATS), the country’s leading provider of air traffic control services, said it had applied traffic flow restrictions on Monday to maintain safety.

The company announced later that the issue had been “identified and remedied”. But passengers are still facing travel chaos, with more than 1,200 flights grounded on Monday and a further 200 on Tuesday.

Here’s my guide to your rights.

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August 28 - Scandinavian simplicity extends to... buying tickets

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:57:02 GMT

This week will see much debate about plans to close railway station ticket offices – including the wider question about how passengers with disabilities are to be helped.

Yet in Scandinavia, this has already happened: the final three ticket offices in Sweden’s three biggest cities closed during the Covid pandemic as a cost-saving measure.

In Finland, too, online booking is the norm.

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And, if you'd like to take part in the UK ticket office consultation, click this link.

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August 25 - Travel chaos arrived before the bank holiday started

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:40:00 GMT

Bank holiday travel chaos arrived earlier than expected, with thousands of travellers stranded in various parts of Europe after large-scale cancellations – particularly on British Airways to and from Heathrow and easyJet to and from Gatwick. The cause: a combination of air-traffic control hold-ups and adverse weather. But whatever the cause of a cancelled flight, the airline has clear responsibilities towards passengers.

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August 24 - All the travel challenges this bank holiday

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:58:39 GMT

I predict that we're about to see the busiest holiday since 2019 this bank holiday weekend and it won't be helped by the train strikes. Over ten thousand trains are going to be out of service. Watch out if you've booked a weekend in Cornwall as you may be heavily affected. However if you're travelling through Greater Anglia you're in luck. Either way make sure you check your journey in advance.

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August 23rd - New airline flights to Cairo this Winter!

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 14:09:36 GMT

Today I am celebrating the news that not one but two airlines will be flying from Luton to Cairo this winter: easyJet and Wizz Air. With the much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum, finally looking as though it will open its doors in the next few months, the great Egyptian capital will be more appealing than ever.

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August 22nd - Concorde remembered

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 07:52:41 GMT

Twenty years ago, the world’s only surviving supersonic airliner was on her final lap of honour. The Concorde era ended on 24 October 2003, when British Airways retired the plane on commercial grounds. It was also arguably a flying environmental disaster, burning astonishing amounts of fuel and carrying an implausibly vast noise footprint. But at the BA heritage centre near London Heathrow, I talked to Jamie Bowden – former British Airways executive, who flew on Concorde 39 times. Will we see supersonic flight again in our lifetimes?

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August 21st - Brace yourselves for the next round of train strikes

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:42:26 GMT

For today’s travel podcast, I’m on the train again, from London Bridge to Gatwick Airport – making the most of the opportunity of rail travel ahead of the next round of national strikes across England on:

26 August RMT, the main rail union

1 September Aslef (train drivers)

2 September RMT.

Thousands of trains will be cancelled every day. Check before travel.

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August 18th - Lonely Planet's Vice President on the future for the iconic travel brand

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 03:00:52 GMT

50 years ago after Tony and Maureen Wheeler first published Across Asia on the Cheap – the first book in the Lonely Planet guidebook series.

The pandemic clobbered travel publishers harder than pretty much any other businesses – and with so much travel information available online, guidebooks are surely endangered species?

Not so, according to Tom Hall, Vice President of Lonely Planet.

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August 17th - British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 06:34:04 GMT

It’s A-level results day, which means some young people may be having a bit of a rethink about their future.

One option for which the academic requirement is simply six GCSEs (including Maths, English and a science subject) is becoming a pilot under the new British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy.

To find out more, I’ve been talking to senior first officer Genevieve Pearmaine, who is a British Airways 777 pilot flying long-haul.

For more information, visit careers.ba.com/future-pilots

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August 16th - Why fly with Ryanair?

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 11:19:40 GMT

After an elderly couple was hit with a £110 admin fee for failing to print out their boarding passes for a Ryanair flight, I've been sifting through all the responses – along a spectrum from "terrible airline, why does anyone fly with them?" to "you just need to follow the rules".

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August 15th - The couple who lost £110 for an honest mistake

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 17:11:49 GMT

Last Friday morning, retired doctors Ruth and Peter Jaffe arrived at London Stansted in good time to check in for their flight FR2668 to Bergerac in southwest France. They knew that Ryanair requires passengers to check in online ahead of travel. But inadvertently, they went through the process for the inbound, not outbound journey. The couple were charged £110 for their honest mistake. My thoughts ...

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August 14th - The Great Race Across Europe Finale

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 11:53:30 GMT

The Trans-European Race from London to Istanbul is over – with all manner of surprises along the way. I’ve been talking to race director James Finnerty from Lupine Travel about the fastest, the slowest, the cheapest and the most countries visited along the way.

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August 11th - Unexpected items in the billing area

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 14:48:25 GMT

My guide to unexpected items in the billing area, after a British tourist at Lake Como in northern Italy was charged €2 extra for cutting his toasted sandwich in half. US resort fees top my list of unfair charges.

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August 10th - Disruption as usual? Things have been worse...

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 11:42:12 GMT

Whatever disruption you might be encountering this summer, August is so much better than it has been.

In today's travel podcast, I look back at stories I wrote over this corresponding weekend over the past few years and let me tell you, things could be worse. Much worse.

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August 9th - Keeping a lid on delays at Dover

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 16:35:44 GMT

I've been in Dover talking with the port's chief executive, Doug Bannister, who says additional staffing and expanded facilities have proved effective in keeping a lid on delays.

“The numbers are turning up as we expected they would,” he said. “And the ‘dwell times’ we have had before border controls have only once reached the maximum peak we had warned people might be the case.”

It comes after some motorists faced delays of 12 hours or more in July 2022 as the first big post-Covid getaway came into conflict with new post-Brexit passport rules.

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August 8th - The resurrection of US railroad travel?

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 09:07:40 GMT

Five weeks from today, two of Florida’s biggest cities will be linked by express trains. Brightline is due to extend its existing Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach route to a station close to Orlando airport. The 240-mile journey will be covered in three-and-a-half hours for a one-way fare of $79 (£62). A vision of the possible resurrection of US railroad travel ...

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August 7th - Flight delays across the world

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 09:24:38 GMT

British Airways passengers on an Airbus A380 from Johannesburg to London Heathrow went on a 10-hour “flight to nowhere” when Niger’s airspace was suddenly closed late on Sunday night. Other flights between the UK and South Africa have being re-routed or diverted to take on extra fuel or have returned to their starting points as a result of the closure. Airspace over Sudan and Libya is already closed to commercial aviation. The addition of Niger means there is now a block to north-south flights across Africa stretching around 2,600 miles from western Niger to the Red Sea.

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August 4th - The Great Race Across Europe

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 13:53:45 GMT

And they're off (or at least they will be at 10 am on Saturday) on the great Race Across Europe from London to Istanbul, using only public transport. It's a brilliant endeavour, but I won't be one of the 100 contestants. Here's why...

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August 3rd - What's new in Southern France?

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 09:53:36 GMT

I am in southern France, where three splendid new openings have taken place this summer, and I suggest you add them to your list. Specifically, I am on the verandah of the Hotel la Prison, perched on a high bluff next to the cathedral in Beziers. It has just opened as a boutique hotel, and beautifully done it is too. Stay here before it catches on and the prices rise. To the east, in the town of Agde, Chateau Laurens is a one-man folly: an extravagant mansion created by Emmanuel Laurens, with Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and Hollywood flourishes. And to the west, in Narbonne, the spectacular new Narbo Via houses a collection of funerary monuments rescued from the old Roman walls. All are easy to connect by rail in a matter of minutes, and I urge you to add them to your travel list.

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August 2nd - Plans announced for returning to Rhodes

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:41:50 GMT

Holidaymakers whose trips to Rhodes were cut short by wildfires have been offered a week’s free stay on the island by the Greek prime minister. After wildfires ravaged up to 15 percent of Rhodes, Kyriakos Mitsotakis told ITV Good Morning Britain: “The island is perfectly back to normal.”

Around 20,000 tourists were evacuated from resorts in the southeast of the island when wildfires spread on 22 July.

Many overseas visitors were placed in emergency shelters set up in schools and other public buildings, and flown back early in an airlift.

Anyone whose holiday ended early is, according to the prime minister, entitled to a free week.

It is not clear how the offer will work, with key questions unanswered. I have had a stab at answering them with my colleague, Charlotte Hindle.

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August 1st - Plane Etiquette with Simon Calder

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 16:08:44 GMT

Airports are like hospitals and prisons: you really don’t want to be there, and when you are in one you just want to get out as quickly as possible. But it’s important to keep travel etiquette in mind. With peak month for air travel beginning, here’s my essential guide.

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July 31st - France's bewildering bargain public transport options

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 09:11:48 GMT

France has some weirdly inexpensive train tickets, for example the AVANTAGIO' FUTÉ deal in southwestern France this summer that offers flat fares from €3 upwards, well below normal levels. no need to book in advance. There are some even more extreme deals, such as just €1 for a rail journey of almost two hours from Beziers to Millau. Many €1 buses run implausible long distances too. And with driving a pain in France in July and August, they're well worth snapping up.

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Exploring the wonders of Perpignan

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 09:56:00 GMT

To round off the week I have tracked down the centre of the universe – at least according to the great surrealist Salvador Dalí. It’s Perpignan railway station in southwest France. Not every cosmologist will agree with his conclusion, but the city is a most agreeable location.

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July 27th - Two pieces of good news

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 14:42:19 GMT

Very glad to be the bearer of two pieces of good tidings for airline passengers. The Gatwick ground handlers' strikes are off this weekend and almost certainly next weekend too. And Wizz Air has been told to revisit claims for recompense from passengers who were turned down.

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July 26th - A note of caution for the Foreign Office's response to this summer's wildfires

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:42:33 GMT

Unusually today, I am playing the part of the Foreign Office – to justify the wise decision not to warn against travel to Rhodes and other parts of the Mediterranean despite the wildfires that are blazing. To do so would allow people booked to travel to cancel without penalty – but it would also mean holidaymakers who are enjoying trips would need to be flown home (and would cost the travel industry a fortune). During the Covid pandemic, the Foreign Office consular advice became a laughing stock, and it has to repair the damage. Making sweeping announcements to avoid certain destinations would be another step in the wrong direction.

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July 25th - Calls grow for Rhodes to be put on 'No Go' list

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 07:11:07 GMT

Calls are growing for the fire-hit Greek island of Rhodes to be placed on the Foreign Office "no go" list. That would compel travel firms to cancel all holidays for an indeterminate length of time – allowing families having second thoughts about going to a destination hit by such a calamity to get a full refund. But it's not as simple as that...

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July 24th - What lessons can be learned from the response to Greece's wildfires?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 16:33:28 GMT

At the peak of the summer season, wildfires have raged in Rhodes – triggering the chaotic evacuation of thousands of holidaymakers amid distressing circumstances. What lessons will be learnt and what (limited) options are available for people who have yet to travel?

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July 21st - The great getaway gets underway

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 13:14:28 GMT

Many might remember the third Friday in July last year when the queues at Dover were huge for a range of reasons including Brexit. This morning I checked and the port of Dover said the queue for passport control was just twenty minutes long. However tomorrow morning travellers are predicted to be stuck waiting at the port for two and a half hours. So I'll keep my eyes on what happens next with the port as well as how the trains and airports are doing this weekend during the great getaway.

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July 21st - A different region of Germany to possibly discover

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 09:30:27 GMT

With extreme heat across much of southern Europe, travellers are looking for alternatives. I’ve been in western Germany’s Ruhr region, talking to Charles Wilson – travel industry veteran and outgoing Sales Manager UK & Ireland for the German National Tourist Office.

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July 20th - With another round of RMT strikes, Britain's train woes rumble on

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 09:54:48 GMT

I'm back with the pickets at London Euston station on the first day of the latest round of rail strikes. More than half of trains in England have been wiped out as up to 20,000 members of the RMT union walk out in the long and bitter dispute over pay, jobs and conditions. How and when will it end? I wish I knew.

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July 19th - How to cope with extreme heat on your holidays

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:23:50 GMT

As the busiest summer getaway since 2019 begins, travellers to southern Europe are experiencing extreme heat. An area of high pressure appears to have settled over the Med with little sign of abating. What are your rights if this looks too hot to handle – and will it change our travel habits?

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July 18th - Could the package holiday be under threat?

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 10:04:44 GMT

Could the package holiday be under threat? That's the claim from Paul Charles, travel industry veteran and chief executive of the PC Agency. He tells me travellers are worried about committing to package holidays with the cost-of-living crisis.

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July 17th - Your train disruption for the week ahead

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 10:10:26 GMT

Rail industrial action resumes this week in England and here I am explaining what's happening. Monday-Saturday: The overtime ban by train drivers belonging to Aslef will have an impact on London commuter routes (inc Gatwick Express). While on Thursday, Saturday: RMT national strikes, with thousands of trains cancellations.

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July 14th - Strike season continues

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 16:22:18 GMT

I'm back at Gatwick Airport today to talk about the strikes that are being called for later this month, and in early August.

Why are they happening? Could they be called off? Who's threatening to strike, and how could it affect my travel? All these questions are answered, so listen along to find out more.

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July 13th - Drop off rip offs at the airport

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 09:05:40 GMT

I'm at lovely Gatwick airport, looking at the thorny subject of drop-off charges. Are they a drop-off rip-off? Gatwick and Heathrow both emerged from the Covid pandemic with charges for dropping passengers off at the terminals, and the RAC says that many airports have raised their charges by more than inflation this year.

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July 12th - Falling foul of Twitter scams and Easyjet claims

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 17:13:05 GMT

I have been contacted by some villains who are trying to extract some cash from desperate easyjet passengers and here's how it works at the moment. As you will know, 180,000 passengers journeys have been canceled by easyjet. And there's a great deal of pressure people trying to contact the airline and find out what their rights are, get compensation, rebook on sensible flights on other airlines, all that stuff. And so what the scammers do is really very straightforward, appallingly easy.

I take you through my experience to show you how to not fall foul.

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July 11th - What your rights are if your flight is cancelled

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 15:36:54 GMT

Today I'm covering some of the fall-out from the easyJet decision to cancel 1,700 flights over the summer – and in particular stressing your rights if your flight is cancelled. For example, a listener called Jane found her Gatwick-Barcelona trip moved to a Luton-Barcelona departure – and lost a day of her holiday at the end. I advised her to demand easyJet buys perfectly good tickets on rival Vueling, as it is legally required to do. I've contacted the Civil Aviation Authority about some of the communications from easyJet and am looking forward to the CAA reply ...

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July 10th - EasyJet axes more departures

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:00:47 GMT

After weeks of last-minute cancellations to and from London Gatwick airport, easyJet has pre-emptively axed 1,700 further departures over the summer. Britain’s biggest budget airline has taken the drastic action in a bid to get its schedule back on track and to reduce the number of flights that get cancelled while passengers are waiting at the gate. The airline blames severe air-traffic control congestion across Europe for its problems. Most passengers have been notified and rebooked on other easyJet flights, but around 9,000 passengers may have to find seats on other airlines.

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July 7th - More air-traffic control misery?

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:38:35 GMT

More air-traffic control misery? So say some reports today. Staff at Eurocontrol – the omniscient organisation at the heart of Europe's skies – are threatening to strike. Historically the trade union involved, the Union Syndicale Bruxelles , has been about as unmilitant as it is possible to be. My interpretation is that it's more of a cry for help by overstretched staff in a difficult summer, and I believe some kind of settlement will be reached – although that could conceivably include capping the number of flights. But it's against a background of air-traffic control stress that will cause problems through the summer.

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July 6th - Gatwick seeks to boost capacity

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 15:54:47 GMT

London Gatwick, the UK's second-busiest airport, has applied for permission to bring its standby runway into permanent use. Capacity could increase by 37% and be only one-fifth short of current Heathrow movement numbers. But environmental campaigners are outraged ...

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July 5th - The verdicts come in on what could be the biggest revolution in the railway industry in a generation

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:53:04 GMT

In the biggest upheaval in the railway industry for a generation, the vast majority of railway stations in England will be left without ticket offices: that is the plan from the major train operators, with the blessing of government ministers.

But disability campaigners claim the scheme will prevent disabled people from using the rail network entirely, while the boss of the biggest rail union insists it will “create the conditions for a muggers’ paradise on the railways”.

Here's my assessment.

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July 4th - A not-as-easy-as-it-should-be train trip in France

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 09:04:52 GMT

After a few days travelling round by train, I can say it's not just British railway that has its problems. In France, I've found a bewildering array of rules and ticketing related barriers that means getting around on the various different services isn't as easy as it could be. Let me explain...

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July 3rd - New month, same story on the trains. The latest on strike action.

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:27:56 GMT

Over a year on from the start of the first national rail strikes since the 1980s, the dispute over pay, jobs and working conditions appears as intractable as ever. July sees the resumption of industrial action aimed at more than a dozen train operators by both main rail unions.

The unions say their members have not had a pay rise for four years and are demanding a decent, no-strings award that takes into account the high level of inflation.

Train operators and ministers – who must sign off any deal – say reforms are essential following the collapse of rail revenue, which they say is 30 per cent lower than before the Covid pandemic.

The train drivers’ union, Aslef, is mounting “action short of a strike” in the shape of an overtime ban from 3 to 8 July inclusive. Hundreds of trains are being cancelled each day. Later in July – on 20, 22 and 29 – the RMT will be walking out again.

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June 30th - What you can do when it all goes wrong on holiday

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:06:01 GMT

What could possibly go wrong? From last-minute flight cancellations (or missing your flight) to overbooked hotels and empty car-rental lots, your rights when it all goes Tango Uniform.

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June 29th - Travel agents: High Street or online?

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Travel agents: High Street or online? I receive more complaints about online travel agents (OTAs) than any other part of the industry. So why would anyone ever book with them, and what are the potential pitfalls if you do?

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June 28th - Your travel insurance questions answered

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 11:45:27 GMT

Travel insurance: it’s the part of travel that no-one likes to think about, but it’s also – for many trips – an essential. All you need to know on pre-existing conditions, EHIC and GHIC.

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June 27th - Thinking of taking a cruise? Listen to this first

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 11:04:33 GMT

Your rights on a cruise: Cruising can be a great escape, but things go wrong. In particular, what are your rights if the ship diverges from the planned itinerary? And, perish the thought, if you’re left standing on the quayside?

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June 26th - Holiday tips: Which is the best way to use foreign currency?

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 15:41:18 GMT

Holiday Money: cash, credit card, debit card? What’s the best way to handle your travel expenditure, and what pitfalls should you avoid? I answer your questions on the best ways to use foreign currency.

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June 23rd - What Brexit means for travel

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 14:00:33 GMT

I’m a loser – seven years ago I voted to Remain in the European Union, but was on the losing 48% side. So what has the 52% won in terms of travel? I’ve been taking a deep dive into the miracles of duty-free, domestic tourism and blue passports.

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June 22nd - A journey through one of the world's greatest railway stations

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 08:15:28 GMT

One of the world’s great railway stations: London Blackfriars. Honest. It used to be a hub for European travel – with links to the Kent ports. Today it straddles the river Thames, with an entrance on both the north and south bank, and its glass sided platforms provide wonderful views of the capital.

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June 21st - Mick Lynch speaks a year on from the start of national rail strikes action

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:27:59 GMT

It’s a year since the first national rail strikes since the 1980s began. I’ve been speaking exclusively to Mick Lynch, general secretary about the dispute so far, the deadlock and how it might end. I’m afraid that if you, like me, rely on railways for transport, it’s not sounding optimistic.

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June 20th - A flash sale for a European escape

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 15:15:19 GMT

Quick! Eurostar has launched a summer flash sale on its intercity trains linking London with Paris, Lille and Brussels. Those very rare entities, £35 one-way tickets, are available from Monday to Friday from 10 July to 7 September, though with some other black-out dates and only on some less in-demand trains.

Tempted? You have until 11pm British time on Thursday 22 June to avail of the deal, through Eurostar.com or the Eurostar app.

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June 19th - Myth-busting around air turbulence

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 09:38:40 GMT

A British Airways flight from Singapore to London Heathrow hit such severe turbulence over the Bay of Bengal that the plane had to return to its starting point where possible damage was checked. Several BA cabin crew were injured in the incident, in the early hours of 16 June. One newspaper report was headlined: “We were in freefall for 1,000ft.” That did not happen. But just how dangerous is turbulence – and is it getting worse? I’ve been investigating.

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June 16th - Why people check in at the airport then choose not to travel

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 15:34:23 GMT

Today’s travel podcast. Why do people check in bags for a flight but then choose not to travel – and what happens next? I’m aboard a late-running British Airways Airbus A320 from Nuremberg in Germany to London Heathrow. Everything was going swimmingly until two passengers decided, at the last moment, not to travel. That triggered a sequence of events that ended up with us being almost an hour late. An annoying waste of time for everyone; extra fuel burn doing the planet no favours; and lots of stress and expense as a result of missed connections.

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June 15th - A stroll through a royal garden in Denmark

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 10:37:52 GMT

For today’s travel pod, I’ve wandered into the garden of a royal palace – in Denmark, which means it’s access (almost) all areas without formality. Specifically, I’m in the exquisitely pretty town of Møgeltønder, location for Schackenborg Castle – where Prince Joachim, the second son of the Queen of Denmark, lives. The gardens are glorious, a wildlife symphony from melodic birdsong to staccato frogs. Along the main street, 12th-century Møgeltønder church is surely the most intricately beautiful in Scandinavia.

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June 14th - How to minimise air travel disruption

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 10:28:06 GMT

After becoming one of the tens of thousands, who had their flights cancelled this week, I’ve been thinking about how travellers can minimise their personal exposure to disruption.

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June 13th - These acronyms can help you with your travel

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 10:17:47 GMT

Unravelling travel – and getting to the bottom of some of the unending acronyms that seem designed to confuse everyone. Today, it's Abta – the travel association – and Aito, the Association of Independent Tour Operators. What do they do for travellers, and why are they a good idea to be on your side?

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June 12th - The thorny issue of single-leg pricing

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 07:58:03 GMT

Today’s travel podcast is on the thorny subject of single-leg pricing: whereby passengers wanting flexible, one-way off-peak tickets on the East Coast main line can save almost half compared with the fares prevailing last week. I believe it is the first significant step in untangling the incredibly complicated system of rail fares that confuse and deter prospective train travellers. But unless you live in eastern Scotland, northeast England or Yorkshire, it could be a while before it comes to a station near you.

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June 9th - Left high and dry aboard LNER's Aberdeen service

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 14:26:56 GMT

I’m on the 9.52am train from Aberdeen to London King's Cross – the only one in the LNER timetable on which alcohol is banned, and then only as far south as Newcastle. “We expect a number of large groups to be travelling on this train,” says the train operator. “So to help make it a pleasant experience for everyone, we'll be operating an alcohol-free policy for part of the journey.” But drinking is banned on every ScotRail train, and at every Scottish station. In Northern Ireland, the legality of alcohol depends on what sort of train you are on. And on all public transport in London, drinking has been illegal for 15 years.

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June 8th - Chaos, what chaos?

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:11:13 GMT

With 31 days of security strikes threatened at Heathrow, I take a look at what measures will be used to limit the impact of the walk-outs.

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June 7th - Heathrow strikes amid a "major escalation" about pay

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 15:31:55 GMT

London Heathrow airport will see “disruption, delays and cancellations this summer” according to the Unite union. In a “a major escalation” of a pay dispute, it is calling more than 2,000 security staff out on strike for 31 days between June and August.

The action at the UK’s busiest airport is timed to coincide with busy family travel dates, including the start of the main summer holidays in England and Wales, as well as the August bank holiday weekend. Here's my assessment.

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June 6th - My arctic adventure continues

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:37:51 GMT

Part two of my Arctic adventure. In which a train goes missing, a bus stands in, another train has almost no passengers, connections are missed or never truly existed in the first place, many drivers are kind but some are not, and the Miracle of the Train whereby I was heading south from Oslo airport on an express that was due to leave two minutes before my plane from Bodo arrived.

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June 5th - My difficult journey to Sweden

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 10:51:09 GMT

I had a particularly odd journey to Luleå in Sweden. It began with a 25 minute late flight from Stansted, I was met by a train derailment in Arlanda but I did enjoy a taxi instead of a rail replacement bus. Then I had to negotiate with members of an extremely long security queue in order to board my Norwegian flight on time. Thanks to a few strokes of luck I arrived at my final destination but things could have gone badly wrong.

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June 2nd - How to get the cheapest plane tickets

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 14:31:41 GMT

I’m on a plane to Sweden – flying Ryanair from Stansted to Vasteras, an approximation to Stockholm. I know some people will have paid less than me, and some will have paid more: that is the nature of pricing planes, trains and ships. How do companies set prices, and when exactly should you book? If I knew that …

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June 1st - Weigh before fly

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 13:24:31 GMT

Would you tolerate standing on the scales at the airport?

At present, airlines use “assumed mass” – typically 88kg per passenger. Air New Zealand is seeking 10,000 volunteers to ensure that these averages are still accurate. Yet if airlines knew exactly how much each passenger weighs, the captain could load fuel more accurately: reducing fuel burn, and the damage to the planet. Which major airline will be first to introduce the idea?

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May 31 - What to discover in Szczecin

Wed, 31 May 2023 08:06:00 GMT

I’m in Szczecin in northwest Poland – previously known as Stettin, when in German hands.

It’s a fascinating city, as I have been hearing from Szymon Maksymiuk at the city’s tourist office – who explained that Szczecin has the newest “old town” in Europe – dating from the 1990s and still not finished.

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May 30th - The worlds largest passenger jet could be on it's way

Tue, 30 May 2023 17:33:43 GMT

A new transatlantic start-up airline, Global Airlines, says it has acquired its first Airbus A380 SuperJumbo and will fly four of them between London and New York/Los Angeles from next Spring. I'm not marking that in my diary just yet. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/airbus-a380-london-new-york-norse-los-angeles-b2347479.html

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May 29th - How eGates work... and why they break

Mon, 29 May 2023 15:51:29 GMT

When airport eGates work, they're wonderful! Step in, scan your passport and... whiz, you're through!

But that didn't quite happen on Friday night and Saturday when there were failings nationwide causing chaos for passengers trying to enter the country. So, how do these robotic border force agents work? And what happens when they go wrong?

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May 26th - What rights you have if your flight gets cancelled

Fri, 26 May 2023 18:11:08 GMT

My flight at Heathrow, to Prague, has just been cancelled – along with almost 200 other departures since the latest British Airways IT meltdown began. From the airport, here's my take on what's been happening and your (and, on this occasion, my) rights.

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May 25th - Night and day in Ireland’s glorious west

Thu, 25 May 2023 11:16:52 GMT

I'm in County Mayo, Ireland, getting a real night and day experience in Ireland's glorious west. In this episode, I visit Wild Nephin National Park and Blacksod Lighthouse on the Mullet Peninsula, meeting Georgia MacMillan, who tells me a little about the the dark sky park and Mark Ruddy, who explains what there is to explore on the peninsula.

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May 24th - France has banned certian short-haul flights

Wed, 24 May 2023 16:12:07 GMT

“France has banned domestic short-haul flights where train alternatives exist, in a bid to cut carbon emissions,” I read. The report says routes where trains can make the journey in under two-and-a-half hours have been banned – ruling out air travel between Paris and cities including Nantes, Lyon and Bordeaux. Except that those cities have five, six and seven flights a day, each way, to and from Paris CDG. Here’s my take on trains replacing planes on shorter journeys.

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May 23 - Keeping tradition alive on the Wild Atlantic Way

Tue, 23 May 2023 13:37:41 GMT

Today’s travel podcast comes from Glencolmcille Folk Village on the raw northwest shores of Ireland, where I hear from manager Margaret Rose Cunningham about keeping tradition alive – and how the Wild Atlantic Way has brought new eyes to the beautiful land- and seascapes of County Donegal.

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May 22nd - What this Irish National Park has to offer

Mon, 22 May 2023 17:00:44 GMT

I’ve been enjoying the sunshine in Glenveagh National Park in County Donegal, in the far northwest of Ireland, with Head Of Education & Learning Clare Bromley and Ranger Lee McDaid of Ireland’s National Parks and Wildlife Service.

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May 19th - The future of train travel is in a state

Fri, 19 May 2023 10:54:26 GMT

I'm at London Waterloo – the busiest railway station in the UK, and also the home for Network Rail and the Great British Railways Transition Team. The latter is the body that is supposed to be acting as a "guiding mind" for the nation's rail services. Reports this morning say that the legislation necessary to establish GBR won't happen before the next election. Add to that the latest strike called by the RMT, and there are few reasons to be cheerful about the near future of rail – and train travellers.

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May 18th - The only place that Jimi Hendrix called home

Thu, 18 May 2023 11:02:23 GMT

Whether you love 18th-century classical music or 20th-century rock, a top London tourist attraction reopens today, 18 May 2023: the Handel Hendrix House, at 25 Brook Street, London W1. After a £3m restoration lasting nearly two years, the house where George Frideric Handel lived from 1723 until he died in 1759 has reopened in ravishing style. An adjoining flat at no 23 – and part of the same museum – is the only place that Jimi Hendrix called home. Olwen Foulkes, assistant researcher, showed me around for today’s podcast. The museum opens 10am-5pm from Wednesday to Sunday, admission £14.

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May 17th - Why package holidays might have a renaissance

Wed, 17 May 2023 16:27:53 GMT

“We’re seeing the rebirth of package holidays.” That’s the message from Steve Heapy, chief executive of Jet2 and Jet2 Holidays. He’s just announced a very significant expansion for the company: opening a base at Liverpool John Lennon airport from spring 2024 with a big network of holiday flights

Jet2 Holidays has taken over as the biggest tour operator in the UK from TUI – which is itself growing strongly next summer. Great news for holidaymakers.

But is it a wise move for the company?

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May 16th - Will we use space travel to get to Australia?

Tue, 16 May 2023 10:44:40 GMT

Imagine a world where we can get from London to Sydney in two hours. It's a fantasy that the Civil Aviation Authority and the RAF have been working towards. The journey would involve space travel and sustaining a force of 6G on your body. One important thing to be sure of: whether humans could survive the journey. So, recently, a group of healthy participants between 30 and 80 years old were put under similar strains in a centrifuge. Thankfully everyone in the group survived. But does this mean we'll be zipping across the world in no time? Here's what I think.

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May 15th - Suspected drone disrupts and diverts Gatwick Airport flights

Mon, 15 May 2023 09:18:08 GMT

Flights from Gatwick Airport were halted this afternoon due to reports of drone activity close to the airspace.

At least 12 inbound flights were diverted away from Gatwick for almost an hour while an investigation took place into the suspected drone.

Gatwick is the busiest single-runway airport in the world, with little slack in the system when schedules unravel.

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May 12th - Here's what you can do about the train strikes this weekend

Fri, 12 May 2023 16:08:31 GMT

The latest round of rail strikes has begun, bringing 48 hours of misery for train passengers. It is especially aggravating for people hoping to travel to Liverpool for Eurovision. But dare I say it? There are a number of alternatives to rail travel for reaching Merseyside.

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May 11th - Talking Jerusalem with tour guide Ruth Ben Ami

Thu, 11 May 2023 07:29:25 GMT

In today's travel podcast, I chat with tour guide Ruth Ben Ami in the heartland of humanity, Jerusalem.

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May 10th - A look back at the history of British domestic flights

Wed, 10 May 2023 12:53:53 GMT

On this day in 1919, the first commercial air service in Britain began – from Manchester to Southport, a distance of just 40 miles. In the 104 years since then, the range of UK domestic flights has waxed and waned.

I'm at Luton airport, where EasyJet began in 1995 as a purely domestic airline with links to Edinburgh and Glasgow.

As rail links have improved, links like this have reduced – but Northern Ireland and Cornwall continue to benefit from planes rather than terrestrial links.

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May 9th - Why June is the perfect month to get away

Tue, 09 May 2023 16:28:52 GMT

Sun, sea and... school term! June is just weeks away now and it's a contender for one of the best months of the year to get away. In southern Europe you can expect warm temperatures (although expect cool seas!), and inexpensive flights due to a full month of term time for schools.

Also in this episode: what Rome and New York have in common. And, no, it's not a shared love of pizza.

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May 8th - Other than Simon, who can you ask for help?

Mon, 08 May 2023 17:37:02 GMT

I'm always happy to answer your travel questions, and often do so! But, as my colleague Charlotte Hindle points out in this episode, I am only one man...

So, with my mortality recognised, who else can *you* ask for help and travel advice?

Whether you need to get money back after airline issues or need emergency travel, there are multiple examples of when you might need a helping hand, so listen now for a thorough overview of who can be of assistance.

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May 5th - More rail strikes are on the way

Fri, 05 May 2023 09:42:25 GMT

"Mind the gap," says King Charles in the Royal travel announcement that is playing out at stations across the kingdom this weekend. Does he mean the void between the train and platform – or the wide-as-ever gap between the rail unions and the government? More strikes next weekend, and overnight the RMT union announced that members had voted 91% in favour of continuing industrial action. What’s going on, what are the warring sides saying, and why is Saturday 13 May significant (apart from the obvious: Eurovision)?

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May 4th - Heathrow strikes again

Thu, 04 May 2023 16:07:53 GMT

Around 1,400 security staff have walked out at Heathrow airport two days ahead of the Coronation and the bank holiday weekend. Members of the Unite union, mainly employed at Terminal 5, are striking in support of a pay claim. Signs in the terminal warn departing passengers: “There may be some security delays due to industrial action.”

The Fast Track security lanes are closed, but queues for the first wave of departures on Thursday morning were not excessive.

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May 3rd - The Inaugural Trans European Race

Wed, 03 May 2023 12:37:55 GMT

I'm hearing from Dylan Harris, founder of Lupine Travel, about the inaugural Trans-European Race – which starts in central London on 5 August at 10am and concludes as soon as you can reach Istanbul. The distance as the crow flies – or the plane flies – is about 1500 miles. It’s quite a lot longer by public transport and walking, the only forms of travel allowed. Dylan reveals more ...

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May 2nd - US finally drops Covid vaccine rule for foreign visitors

Tue, 02 May 2023 10:26:00 GMT

International travellers will no longer need to demonstrate to airlines that they have received Covid jabs from Friday 12 May.

Florida’s theme parks, Manhattan’s restaurants and California’s road trips are now on the summer agenda for British travellers who have not been vaccinated against the virus.

The rule will expire at the end of the day on Thursday 11 May – which is when America’s “Covid-19 public health emergency” officially ends.

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May 1st - Fresh travel chaos for May

Mon, 01 May 2023 10:01:39 GMT

The month of May has begun with fresh travel chaos. Thousands of travellers hoping to return to the UK today at the end of the bank holiday weekend are being told their flights are cancelled because of striking air-traffic controllers in France. On Tuesday the walk-out at HM Passport Office will be stepped up, and on Thursday security staff at Heathrow airport will walk out again. And later in May, national rail strikes resume. I give details on each and what you as a paying customer are entitled to if disrupted.

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April 28th - What the effects of the latest rail strikes will be

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:44:25 GMT

Travellers trying to reach the Eurovision Song Contest and the FA Cup Final by rail could find their trains cancelled by a series of strikes. The main rail union, the RMT, and the train drivers’ union, Aslef, have called more walk-outs in May and June. Staff will stop work at more than a dozen train operators, including all the key long-distance and commuter rail firms. On Friday 12 May, Wednesday 31 May and Saturday 3 June, train drivers belonging to Aslef will walk out. Aslef has also imposed an overtime ban on eight days between 13 May and 1 June.

The RMT has called a strike by members working at 14 train operators on Saturday 13 May.

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April 27th - Exploring the Luton airport Dart shuttle

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:49:19 GMT

I’m at Luton Airport Parkway (yes, living the dream once more) to test the new Dart shuttle from the railway station to the terminal (not too impressed with the “every 10 minutes” frequency, especially when combined with delayed trains from London) and report on Ryanair deploying shiny new Boeing 737 Max aircraft at Luton in a bid to win hearts, minds and passengers from main incumbents easyJet and Wizz Air.

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April 26th - Why Sunak isn't satisfied with having "third country national" status

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 10:51:49 GMT

After Brexit, the European Union gave us exactly what we wanted in terms of border formalities: "third-country national" status, the same as people from Tonga, Venezuela and other faraway nations, with our passports stamped and scrutinised. Now Rishi Sunak is wondering if a softer approach might be possible. Here's what it's all about.

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April 25th - Find out which rental car is best for you

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 15:45:22 GMT

Today's travel podcast is a version of car-pool karaoke – I'm discussing the best rental cars for work or pleasure with cameraman-director Douglas Bolton. Unlike me, he is a very good and enthusiastic driver. Yet his choice of best all-round vehicle surprised me.

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April 24th - Making sense of travel industry acronyms Abta and Aito

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 12:56:18 GMT

You're not alone if you don't know what Abta and Aito mean. You might see these acronyms being advertised by travel agents and I'm here to help you understand why they're important, what sort of organisation they are, who they serve, how they can help you as a traveller and what kind of legitimacy they give to a travel agent or tour operator. Charlotte Hindle is here with me asking our reader's questions.

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April 21st - Eurostar's new promotion is well worth a look

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 11:15:54 GMT

I'm at London St Pancras International station, to celebrate a useful and straightforward online promotion on Eurostar summer fares: until midnight next Wednesday, 26 April, you can save 10 per cent on Standard and Standard Premier return tickets between 6 June and 23 August. Use the discount code EARTH23 at checkout. On a test booking for a London-Paris trip, outbound on 1 August and back a week later, the lowest return fare falls from £88 to £79.20.

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April 20th - 'May Mayhem' coming to Heathrow airport

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 08:16:31 GMT

Heathrow airport is set for “May mayhem” as security staff walk out again, according to the Unite union. The eight days of strikes are timed to coincide with busy family travel dates as well as the peak days around the Coronation. Here's everything you need to know.

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April 19th - Observations aboard German trains

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 13:33:09 GMT

I’m on the rails in Germany – where the trains have much to recommend them, but punctuality can be a problem. Seamless connections can all too easily fall apart – don’t set your heart on arriving exactly when the Zeitplan says you will.

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April 18th - Delays to Europe's Entry/Exit System continue

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 09:41:14 GMT

British travellers and other “third country nationals” entering the EU will not be required to have their fingerprints and facial biometrics taken until 2024 at the earliest.

Europe’s much-delayed entry/exit system (EES) was expected to take effect in 2021. It is currently due to commence in November 2023. But I understand that the electronic border scheme will not now go ahead this year because the database on which it depends will not be ready in time.

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April 17th - Has Brexit murdered the Orient Express?

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 16:16:37 GMT

After leaving the European Union, the UK demanded British passport holders should be subject to strict passport checks and - soon - fingerprinting and facial biometrics on journeys to the EU.

The time taken to administer these new procedures has led the British leg of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to be cancelled.

Today's travel podcast tells you all you need to know about the history of this celebrated train.

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April 14th - Is the end in sight for rail strikes?

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 16:16:51 GMT

Could the long and bitter dispute that has caused chaos since last June finally be approaching an end game?

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April 13th - Signal failure disaster for London Waterloo station

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:45:00 GMT

Rail disarray once again, as most lines into Britain's busiest railway station are closed from the start of the morning rush hour. Why – and what's being done about it?

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April 12th - A reminder on passport rules. Again.

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 16:46:22 GMT

Passports all over again. For travel with a British passport to the European Union, there are two – and only two – conditions:

On the day of departure to the EU, less than 10 years since the issue date (all kids’ passports meet this test)

On the intended day of return from the EU, at least 3 months until the expiry date.

That’s all. Can everyone stop putting out misinformation, please?

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April 11th - Train misery continues

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 15:50:25 GMT

Rail services are getting back to normal in England, Wales and Scotland after widespread closures for engineering work over the four-day Easter weekend.

But rail passengers in some parts of Britain face continuing problems as some lines will remain closed until June.

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April 10th - Catching up with adventurer Paul Goldstein about his forthcoming trip to Canada

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 18:30:50 GMT

The adventurer and photographer Paul Goldstein is leading a trip to Baffin Island in Arctic Canada – seeking the perfect combination of Northern Lights and polar bears and extreme wilderness. I caught up with him before he went, safe in the warm embrace of his kitchen in Wimbledon.

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April 7th - It's a long way to Dover

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 12:21:09 GMT

On what's shaping up to be the busiest Good Friday since 2019, I travelled by coach to Dover to see whether the issues reported during the week were slowing coach passengers down as passport checks slow everyone. But what I've actually found is people being prioritised today, with my coach being whisked through Dover past lines of cars and lorries.

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April 6th - Ferry, road and rail disruption over Easter

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 14:20:35 GMT

Simon Calder gives you the travel outlook amid ferry, road and rail disruption over the Easter weekend.

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April 5th - What’s the travel outlook for the Easter weekend?

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 15:56:23 GMT

Today’s travel podcast is brought to you from Dover, where last weekend, around 20,000 coach passengers faced delays of 12 hours or more at the port due to enhanced post-Brexit checks.

I bring you the travel forecast for the Easter weekend, amidst flight strikes and delays.

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April 4th - "Leave it in the bag"

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 07:49:17 GMT

I'm at London City, the first airport in the UK (with a million-plus annual passengers) to ditch the rules on liquids and laptops at airport security.

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April 3rd - Everything you need to know about the passport strikes

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 18:25:34 GMT

Passport processing workers are beginning a five week strike, meaning if you're looking to get a British passport any time soon you may encounter delays. I take you through it all.

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March 31 - March has been miserable for travelling, will April be any better?

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:24:11 GMT

March has been miserable for many travellers. Will April be any better?

Not at this rate. I've spent the morning at Heathrow airport, where the latest strike aimed at disrupting travel has begun.

I've been counting how many flights were cancelled today - 78 so far.

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March 30 - British Airways cancels 50 flights due to French air traffic control strikes

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 09:25:07 GMT

I’m at Heathrow, where British Airways has cancelled 50 flights due to a strike by French air-traffic controllers.

Multiple departures to Amsterdam, Hamburg, Nice, Prague and Zurich have been grounded, along with the inbound legs from those cities.

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March 29th - The headwinds facing the travel industry

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 15:57:42 GMT

In today’s travel podcast, I talk with Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of Advantage Travel Partnership, about current travel bargains – and the "headwinds" facing travellers and the industry.

"It's frustrating – all we want to do and all our members want to do is be able to provide consumers with great holidays."

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March 28th - Discussing the Balkans with James Hill

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 15:59:50 GMT

I'm at the New Deal Europe conference in central London, talking all about the Balkans and around with noted tour guide and historian, James Hill.

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March 27 - How striking security staff at Heathrow will disrupt services

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:43:59 GMT

Heathrow security staff are striking for three days, causing all kinds of problems for British Airways. I take you through what to expect and when the strikes will be happening.

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March 24th - Jasmine Birtles explains how to make the most of your holiday travel money

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 17:29:45 GMT

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March 23rd - Peace on the railways?

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:48:05 GMT

The RMT union has suspended the planned national rail strikes on 30 March and 1 April. Could the long and bitter tangle of disputes be all over by Easter?

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March 22nd - America – we need to talk about tipping

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 10:15:46 GMT

When did the minimum gratuity on restaurant meals increase to 20 per cent? Does a coffee take-out really need a tip? And what is an online travel agency doing asking for a tip after it’s just taken over £100 from me? In this episode of the travel podcast, I ask America to have a word with itself over its tipping culture and how it doesn't help anyone.

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March 21st - A most pleasant journey to America

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:44:05 GMT

Flying to the US has been transformed since Covid. My trip across from London Heathrow to Atlanta was the smoothest I have known for years, with new technology easing the time through border control and life in general at the airport and on board far more simple.

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March 20th - Heathrow and Passport Office strikes

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:22:27 GMT

Security officers at Heathrow and Passport Office staff are both taking industrial action in pursuit of pay claims. My message: don’t panic.

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March 17th - Travel to dangerous places: your questions answered.

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 10:15:18 GMT

Many of you, I know, are the thrill-seeking kind that go off to far-flung places looking for adventure. Others of you sometimes have to travel to areas where unrest is frequent and a few of you wind up in dangerous situations by pure bad luck. Never fear though, in this episode I answer your questions on what to do when visiting dangerous places.

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March 16th - It's midway through March, what better time to visit the Mediterranean?

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 09:11:20 GMT

The weather's not quite turned for the better, you've been at work for far too long already and summer holidays seem a mile away. What better time to visit the Mediterranean than now? I've done that exact thing and in this episode tell you about the joys of a mid-March getaway.

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March 15th - Train delays and cancellations. Your rights to compensation and care.

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 14:41:12 GMT

The rail industry is facing cancellations and delays due to strike action, with the London Underground workers striking today and a national rail strike tomorrow. Seems like a good time to remind you as rail passengers of what you can expect and claim for in terms of compensation when trains are delayed or cancelled on you.

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March 14th - Turkey's Bodrum Peninsula, full of surprises and well worth exploring

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 17:35:00 GMT

I'm in Turkey, in the wonderful Bodrum Peninsula, which I am finding full of surprise and in this episode I'll tell you all the bits worth exploring.

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March 13th - Flight delays, your rights and how to claim them

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:19:27 GMT

Recently airlines have been letting us down, with a lot of delays to journeys across the industry. It's a good time to be reminded of your rights as a passenger; when you claim for compensation due to delays and what is counted and not counted as a delay.

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March 10th - Wintry weekend travel disruptions

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 18:01:01 GMT

Extreme wintry weather plus air-traffic control strikes in France spell a miserable day for many travellers. Problems are likely to continue into the weekend. Good luck, everybody.

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March 9th - Heathrow passenger charges

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 15:16:54 GMT

I’m in the Taurus mountains of southern Turkey, beside a tranquil reservoir, but the row over how much each passenger at the UK’s busiest airport should pay for the privilege is rumbling.

Heathrow says the average £27.50 per person charge prescribed by the Civil Aviation Authority is not nearly enough to deliver the standards passengers deserve; airlines are furious and say the figure is way above other airports.

The blunt truth is that Heathrow is more popular with passengers – and airlines – than any other airport on the planet, and that without the CAA cap charges would be stratospheric.

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March 8th - Network Rail strike cancelled

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 11:23:16 GMT

Members of the RMT union working for Network Rail have called off their strike that was set to take place on 16 March. They called off the strike (along with overtime bans) while a referendum takes place on the latest offer.

Many more trains will now run on that day. But strikes by staff at 14 train operators on 16, 18, 30 March and 1 April are set to continue.

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March 7th - Your baggage questions answered

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 07:17:21 GMT

Baggage, a sometimes fraught and confusing system many of us encounter when things go awry. In today's episode, I sit down and go through the post bag, answering your questions on baggage - how it works when things go wrong, who's responsible and how best to go about being reunited with your luggage.

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March 6th - Rail’s North–South Divide

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:25:22 GMT

Today I’m on my way from London to Leeds – the pretty way, via Sheffield, using a £45 Advance ticket on East Midlands Railway to a station called Darton – where I will spend another £6 to complete the journey. Yes, it takes a good hour longer, but saves around £50.

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March 3rd - Luton's new Airport DART system

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 12:58:41 GMT

Today I'm recording from a live test of the new Luton Airport DART system connecting the Parkway rail station with the terminal.

I talk to Javeria Hussain who is chair of Luton Rising – the organisation that runs Luton Airport — about the new system.

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March 2nd - A new way of getting to America

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 18:07:14 GMT

Norse Atlantic is the new kid on the block from Gatwick to the US this summer. It might have a terrible name, in my opinion, but could it mean savings galore on travel to the United States?

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March 1st - March rail strikes

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 12:05:43 GMT

It's the first of March — Happy St David's Day — so I thought I should warn you about what you can expect if you're travelling around by train this month.

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February28th - What to do when passenger names are wrong

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 11:24:25 GMT

One of the most frequent questions I get asked is about what to do if a passenger name is incorrect on a booking. Airlines are very eager that names be correct, while trains in the UK aren't bothered at all. In this episode, I guide you through what the rules are and what you can do about an incorrect name on a booking.

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February 27th - ETIAS postponed again

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 15:50:57 GMT

I regularly trawl the European Union site for news about the “ETIAS” scheme and have seen that they have quietly changed the target date.

It turns out that British travellers to the EU will not need a £6 “eurovisa” until 2024 at the earliest.

The scheme has been under development for at least the last seven years and was due to begin in 2021, but has been repeatedly postponed.

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February 24th - The golden age of air travel

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 17:00:03 GMT

Why has air travel become so fraught with difficulties?" So asks a reader. "50 years ago travelling by plane was exciting and reliable. Now it seems like an obstacle course."

Well, I beg to differ about the Golden Age of Air Travel.

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February 23rd - Visiting the Armistice Carriage

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 18:24:59 GMT

I'm in Compiègne in northern France, which has a compelling chateau to rival Versailles and Fontainebleau, and also the 'Armistice Carriage' – the railway car where the German surrender in World War I and the French surrender in World War II were both taken.

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February 22nd - Why I value being the last person on the plane

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 18:19:49 GMT

How do you get the best seat on a plane? Well, I'll outline my strategy: I tend to get on last. But let me warn you that it doesn't always work.

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February 21st - French trains, on a budget

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 18:07:41 GMT

For the first time, I am trying the French notion of no frills trains.

French railways has a budget brand called Ouigo. It uses the same high speed trains, but with higher density seating, no buffet car and strict rules on check-in and baggage. But for £10 from the deep south of France to somewhere near Paris, I’ll take it.

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February 20th - How to get the most from a Safari

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 17:04:34 GMT

On today's travel podcast, I speak with wildlife guide and safari camp owner Paul Goldstein about how to get the most from a Safari.

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February 17th - A talk with Manchester Museum Director, Esme Ward

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:00:26 GMT

On today's podcast, I chat with Manchester Museum Director, Esme Ward about what visitors can expect from the museum, having just opened its doors for the first time in almost 18 months after undergoing a £15m transformation project.

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February 16th - Claiming your just deserts when things go wrong with travel

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:11:03 GMT

I'm joined on today's podcast by my colleague Charlotte Hindle, and we're discussing how to get your money back when travel plans go awry.

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February 15th - In praise of overnight sleeper trains

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 17:20:59 GMT

Today's travel podcast is in praise of overnight sleeper trains – but many of them exist only because they are hugely subsidised by taxpayers.

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February 14th - The least and most romantic places in the world

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 09:00:04 GMT

Today is Valentine's Day and I'm joined by Travel Editor (and also, I like to think, Chief Romance Correspondent) of the Independent, Helen Coffey, to discuss the least and most romantic places in the world to travel.

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February 13th - The interminable rail strike

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 12:06:23 GMT

In today's travel podcast, I answer the big question on everyone's mind: when will the next rail strikes...strike?

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February 10th - UK Border Force strike

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:44:37 GMT

The Home Office is warning British travellers to “prepare for disruption” during a strike by members of UK Border Force.

I'm on the seafront at Dover, discussing the strike which is due to take place over the key February half-term weekend: Friday 17 to early on Monday 20 February.

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February 9th - Capturing the best travel photograph

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 17:18:15 GMT

In today's podcast, I sit down with award-winning photographer Paul Goldstein as he encourages people to improve their camera skills, and be more ambitious with their travel photography.

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February 8th - Answering your questions about travel vouchers

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 18:14:11 GMT

I'm answering your questions on the thorny issue of travel vouchers — I think it's better to just get cash.

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February 7th - A talk with the general manager of Belfast’s Europa Hotel

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 11:59:25 GMT

In this episode, I chat with Andy McNeill, general manager of the Europa Hotel in Belfast.

We talked in the Titanic Suite of the Northern Ireland landmark.

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February 6th - Return rail tickets to be scrapped - or will they?

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 11:23:57 GMT

The government says it will go for "single leg pricing" on the railways – an extremely valuable and overdue change, but I am not convinced it will happen.

I hope I am wrong.

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February 3rd - Talking travel with Adrian Phillips

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 16:56:23 GMT

In today's podcast, Simon Calder talks with leading travel writer and author of Bradt guides to Budapest and Hungary, Adrian Phillips.

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February 2nd - Heathrow boss to stand down this year

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 18:08:08 GMT

Some big news broke this morning: the chief executive of Heathrow airport, John Holland-Kaye, it to stand down after nine years in the role.

Here's my assessment of the departing boss of the UK's biggest airport — and who is likely to succeed him.

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February 1st - Where to grab a drink now Dry January's finished

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 16:01:40 GMT

Dry, cold January is done with and you might be contemplating celebrating the fact with a tipple somewhere nice. In today's episode, I speak with Lucy Thackray, deputy travel editor, about her favourite spots for a drink.

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January 31st - All you need to know about the next rail strikes

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 10:52:04 GMT

The next round of national rail strikes are set to begin on Wednesday (tomorrow). Here's all you need to know about the services likely to be affected.

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January 30th - Your rights as passengers of Flybe

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 17:19:52 GMT

Flybe, the UK regional airline, has gone bust for a second time – with the loss of hundreds of jobs and leaving the travel plans of thousands of passengers in tatters. The news was broken at 4am on Saturday by the Civil Aviation Authority, which is urging travellers with bookings on Flybe not to go to the airport. My assessment of the situation and what you can do as a passenger due to travel with the airline.

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January 27th - When your booking doesn't meet expectations

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:29:51 GMT

One of the most common questions sent to me is what to do if your booking isn't as was advertised. I take you through what you as a consumer can demand, as well as some hints and tips in general when it comes to making bookings for things like accommodation.

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January 26th - Three great travel options on Australia Day

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 09:00:33 GMT

On Australia Day – a time of contemplation more than celebration these days – I've sought advice on three great travel options from Tony Wheeler, co-founder of Lonely Planet.

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January 25th - Why are Eurostar trains running with empty seats?

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 11:28:09 GMT

Eurostar is capping the number of passengers on its trains through the Channel Tunnel because of the squeeze created by post-Brexit passport checks.

I’m reporting on my way back from Brussels from a Eurostar train with plenty of room.

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January 24th - Newark Works: Bath's renovated landmark

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 12:31:02 GMT

Roman remains, Georgian glory and Jane Austen’s chapters: there are plenty of good reasons to travel to Bath.

But I’ve been discovering a new dimension, Bath Quays – only eight minutes’ walk from the station and with Newark Works (a converted crane factory) as a “creative hub”.

Richard Pearce, the man whose vision this is, told me more…

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January 23rd - First class for the price of Standard on Southeastern Trains

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 11:00:00 GMT

The posh seats on trains from Kent and East Sussex to London are still fitted, but anyone can sit in them. But while one train firm scraps first class due to lack of demand, others are creating extra classes.

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January 20th - Havoc caused by closure of Manchester airport

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 17:28:35 GMT

Manchester airport closed down briefly on Thursday morning – causing havoc for thousands of travellers. Many of them are still struggling to get where they need to be.

What went wrong, why did airlines respond as they did – and what are your rights?

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January 19th - Could we soon see an end to one of the bitter rail disputes?

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 17:21:25 GMT

Could we soon see an end to at least one of the long and bitter rail disputes? I'm 70% optimistic.

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January 18th - Why is there increased demand for flights?

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 15:55:22 GMT

On the day the Office for National Statistics said air fares had soared by 44% in December 2022, Simon Calder looks into what is driving the increase and whether flight prices will start coming down soon.

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January 17th - What you need to know about passport expiry

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 11:51:47 GMT

There's been quite a bit of confusion around passport validity and expiry times with regards to being able to travel, with Brexit leading to changes for British travellers. I've received huge volumes of questions on the matter and with Charlotte Hindle I answer your questions around passports and when and where requires more than six months on your existing passport.

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January 16th - Leon Daniels discusses the future of surface transport

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 15:21:45 GMT

Ten days ago I was waxing lyrical about London's 63 bus. The future of surface transport in the capital, I called it. Well, after that Leon Daniels – former managing director of Surface Transport for Transport for London – got in touch to say that many of the innovations I welcomed had, in fact, been in place for years. So I invited Leon to tell us all more.

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January 13th - When that bargain looks too good to be true, it probably is

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 17:53:01 GMT

Travel fraud is on the rise as people become ever more desperate to find a bargain. But what are the warning signs? I'll take you through the ways to spot if something isn't as good as it looks and ways you can double-check to make sure it's the real thing you're booking.

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January 12th - How will US/Cuba tensions impact travel?

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 18:39:51 GMT

I'm joined by my colleague Charlotte Hindle and we are tackling a frequently asked question — this time on the US/Cuba tension, and how it could impact your travel plans.

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January 11th - FAA outage: What is a NOTAM?

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 17:57:01 GMT

A Notice to Air Missions, or NOTAM, is so very important in keeping air travel safe — but what is it?

In today's podcast I'll explain what happened during the FAA system meltdown, which resulted in thousands of flights being grounded across the US.

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January 10th - What is the state of the railway?

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 17:54:52 GMT

Rail passengers across Britain are experiencing the first days free of industrial action for weeks. The last of five days of strikes ended in the early hours of Sunday morning, with full services for the first time almost everywhere in the country.

The RMT union’s overtime ban, which has caused thousands of train cancellations in the past few weeks, is also over. But the long and bitter dispute drags on, which is why I wanted to bring you up to date on the state of the railway.

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January 6th - The new number 63 bus

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 17:53:55 GMT

I'm on the new all-electric 63 bus — the first route in London that has that characteristic. It's very much an experimental bus route that's been created to encourage more people to get back on public transport. This is because, since the pandemic, fare revenue in the capital has dropped off a cliff.

So, let me explain to you why it's important to get back on the bus network.

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January 5th - Rail strikes: When do they end?

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 09:49:42 GMT

Following a 48hr strike by RMT members, Aslef members are now striking, crippling train services across much of England. It's a truly miserable start to the year for the country's rail industry and one that doesn't seem to have a resolution in sight as union delegates and the government blame one another for lack of progress. I take a look at the current situation and what it'll take to get the situation resolved.

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January 4th - My stay in Hurghada

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 18:22:10 GMT

In today's podcast I've made my way to the Egyptian beach resort town of Hurghada, and I tell you all about how my journey is going so far…

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January 3rd - A speedy dash through Gatwick Airport

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 12:57:47 GMT

Today's travel podcast comes from Gatwick Airport, where I hope to begin my last-minute travels to Egypt.

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January 2nd - Bus fee cap introduced until end of March

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 15:30:33 GMT

Millions of people across England can save money on bus travel with the introduction of a £2 cap on fares for more than 4,600 routes. It lasts until the end of March.

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December 29th - Will the UK impose restrictions on travellers arriving from China?

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 15:45:03 GMT

After Italy, the US and several other countries imposed restrictions on travellers arriving from China, what is the likelihood the UK could follow suit?

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 28th - Hong Kong finally opens to vaccinated travellers

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 18:59:51 GMT

Hong Kong, one of the last big tourism destinations in Asia with onerous Covid travel restrictions, has lifted almost of them for vaccinated visitors – starting immediately.

The government says the move has been made “to fully leverage Hong Kong’s strengths in connecting with the world”. But is it too late to lure travellers back after a ban on tourists?

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 27th - Can the railways be rescued?

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:10:16 GMT

I'm at Paddington Station where the great reset following the Christmas break and recent industrial action was supposed to be behind us. Unfortunately for many travellers though, the railways continue to be in a right old state. When this shambles of strikes, overrunning engineering work, signal failures and general mayhem is finally over, the railway industry will have a heck of a job to do to try to entice passengers back.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 26th - Lamenting the state of the railways

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 18:05:30 GMT

As industial action plays on, I take a look at what's gone wrong and what is actually running on the rails today,

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December 22nd - Rail increases... a fair fare?

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 16:30:59 GMT

Rail fares in England will rise by nearly 6 per cent in March, the Department for Transport (DfT) have said.

The DfT has set a cap of 5.9% for increases to fares regulated by the government, such as season tickets on most commuter journeys, some off-peak return tickets on long distance journeys and flexible tickets for travel around major cities.

So, in this episode I explore whether this rise in fares is... fair.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 21st - Christmas travel this coming weekend

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 19:22:36 GMT

Travellers are getting really stressed about reaching their Christmas destinations.

I would advise to please start as early as you can — and if you were thinking of driving on Friday or Saturday, avoid the middle of the day. Bear in mind that trains are going to be very busy on Friday and shutting down very early on Christmas Eve, but I'm very much hoping everyone will get where they need to be.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 20th - Explaining British Airways cancellations

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 15:10:38 GMT

British Airways has been forced to cancel dozens of long-haul flights. I explain what caused the problem, what the likely consequences will be and your rights as a passenger. Also, an update on expected disruption by industrial action over the coming days.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 19th - Next rail strike to cause Christmas Eve cancellations

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 18:13:01 GMT

I'm on a train yet again – the 100mph (average speed!) new nonstop from Coventry to London. But less than brilliant news about the extreme Christmas Eve cancellations caused by the next rail strike.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 16th - Airport security rules for baggage over the Christmas period

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 18:09:08 GMT

You will have heard that airport security rules surrounding cabin baggage are to be relaxed in June 2024. It'll allow you to leave liquids, laptops, and all that other malarky, in your handheld luggage.

However, until then nothing has changed, so I will remind you of what you can and can't put in your bag as you fly over the Christmas period.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get delivered every Friday to your inbox by signing up here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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December 15th - Train strikes: TSSA union accepts National Rail pay deal

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 16:41:34 GMT

There has been a development with the train strikes. As rail workers belonging to the RMT union prepare for 10 more days of national strikes, members of the white-collar TSSA union have voted “overwhelmingly” to accept the pay deal offered by Network Rail.

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December 14th - So what exactly is the Network Rail strike all about?

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 18:20:12 GMT

A listener asked me what exactly the train strikes that have been endured this week are about, a question that's not that simple to answer. But here I am trying to give a broad overview of the reasons for the strikes and what the next steps are.

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December 13th - Mick Lynch, rail strikes and terrible weather

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 17:55:22 GMT

As the UK deals with the latest round of national rail strikes, I'll be talking about the interesting media figure, and person, that is the general secretary of the RMT union, Mick Lynch.

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December 12th - Airport chaos after a weekend of snow

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:57:06 GMT

Airline schedules have been torn up on Monday, withThe Independent identifying more than 320 flight cancellations to and from London’s airports alone.

So is the UK terrible at coping with extreme weather? Well, I don't think it is, actually.

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December 9th - Where you’ll be able to travel by train during the rail strikes

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 17:56:53 GMT

The most protracted and disruptive national rail strikes since 1989 begin on Tuesday 13 December. They involve walk-outs on a total of 12 days, stretching into the New Year, by the RMT union as well as some industrial action by the TSSA and Unite unions.

But so long as you plan carefully, there is no reason to avoid the trains on strike days – thousands of them will be running.

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December 8th - UK Border Force strikes and what it could mean for your journey

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 16:19:55 GMT

The UK Border Force have announced a series of strike days as Britain's winter of discontent continues. I detail what the strike is over and when the days will be, and what it will mean for Britain's airports during the some of the busiest times of the year.

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December 7th - Despairing at the state of the railways

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:55:20 GMT

Today's podcast is from Burton-upon-Trent station in Staffordshire, and I am speaking about the state of the railways, and why I am despairing.

I've based that on new strikes being called by the RMT union and the dispute surrounding it, which suggests to me that we are in for the long haul.

It's not great for the future of the railways, and it's not great for the traveller.

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December 6th - Trying to apply for an Indian eVisa

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 16:50:46 GMT

Today I speak to you from the kitchen where I am trying to apply for a visa to India. Breathtaking bureaucracy and a fall at the last hurdle.

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December 5th - India's eVisa opens again for UK travellers

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 16:22:21 GMT

Since the end of the Covid crisis, UK passport holders have been barred from the eVisa scheme due to a political dispute on access to Britain for Indian travellers.

The option was restored for nationals of 156 countries, including all 27 European Union members. But the UK was in a small minority of nations whose citizens must apply in person for a visa.

The process is far more expensive and time-consuming than the online eVisa, and there is a long waiting list for appointments at Indian visa centres in the UK.

But the High Commissioner for India in London, Vikram Doraiswami, has now issued a video message saying: “This service will be made available for you forthwith.

“That should enable friends from the UK to travel far more easily to India."

The video was accompanied by a tweet saying: “eVisa facility will again be available for UK nationals travelling to India. System upgrade is underway and the visa website will soon be ready to receive applications from friends in the UK”.

But it is not clear exactly when operations will resume. The UK does not appear on the list of nationalities for which the eVisa is an option.

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December 2nd - Train provider competition to intensify between English and Welsh capitals

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 15:42:49 GMT

I'm in London Paddington station with news of intensified competition on the line between the English and Welsh capitals.

Starting in 2024, Grand Union Trains will run five times daily from Carmarthen via Cardiff and Bristol Parkway to London, in competition with GWR.

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November 30th - Eurostar security staff to strike in December

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 15:20:46 GMT

Travellers hoping to escape by train to Paris, Brussels or Amsterdam in the run-up to Christmas could have their plans wrecked by the latest strike call.

Members of the RMT union working at London St Pancras as security staff for Eurostar will walk out on four days in a dispute over pay.

Read the full story here: https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/eurostar-strike-london-paris-brussels-amsterdam-b2236106.html

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November 29th - Airports within walking distance of the city centre

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 16:59:55 GMT

On a recent trip to Doha, and wrestling with the airport's rubbish wifi, I've had a think about airports and their proximity to the cities they serve. Whether it's Florence or Gibraltar, there's a host of great airports within walking distance of the city centre.

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November 28th - World Cup fever at a discount

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 17:17:38 GMT

The World Cup is reaching the knockout phases and many are looking to head to Qatar on a last-minute whim. Which might be great timing, for I can reveal collapsing air fares to Qatar for the World Cup, and slumping hotel rates when you get there. There are some catches and things to be aware of though, which I explain.

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November 25th - Looking ahead to Saturday's Rail Strikes

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 15:27:53 GMT

Simon Calder gives you the rundown on what is and isn't running with Saturday's Aslef union strike action.

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November 24th - RMT boss talks with new transport secretary

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 13:53:29 GMT

As train firms warn rail passengers to “only travel by train if necessary” on Saturday 26 November, ahead of the next strike, the leader of the rail union has begun talks with the new transport secretary.

I'm outside the Department for Transport to ask Mick Lynch how planned industrial action will hit passengers around Christmas.

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November 23rd - Let's talk biometrics

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:35:25 GMT

I've come across the story of a farmer who was hoping to enter the US but her occupation has meant that her fingerprints have all but been erased on her hands, which causes an interesting problem for biometric measures at borders. In this episode I talk about how frontier fingerprinting can be frustrating – but facial recognition is the way forward for travel.

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November 22nd - Break up long journeys by changing planes

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 13:59:18 GMT

Long flights between the UK and Southeast Asia (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore) currently take even longer as they are obliged (because of Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine) to take a southerly track.

Given that, is it worth changing planes in the Gulf to reduce the rigours of a 6,000-mile-plus journey?

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November 21st - The rules and regulations around the Qatar World Cup

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:51:02 GMT

Simon Calder reflects on the latest rules imposed on the tournament - including an 11th-hour beer ban - which kicked off in the Gulf state over the weekend.

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November 18th - A week in Singapore

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 17:20:19 GMT

I've been in Singapore for a week, here is what I have learnt about this fascinating and friendly city-state.

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November 17th - British Airways new route out of Heathrow

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 16:59:14 GMT

British Airways used to fly to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul and many places in Australia besides Sydney. BA has just announced another route from London Heathrow. But it's not restoring any of these dropped destinations ... the link is to Cincinnati, Ohio.

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November 16th - Exploring Singapore’s Holland Village

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 18:19:37 GMT

I’m in Holland Village in Singapore, where it is possible to eat and drink your way around the world along Lorong Mambong and Lorong Liput.

From Irish and German via Thai and Chinese to the multi-purpose “Indian-Western-Italian-Mexican” combine known as the Pink Panther. If you can’t find it here, you’re probably better off without it.

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November 15th - In praise of daytime flights between the UK, South East Asia and Australia

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 12:17:15 GMT

In praise of daytime flights between the UK, the Gulf, South East Asia and Australia. Grab a proper night's sleep in each location along the way and arrive feeling human (as I very much didn't after the 13-hour flight to Singapore).

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November 14th - Booking a hotel room, the "old school" way

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 17:45:16 GMT

Hotels: why it's worth going "old school" and checking out a room before you take it. As well as asking if there's a wedding group booked in.

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November 11th - Yet another rail union strike

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:27:35 GMT

As another rail union calls another national strike, I'm despondent about the future of the railway.

The train drivers’ union, Aslef, has announced a one-day strike at a dozen train operators on Saturday 26 November. The walk out will trigger widespread cancellations.

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November 10th - London's Elizabeth line on a strike day

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 16:38:52 GMT

On today's travel podcast, I'm speaking to you from London's Elizabeth line on a strike day. Better than nothing, but could do better.

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November 9th - A celebration of tram travel around the world

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 15:16:31 GMT

Today's podcast comes from the Manchester Metrolink, which three years ago was selected as one of the top five tram systems. Not sure I would rate it that highly.

But from the Belgian coastal tram to Melbourne's free city-centre network, trundling along is a pleasure.

Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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November 8th - Red tape nightmare wrecks thousands of holidays to India

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 17:04:15 GMT

I’m at the annual World Travel Market in London’s ExCel centre - back in full swing for the first time since the pandemic - where I’m looking at how a red tape tangle has ruined thousands of holiday plans to India.

Before the pandemic, the vast majority of UK visitors entered India on an eVisa – a relatively simple online system.

But when the nation opened up to tourism in February 2022, and the eVisa system was restored for over 150 countries, travellers from the UK were excluded.

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November 7th - Rail strikes called off, but disruption continues

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 17:31:55 GMT

The rail strikes were called off on Friday afternoon. So why will disruption continue until Thursday morning? The rail industry is complicated and you can't just flick a switch and watch the trains come back to life.

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November 4th - Travel Smart: The Independent launches a new travel show

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 13:53:12 GMT

I want to tell you about a new project from the travel desk at The Independent — Travel Smart.

It's a brand new series of videos from the travel team that aims to provide viewers with all the information and inspiration they need to plan their next trip.

Learn more about the first episode here: https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/travel-smart-tv-show-launch-b2215105.html

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November 3rd - Germany introduces one-month public transport ticket

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 17:36:02 GMT

Today's episode is about celebrating the new €49 one-month ticket that provides access all areas on public transport in Germany.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my weekly newsletter. Get it delivered every Friday to your inbox by subscribing at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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November 2nd - The world’s busiest International air routes

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 18:24:09 GMT

I tell you the world’s busiest air routes around the world, according to a list compiled by the schedule analysts OAG – and they are very different compared with before the Covid pandemic.

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November 1st - From an interminable passport queue at Heathrow Terminal 2

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 12:01:16 GMT

Today's podcast comes from an interminable passport queue at Heathrow Terminal 2. Only a limited number of planes are allowed to touch down at the UK's busiest airport before 6am, which means they avoid having to fly holding patterns before arrival and the wait for UK Border Control is short. That’s one reason I paid a premium for the pre-6am arrival on Singapore Airlines. But when the carrier decided to wait for transferring passengers before leaving Singapore, the schedule started to unravel.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my weekly newsletter. Get it delivered every Friday to your inbox by subscribing at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 31st - Here's what I've found flying into Singapore

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 16:08:31 GMT

I'm in Singapore, and here's a few things I've learnt from travelling here – from airport formalities to the all-you-can-eat buffet with penalties attached.

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October 28th - What Heathrow’s capacity controls could mean

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 18:59:27 GMT

The final podcast of the week is brought to you from King’s Creek Station in Australia's Northern Territory. But I’m not talking about Australia - except in the context of how to get to and from there over Christmas since Heathrow Airport announced it will lift the passenger cap this weekend.

Of course this podcast is free, like my weekly newsletter, which is available to subscribe to at: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 27th - The wonders of Simpson’s Gap

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 18:24:29 GMT

Today's travel podcast comes from a very echoey Simpson's Gap just outside Alice Springs in central Australia. This is a gorge carved over millions of years through the West MacDonnell Ranges – Tjoritja in the language of the Aboriginal caretakers of this land.

Simpson's Gap is the most accessible of the gorges that perforate the ranges. You can also take in Standley Chasm, with 80-metre high walls, and Ormiston Gorge – where your reward is a dip in a natural waterhole.

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October 26th - A tale of two sunset cruises in Australia’s Northern Territory

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 16:31:52 GMT

My Australian adventure continues as I enjoy two very different sunset cruises in the country’s Northern Territory; the Yellow Water Cruise in Kakadu National Park, and a tour of the Nitmiluk Gorge in the Katherine River.

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October 25th – Darwin – a city transformed

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 16:52:46 GMT

Greetings from a hot, tropical Darwin! I'm in the capital of Australia's Northern Territory – a city transformed, full of life and diversity, and quite different from the one I last visited 15 years ago.

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October 24th - Connecting flights, and why you shouldn't fret too much about them

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:09:01 GMT

Simon Calder is in Darwin, Australia, where he's talking you through why you don’t need to fret over connecting flights (or even check any luggage).

Of course this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 21st - The wonders of Victoria Coach Station

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 18:05:56 GMT

For the final travel podcast of the week, I have come along to one of my favorite transport hubs anywhere: Victoria Coach Station in central London.

The range of destinations is remarkable, the building is beautiful, and there is a real sense of shared humanity.

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October 20th - Spain finally drops demand for Covid jabs

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 17:53:06 GMT

Today’s podcast is brought to you from London’s Carnaby Street where, amongst the throngs of shoppers, I’ll be talking about Spain, which has rather abruptly announced the ending of Covid-19 restrictions.

The nation, which is the most popular overseas destination for British holidaymakers, has lagged well behind most of the rest of Europe in removing vaccination and testing rules.

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October 19th - More rail strikes. How does it all end?

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 15:55:34 GMT

The latest round of national rail strike dates have been announced. The ongoing dispute shows little sign of ending but slowly there seems to be more dialogue about what the government is expecting and what they feel the unions have to accept. But what will bridge the gap between the two sides?

Of course this podcast is free, like my weekly newsletter, which is available to subscribe to at: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 18th - When cruises go bad

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 15:40:23 GMT

There's been a couple of cases of voyages going a little bit wrong the past week or so, and it can be very annoying for passengers. I tell you all about it.

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October 17th - Frustration as Christmas trains still not available to book

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 16:53:22 GMT

I’m at a particularly busy Waterloo station as many services have been delayed or cancelled owing to signalling problems.

But today’s podcast is thinking forward to Christmas, with travellers growing frustrated as rail tickets are currently not available to book for the festive period.

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October 14th - Confusion on travel restrictions continue for the British government

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 16:08:57 GMT

In the last travel podcast of the week – I'm confused about the government. Not the trouble at the top, but why a travel journalist should have to be alerting various parts of the UK government to what the actual rules are for British travellers to Europe since Brexit.

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October 13th - Travelling along Morocco's fabulous trains

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 13:06:51 GMT

I'm aboard a Moroccan train, from Casablanca heading north to the capital Rabat. This nation has the best network in Africa, with proper high-speed trains running between Tangier and Casablanca, plus user-friendly ticketing. For once, I am travelling in first class – upstairs in a comfy seat. Fares here are such good value that you can afford to treat yourself.

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October 12th - What I said and discovered speaking with the Transport Select Committee

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 14:27:54 GMT

I was the warm-up act for today's Transport Select Committee hearing about travel disruption over the summer. Here's what I said, and what I learnt.

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October 11th - 2022 Travel Convention with ABTA's chief executive

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:46:31 GMT

Today it's a special edition from the 2022 Travel Convention – featuring Mark Tanzer, chief executive of the travel association Abta, on sustainability, consumer protection and the value of travel professionals.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get directly to your inbox by subscribing here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 10th - Eurovision comes to Merseyside

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 12:38:42 GMT

Liverpool has beaten Glasgow to be the host city of 2023's Eurovision song contest. Ukraine memorably won 2022's competition and while they would have had several fantastic locations, the war with Russia has meant that Britain have been asked to host this year. Many will be happy to see Liverpool, where some would say modern music emerged from, has won the right to host but already prices for accommodation have skyrocketed and alternatives may need to be sought out as the rest of Europe descends upon the city.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 7th - More train strikes coming

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 14:23:51 GMT

More train strikes are coming, but remember: if a train is running, and you have a flexible (off-peak/anytime) ticket and can physically squeeze on board, then you are able to travel – so if it says "no tickets available", don't be deterred.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter that you can get delivered to your inbox every Friday. Subscribe here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 6th - The political decisions working against British travellers

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 16:49:10 GMT

British travellers are being impeded by decisions made by lawmakers elsewhere in the world, and it's not on. America's laws to isolate Cuba further has seen British travellers. If you've been to Cuba since March 2011 then you're not eligible for the ESTA scheme, which is ridiculous. And Indian politicians are also making laws that impede us British travellers. I give you the lowdown on what the rules mean.

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October 5th - Travel chaos as rail workers walkout over pay

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 14:35:36 GMT

Today's podcast is brought to you from a deserted Paddington Station, as train workers stage another strike as part of a long-running dispute over pay, jobs and conditions.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter that you can get delivered to your inbox every Friday. Subscribe here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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October 4th - Hotel rates are up on pre-pandemic levels

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 16:55:41 GMT

I've been at the Annual Hotel Conference in Manchester, which from a travel point of view is more exciting than the Conservative conference in Birmingham. My takeaways: hotel rates are well up on pre-pandemic levels and could stay high; properties are still in the 20th (or even 19th) century, requiring guests to line up at reception to check in; and "the last place I would be thinking of going for Christmas shopping is New York".

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October 3rd - Is this the end of First Class as we know it?

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 15:33:00 GMT

A major commuter train operator has announced that it will scrap first class on its trains linking Kent and East Sussex with London. Southeastern says making its trains one-class-only from December 2022 onwards will allow it to add more standard class seats. Could the move signal the wholesale removal of first class?

Of course, this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to at: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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September 30th - Hitchhike your way through the rail strikes?

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:19:21 GMT

On the eve of the next round of Rail strikes, could hitchhiking provide an alternative transport solution? I’m on the road in Wales, where I search (in vain, I might add) for a lift and tell you about my experiences of hitchhiking and how its changed in my time thumbing for a lift.

Of course this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter that arrives in your inbox every Friday. To subscribe, you can find it here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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September 29th - A look ahead to the weekend's rail strike disruption

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 16:53:02 GMT

Saturday 1 October will see the biggest shutdown of the Great Britain rail network by industrial action for 40 years. Only one train in nine will run. And there will be further disruption right through to 10 October.

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September 28th - The joys and jeopardy of rail travel in Germany

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 17:32:33 GMT

I'm currently near Stuttgart, and I'll be spending the day travelling around the city and ending up at its airport, all through the use of trains.

So let me share with you what it is like to travel using Germany's rail network.

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September 27th - Brexit has cut Eurostar capacity by 30 per cent

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 15:12:01 GMT

The extra passport checks the UK requested after leaving the EU are “not sustainable”: that is the damning view of Jacques Damas, outgoing chief executive of Eurostar.

The boss of the cross-Channel train operator revealed that post-Brexit border arrangements have reduced capacity on links from London to Brussels and Paris by one-third – forcing Eurostar “to charge higher prices to our customers”.

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September 26th - As the pound falls, how to make the most of your holiday money

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 13:44:49 GMT

After Friday's "mini" budget, Britain has found itself in the midst of a financial storm with markets spooked by the government's plans for tax cuts and borrowing. It has sent the pound crashing to historic lows against other currencies, which is causing all manner of headaches - not least making our holidays all the more expensive. But there is some things you can do to make that holiday money stretch as far as possible - I'll tell you how.

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September 23rd - Japan and Hong Kong to open up to foreign tourists

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 13:45:18 GMT

I’m at Kintan, a Japanese barbeque joint in London’s west end, to celebrate Japan reopening its borders to international travellers.

Hong Kong has also today opened its doors to foreign tourists for the first time since the Covid pandemic broke out.

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September 22nd - Celebrating World Car Free Day with a promise to shut the rail network

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 16:42:35 GMT

"Shutting down the railway network" – that is what the RMT union has vowed to do on 8 October, with its latest strike. The rail union made the announcement on World Car Free Day, and said: "Our industrial campaign will continue for as long as it takes." I am not sure that is a great message for the long-term health of the rail industry.

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September 21st - A Twitter storm shows the complex reality of British trains and politics

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 14:15:18 GMT

When rail services between London and Yorkshire were disrupted due to overhead wire problems, a Labour MP took to Twitter to say: "Just another reminder that we need to bring rail into public ownership and make it fit for the future." But she was aboard a state-run LNER train, on tracks owned and operated by Network Rail. Both organisations are offshoots of the Department for Transport (DfT), which means they are ultimately owned by us. Fixing the railways takes more than slogans.

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September 20th - Aboard a pioneering train from London Paddington to Heathrow airport

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 11:59:24 GMT

Today’s podcast comes to you from the 10:17 Elizabeth line service from London Paddington to Heathrow airport - the first train to leave the terminus in 28 hours.

At around 6am on Monday 19 September, nearly two miles of overhead wires in the Hayes & Harlington area came down on the tracks and six passenger trains became tangled in them. Nobody was hurt but it meant that, on the morning of the Queen’s state funeral, there were no trains on one of the main lines in and out of the capital.

They’re still trying to figure out what exactly went wrong but for now, trains are now getting back to normal - if a little behind schedule.

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September 19th - Travel disruption on the day of Queen Elizabeth II's funeral

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 17:25:01 GMT

Travel disruption struck early on the day of the Queen's state funeral, with the complete shutdown of the Great Western Railway in and out of London Paddington station.

I'm at London Waterloo, which is providing an alternative escape route for travellers to South Wales and the West of England.

More problems anticipated on Tuesday morning.

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September 16th - London's transport prepares for the Queen's funeral

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 11:53:47 GMT

Simon is at London King's Cross rail station, where preparations are under way for a busy bank holiday weekend – culminating in the most solemn event for many decades, the state funeral of the Queen.

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September 15th - Heathrow's plans over Queen's funeral means further cancellation misery

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 16:15:48 GMT

200 flights to and from London Heathrow are to be cancelled on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday as a result of airspace closures for the Queen's funeral. Here's what it means for travellers.

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September 14th - The amazing aircraft graveyard of Lourdes

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 11:16:59 GMT

I’m walking through the amazing aircraft graveyard of Lourdes, where Airbus A380s go to die. It was, at the start of the 21st century, the plane that was going to revolutionise the world. So, what went wrong?

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September 13th - My five summits to conquer, even if scared of heights

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 16:35:31 GMT

As I traipse across the Pyrenees, I cast my mind back to other adventures hiking and recollect which summits I've enjoyed climbing. Now, I'm not great with heights, wouldn't say I'm an athlete and my hiking kit consists of a pair of 25yr old boots. So this list is for everyone to enjoy the great outdoors with.

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September 12th - A hike in the French Pyranees

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 10:27:47 GMT

I am in the French Pyranees, walking along the GR 10 trail — a path that climbs up and down over the mountain range, linking the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.

With a wide choice of flights and trains from the UK, and from Paris, you can quite easily get over here for a short trip.

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September 9th - Queen Elizabeth II, an extraordinary traveller

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 13:29:26 GMT

When Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne in February 1952, the jet age had yet to begin (though it would within weeks of her becoming Elizabeth II). Third Class still existed on British Railways (it would be scrapped four years later). And the vast majority of her subjects in the UK could simply not contemplate the idea that they could travel abroad on holiday.

By the end of her reign, British citizens enjoyed extraordinary mobility – with her final act, of many, in launching transport innovations being the Elizabeth Line beneath London, which she opened in May 2022.

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September 8th - Exploring Bristol Temple Meads railway station

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 18:11:05 GMT

The joy of exploring a railway station – so long as it is Bristol Temple Meads, one of the great achievements of Brunel.

I take you with me on a little tour of the station in today's podcast.

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September 7th - UK's great heritage railways

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 16:48:47 GMT

My travel podcast is rather different today, I'm on the West Somerset Railway, travelling from Watchet to Dunster – one of the UK's many great heritage railways.

A vintage steam locomotive is hauling British Rail carriages from the 1960s, all very retro and scenic, but I am using it to get from A to B – so much more relaxing than the bus.

I hope that the tantalising gap of a few miles between the Great Western main line at Taunton and the start of the WSR at Bishops Lydeard can be closed – allowing Minehead and the north west Somerset coast to be reconnected with the national railway. Meanwhile, do check out if there's a heritage railway that can help you with part of your next adventure.

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September 6th - Covid travel rules taking an age to loosen

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 17:21:28 GMT

Today's travel podcast is about the painfully slow process of aligning international travel rules in the era of Covid-19.

It's now 30 months since the coronavirus pandemic started triggering border closures around the world – and while frontiers clattered shut very swiftly, they are taking an age to loosen.

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September 5th - New prime minister, more rail strikes

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 16:06:44 GMT

It’s back to work, college or school for millions today – and, with the squeeze eased on the transport system, I should be looking forward to an autumn full of travel opportunities. But another series of rail strikes have been announced for September in disputes over pay, working conditions and jobs. One date in particular will see the biggest national disruption for rail for 40 years: Thursday 15 September.

Some advice for the new prime minister – and the rail unions.

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September 1st - UK government proposes reduction in flight compensation

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 17:44:45 GMT

Today, the consumer group branded as Which? has stepped up its campaign against reforming air passengers’ rights rules for flights within the UK.

Campaigners say that any reduction on the statutory £220 compensation for passengers whose flight are delayed by three hours or more will simply encourage airlines to become slacker on timekeeping.

I disagree...

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Eurostar ends direct link to Disneyland Paris

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 12:46:50 GMT

Today I’m at London St Pancras International station, talking about the decision of Eurostar to end its link to Disneyland Paris. The direct train to the Magic Kingdom has been going for 26 years, and survived the coronavirus pandemic, but the extra costs and red tape associated with Brexit make it impossible for Eurostar to continue it beyond June 2023.

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August 30th - Michael O'Leary sets out Ryanair's plans

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 16:24:52 GMT

Europe’s largest budget airline, Ryanair, has set out plans for its biggest-ever winter schedule from the UK. Yet at the same time the chief executive, Michael O’Leary, has been berating the current prime minister and warning of economic turmoil because of the hard Brexit. And what does he think about Ryanair flying from Heathrow?

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August 29th - When a Harry Potter star gets downgraded

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 16:15:15 GMT

Harry Potter star Matthew Lewis has slammed Air Canada as the “worst airline in North America” after he was allegedly kicked out of first class on a recent flight from the US to Canada.

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August 26th - What can be learned from the Eurotunnel shuttle evacuation?

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 15:44:05 GMT

Today I’m on a ferry in the harbour of Marseille, southern France. But I’m talking about events this week under the Channel – when Eurotunnel car carrying shuttle had to be evacuated. What can we learn from it?

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August 25th - In search of fame and fortune on the Mediterranean

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 15:43:02 GMT

Today I am in Villefranche in the south of France. In search of Sir Elton John – in a very relaxed sort of way. Mostly, I want to celebrate the beauty and the ambience of this corner of the Mediterranean. Spoiler alert – I don’t meet the great man.

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August 24th - ScotRail is telling passengers to not take one of its trains

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 12:55:08 GMT

Today’s podcast is all about the remarkable move by Scotrail to persuade people not to travel on one of its key inter-city trains, the 10.51am from Inverness to Edinburgh. Is it a sign of the shaky shape of railways in the UK – or a smart plan to nudge people to take less busy and cheaper trains?

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August 23rd - On board the surprise Florence Express

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:36:26 GMT

Today's podcast is brought to you from on board the surprise Florence Express after my delayed indirect train became a direct train – a minor Italian rail miracle. I'll talk you through how trains in Italy work, from ticketing (yes, you can book on Trainline) to high-speed competition. A nation where rail is really important – and a joy for the traveller.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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August 22nd - Reflections as I walk along the coast of Sicily

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 14:09:33 GMT

I’m walking along the north coast of Sicily, between Capo d’Orlando and Brolo, to the accompaniment of some chirruping cicadas. Along the way, a rather fancy yacht marina and the ghostly peaks of the Aeolian islands. Sicily is the essence of the Mediterranean, and a gorgeous distillation of Italy.

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August 18th - A slow-moving security queue at Heathrow

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:09:01 GMT

Today's podcast comes to you from a slow-moving security queue at Heathrow.

Britain's biggest airport has extended its cap on departing passengers to the end of October, adding to wider uncertainty. And with British Airways' mass cancellations, it's a dismal summer for travellers.

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August 17th - Yet another delayed Air Canada flight

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:56:19 GMT

Today, I’m on board yet another delayed Air Canada flight. I don’t even know if there’s such a thing as an on-time departure on the Canadian national carrier but certainly, the experience of hopping around Canada has been much inferior to budget airlines in the UK.

When flights are disrupted, passengers want to be kept informed. But on my series of late flights from Chicago to Montreal, Quebec City to Toronto, Winnipeg to Toronto, and Toronto to London - gate staff, cabin crew, and pilots have opted to keep quiet and let passengers stew. It’s a useful reminder that the likes of EasyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair are generally good at communication.

Other Canadian airlines, such as Air Transat and WestJet, are available.

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August 16th - Hotel booking top tips

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 13:14:26 GMT

Today I'm stepping out from the absolutely gorgeous 1930s Ambassador Hotel and into the streets of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

As I do so, I share with you my best tips for booking hotels and what you can do to get yourself the best possible deal.

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August 15th - Taking to America's railroads

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 12:20:20 GMT

Pulling out of Detroit by rail, you really get a glimpse of America hurtling by. As I made my way to Chicago, you can see the ghosts of suburbs long gone, forests and woodland and a slightly archaic train system in operation. Here's what to be aware of if you're making your way by train in America.

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August 12th - Trying to find the soul of Detroit

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 12:44:18 GMT

One of the shining examples of America's post-war optimism and wealth creation as millions chased the American Dream, Detroit has fallen on rather hard times of late. It's fall from grace is well documented, but my visit to the home of motown has left me wondering where the soul is now.

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August 11th - In praise of the backpacker hostel

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 14:17:27 GMT

I have just checked out of The Clarence Park hostel in central Toronto, which is a joy – on a budget.

In today's podcast, I talk to you about the opportunities that hostels offer when travelling. If you don’t want to pay too much for your trip, then it's your best bet!

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August 10th - The thoroughly intriguing city of Saguenay

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 14:36:21 GMT

Today I’ve travelled 100 miles north from Quebec City to the thoroughly intriguing city of Saguenay. As you approach, you drive through the usual North American suburban tedium – and suddenly find yourself on the shore of a fjord that runs east to the St Lawrence River. A waterside boardwalk takes you towards a compelling industrial archaeological site. The old papermill is now a museum, while the ruins of an early hydroelectric project on “Electric Island” are at the centre of a thrilling urban park.

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August 9th - Swimming in the rain, I'm swimming in the rain

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 05:30:42 GMT

Swimming in the rain, I've just been swimming in the rain. Quebec City has created something special at the docks this summer: L’Oasis. This an Olympic-sized swimming pool in the port, where you bathe in the water of the St Lawrence River. It is quite the most exhilarating urban experience I have had in a long time. An entire dock has been filled with the essentials for a top-class swimming pool: boardwalks, proper lanes and a children’s area. It’s a little rudimentary, but the water is tested each day for cleanliness and the temperature is entirely agreeable. Let’s hope it becomes a summer regular – and that other cities pick up the idea.

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August 8th - Canada's random Covid-19 testing policy

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 16:05:13 GMT

Even in the third summer since the start of the Covid pandemic, many traps await the unwary traveller. One of the strangest, to my mind, is the new requirement from the Canadian authorities for a post-arrival test for a random selection of travellers, including international visitors. Anyone who tests positive must go into 10 days of hotel quarantine. I got through Montreal airport successfully, but I’ve been hearing from people who were chosen...

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August 4th - And the winner of the worst flight of 2022 goes to Air Canada flight AC8968

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 08:48:41 GMT

And the winner of the worst flight of 2022 goes to Air Canada flight AC8968 from Chicago to Montreal. We join Simon on board at 2am after they have been waiting half-an-hour for an airbridge, extending the delay to three hours.

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August 3rd - Which are the best eating and drinking spots at London’s main airports, aesthetically?

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 10:34:53 GMT

In praise of the impromptu airport lounge: from his usual perch at Pret à Manger, overlooking the runway at Luton airport, Simon recommends the pre-boarding experience at Caffe Nero at Heathrow Terminal 5; Wagamama in North Terminal at Gatwick; and Wetherspoon’s at Stansted.

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August 2nd - British Airways removes short-haul flights until August 16th

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 13:23:19 GMT

British Airways has announced that there will be no chance to book short-haul flights until August 16th at the very least, in a bid to keep themselves under the passenger cap at Heathrow airport and to try and stop the chaos that has befallen those of us looking to get away this summer. The removal of bookings doesn't mean that the flights pre-booked won't be happening, thankfully, but I take a look at what British Airways announcement means and what your options are when trying to book your trip abroad.

Of course, this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe for at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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August 1st – A tale of two French-speaking nations

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 11:44:15 GMT

Today's episode is a tale of two French-speaking nations, France and Canada – and their very different attitudes to travel and Covid.

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July 29th - Insights on the summer travel experience

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 15:28:40 GMT

I’m speaking to you from gate B 14 at Naples International Airport in Italy and taking you through my experience of travelling through Italian airports this week.

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July 28th - Forgotten ferry routes from UK to Continental Europe

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 16:26:53 GMT

I’m in the bay of Naples where I take you through a few of the ferry routes that used to run from the UK to ports in Continental Europe.

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My Guide to the Best Italian Islands

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 12:50:00 GMT

As I stroll through a scenic (if slightly noisy) Ponza, I take you through some of my favourite Italian islands.

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July 26th - A relaxing journey from London to Rome

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 12:48:00 GMT

As of 1 June, Covid-19 restrictions on entering Italy have been lifted.

I’m in Rome to give you an update on the travel experience from London Heathrow to the Italian capital, which all felt very relaxed compared with the last time I visited during the Covid pandemic.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe for at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 25th - Delays at Dover and Folkestone and why they're a sign of the future

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 16:51:05 GMT

Tourist traffic is now flowing freely through Dover and Folkestone after widespread long delays during the main getaway weekend. Ministers have blamed the French authorities for failing to deploy more border staff to fulfil the more onerous post-Brexit rules to which the UK asked to be subject and I examine what British passport holders must now have done with their travel documents.

The next steps of this implementation doesn't bode well either, which are due to be introduced in May 2023, as they will involve more red tape. The good news: passport stamping will end. The bad news: every traveller must be fingerprinted and provide a facial biometric.

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July 22nd - What's gone wrong at Dover?

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 17:06:20 GMT

As the great summer getaway kicks off, journeys have been beset by issues while millions of Brits are expected to travel this weekend as the school holidays begin. Those attempting to travel by ferry to France from Dover are enduring waits of four hours or longer, with the port blaming the French for “woefully inadequate staffing”.

The issue has been exacerbated by the extra checks at border control necessitated by Brexit, and I'll take you through what's happening.

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July 21st - Passport delays to be solved, hopefully

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 17:23:15 GMT

Yesterday I gave evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee on how the present passport palaver is hurting prospective travellers.

I told them how, in the last century, the Passport Office at times of stress would give people an extra six months or year on their passport, for free and instantly, on the spot. Now it seems that idea could be reborn.

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July 20th - Railway roulette at London Euston station

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 17:21:01 GMT

I visited London Euston station in order to bring you the latest on how railway networks have been handling the aftermath of the UK’s hottest day.

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July 19th - Will the reputation of the rail network suffer due to cancellations?

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 17:10:12 GMT

Today I went to Paddington Basin – and Paddington station – in central London to observe how many trains were cancelled as operators deal with Britain's current unprecedented heatwave.

As some – but by no means all – of the national rail network shuts down, I'm concerned about the reputation for reliability that the railway needs and deserves.

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July 18th - Britain's transport network responds to the heat

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 12:04:22 GMT

Britain is in the grips of an unprecedented heatwave, with records expected to tumble over the coming days. I've taken a look at the response by the transport networks and companies and give some advice on what's been altered to accommodate for the high temperatures.

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July 15th - Rail strife: expect a long, hot summer of discontent, train travellers

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 15:15:21 GMT

It could be a very tricky summer to navigate Britain's rail systems, even when temperatures aren't hitting record levels. A host of rail unions have announced their strike dates after the RMT union staged their first walkouts in June. It will mean lots of disruption across Britain's network - here I run you through what's happening and what it's likely to do for passengers.

This podcast is free, much like my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 14th - Civil Aviation?

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 16:34:16 GMT

Civil aviation? Not any more at Heathrow, as Emirates rebels against the airport's demand to cut passenger numbers. It's a summer of discontent in the aviation industry so far and as schools break up for summer, it might be about to get worse. Will Heathrow's idea work or make any difference at all? And what could it mean for the future?

As always, this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter which is delivered every Friday. Subscribe for that here: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 13th - The passport crisis and what you need to know

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 14:58:15 GMT

As the school holidays in England and Wales approach, so many people are telling me that they are concerned about passports, and their expiry dates.

I tell you the steps that you can take to avoid unnecessary issues.

Of course this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 12th - Heathrow Airport announces capacity limits

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 16:50:50 GMT

Heathrow airport today announced a 100,000-a-day passenger capacity until September to try and deal with staff shortages in baggage and front-desk services that has been bedevilling the airline industry as we've all returned to flying with gusto. It sounds like a worrisome development, but I argue the case that no one should really be affected by the announcement, with safeguards and compensation hopefully covering all who are looking to travel through Heathrow this summer.

This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter that you can have delivered to your inbox every Friday. Details on where to subscribe can be found here: http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 11th - The ghost Eurostar station at Ashford International

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 15:53:21 GMT

In today's podcast, I am in Ashford, Kent, to visit the ghost terminal that used to connect Eurostar trains between mainland Europe and the UK before the Covid-19 pandemic severely diminished passenger numbers.

The building is a fascinating sight, let's hope this travel stop gets reconnected soon.

Of course, this podcast is free, as is my newsletter which you can subscribe to http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 8th - Why I am such a fan of overbooking

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 13:09:58 GMT

Today I want to talk to you about overbooking and what a fantastic thing it is, if it is done correctly.

I explain how airlines overbooking their flights can have a positive environmental impact, and keep costs down for both business and passengers.

Of course this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 7th - Your travel questions answered

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 17:20:00 GMT

our questions answered – seeking (as always) to put minds at rest about the very likely absence of travel chaos this summer, but also concerned to read about certification requests from some cruise companies.

Of course this podcast is absolutely free, as is my weekly newsletter that you can subscribe to at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 6th - What British Airways cancellation announcement means for you

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 09:00:00 GMT

BA is taking nearly five million seats off the market, drastically reducing availability and pushing up fares “It’s the right thing to do for our customers and our colleagues,” said a British Airways spokesperson on Wednesday.

They were describing the latest cull of summer flights: a further 10,300 short-haul departures between August and October, affecting at least one million passengers with existing bookings. I take a look at what it means and how you can find out if your flight is one of those affected.

Of course, this podcast is free, as is my newsletter which you can subscribe to http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 5th - Are we about to see the rail strikes worsen?

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 16:20:28 GMT

Two weeks on from the first national rail strike, I'm at London Bridge station to assess the prospects of the summer ahead – with strike ballots under way at the train drivers' union, Aslef, and the white collar TSSA, my expectation is that a big strike involving all three could be called for late July. I hope I'm wrong.

Of course this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can subscribe to here: http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 4th - EasyJet operations chief quits amid flight chaos

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 16:43:40 GMT

The chief operating officer of Britain’s biggest budget airline has resigned just as the peak summer season gets under way.

Peter Bellew apparently left easyJet on Friday 1 July “to pursue other business opportunities”. For a top operational executive to leave the airline just as the busiest months of the year are beginning shows the scale of the crisis at easyJet.

Since international air travel restarted at scale in March this year, easyJet has struggled to operate the schedule it promised. Thousands of flights have been grounded, affecting hundreds of thousands of passengers.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter, which you can subscribe to at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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July 1st - Should you check in your baggage when flying?

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 13:09:35 GMT

Today's podcast is all about flying with baggage – should you check it in?

I tell you what you can do to minimise the chance that your precious belongings will end up on sale at the Unclaimed Baggage Center at Scottsboro Alabama – and why you should assume you will never see your checked in bag again.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter, which you can subscribe to at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 30th - What is happening at Heathrow?

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 13:54:15 GMT

I went down to Heathrow Airport, which has axed 30 flights scheduled to leave Thursday morning, as it asked airlines to reduce their schedules to ease pressure on its terminals.

The cancellations, which could affect more than 4,500 passengers, predominantly affect British Airways services - though Virgin Atlantic, Lufthansa, KLM, Aer Lingus and Air France flights are also impacted.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter, which you can subscribe to at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 29th - The London Overground line

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 15:31:28 GMT

Today, I jump on the much used Overground line to travel around the top of north London — the route is a kind of North Circular Road of the railways.

I explain how, if you're not in too much of a hurry, it's a great way to see the city.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter, which you can subscribe to at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 28th - Changes afoot at Heathrow

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 18:42:54 GMT

I've been nosing around and keeping my ear to the ground and it seems that the carriers at Heathrow are quietly moving about. British Airways is moving some of its services out of terminal three to other terminals at Heathrow airport, meaning others, most notably American Airlines and Qatar airways are also shuffling to new desks in the terminals.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter, which you can subscribe to at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 27th - Do we need to start checking our plane's performance history?

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 11:43:32 GMT

If you are tracking a flight you have booked to see how well it is performing – and you don't like what you see – can you cancel and get a full refund? Sadly, perhaps, once you commit to a flight, past performance is inadmissable as grounds for getting your money back. But you can do some useful ground work. I take you through what tracking can be good for and what you can do to limit your loss if a flight is cancelled this summer.

Of course, this podcast is free, much like my weekly newsletter, which you can find at http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 24th - What the by-election results mean for the rail strikes

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 10:18:52 GMT

By-elections - always a good excuse for a protest vote at the best of times but the two that the Conservatives lost yesterday in Wakefield and Tiverton and Honiton saw voters with plenty of grievances. How, exactly, does that fit into a travel podcast? Well, I think the results partially point to dissatisfaction with how the government is going about resolving the trains issue as the second of a three day strike by RMT union members passes. The message that this is the fault of Labour doesn't seem to be holding sway with voters and it could mean that the government's so far reluctance to give any concessions on the bargaining table might yet yield.

Of course this podcast is free, as is my newsletter, which you'll find at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 23rd - British Airways workers announce strike action

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 16:16:58 GMT

British Airways ground staff at London Heathrow vote to strike. No dates for industrial action yet. My take on what It could mean.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my newsletter which you can get every Friday, just subscribe at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 22nd - Looking back on day one of the rail strikes as second day is confirmed

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:53:40 GMT

I've been looking to see what were the repercussions of yesterday's rail strike on the network and suffice to say it was an uneven picture. It seems major cities, where there are more people reliant on trains, had the worst of it but the action hasn't had any success in making everyone try to find a solution to the RMT issues with pay and compulsory redundancy, with a government unwilling to engage putting train operators in a difficult spot.

And more is to come, as it's been confirmed Thursday's industrial action will go ahead - with perhaps even more than the original three days being planned.

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June 21st - How the rail strike is affecting London's train hubs

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 13:08:18 GMT

The first day of three planned rail worker strikes by the RMT union has begun and despite the doom-mongering I was pleasantly surprised when visiting London Liverpool Street and Kings Cross on how many trains were still in operation. Of course, travel has been much reduced to mainline services but if you do need to travel, I'm here to tell you that it is still possible by train during the industrial action.

However, speaking with representatives from the trade unions and others involved in the talks, I'm not as optimistic on saying this will be the last trade union action we'll be seeing on our transport network this summer.

Of course this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter that you can sign up for at: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 20th - Is Brexit at all responsible for our air travel misery?

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 11:20:21 GMT

Depending on who you speak with, Brexit is either the sole reason for our current air travel chaos as airlines and airports struggle to fill the gaps in employment numbers or, according to some government ministers, not an issue at all. I think it's somewhere in between - and here's my reasoning why. While air travel is struggling to cope with demand across the world as we've hurried back to international travel, it is also true that Britain is experiencing some more stresses than other countries in airports and with air fleets based here. So, although not all the problems can be squared on Brexit, the government's attempt to make it happen aren't helping matters.

Of course, this podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter, which you can find at http://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 17th - Gatwick plans to cancel some summer flights

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 11:57:20 GMT

Airline passengers booked to fly from Gatwick this summer could be contacted and told their flight has been cancelled.

The Sussex airport, the second busiest in the UK after Heathrow, has announced plans to cap operations in July and August – with airlines instructed to cut some departures.

Simon Calder is at Gatwick airport for us – with some reassurance.

Of course, this podcast is free as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get every Friday: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 16th - How to manage your holiday money

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 15:56:14 GMT

With sterling plummeting on the foreign exchanges, it's more important than ever to manage your holiday money.

Choose a payment method with no foreign transaction fee. Otherwise you could lose 3 per cent on credit card purchases and even more on debit cards. If your bank doesn’t offer one, then choose a card from another provider – I have one I use purely for overseas travel.

And equally important – understand the local tipping culture, or you could either cause offence or spend more than you need.

Of course, this podcast is free as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get every Friday: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 15th - Rail strikes in June

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 11:17:37 GMT

During the planned nationwide rail strikes for three dates in late June, only limited passenger train services will run – most of them on key links to and from London.

Members of the RMT rail union at Network Rail and 13 train operators voted 8:1 in favour of strike action over jobs, pay and conditions, and will stage 24-hour walkouts on 21, 23 and 25 June.

Here is the lowdown on all you need to know about the strikes.

Of course, this podcast is free as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get every Friday: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 14th - Heathrow Terminal 4 opens

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 09:03:32 GMT

In a move that shows the swift recovery of the aviation industry after the worst of the coronavirus pandemic, Terminal 4 at London Heathrow airport reopened at dawn.

The facility has been closed for two years, with passengers and planes moved to the other three terminals.

I was the only journalist to cover the opening. This is my report.

Of course, this podcast is free as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get every Friday: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 13th - Compensation for flight cancellations and long delays

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 13:52:00 GMT

Under the European air passengers’ rights rules, if your flight arrives 3 hours or more late behind the published schedule, or if it is cancelled, then you are entitled to compensation.

With airline cancellations and long delays still causing issues, I tell you how to claim compensation for these situations, and when airlines are likely to deny the request.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my weekly newsletter which you can find at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 10th - Crew fatigue on flights has hit the headlines

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 10:11:14 GMT

Aviation, especially in Britain, is incredibly safe. When the boss of Wizz Air appeared to suggest too many of his people were staying away because of fatigue, there was an immediate outcry.

I've been talking to the leader of the British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA) who says pilots and cabin crew who are fatigued should be supported.

Of course, this podcast is absolutely free, as is my newsletter which you can find at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 9th - European air passengers’ rights rules, a reminder

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:19:05 GMT

Today's episode is about European air passengers’ rights rules – and the curious way that the arrival time of a plane is defined.

Entitlement to hundreds of pounds in compensation is nothing to do with the departure delay and everything to do with the time the first door is opened.

Of course, this podcast is absolutely free, as is my newsletter which you can find at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 8th - Rail strike likely to go ahead in June

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 17:37:55 GMT

The train strike for later this month is very likely to go ahead. This near-certainty applies to all three national rail strike days – 21, 23 and 25 June – called by the RMT union on Tuesday.

It is also inevitable, in my view, that the “bonus strike” on the London Underground called to coincide with the first day on 21 June, will take place.

Of course, this podcast is free as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get every Friday: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 7th - Flight cancellation crisis continues after bank holiday

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 12:45:29 GMT

With half-term hostilities over, I fondly imagine the airlines would have a chance to get everyone home who was caught up in the hundreds of short-notice flight cancellations over the bank holiday weekend, and regroup to face the summer ahead.

Instead, by Tuesday the cancellation crisis was getting even worse – with at least 60 UK flights grounded by easyJet alone, leaving an estimated 10,000 people out of position. My thoughts on the summer ahead.

Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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June 6th - London hit by tube strike...again

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 09:42:50 GMT

London is once again gummed up by a Tube strike involving members of the RMT union.

Transport for London, which runs the Underground, is accused by the union of threatening 600 jobs, tearing up working agreements and posing a “looming threat to pensions”.

Workers point out that they worked all the way through Covid to keep trains running, and do not wish to accept any compulsory job losses. But finances for public transport have been utterly trashed by the coronavirus pandemic. There is a funding shortfall of at least 20% and the railways – under and over the ground – depend on taxpayer support to keep running. I am not convinced that today’s strike, and a national rail stoppage planned for the summer, is necessarily the best way to guarantee a strong future for the industry.

Of course, this podcast is free as is my weekly newsletter, which you can get every Friday: https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 2nd - A trip to Burghley House

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 08:50:19 GMT

I took a trip to the stately home of Burghley House, which reminded me of the virtues of the Midlands. It's a wonderful part of the world, but once again, Britain's infrastructure can make getting to the delights of the midlands a bit more arduous than it need be.

Of course this podcast is free, much like my weekly newsletter which you can find at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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June 1st - The world's best-ever rail deal?

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 11:31:49 GMT

Could this be the world's best-ever rail deal: unlimited travel anywhere in Germany by rail, bus, tram or U-bahn for the whole of June for €9 (£7.70) – just 25p per day.

The one-month ticket has been backed by billions of euros by the German government in a bid to entice people back to public transport. And it’s open to foreign visitors as well, including Simon Calder, travel correspondent of The Independent, who’s at Cologne railway station.

Of course, this podcast is absolutely free, as is my newsletter which you can find at https://www.independent.co.uk/newsletters

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May 31st - What is Brexit's role in the present travel chaos?

Tue, 31 May 2022 17:05:08 GMT

We need to talk about Brexit – and its role in the present travel chaos. Of course Amsterdam and Dublin airports are seeing long queues, but leaving the EU has subtracted staff from airlines and airports in the UK to an alarming degree.

As I write on 31 May 2022, I note that a year ago we had only just been released from the 19-week international travel ban; Portugal was the only major country on the quarantine-free “green list” (a status it would lose just days later).

The UK aviation industry was crushed, and every time it tried to rise from the wreckage of hopes, dreams and profits the government would come up with another nonsensical rule to discourage travel. Who could forget “amber plus”, the category invented just before the main summer holidays started in July 2021 that had no rational basis whatsoever yet served as an effective ban on travel to France.

I've been roundly heckled for suggesting that leaving the EU is to some extent responsible for the current problems we are seeing . Yet I cannot recall seeing an airline cancelling 10 per cent of its Gatwick schedule because of staff shortage, as easyJet has, nor a holiday company (Tui) axing 30,000 holidays due to insufficient ground handling at Manchester.

Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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May 30th - A User's Guide to the Elizabeth line

Mon, 30 May 2022 16:17:43 GMT

As London's ferociously expensive new railway begins its first full week, I've been looking deeper into the benefits of the project formerly known as Crossrail – including superstations that stretch between two stops on the London Underground.

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May 27th - The shaky state of aviation

Fri, 27 May 2022 13:18:44 GMT

It's been a horrific week for the state of aviation as scores and scores of flights have been cancelled last minute for a multitude of reasons. According to my calculations, there's been over 1,000 flights cancelled this week - mostly by British Airways but Easyjet have also had issues with flight paths. I take a look at what's happening and why - and how there's not much hope of improvement in the short-term.

Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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May 26th - As Easyjet cancels flight because of IT issues, here's your rights

Thu, 26 May 2022 17:24:54 GMT

Easyjet is having a nightmare today, having to cancel dozens of flights as IT failures ground its fleet. It's a good time to remind you of your rights as passengers if flights are cancelled unexpectedly on you by any operator.

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May 25th - Railway workers threaten biggest strike after union vote

Wed, 25 May 2022 10:59:40 GMT

Railway workers have voted overwhelmingly to strike in a dispute over jobs, pay and conditions, the RMT union has announced. I let you know when these strikes could begin, and which lines are likely to be impacted.

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May 24th - The Elizabeth Line begins service

Tue, 24 May 2022 07:27:30 GMT

After years of delays, spiralling costs and a name change, Crossrail, now the Elizabeth Line has finally begun service today and I'm one the first train to take passengers this morning. The Elizabeth Line promises to make travel across the capital far quicker and much more simple for passengers, joining Reading out in the west of London to Shenfield, out in Essex. Though the line is open now, there are still works ongoing to deliver what's been promised to tube passengers, but those behind the project are for now enjoying the moment of finally opening.

Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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May 23rd - Spain drops hard-line approach to unvaccinated British visitors

Mon, 23 May 2022 16:34:50 GMT

Just ahead of the half-term week for many UK schools, Spain has dropped its hard-line approach to unvaccinated British visitors. Now any unvaccinated British visitor aged 12 or above can enter Spain with proof of a negative coronavirus test – which can be a relatively cheap and quick rapid antigen (lateral flow) test taken within the 24 hours before departure.

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May 20th - Scotrail's Schedule Shredding

Fri, 20 May 2022 11:07:04 GMT

Scotrail is having a terrible time of it, having to slash one-third of trains across the nation from Monday. I look at the reasons why they have to, with a shortage of drivers and a backlog in training new ones and what it means for their service across Scotland.

Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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May 19th - What's really happening with travel disruption of Jubilee weekend

Thu, 19 May 2022 13:40:31 GMT

Ahead of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee weekend, there are reports of travel chaos for people travelling to the capital for the celebrations. I can see a bit of disruption, but mainly in northern England. So don't panic ...

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May 18th - A summer like no other for pricing of holidays abroad

Wed, 18 May 2022 16:30:31 GMT

A summer like no other. Never before have I seen such extremes of pricing for holidays abroad – including a Ryanair trip from Stansted to Pisa that costs just £24 return next Monday to Thursday – but £500 more for identical flights a week later. If you don’t have to travel during school holidays, you’ll save a fortune. But if you must – there’s always the French camping option…

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May 17th - In praise of train operator apps

Tue, 17 May 2022 17:18:26 GMT

The sermon today is Smart Save. Never heard of it? Well, it’s the name given by LNER, the train operator on the East Coast main line from London to Yorkshire, northeast England and Scotland, for special “split tickets” that will save money for some travellers. You can only find them on the LNER app; a trial appears to be taking place at present, and they are fairly rare. But hopefully they represent another step along the road to sensible rail pricing.

Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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May 16th - Fact-checking the latest train fare-bashing news story

Mon, 16 May 2022 13:57:23 GMT

A Sunderland football fan is travelling to London via Menorca to watch a match at Wembley, as it’s cheaper to fly on a budget airline than getting a train or bus, papers have reported this week. James Jelly, a 33-year-old purchasing manager, says he is travelling to the capital for Sunderland’s League One play-off against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley Stadium this Saturday.

He claims a £23 total air fare with Ryanair from Newcastle to Menorca and on to London Stansted is the cheapest option, with trains to the capital running into the hundreds of pounds and even coaches more expensive than flying. But is the story all it's cracked up to be? I've done some fact-checking.

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May 13th - The trains, they are a-changing

Fri, 13 May 2022 14:30:31 GMT

On Sunday the rail schedules in Great Britain will undergo their usual summer update – with winners and losers across the nation.

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May 12th - The Foreign Office comes to their senses on passports

Thu, 12 May 2022 16:51:17 GMT

Since Brexit, the rules on passport validity for British visitors to the European Union have tightened. But the UK government tells travellers the regulations are worse than they actually are.

After requests from The Independent, the Home Office has taken down its defective post-Brexit passport checker, which I'll explain to you what are now the rules in place and hopefully no more stories of ruined holidays.

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May 11th - The busiest day of the year for the number of available airline seats revealed

Wed, 11 May 2022 16:17:51 GMT

Friday 12 August will be the busiest day of the year for the number of available airline seats, a leading analyst has predicted.

John Grant, chief analyst at OAG, calculates that 16.1 million seats are on offer worldwide for that date at present. The exact number is likely to change as airlines adjust schedules, with an overall picture of 0.6 per cent of capacity removed every week. The busiest day for aviation before the coronavirus pandemic was also the second Friday in August: 9 August 2019, with the data analyst Cirium calculating 17 million passengers took off worldwide.

The actual number of airline travellers on 12 August 2022 will be well down on that figure, because around one in five seats is likely to be empty – giving a figure of about 13 million passengers.

In 2021, says Mr Grant, “the busiest day was a very unusual 17 December”. The last-but-one Friday before Christmas had 12.5 million seats on offer, with around nine million passengers.

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May 10th - In praise of overbooking

Tue, 10 May 2022 12:19:34 GMT

Today's sermon: in praise of overbooking. Selling more tickets than there are seats on an aircraft can be a real benefit. When airlines do it right – and are generous in incentivising passengers to volunteer to be offloaded and travel on a later flight – then everyone's a winner.

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May 9th - Could Ireland's public transport fare plans be the blueprint for the UK?

Mon, 09 May 2022 12:14:28 GMT

Back to the future on the railways: for the first time since 1947, fares across Ireland on trains and buses have been cut by 20 per cent. It follows the astonishing 100 per cent cut in fares in Luxembourg in 2020 when all public transport was made free. Could it happen here?

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May 6th - Sale of the half-century is upon us for European rail enthusiasts

Fri, 06 May 2022 15:56:50 GMT

Two bits of good news has put a spring in my step into the weekend. Overnight Ryanair has aligned with the actual European rules on passport validity. And even better than that, the sale of the half-century is upon us: half-price Interrail passes for one, two or three months of travel on the trains of Europe. Tempted? Buy by 11.59pm on Tuesday 10 May. Seen you on board.

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May 5th - Passport validity for Europe

Thu, 05 May 2022 17:16:29 GMT

It's all about passport validity for Europe. The only subject, it seems, in town. Sometimes it feels that I'm on my own in wanting to make sure people aren't wrongly deprived of their holidays. Just a quick reminder of what the rules are for Brits going to the EU: passport issued less than 10 years ago on day of entry, expiry date at least three months away on day of exit.

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May 4th - The Elizabeth Line gets its debut date

Wed, 04 May 2022 14:21:02 GMT

The Elizabeth Line, or long known as Crossrail, finally has a live date for trains to commence carrying passengers from the 24th May. Initially the great east-west railway beneath central London will be run in three separate chunks – and not at all on Sundays. But within a few years I hope we will have forgotten the chaotic project management and instead celebrate an addition to the capital’s infrastructure.

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May 3rd - The joys of staying in a backpacker hostel, from a lovely village in the hills above the Algarve.

Tue, 03 May 2022 17:37:23 GMT

Today I'm coming to you from beautiful Carrapateira, a little village in the Algarve hills overlooking the southern coastline of Portugal. To get the most of my holiday budget, I'm embracing the backpacker lifestyle and staying in the Hostel Do Mar. No need to plan in advance – just turn up, enjoy the facilities from free books to yoga mats, and meet lots of interesting people.

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May 2nd - Off the beaten track in Portugal

Mon, 02 May 2022 18:03:07 GMT

I love Lisbon, one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities, and the locations on its western flanks – in particular Cascais, Estoril and Sintra. But until now I haven’t strayed south to the Setubal Peninsula: much less well known, but full of surprises. Do try O Barbas – an amazing seafood restaurant overlooking the Atlantic in Costa da Caparica; the wild, windy and atmospheric cape of Espichel; and Setubal itself, a sleepy, friendly city.

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April 29th - Portugal via Gatwick

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 15:25:09 GMT

Good afternoon from Funchal, Madeira. Today I'll be speaking about how the travelling experience was from Gatwick to Portugal - and the joys to be found in the island's beautiful capital.

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April 28th - Diversionary tactics: Life as an air passenger

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 17:10:26 GMT

As a planeload of Virgin Atlantic passengers from Johannesburg find themselves flying away from London to refuel in Durban, my thoughts about how diversions are part of everyday life for the airline passenger.

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April 27th - On The Buses and looking at the future of intercity bus travel

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 16:14:26 GMT

For many, the thought of getting a bus between Britain's cities is the option of last resort and some would say buses have no future in Britain's infrastructure. I'm here on one of the busiest roads in the country for such buses to try and change those minds. The bus industry is going through extraordinary changes and can still play a significant role in the infrastructure of Britain's transport networks. I tell you what's happening and what it means for your travel plans.

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April 26th - Passports, Please

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 12:23:31 GMT

Many of us are digging out our passports again only to discover that they're not valid for as long as we thought. The Home Office is reporting an 'unprecedented' surge of applications for passports, creating a backlog that risks ruining holiday plans for some this summer. I talk you through the problem, how it's not being helped by either the government or the airlines as they grapple with Brexit rules and how you can avoid the delays and have that holiday.

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April 25th - Cruises Look To The Future After Their Dismal Past

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 13:53:20 GMT

I'm on the Celebrity Beyond, a new cruise ship set to launch imminently and take its floating residents around the Mediterranean. It's a bold move, launching a new cruise ship, after the industry's torturous past few years as coronavirus ravaged ships and effectively brought all trips to a standstill for a number of months. But the Celebrity Beyond points to some thinking there's still plenty of life in cruise liner industry and I take a look at the reasons for optimism.

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April 22nd - The Great Rail Row

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 18:28:38 GMT

Today I'm discussing the context around the mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham's tweet showing high-end train tickets from Manchester to London to be more expensive than a range of long-haul air fares. Train tickets are indeed too expensive, but what should be done about it?

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April 21st - Will Great British Railways Put The Great Back Into British Rail?

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 11:00:31 GMT

In May 2021, the government announced its plans for the biggest reform to the railway in three decades, bringing it back together, after years of fragmentation, under Great British Railways – a new public body that will run and plan the rail network, own the infrastructure, procure passenger services, and set most fares and timetables. But will it work?

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April 20th - How safe is Sri Lanka right now?

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 20:50:57 GMT

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country full of discoveries to be made - but the political and economic situation at the moment is giving many of you second thoughts about your travel plants to the country right now. I've enlisted the help of adventure tour guide and wildlife photographer Paul Goldstein on whether now is the time to visit.

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April 19th - The Great British Rail Sale

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 16:22:40 GMT

More than one million train tickets are being slashed to as much as half-price in the “Great British Rail Sale”, and it is attracting a lot of interest. The government and rail industry are hoping the sale will boost ticket sales after the impact of the pandemic. But will it work? I explore what the sale is (deeply discounted Advance rail tickets between 25 April and 27 May) and what it isn’t (a solution to the problem of attracting vast numbers of people back to the railway).

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April 18th - Homage To Waterloo

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 16:29:36 GMT

Happy bank holiday! Chances are if you're travelling by train you might be passing through London's Waterloo station. It's the UK's busiest train station and I'm here to give you a guided tour of its history!

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April 15th - The Complications Of Heading North In The UK

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 16:32:59 GMT

Today I am at London's Kings Cross, the only way to get to Scotland by rail this Bank Holiday. Of course travellers should always choose train over plane, but often it's not as straightforward as that.

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April 14th - The Joys Of Going Against The Flow

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 16:32:20 GMT

The great Easter getaway is most definitely on. I've been to hubs across the capital today to witness for myself the scenes of queues and hordes of people trying to get to their destinations. It all reminds me of the pleasure of travelling when most others aren't. In this episode I take you through when it might be best to visit, particularly Italy - when and where it might be the best time to get some of the world's most beautiful attractions to yourself.

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April 13th - How To Make Getting Away Less Stressful This Easter

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 13:17:37 GMT

Looking ahead to the Easter rush, we've unfortunately got a forecast of chaos potentially looming. Public transport works are happening on all the usual ways of getting to London's main airports - I give you the lowdown on what is and isn't working. Also I look at how to have a stress-free airport experience, as well as the best ways to handle your holiday money.

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April 12th - Unexpected Extras In The Billing Area.

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 13:24:03 GMT

Today I’m lunching at the Da Pietro restaurant, facing the exquisite cathedral facade in the city of Como. How did an ambitiously priced €10 side salad come in at €15? And why the traveller needs to be wary of hidden charges when dining out across the world.

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April 11th - Uphill Above Lake Como In Northern Italy.

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 17:09:27 GMT

On this fine Spring day I'm hiking The Brunate Trail in Como, the Northern city in Lombardy, Italy, coveted by celebrities and holiday-makers alike. I explore how to get here and what gems there are to enjoy, from the homes of a-listers, to charming restaurants and bars, to 12th century churches. And if, unlike me, you can still catch your breath after climbing to the hill-top town of Brunate, you'll find it taken away by the stunning views of Lake Como below.

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April 8th - The Joys Of The Airport Hotel.

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 10:44:29 GMT

I’m in heaven, or at least as close as you can get to it within the UB7 postcode: room 177 at the Thistle Heathrow Terminal 5 hotel, looking out across the northern runway at succession of jets heading off for the US and southeast Asia. Airport hotels are primarily a convenience, but they can also be inspiring.

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April 7th - Spain Reverses Announcement On Opening Up To Unjabbed Travellers.

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 08:47:51 GMT

An important correction on yesterday's podcast.

In an extraordinary reversal of an announcement made on Wednesday, Spain has withdrawn its promise to open up to unvaccinated British visitors. The Spanish tourist board in London has apologised "unreservedly for the miscommunication," explaining that the error was due to a "misunderstanding of the new entry requirements.” In all the confusion, I explain what we know so far and what entry requirements travellers will now need to meet to get across the Spanish border.

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April 6th - Spain Opens Up To Unvaccinated British Visitors

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 15:22:25 GMT

Britain's most popular destination to escape to, Spain has dropped restrictions around vaccinations and tourists from Britain as the great reopening gathers pace. It follows France, which has updated its terms and conditions for British travellers and is a welcome boost for Easter holidays. That is, of course, if you manage to get on a plane. While our most popular destinations open up, a host of airlines including British Airways are struggling to find crew for flights and operations meaning cancellations across the board. I give you the lowdown.

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April 5th - American Travel On A Budget

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 15:11:25 GMT

The cost-of-living crisis is forcing many people to cut back on their spending, and holidays tend to be one of the first things to get the chop. However, that dream get-away you've been planning may still be possible, even on a tighter budget than expected. So today I'm rising to the challenge and answering your questions about how to travel around North America without breaking the bank.

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April 4th - Cancelled Flights Are Devastating Hundreds Of Easter Holiday Travel Plans

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 16:24:31 GMT

As normality returns and restrictions are eased, the UK’s two biggest airlines are finding it hard to cope. There are widespread cancellations by easyJet because of Covid-related staff shortage – 100 yesterday, the same again today, with more than 40 to and from its biggest base at London Gatwick. At Heathrow, British Airways has made almost 100 cancellations so far, with some very long delays as well. So what's going on?

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April 1st - Airlines And Airports Sound Warning Over Queues

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 15:51:07 GMT

Airports and airlines are under pressure at the moment, with passenger numbers soaring and staffing issues leading to crowds, confusion and cancellations. What are your rights when it all goes, in the travel industry's acronym, Tango Uniform?

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March 31st - Reflection Of My Travels Through The Baltic States

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 14:25:09 GMT

I'm at the end of my week of travel across the Baltic states where I've encountered the most majestic scenery, vibrant cities full of history and with very modern ways of living and communities who could not be friendlier or more accommodating. Unfortunately for them though, and felt especially here in Tallinn, so close to the Russian border, the invasion of Ukraine has really dampened their reopening to tourism following the pandemic. But if you can, I implore you to visit to see the for-the-moment hidden gems of these friendly, beautiful countries.

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March 30th - The Joy Of Taking The Bus Round Eastern Europe

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 12:17:15 GMT

Right now is a fine time to the a stranger in a strange land – that is both friendly and safe - and as I continue my journey around eastern Europe I explain the joy of getting a long-distance bus. It's the most popular mode of travel in these parts and is a great way of getting a sense of the place and people, as I discover as I slalom through to my destination in Estonia.

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March 29th - Oh I Do Like To Be Beside The Baltic Seaside

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 15:16:12 GMT

I do love to be beside the seaside, and it's been a while. To my right, the waves are breaking; to my left, a beautiful pine forest. The sand is incredibly soft: a gorgeous place to be, apart from the temperature which is approximately zero. Yes, it’s Baltic in the Baltics. But come summer the beach here at Jurmala in Latvia will be picture-postcard perfect.

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March 28th - A New Lease Of Life For Gatwick?

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 09:48:19 GMT

Reporting for you from the newly reopened South Terminal at Gatwick, de-mothballed after almost two years. This summer the competition to Europe from the Sussex airport is set to intensify, with Wizz Air setting up a new base and British Airways launching a low-cost subsidiary, BA EuroFlyer, for its short-haul ops.

BA will also operate 35 short haul routes to destinations across Europe, Wizz Air 25 European routes and Vueling a total of 16 routes, all from the reopened South Terminal meaning that the competition from Gatwick for London's other airports could be more substantial now and will hopefully mean better travel for passengers.

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March 25th - The Government Response To The P&O Ferries' Mass Sacking

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 17:32:41 GMT

The government has vowed to make P&O Ferries "undo" its the mass-sacking of 800 of its workers. Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, said the ferry firm had “exploited a loophole” that would now be closed off by legislation and applied retrospectively. The Prime Minister has also weighed in, saying at PMQs that, "We will be taking steps to protect all mariners that are working in UK waters and ensuring they are paid the living wage." I give an overview of how the uproar around P&O Ferries has come about and what this means for mariners and passengers going forward.

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March 24th - The World Is Opening Up To Travel, But At Not All At The Same Speed

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 18:23:41 GMT

The world is slowly reopening, as more countries drop their covid-era restrictions. Some like Singapore, South Korea and South Africa are dropping their requirements for passengers to be vaccinated and providing PCR test results. But as Maggie asked me on my AMA, Morocco might not be ready for the easter holidays. So I take you through the differing rates of restrictions being lifted and where is still being strict on the requirements to be let into their territories.

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March 23rd - Air New Zealand plans to launch one of the longest flights in the world, connecting New York with its hub in Auckland.

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 17:40:55 GMT

Air New Zealand is planning to launch one of the longest flights in the world, a direct track from New York to Auckland. From 17 September, the carrier will fly the 8,828-mile route three times per week, using a Boeing 787-9 – the same type used by Qantas for its even longer nonstop link from London to Perth. Currently, all but 27 per cent of the direct flight path is over the Pacific Ocean, but this is likely to be significantly modified according to wind patterns. I discuss all you need to know about the new flight, and whether long haul flights such as this are really needed.

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March 22nd - Flybe Flies Again: Everything You Need To Know.

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 16:26:39 GMT

On 5 March 2020, the UK’s largest regional airline collapsed. Flybe was mired in debt. Yet on 13 April 2022, the familiar Q400 aircraft in a purple livery will take off from Birmingham airport, destination Belfast City – with 22 more routes to follow. Where will Flybe fly, and how will it fare?

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March 21st - The Sad News Of A Plane Crash In China – And Seeking To Put Aviation Safety In Perspective.

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:22:47 GMT

An airliner, operated by China Eastern Airlines, has crashed in the southern province of Guangxi while carrying 132 people on board. A rescue operation is underway and the number of casualties is yet to be confirmed.

In light of this sad tragedy, I give an overview of the latest developments in aviation safety and of Boeing 737 aircrafts.

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March 18th - More From Dover

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 18:09:58 GMT

In a sudden announcement yesterday, P&O Ferries made 800 of its UK seafaring staff redundant. The British shipping company plans to replace the former employees with cheaper agency workers in an effort to reduce its losses of £100m year-on-year. Union representatives have threatened legal action against the company and advised those affected to carry out sit-in protests against the job cuts. As the holiday period approaches, I give my opinion of what might be to come.

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March 17th - P&O Ferries Fire And Rehire

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 18:53:20 GMT

Unions are threatening legal action against P&O Ferries after making 800 workers redundant earlier today. The company suspended its sailings after making all UK seafaring employees redundant with immediate effect. The former employees are to be replaced with cheaper agency workers in an effort to reduce the company's current annual losses of £100m. Like many transport companies, P&O Ferries suffered from a drastic reduction in passengers during the coronavirus pandemic. A spokesperson for the company said in a statement, “In its current state, P&O Ferries is not a viable business." I have come to Dover to find out how the situation unfolded for the unfortunate former staff members, and what is likely to come.

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March 16th - Masks At Airports And On Flights

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 18:12:41 GMT

The UK's leading airport, Heathrow, has ended the requirement for passengers to wear masks in the terminals. In a statement, the airport said it “strongly encourages those at the airport to continue wearing a face-covering – particularly when coming into close contact with others”. I've come to Heathrow to see how it feels to wander around mask-free, and how other passengers are reacting to the policy change.

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March 15th - A First Class Showing, But Can I Get Used To It?

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 17:29:06 GMT

As I take a seat in the unusual (for me, anyway) surrounds of first class on my way to Crewe, I take advantage of the extra legroom and complimentary tea to have a think about the direction of travel for first class rail seats. The economics for rail travel is becoming harder to cover costs and I wonder where first class sits in that future.

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March 14th - Budget Airlines

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 15:43:57 GMT

Budget airlines are hoping to recover from the huge impact of the coronavirus pandemic by offering some incredible deals on flights. In fact, I've discovered that is even possible to travel around the world on a budget. Here is my itinerary for a round-the-world trip that takes advantage of the best flight deals being offered by the world's low-cost airlines.

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March 11th - Out On The Road

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 17:28:42 GMT

It's the eve of the centennial anniversary of the birth of literary legend, Jack Kerouac. The 'On The Road' author, who pioneered the radical beat generation of the 1950's, holds a special place in my heart. To commemorate his life, work and too-early death, I go out on the road and down memory lane to discuss the magic and mishaps of hitchhiking.

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March 10th - Travel Clinic

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 18:01:19 GMT

Today's podcast is rather unusual: taking as its starting point a selection of questions asked by readers of the Independent about travel. I not only provide the answers – including strong views on some subjects – I also give a score out of 10 as to whether or not I would want to undertake the trip that the questioner has asked about.

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March 9th - Gatwick

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 18:17:37 GMT

Gatwick airport, located in picturesque West Sussex, is ordinarily the UK's second busiest airport with flights to hundreds of destinations worldwide. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has left Gatwick struggling to control huge losses, of £1 million a day in 2021, as well as an 84% drop in passenger numbers compared to 2019.

Now, Gatwick is getting ready to restart a reduced short-haul programme, of about half of its previous scale, for the Summer season. This is due to the government's "Living With COVID" plan, which ended all remaining travel restrictions in England and Northern Ireland earlier this year and will be extended to Scotland and Wales by the end of March. Jumping on the chance for recovery, Gatwick will be reopening its South Terminal on 27th March, and even has plans to bring into use a standby runway.

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March 8th - Your Questions About St. Petersburg Cruises Answered

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 18:55:05 GMT

St. Petersburg is one of the biggest cities involved in cruise line tours, with many operators stopping along the way in the Russian city. But as the invasion of Ukraine continues and Russia becomes evermore a pariah due to sanctions and companies pulling out of doing business there, I've had a lot of correspondence with readers and listeners asking whether they should be thinking again about their cruises that involve St. Petersburg as some cruise lines begin to cancel trips well into the summer.

I may be fatally optimistic, but I hope the awful atrocities in Ukraine will cease soon and the sanctions will have done their part in bringing about change for the better, so my advice is to hold on for now unless you really do feel uneasy about taking a trip to the region - and if you do, I'll talk you through your options.

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March 7th - Today on the canals

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 17:27:31 GMT

The UK boasts of 2,000 miles of canals and rivers, forming a tranquil network of inland waterways that span the length and breadth of the country. Today, I'm celebrating the benefits of using canals to explore cities and countryside alike, whether you're on the water or using the well-maintained towpaths beside them.

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March 4th - Concerns over travel to eastern Europe

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 18:00:22 GMT

As the Russian military invasion of Ukraine continues, many are feeling apprehensive about travelling in Eastern Europe. I look at how to navigate the dangers of travelling to countries in conflict, and how Russia's bombardment and the resulting refugee evacuation may affect transport in neighbouring countries.

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March 3rd - Avoiding the train ticket price hike

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 15:20:04 GMT

Today's podcast comes from Runcorn railway station! Living the dream, in spite of the mega-rise in the cost of train tickets. This week train fares rose 3.8%, the highest price increase for the last 9 years. But whether you're a commuter or hoping to embark on a long-awaited getaway, it is still possible to save money on your train journeys. Listen in for my money-saving travel tips, from finding cheaper alternate routes to exploring more diverse modes of transport.

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March 2nd - Railway engineering works

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 17:55:47 GMT

To help you plan your upcoming journeys, I give an overview of the rail disruptions to look out for and why they are happening.

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March 1st - Strikes Disrupt Travel Across The Capital

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 18:03:01 GMT

Today's podcast comes to you from a rare London Underground train on a day when Tube workers are striking. I explain what the dispute is about, and what it will mean for passengers going forward.

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February 28th - Your Questions On Travel Plans Following Aviation Sanctions On Russia

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 18:09:58 GMT

The world has fundamentally changed in the last week as Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine has brought about unprecedented shifts in Europe and sanctions aimed at thwarting Russian plans effect everything from air routes to the cost of oil.

In this episode of the podcast, I answer some listeners' questions about what impacts global events might have on travel plans around Europe as we all hope for peace.

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February 25th - The joy of the tram, especially in Melbourne

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 09:53:19 GMT

Clean, green and convenient. Today I'm celebrating trams, and all the advantages they have over almost every other form of urban transport. And of all the cities providing tram networks, Melbourne is truly one of the best.

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February 24th - Russia invades Ukraine

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 13:28:17 GMT

Russia has launched a military invasion of neighbouring Ukraine. I give an overview of how the Russian military operations are affecting the European airspace, and what this means for airlines already struggling to recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

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February 23rd - The Thorny Question Of Cabin Baggage

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 14:56:14 GMT

Before booking the tickets for your next flight, one thing you may want to consider is the many benefits of cabin baggage. If decanting your body wash into 100ml bottles doesn't faze you, then it's worth checking the amount of cabin baggage allowed by your airline as it may be more generous than you expect. Be warned that bags are going missing in airports, so restricting yourself to cabin baggage could protect your belongings from the risk of being rummaged through by baggage handlers or stolen from the luggage carousel. Plus, freeing yourself from the baggage check-in queue could have a big impact on the overall cost of your tickets, and give you more options should any problems arise with your flight.

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February 22nd - Australia Is Empty

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 15:35:17 GMT

Strict travel restrictions are having a huge impact on the number of tourists in Australia, and local businesses are feeling the hit. But I find myself experiencing Sydney harbour in a way that no one has done in the modern era, almost entirely to myself.

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February 21st - Australia Reopens

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 09:44:42 GMT

Coming to you from Sydney Harbour, tourists seem to be far and few between. But it is more straightforward than you might think to travel to this lovely part of the world, so here are the latest entry requirements for travelling to Australia from the UK.

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February 18th - Storm Eunice: What Can We Learn?

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 18:11:23 GMT

From commutes to holidays, Storm Eunice has caused devastation to millions of people's travel plans. Is severe weather becoming more of a frequent occurrence, and if so, how can we be better prepared next time? I explore the ways this can be achieved, from giving customers more notice about train cancellations and grounded planes, to being more efficient in organising compensation arrangements.

Tweet me your suggestions @SimonCalder and if you do have to travel, take care.

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February 17th - Storm Warning: Eunice Is Coming...

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 15:56:33 GMT

Storm Eunice will create mayhem for travellers on the roads, railways and seas throughout the Southern half of the UK from around dawn on Friday 18th February. Most train operators are encouraging passengers to travel either today or after the storm has passed, warning of delays and fewer trains. A 50mph speed limit will also be imposed on rail services in affected areas due to safety concerns about debris falling onto the tracks. In Wales, all trains will be cancelled and ferries will also be affected, with links from Fishguard to Rosslare being cancelled. The Met Office has issued a Red Weather Warning for Storm Eunice, which is expected to cause winds in excess of 90mph. So if you do have to travel, be careful out there and stay safe.

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February 16th - Surcharges

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 18:15:46 GMT

I explain how the rise in fuel prices is affecting your plane tickets.

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February 15th - Railways in recovery

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 18:03:50 GMT

Railway companies are having to adapt to a myriad of changes in our travel patterns due to the coronavirus pandemic, from how we spend our holidays to our daily commute. I explain how railway companies have been impacted and how they are trying to recover.

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February 14th - Why is car rental so expensive this year, and can you do anything about it?

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 18:09:17 GMT

The coronavirus pandemic has left car rental companies with a shortage of cars, meaning car rental prices are three times higher than usual. But never fear! Here are some useful tips to save you money on your travel plans this Valentine's Day.

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February 11th - Eurostar Travel

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 16:53:38 GMT

Today I'm taking the Eurostar, which has survived the Covid crisis despite being hit harder than any other transport undertaking. Join me as I explain the current rules around international travel and why Spain is winning my award for worst performance by any tourist-dependent country.

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February 10th - "Landmark moment for international travel" as post-arrival test is scrapped

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 16:20:53 GMT

Covid tests for travellers returning to the UK have been scrapped at long last, which Grant Shapps has described as a "landmark moment for international travel". Join me in Northern Burgundy where I can tell you all you need to know about the latest updates on Covid-19 testing.

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February 9th - J'taime Paris, Je déteste l'aéroport Charles De Gaulle

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 12:28:37 GMT

Paris is back on the tourist map as restrictions ease across Europe but on my first visit back to the French capital, I'm reminded of the complexity of getting round Charles De Gaulle airport. In this episode join me as I navigate my way through the Parisian airport and give you the lowdown on the best way to deal with it.

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February 8th - The Great British Railways Looks For A Home

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 17:55:13 GMT

Much fanfare was made this week by transport secretary Grant Schapps about a competition to find a city to house the headquarters of The Great British Railways company. But what exactly is it? I take you through what the remit of the body is and what they'll be looking to do to help return Britain's rail industry to past glory.

There's also an exciting exclusive about who the finalists will be for the race to be granted the headquarters, and why it's not such a competition after all...

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February 7th - Australia Opens Up

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 12:00:41 GMT

Australia has announced the reopening of its borders to vaccinated tourists and other visa holders for the first time in almost two years. The reopening on February 21st does however have some things to be aware of - I talk you through what you need and what you need to be aware of as you make your way down under.

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February 4th - The Road To The Future

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 16:09:33 GMT

Motorists might have to pay by the mile in future, a cross-party Commons select committee has proposed as they see no "viable alternative" as a tax shortfall arises from the shift to electric vehicles that could be as big as £35bn. The committee has warned without urgent reform to taxation, the UK could face an under-resourced and congested future, with sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles set to be banned from sale from 2030 as part of the government's 2050 net zero plans. But will the public go for it?

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February 3rd - TfL Tries To Mind The Gap

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 16:49:27 GMT

Transport for London has announced in their latest financial update that the black hole in London's transport network has ballooned to £1.5 billion, mainly due to the pandemic. Just as London's network begins to show the strain of this, bosses are in a battle to get more money from the central government and are looking at a lot of different ways to claw back some of the money. Plans to introduce a road user charge, hike up council tax and extend a congestion charging zone will not be enough to balance the books, TfL board papers have revealed and talk of 'managed decline' as well as more off-the-wall plans such as closing tube lines for some days of the week are all being talked of. I take a look at what's going on.

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February 2nd - Ryanair Loses Compensation Court Battle

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 18:14:45 GMT

Ryanair has failed in its attempt to overturn a court ruling that it must pay compensation to passengers affected by industrial action that dates back from an industrial dispute in 2018. Thousands of the airline's customers lost out when flights were cancelled in due to a series of walkouts in 2018 and today a court ruling has sided with the Civil Aviation Authority and say Ryanair must pay the compensation to travellers. But before you go planning on how to spend any potential windfall, I'll take you through what's next and remind you of your rights as a passenger, as well as discussing why this case shows the system isn't fit for purpose.

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February 1st - The EU Changes Travel Rules But Inconsistency Remains

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 17:31:45 GMT

Today, the EU is altering its travel restrictions in two big ways. Firstly, it is recommending a change in how member states manage travel restrictions, and altering the focus to the individual, away from the region of departure. Secondly, all member states are shortening the validity of Covid-19 vaccination certificates to 270 days (nine months) across the bloc. Up to now, the EU has been recommending travel restrictions based upon the situation in the departure region, area or country. As of 1 February, it is recommending that these Europe travel restrictions be replaced with restrictions based upon the traveler’s situation.

I take you through the new rules and what they mean in practice, while also explaining some of the inconsistencies still remaining in international travel.

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January 31st - Eden Project Gets Permission To Expand

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 17:08:05 GMT

Britain will soon have a new eco-tourism attraction, following news that the charity behind the Eden Project in Cornwall have been given planning permission by Lancaster City Council for the £125m Eden Project North. The charity hope to re-imagine Morecambe as "a seaside resort for the 21st century" with three shell-shaped pavilions on the seafront showcasing the natural world and everything that goes into making it.

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January 28th - Grant Shapps' Travel Dead Cats

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 19:03:41 GMT

Grant Shapps has made a number of transport announcements. These have fallen during the ongoing controversy surrounding alleged parties held at 10 Downing Street, leading many to refer to these announcement as convenient 'dead cat' distractions. I go through each of them and what they mean for travellers. From less announcements on trains to updates on testing before travel.

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January 27th - Private Jets And Public Funds

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 17:06:26 GMT

Foreign secretary Liz Truss flew by private jet to Australia at a cost of over half-a-million pounds to the taxpayer, rather than using scheduled flights that would have been faster and far cheaper. Instead of travelling from London to Sydney on one of the daily Qantas departures, Ms Truss flew the 22,000 miles to, from and within Australia aboard the private government Airbus A321. The Ministerial Code makes clear that only the foreign secretary could authorise such a flight.

In this episode, I talk about what Truss did, how I uncovered it and who's picking up the tab. (Clue, it's us taxpayers.)

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January 26th - Ghost Flights

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 18:50:54 GMT

Ghost flights, in which a plane completes a journey with no passengers on board, have always taken place. I take a look at the reasons why and how Covid has affected ghost flights.

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January 25th - Heathrow's slide down the European table, and why it matters.

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 18:35:03 GMT

For a long time London Heathrow airport has sat on top off the list of best airport's in Europe. Due to a number of factors but chiefly the fallout from the UK's travel restrictions during Covid, as well as Brexit, Heathrow has lost its top spot. Airports in Istanbul and Moscow now dominate.

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January 24th - Travel Testing Scrapped, But Not Quite Yet

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 18:10:05 GMT

All Covid testing requirements for vaccinated travellers arriving into England are to be scrapped, the government has confirmed. The “day two” lateral flow test that double-jabbed arrivals must currently take after arrival will no longer be necessary from 4am on 11 February. But they're not quite done yet, with other countries still continuing restrictions and some other terms and conditions out there. I take you through what the new government announcement means for your travel plans, and the best way to avoid any mishaps.

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January 21st - Is Your Train Journey About To Get Quieter?

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 09:41:25 GMT

Train journeys could become a lot quieter if plans recently announced are anything to go by. Yes, train companies and the government are looking to reduce the number of announcements onboard to give us all a better rail experience. But is that where focus should be right now? As I speak to you on this train, I counted a whopping 11 people on a service that could service several hundred, giving us a visual sense of the problems facing our rail industry right now. In this episode, I discuss the plans and give my views on whether we're drowning in service announcements or being directed to a problem many of us don't really think of as being one.

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January 20th - The Mysterious Case Of Ryanair Flight 4978

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 17:47:49 GMT

British and Irish airlines are some of the safest in the world but the case of Ryanair flight 4798 shows that it's not just crashes that airlines need to remain vigilant over when looking at safety.

Ryanair flight FR4978 was travelling from the Greek capital, Athens, to Vilnius in Lithuania on Sunday 23 May when it made an abrupt change of course over Belarus, some 10km (six miles) from the Lithuanian border. According to an unverified transcript from the Belarusian transport ministry, air traffic controllers told the pilot at 09:30 GMT "you have [a] bomb on board and it can be activated over Vilnius". Even though the plane was closer to Vilnius than Minsk, the pilot was told to divert to the Belarusian capital. At 09:47 the pilot declared an emergency. As the plane landed witnesses said Roman Protasevich, an opposition Belarusian journalist, was "super scared", and one quoted him as saying "I'll get the death penalty here". He had been charged in absentia with inciting mass protests, but Belarus's KGB security agency also placed him on a list of "individuals involved in terrorist activity". When the plane's 126 passengers disembarked, police arrested Mr Protasevich and Sofia Sapega, a Russian citizen studying in Lithuania. Three other passengers were listed as remaining in Minsk. The other passengers were allowed on to the plane, which flew on to Vilnius around seven hours later. And even now, aviation advisors and safety boards are not fully sure what happened.

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January 19th - To Book Or Not To Book, That Is The Question

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 14:53:23 GMT

The UK government has declared Covid restrictions will not be renewed at the end of January, as the worst of the Omicron wave looks to have passed. But does that mean you should jump for that holiday booking right away? I take a look at the good and the bad of booking now and what an extra thrill a last minute booking when you're more aware of the travel restrictions, can be.

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January 18th - Which Is The Best Central European City To Visit?

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 17:21:24 GMT

With the airlines jostling for your hard-earned holiday plans, I've got to thinking about which city in central Europe is best for a city break this year. I put the question to my Twitter followers, with a choice of four cities: Vienna, Prague, Bratislava or Budapest. Which city did my followers go for and did I think they made the right choice?

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January 17th - The Cheapest Way Home?

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 18:08:29 GMT

In today's podcast I begin with some apologies. I got the location of the Sky Garden in London wrong and wasn't quite right about Britain's number two holiday destination. I must also make an apology for once again talking about France! In this episode, I'm reflecting on the costs of travel to and from Britain to Paris, as my Eurostar quote had me scrambling for alternative methods.

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January 14th - The Restrictions in France

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 17:01:42 GMT

As UK travelers are allowed to return to France, caution remains with strict rules on masks.

In Paris, it is still very possible to enjoy the delights of the French capital. Due to the very recent lifting of restrictions it is still largely free of tourists, which may mean it's a good time to visit.

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January 13th - France Is Open, But There's Much To Consider

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 17:13:54 GMT

France has lifted the travel restrictions for UK travellers as Omicron waves come and go. Hurrah! I hear you shout. But before you dash off to the Eurostar terminal there's still plenty to consider in regards to what you need to have to be able to travel without hassle.

PCRs, LFTs and points of entry will all be discussed as I find my way to France when the travel ban is lifted, which is some time on Friday 14th January (they've not actually said when yet.)

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January 12th - What is going on with France?

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 20:05:37 GMT

All you need to know about the travel restrictions in France and when UK travellers might be able to return.

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January 11th - Ouigo, slow and cheap French trains

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 16:10:17 GMT

SNCF, the French state-owned railway network, are reintroducing some classic old-fashioned trains, under the brand name Ouigo, which will mean longer travel times but cheaper tickets and a novelty passenger experience.

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January 10th - The best free views in London

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 17:38:38 GMT

From Bar Elba to Greenwich Park, where are the best vantage points to get panoramic views of London for free?

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January 7th - Why Is France Continuing It's Travel Restrictions?

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 18:10:08 GMT

It's one of the UK's most popular holiday destinations but France is continuing with its travel ban from the UK unless you're a French citizen. Initially put in place as Omicron spread rapidly in the UK, the variant has now reached everywhere across the globe, including France - so is the blunt instrument of travel bans dead or are we seeing more political motivations afoot?

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January 6th - Deciphering The New Testing Requirements For Travellers

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 17:54:14 GMT

It's been 24hrs since the news that UK travellers will have less stringent testing requirements coming in and out of the country. But what do they actually require us to do? Simon Calder looks at the government's plans and picks his way through so you won't find yourself getting stung before or after the changes are implemented.

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January 5th - Changes To Covid Testing Before And After Travel

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 17:24:15 GMT

I take you through the UK government's announcement that from 4am on Friday, international travel is about to become a lot less burdensome. That's right, those of us who are double vaccinated will no long have to take pre-departure Covid tests. They will also not be required to self-isolate while awaiting tests. I'll tell you what that means in practical terms and where restrictions may still be.

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January 4th - The Woeful State Of UK Aviation As 2022 Begins

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 12:52:24 GMT

I take a look at the state of UK air travel following the disastrous past two years for the aviation industry. While some countries and airlines have pulled themselves out of the fire, the UK's reliance on cheap flights to myriad destinations has meant it is taking longer to recover from the effects of the pandemic. The situation has not been helped by the Omicron variant either, meaning that the start of 2022 is looking very turbulent indeed for UK air companies.

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January 3rd - What Does The Future Of Aviation Look Like?

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 10:50:40 GMT

What does the new normal for air travel look like? I speak with aviation luminary Tim Jeans, former MD of Monarch and chairman of Newquay airport, to find out what he thinks will happen in the aviation industry and how we'll all adapt to flying after the pandemic.

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December 31st - The Travel Anniversaries Incoming

Fri, 31 Dec 2021 13:11:52 GMT

I take a look at the milestones and anniversaries coming our way in January.

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December 30th - What Travel Will Look Like In The Opening Weeks Of 2022

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 15:20:35 GMT

Southern Railways has announced today that because of staff illness and isolation periods, it will not have any services travelling into London Victoria until the 10th January. I take a look at the announcement and how it's a problem repeated across the country at the moment due to Omicron's spread.

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December 29th - In The Bleak Midwinter

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 16:47:31 GMT

In the bleak midwinter, Frosty wind made moan. Earth stood hard as iron, Water like a stone. I wonder what Christina Rossetti would have made of the state of the world today if she had been able to see it. Earth may not be stood hard as iron, but it is certainly at something of a standstill. With the wave of of Omicron variant, travel at this time of year has become very tricky indeed. So, will it return any time soon?

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December 28th - What's Going On With Trains?

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 14:33:24 GMT

In this gap between Christmas and the new year, the country's rail network undergoes a huge amount of engineering work. For those of us who are using trains during this time, planning journeys can be tricky. And, now, the Omicron Covid variant is causing even more issues.

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December 27th - Why This Is The Week To Visit London

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 17:58:41 GMT

Hello everyone, I hope you all had a lovely Christmas. This week between Christmas and New Year is always unique. Family coming and going, wondering what day it is... visiting the capital city? This is the perfect week to do it, so get out there!

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December 24th - How To Get Around The UK On Christmas Day, Without Actually Hitchhiking

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 12:57:13 GMT

Merry Christmas one and all and hopefully you've made it this far without needing to self-isolate and can share it with loved ones. In this episode, I'm explaining to those who've found themselves needing to travel on Christmas Day itself how you can do in the UK without needing to hitchhike.

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December 23rd - Christmas Travel News Across Roads, Rail And Air

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 18:18:51 GMT

As we approach Christmas Eve, I take a look at the state of play across roads, rail and air travel as those of us not isolating try to make our way to family and friends for Christmas. The railways are currently the most disrupted, with last minute cancellations due to coronavirus cases and looming railworks meaning it might be better to get away sooner rather than later.

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December 22nd - Your Christmas Trains In Full

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 17:03:24 GMT

I take you through the train timetables and the pressure points on service this Christmas time. With coronavirus cases rocketing, expect last minute cancellations on top of rail works and strike action - I'll take you through your rights as a consumer if it happens to you.

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December 21st - Navigating Plans For The Rest Of The Year

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 17:44:43 GMT

With restrictions being tightened across Europe and parts of the UK, but not England, Boris Johnson has announced before Christmas, I take a look at what your travel plans are currently looking like and what you should do if you find your destination suddenly changing guidance.

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December 20th - Will You Still Be Able To Take A Winter Trip?

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 13:03:21 GMT

As restrictions tighten in the UK and across the world, I take a look at what the new travel rules may mean for your Christmas holidays and travel.

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December 17th - The Complicated World Of Rail Fares

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 18:12:14 GMT

Today the government have announced the raising of train fares in the new year. I take a look at the complicated world of rail fares and why they need to be increased, as well as how to get the best price for your travel.

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December 16th - What France's Decision On Travel From UK Means

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 16:41:26 GMT

France has announced that travellers from the UK will no longer be allowed, unless the person is a French national. I look at what you can and can't do with the new directive and how the immediate future of travel looks as Omicron's wave of infections take hold across the world.

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December 15th - New Route From Newquay To Gatwick, But Should We Be Flying?

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 14:48:34 GMT

I'm at Gatwick airport, where a new route is a reason for celebration as Nequay becomes accessible from Gatwick airport. But should we be flying? I speak with Adam Wheatley, Managing Director of Eastern Airways. Of course this podcast is completely free, as is my weekly travel email. You can sign up at independent.co.uk/newsletters.

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December 14th -The trouble with Eurostar

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 17:05:48 GMT

Eurostar finds itself in trouble as the British government decides to impose draconian restrictions on inbound tourism.

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December 13th - Rail Timetables Have Changed: Here's The Improvements, And Why The Railways Must Try Harder

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 17:47:18 GMT

Rail timetables have changed and I take a look at where they've improved for rail passengers and where the operating companies and Network Rail must try harder.

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December 10th - The Desperate State Of Inbound Tourism To Britain, And Why It Matters

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 13:59:16 GMT

Today I've seen the numbers for inbound tourism to Britain and it's a horror show for December. I explain why inbound tourism matters both for Britain and elsewhere and why the government's plans are adding to coronavirus woes.

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December 9th - Could travel testing and self-isolation soon end?

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 13:22:59 GMT

Could travel testing and self-isolation soon end? The health secretary, Sajid Javid, seems to think so, if his comments when announcing the introduction of Plan B measures to tackle the Omicron variant. Simon Calder tries to pick his way through the announcements and what it means for travellers.

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December 8th - Is There A Funding Gap Coming Down The Tracks?

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 17:50:17 GMT

I've been taking a look at the numbers and the journeys being taken in the UK by rail are still low, with November only have 70% of the usage from 2019. A lack of travellers, particularly work commuters, could mean ticket prices rising as train companies and the treasury's forecasts and modelling run increasingly askew.

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December 7th - In Praise Of The Three Day Break

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 16:32:14 GMT

I've been thinking about the latest covid travel rules and how the three day break might be the saviour to getting some travel in and not falling foul of the rules around coronavirus testing or being forced to quarantine abroad.

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December 6th - The latest Covid travel rules

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 17:43:57 GMT

The key details of the new Covid travel restrictions, what will change and when?

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December 3rd - My Guide To Florida's Best Beaches

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 13:45:48 GMT

As I walk across the sands of Cocoa Beach in Florida, I take you through my guide to Florida's best beaches.

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December 2 - The Story Behind "The Man Who Pays His Way"

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 17:15:50 GMT

In this episode, Simon reflects upon his slogan "The man who pays his way", his mantra to make sure that he's approaching and experiencing the travel industry just like everyone else is.

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December 1st - 5 Myths Round The New Travel Rules

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 13:10:08 GMT

Following an email from British Airways asking around new travel rules as I enjoy my time in Florida, I dispel five myths around the new travel rules put into effect as nations try to suppress the Omicron variant.

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November 30th - America's Attempt To Fall Back In Love With Rail Travel

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 15:05:20 GMT

I'm travelling across Florida in a double-decker train, which is making me reflect upon America's attempts at falling back in love with rail travel. Joe Biden is a big fan, but can the President's enthusiasm catch across the US?

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November 29th - The New Covid Testing Requirements For Travel

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 09:21:40 GMT

After a weekend of bad news around the Omicron variant of coronavirus, new testing measures are being put in place for travel, with changes from lateral flow tests to PCR tests and adjustments to quarantine rules. I take you through what the new measures are and how you can minimise quarantine time and still keep everyone safe.

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November 26th - What The New Covid Variant Means For Travellers From Affected Countries

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:59:17 GMT

Overnight, news of a new variant that concerns scientists in South Africa and a host of other countries has led to many worrying about whether to cancel holidays and whether those already on holiday in South Africa will have to return to face expensive stays in Quarantine hotels. As ever, Simon Calder takes you through the latest announcements and how you can make the best choice if you're planning to travel to affected countries soon.

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November 25th - The Differing Paths Of Two Asian Hubs After Covid

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 15:30:42 GMT

I’m looking east, to the great Asian hubs of Hong Kong and Singapore – very different states of play in those two fabulous locations. As they reopen following Covid restrictions, Hong Kong's zero-covid approach risks causing mayhem for flights and workers, while in Singapore bookings are exploding in pace.

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November 24th - Have You Got A Ticket To Ride?

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:16:27 GMT

Today I'm travelling with a valid ticket, but talking about passengers travelling without one – who could soon face a £100 fine. As I cross the country, heading back from Edinburgh to London, I'll take you through the new rules and how to avoid those costly fines.

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November 23rd - The Northumberland Town Put On The Railway Map This Winter

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 17:33:40 GMT

Simon Calder hits the rails today, reporting from Morpeth, possibly the only northern town in Britain that's had good news around rail travel of late. LNER has been the train company ferrying passengers up to Edinburgh but it now has competition with the new "easyjet of the rails", Lumo - but why has this happened here and what has it meant for Morpeth?

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November 22nd - As Europe Starts Locking Down Again, What Are Your Rights?

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:40:05 GMT

Rising Covid rates have seen a smattering of restrictions and lockdowns being brought back in across European countries, the latest to announce a lockdown being Austria. But if you've booked a getaway for any destination that subsequently moves into lockdown, what are your rights as a traveller? Simon Calder fills you in on what you can do if you find yourself flying into lockdown.

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November 19th - Jabs For Journeys

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 16:55:01 GMT

In today's episode, Simon Calder navigates through the world of Covid passports and what you need to do travelling abroad, following two huge announcements that might have slipped past many people. Simon takes you through what documents you need to show, which countries are looking for evidence of booster shots and what the NHS app shows.

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November 18th - I’ve Read The Government’s Integrated Rail Plan So You Don’t Have To. These Are The Highlights.

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:46:32 GMT

The government have unveiled plans to provide 'faster' train journeys across the northern half of the country, delivered 'earlier and cheaper' under a £96bn rail plan - but have confirmed the rumours that the eastern leg of HS2 to Leeds has been scrapped. I take a look at the plans and see what's really happening and whether it does mean better train connections for northern cities.

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November 17th - When's the best time to book that trip to the US?

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 14:54:50 GMT

America opened up this month – and from the correspondence I’m getting, it’s clear that many people are looking at going west in the coming year. But when should you book? Which is best, confidence or commitment-phobia? I take a look at what you have to weigh up before booking that trip to the United States.

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November 16th - You Won't Get Far Without A Passport

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 15:55:04 GMT

They've not been in much use of late but as we begin to use our passports again, misinformation about changes following Brexit and expiry dates are raging. Helpfully, Simon Calder is here to walk you through what you need to remember when using that passport for travel again.

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November 15th - On The Trail of HS2

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 17:17:51 GMT

The government is set to scrap the eastern leg of HS2 between the Midlands and Leeds with the Transport Department instead set to announce a new rail plan on Thursday. Simon Calder takes a look at the state of the railways in Britain, looking at how the government's new plan for HS2 affects "levelling up" the country and what it means for places like Leeds, which have long felt the effects of being left out of Britain's rail plans.

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November 12th - Long Haul, Low Cost Aviation Has A New Route

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 13:48:54 GMT

Travellers will have more flight choices, with budget carrier Scoot launching services from London Gatwick to Singapore on Dec 16. The low-cost arm of flag carrier Singapore Airlines (SIA) have announced that the flights to London's Gatwick Airport via Bangkok will initially take place three times weekly for only two weeks, before resuming on March 22 next year, with the journey taking about 16.5hrs.

In this episode, Simon Calder takes a look at previous attempts at making low cost, long haul flights work. It's been many an airlines downfall, particularly in trying to make transatlantic flights at cheap rates work, but this new route will be a welcome addition to links to Asia and also to Gatwick airport, which has been particularly affected by the pandemic.

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November 11th - Boeing Admits Liability For Ethiopian Airlines 737 Max Crash

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 14:46:31 GMT

Boeing has acknowledged liability for the crash of Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 in March 2019, in which 157 passengers and crew died. Five months earlier, another 737 Max came down in the Java Sea shortly after leaving the Indonesian capital, Jakarta. All 189 people on board Lion Air flight 610 were killed. The cause of both tragedies was a software system that fatally malfunctioned and defeated the pilots’ efforts to save the aircraft.

In today's episode, Simon Calder explains what went wrong with the software and the future of the aircraft, which is back in operation with carriers like Ryanair.

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November 10th - What Are Your Rights When It All Goes Wrong?

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 14:59:27 GMT

We’re getting deeply into winter, when things tend to go wrong for airlines and holiday companies. Often, it’s simply not their fault. But fortunately there’s a strict duty of care to look after passengers – and get them where they need to be.

But what are your rights as a passenger in terms of due care and compensation? Simon Calder talks you through the obligations airlines and holiday companies are required to meet, as well as things to be aware of when booking flights, particularly transatlantic ones.

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November 9th - The UK's First Arrivals in Orlando, Florida

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 16:46:15 GMT

In Orlando, British visitors begin to arrive in the US now the travel ban has been lifted.

A conversation with some of the first arrivals from the UK and an update on the rules and regulations for getting here and travelling around the country.

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November 8th - US Travel Ban Lifts

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 18:29:40 GMT

The US travel ban has been lifted for fully vaccinated travellers six hundred days after Donald Trump closed off the US to British visitors.

Crossing the Canada-US border at Niagara Falls at midnight, I was the first non-essential British visitor to the US for almost 20 months.

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November 5th - Continental Europe and Covid

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 17:13:50 GMT

I’m in Germany, where Covid rates are soaring – as they are across Continental Europe.

Passport rules for Europe: what they are, and what you can do if your airline disagrees.

And testing rules for America – yet more confusion courtesy of the Foreign Office.

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November 4th - Jabs and Austria or Israel

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 18:14:15 GMT

Booster jabs and what could possibly go wrong with your trip to Austria or Israel … and clearing up the mystery of testing for trips to the US.

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November 3rd - Aviation and Environment

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 15:58:25 GMT

Aviation and the environment. Will we all be flying around in electric planes by 2030? And is a third runway at Heathrow airport now completely off the table?

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November 2nd - A Christmas Down Under

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 19:28:35 GMT

The first scheduled service from the UK to Australia for 20 months has taken off today.

But what are the chances of Christmas down under?

And Thailand, Israel and Japan are all easing their travel restrictions. After a fashion.

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November 1st - Is This Freedom Day?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:07:48 GMT

I’m at World Travel Market in London, where I’ve been talking to industry leaders about the coming winter and summer 2022.

And Ryanair is talking up its prospects for European domination.

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October 31st - Rail Chaos

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 18:17:27 GMT

Rail chaos – why?

Rail rights?

Are trains getting less reliable?

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October 30th - Stansted Shutdown

Sat, 30 Oct 2021 15:24:35 GMT

If you were caught up in the Stansted shutdown on Saturday afternoon, these are your rights.

The European Union now recognises the NHS app as equivalent to the EU digital Covid certificate.

And as a result Luxembourg, the last EU nation to hold out against British visitors, has now opened up. Why you might want to visit.

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October 29th - End of the Red List

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 14:34:29 GMT

The red list is scrapped as from Monday. Should it have stayed in place so long?

My pick of the nations that are opening up in Latin America.

And Crossrail – yet more condemnation of this hopelessly botched London line.

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October 28th - Tax Cut Winners

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 15:14:53 GMT

Domestic flights – who will be the winners of the Air Passenger Duty tax cut?

Restored and new flights on Emirates from Gatwick and on United from Heathrow.

And eastern options for people diving deeper into Turkey.

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October 27th - The Budget and Travel

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 19:10:35 GMT

I’ve read the whole Budget so you don’t have to … to find out what it says about transport and travel.

And as fares to the US soar ahead of the 8 November opening, you could try my cut-price plan.

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October 26th - How the US will Open

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 15:03:42 GMT

Today, at last the US has revealed most of the details for opening up to fully vaccinated British travellers from 8 November. I’ll bring you the latest.

And I’m here at the UK’s busiest railway station, London Waterloo where, if you believe the BBC, passengers are doing the wrong thing by using public transport.

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October 25th - Lumo Trains Begin

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 16:29:07 GMT

Passenger services begin on the new Lumo trains between London and Edinburgh – I was at King's Cross station to wave the first departure off.

Scotrail trains will be cancelled during the Cop26 summit due to a rail strike.

And after a weekend of disruption at airports, why paper is the way forward.

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October 24th - Testing Requirements Downgraded

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 12:36:41 GMT

Testing requirements for international travellers to England and Wales have been downgraded.

Morocco – direct flights to the UK will continue for another week.

And eighteen years after the final passenger flights of Concorde, what’s the future for supersonic travel?

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October 23rd - What is Tax on Flying?

Sat, 23 Oct 2021 16:02:07 GMT

Air Passenger Duty: aviation tax likely to go back to the future, with far-flung trips more heavily penalised.

A reminder of what the tax on flying is; where it came from; and how it is likely to change in Wednesday’s budget.

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October 22nd - Going with the Flow

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 18:01:24 GMT

Today: Lateral flow replaces PCR tests for England, but confusion abounds.

What the law says – and what to watch for when you are booking your test.

“Stuck in Morocco”? No, on holiday there. Don’t always assume the worst.

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October 21st - Train Vs. Plane

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 17:57:49 GMT

Today: I’m on a train south from Edinburgh at the end of a train-vs-plane race. Here’s what I’ve learnt today.

And if you (or people you care about) are in Morocco, don’t panic about the flights ban.

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October 20th - Morocco Bans UK Flights

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 09:23:20 GMT

Morocco has suddenly banned flights from the UK?

Will Britain’s soaring Covid rates lead to other travel bans?

And Singapore Airlines is putting its biggest plane on one of its shortest routes.

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October 19th - The Moroccan Connection

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:23:32 GMT

Why premium economy could be a waste of money right now.

Heathrow charges are set to surge from New Year’s Day.

And Scotland’s new Moroccan connection.

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October 18th - Ethics and Tourism

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 11:12:39 GMT

I’m in Saudi Arabia, for the third time in under two years. How tricky is travel in a kingdom that until very recently was off-limits for tourism for decades?

How rewarding is Saudi Arabia as a destination?

And what are the ethics of being a tourist here?

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October 17th - Getting Back

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 14:03:24 GMT

Two weekends before the end of October – what’s happening to flight schedules, and why?

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October 16th - Split-Ticketing

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 10:59:19 GMT

Split-ticketing on the railways of Britain – what it is and what it could mean for you, and the country.

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October 15th - Alitalia is Dead

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 11:35:32 GMT

Today: Alitalia is dead – long live the new Italian airline, ITA, which looks remarkably similar.

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October 14th - Over the Gulf of Aqaba

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 11:07:29 GMT

I’m looking over the Gulf of Aqaba – why it should be on your list

Four countries divided by three of the tougher borders in the world.

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October 13th - ABTA Demands Action for Future

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 14:53:55 GMT

ABTA, the travel association, demands action now for dealing with future pandemics.

Plus the importance of great people in the travel industry – and diversity.

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October 12th - Three Countries in 24 Hours

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 14:21:55 GMT

Three countries and four airports in 24 hours – where I am, where I’ve been and how I did it.

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October 11th - Red List Changes Take Effect

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 13:13:41 GMT

Red list changes have taken effect. The highlights.

Testing for travel to Spain for unvaccinated people who have recently had Covid.

And Ryanair’s “six month” passport rule for British travellers to the European Union: made-up and unenforceable.

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October 10th - Quarantine Free Transit

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 17:04:40 GMT

PCR gets downgraded to lateral flow – are we any closer to knowing when, and what will it mean?

Whatever happened to the plan for “quarantine free transit” at the world’s airports.

And travel insurance for anywhere – for almost anyone.

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October 9th - Bulgaria Opens

Sat, 09 Oct 2021 16:30:58 GMT

Portugal eases its testing rules for British visitors.

Bulgaria opens up to travellers from the UK.

And Singapore says Brits can come back in from 19 October.

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October 8th - No-Go Continues to Shrink

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 15:49:44 GMT

The Foreign Office no-go list has shrunk again, with Jamaica and the Bahamas now regarded as reasonable risks.

No clues yet about when returning British travellers will be going with the lateral flow.

And the mystery of the “world’s busiest air route”.

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October 7th - No-Go List Shrinks

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 13:23:50 GMT

British Airways and Ryanair celebrate an investigation being dropped.

The no-go list has shrunk – what exactly does that mean?

And parts of the travel industry now openly ridicule the government.

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October 6th - The Most Powerful Passport

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 14:54:54 GMT

TUI says the good travel times are just around the corner

The world’s most powerful passport is revealed.

British Airways reveals its winter plans for the US.

And it involves special guest Helen Coffey today!

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October 5th - Flying in Europe

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 14:03:27 GMT

UK’s new high-speed rail route may lose its eastern promise.

Flying in Europe: the UK remains way down in flights compared with two years ago.

And Australia’s prime minister is in no rush to welcome international visitors.

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October 4th - Super Jumbo

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 14:47:08 GMT

Today bring changes for the better if you’re fully vaccinated, but for the worst if you are unjabbed.

British Airways brings back the Airbus A380 “SuperJumbo”.

And more BA news: short-haul flights from Gatwick next summer are back on the table.

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October 3rd - The Depot

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 11:56:47 GMT

The Depot opens next month – I’ve had a sneak preview of what will become one of Europe’s great attractions.

One card for all the trains, buses and trams in the Netherlands.

And more on the red list update expected this week.

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October 2nd - Life's Work Complete

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 12:46:41 GMT

Today: I’m in the Netherlands, where they do things differently – I’ll explain how.

As the countdown to the next red list changes gets under way, how did the UK get where it is today in terms of extreme measures against so many nations?

And my life’s work may be complete – I’ll tell you why …

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October 1st - Australia Opens November

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:32:44 GMT

Australia opens up from November – but not to you and me.

Turkey eases its testing rules for fully vaccinated British travellers.

And Britain’s ID card ban – and why it matters.

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September 30th - Drop-off Charge

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 17:21:30 GMT

Heathrow is the last big UK airport to bring in a drop-off charge.

Could the US bring in a mandatory vaccination rule for airline passengers?

And United is “separating” from 600 staff who have declined to get vaccinated.

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September 29th - ID Card into UK Outlawed

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 16:33:30 GMT

Able to drive as far as Dover? Your problems could be only just beginning.

Using a national ID card to enter the UK is about to be outlawed.

And three months on, how great are the new “flexi season” tickets on the trains?

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September 28th - Southeastern Fraud Allegations

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 14:09:41 GMT

Southeastern rail franchise is torn up amid fraud allegations – but don’t panic if you’re a passenger.

South Africa is a cert to be removed from the red list in around 10 days’ time.

And Egypt, the Maldives and Sri Lanka are removed from the Foreign Office no go list.

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September 27th - No Early Christmas for London-Perth Nonstop

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 11:28:36 GMT

London-Perth nonstop flights won’t start before Christmas after all.

Ireland scraps its red list – some more information on the change.

And plans by ministers to give Civil Aviation Authority powers to force refunds have been scrapped.

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September 26th - Ireland Scraps Red List

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 17:16:45 GMT

Ireland abruptly scraps its red list. Could the same happen in the UK?

Reports of chaos at the airport – not here, but in Europe, with passengers flying back.

Ashley Davies wonders: is it weird sharing a cabin on the Caledonian Sleeper from Edinburgh to London.

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September 25th - The Mystery of the Train That Doesn't Exist

Sat, 25 Sep 2021 13:25:42 GMT

Three months to Christmas Day – should you be making festive travel plans now?

What’s happening with the new travel rules for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?

And the strange case of a railway ticket that warns you it is not valid on a train that doesn’t exist.

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September 24th - Lateral Flow at Lidl?

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 15:33:05 GMT

Could you get your lateral flow post-arrival tests from Lidl?

South African Airways back in the air. Good news … or not?

And Ambre Plus – with a TPF of at least 50.

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September 23rd - Short-haul Op Ditched at Gatwick

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 16:57:56 GMT

British Airways ditches its Gatwick short-haul operation.

Those BA passengers stranded in Tashkent – are they due compensation?

And the UK airport that lost almost £1,000 for every passenger it handled in a year.

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September 22nd - Red List Reduced with Warning

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 12:48:06 GMT

Red list reduces – but Foreign Office still warns against travel to Egypt.

British Airways passengers stranded in Tashkent.

And The Wizard of Oz – what’s that got to do with travel to France?

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September 21st - If it's Good Enough for WHO

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:38:33 GMT

National Express and Megabus could be about to merge.

More on the US opening up – with particular attention to the rules on jabs and kids.

And my beautiful quarantine laundrettes: could Turkey and the US become the places for UK-bound travellers from Africa and Latin America respectively to shed their “red list” status?

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September 20th - American Adventure

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 16:20:17 GMT

The US opens up – so how can you take an American adventure?

And I’ve been at Battersea Power Station for the opening of two new stations on the London Underground.

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September 19th - Swabs Attached

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 16:44:15 GMT

What’s the score for children returning to the UK – do they need to self-isolate or not?

Some more detail on the government’s travel changes.

And The Netherlands opens up – but with strings, or rather swabs, attached.

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September 18th - Rules Review

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 11:59:18 GMT

More on the international travel rules – and the incoherence across the UK.

A year late, red list hubs are opening up – underwhelming.

And how Turkey will become the quarantine laundrette.

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September 17th - Today's Rule Changes

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 18:11:53 GMT

The international travel rules have changed.

I’ll explain why we’re still on red, amber and green.

And how the testing regime will change.

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September 16th - The Waiting Game

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:48:32 GMT

The waiting game goes on – how I predict international travel rules will change.

What could happen to the despised red list.

And trains turn out to be much more punctual if there are fewer of them, and hardly any passengers.

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September 15th - Cut Sandwiches

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 16:27:04 GMT

Passport validity – the travel giants agree with me, at last.

Qantas vows to start flying from the UK to Australia by Christmas. Probably.

And Switzerland’s national airline starts selling its sandwiches at cut prices.

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September 14th - The Boeing is Back

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 12:56:43 GMT

Red alert – what could change in the next "traffic light" review?

Boeing says, we’re back in business.

And Tubes and trains are still cordoning seats off from passengers.

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September 13th - End of the ID Card

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 13:00:23 GMT

More government leaks about easing travel restrictions.

Manchester airport closed and flights diverted after a medical emergency.

And how the ending of the “ID card” option will hit inbound tourism to the UK.

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September 12th - Australian Aviation

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 11:43:01 GMT

A reduction in testing for travellers arriving in the UK is on the cards – how will ministers justify it?

Wales now allows cheaper Covid tests.

And 20 years after Ansett Australia collapsed – the state of Australian aviation.

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September 11th - 20 Years On

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 11:02:02 GMT

20 years on from 9/11 – what has changed in aviation?

Passport rules for Europe – please check yours as soon as you’ve finished listening

And, no, you don’t need a PCR test to board a plane from Spain to the UK

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September 10th - Bus Wars

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 17:29:39 GMT

Rail commuters disappear.

Bus wars in Bristol and beyond.

Jet Airways trying to revive itself.

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September 9th - Back on the Rails

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:17:54 GMT

Today: easyJet and Wizz Air call the whole thing off

The “traffic light” review – what can we expect?

And back on the rails? Let’s see.

LNER reports leisure passenger numbers are now above pre-pandemic levels, but business travel is still only at the halfway mark.

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September 8th - Touch Down in Singapore

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 13:35:14 GMT

The desperate state of inbound tourism to the UK has been revealed.

Europeans touch down in Singapore for a quarantine-free holiday.

More on those cheap trains between England and Scotland – railcards and timings.

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September 7th - With One Eye Closed

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:26:03 GMT

New cheap trains between England and Scotland

As one London Eye lookalike closes down, another is set to open up.

And talking of opening up – that’s what Canada is doing.

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September 6th - That's your Queue

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 11:58:16 GMT

I’ve been at Heathrow assessing the queues to get into the UK.

Ryanair breaks up talks with Boeing – is it a flounce or a strategy?

And that Brazil Argentina match – what triggered its abandonment?

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September 5th - Sunday Best

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 14:37:29 GMT

Travel restrictions: the three reasons why even the most bizarre remain in place.

Flights are being cancelled – can you expect more than a refund?

And Sunday best for rail travel – in some parts of the UK at least.

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September 4th - Tourism, Queues and Airports

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 13:40:42 GMT

Inbound tourism to the UK is being destroyed. Should you care?

What’s happening with queues at airports?

British Airways explains its plans for Gatwick airport – not what you might have thought?

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September 3rd - I Have a Dream (of Stockholm)

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 13:35:37 GMT

Should the UK scrap the “red list” requiring hotel quarantine?

Why cruises cost more from Liverpool than from Southampton.

And if you want to pay an homage to Abba in Stockholm – is there any way around the tough Swedish ban on British visitors.

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September 2nd - Bit by Bit

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:52:30 GMT

Portugal opens up – a bit.

Australia closes down – a bit more.

And Russia may be back on the travel map soon.

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September 1st - Meddling Middle Names

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 14:21:06 GMT

Is your journey to Devon or Cornwall by rail really necessary?

What could happen to Turkey at the next “red list review”

And does your middle name have any significance at all in travel?

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August 31st - Ryanair: Attack on Autumn

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 14:24:16 GMT

Ryanair declares a fares war for autumn.

Italy’s new rules on travel start today.

More trouble on the rails – bring back the relief trains

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August 30th - Montenegro Evacuation Chaos

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:32:08 GMT

Chaos on evacuation flight from red-list Montenegro

Concern that the European Union could reinstate restrictions on American visitors.

And Qantas sets out its plans for December onwards.

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August 29th - Save Our G&T's

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 10:42:05 GMT

Italy opens up to British holidaymakers – my pick of September escapes.

Short-notice cancellations – why are they still happening to holidaymakers?

And: “Save our G&Ts” – my take on the changes in British Airways’ inflight service.

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August 28th - A Funny Kind of Amber

Sat, 28 Aug 2021 13:30:09 GMT

I warned you yesterday of a bank holiday squeeze on the railways this weekend – well, I’m caught up in it.

What to do when it all goes Tango Uniform on the trains

And Jamaica goes a funny kind of amber.

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August 27th - Traffic Light Fallout

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 11:28:13 GMT

After Thursday’s bizarre “traffic light” changes, the fall-out continues from furious travel industry bosses.

British Airways has a cunning plan for its Gatwick short-haul operation: a new budget airline.

And prepare for a bank holiday squeeze on the railways this weekend.

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August 26th - New to the Green List

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 17:17:48 GMT

The new green list announcement – Canada is good to go, Turkey stays on the red list.

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August 25th - Covid Travel Trap

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 11:46:47 GMT

It’s been described as the unanticipated Covid travel trap – could your vaccination record lose its sheen as early as the end of the year?

Gatwick plans a second runway, saying: ‘Here’s one we prepared earlier”

And German trains – fine once you’ve got a ticket, but trying to buy one can make you lose the will to live.

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August 24th - Return to Oz

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 10:56:05 GMT

New green list possibilities?

British Airways signals a return to Australia seven months from now – with a faster journey but smaller plane.

And could Ryanair be leaving Northern Ireland?

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August 23rd - Too Little Too Late

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 11:18:12 GMT

Action at last against the “cowboy” firms on the government’s register of travel testing providers – but it is too little too late.

And let’s talk about tipping – which many travellers find a nightmare, but it shouldn’t be.

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August 22nd - Raab in Heat After Crete

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 11:00:13 GMT

This week there’s another traffic light review. I don’t know exactly what changes will be made, but I can guide you through the practicalities.

Travel in the former East Germany 32 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

And while foreign secretary Dominic Raab is in trouble after his holiday in Crete – if you don’t have any pressing matters of state, it’s a great island to explore.

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August 21st - Touching Down in Berlin

Sat, 21 Aug 2021 13:27:47 GMT

I’ve just touched down in Berlin, location for probably the world’s least successful new airport project.

75 weeks into the coronavirus pandemic, a snapshot of the international travel experience – at least between the UK and Germany.

And what’s happening with autumn cancellations and expansion to southern Europe?

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August 20th - Sale on the LNER

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 13:21:40 GMT

News of a seat sale on LNER

Likely moves in the next traffic light announcement.

And another reminder: you need no test to leave the UK

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August 19th - Spain will Remain

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 14:04:15 GMT

Please stop worrying about Spain going on the red list everybody.

Booking “insurance” flights – how to do it.

And on the final full day of my trip to Shetland, my top five from the islands.

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August 18th - September in the Med

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 11:59:41 GMT

A leading analyst gives a damning verdict on the UK’s travel rules.

More holiday cancellations coming in for late summer and autumn. Why?

And my recommendations for the Mediterranean in September.

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August 17th - Analogue Shetland

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 11:18:24 GMT

Being pinged following flights with infected people – what has changed?

The Corona Testing Centre continues to make strange claims

And how travel in Shetland remains defiantly analogue in a digital age.

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August 16th - The Scottish Experience

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:58:41 GMT

What’s happening in Australia in terms of Covid and travel?

Dodgy testing companies giving misleading “advice” on testing to leave the UK.

And the Scottish travel experience right now.

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August 15th - Avios to Burn

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 13:44:30 GMT

Could airlines be forced to tell you the environmental impact of your flight?

How to spend those Avios.

And a reminder about passport validity.

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August 14th - Ryanair's Winter Expansion

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 12:20:29 GMT

The health secretary, Sajid Javid, says he’s taking action on Covid testing charges. Will it do any good?

What happens if you test positive while you’re away on holiday?

And Ryanair’s amazing Winter expansion from the UK.

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August 13th - £6 Million Mound

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 14:48:23 GMT

The £6 million mound.

Gatwick loses £1000 per minute and says relax the testing rules.

And a new new way to fly to Nice from Heathrow.

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August 12th - New Kid in Town

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 13:12:13 GMT

New kid in town at London Heathrow: jetBlue has landed from New York JFK.

The UK is lagging behind the rest of Europe in holiday terms.

And legal action against the government for its red list policies.

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August 11th - Emirates Returns with Purpose

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 13:54:27 GMT

Emirates is back and ambitious.

Virgin Atlantic returns to Edinburgh with a Caribbean connection.

And Avanti West Coast is adding more trains to link London with Birmingham and Manchester.

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August 10th - The American Question

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 13:56:52 GMT

How long will America be off-limits to British travellers?

Hotels in Europe are looking empty, but the US and China are filling up fast.

And what happens when your expected rental car simply isn’t available?

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August 9th - Perseid Meteor Shower

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 14:30:52 GMT

Today: the health secretary weighs in on testing when you return from abroad to the UK.

Repeat after me. You don’t need a test to leave the UK – unless your destination asks for one.

And gaze into the Cosmos later this week – and hopefully see the Perseid meteor shower.

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August 8th - Eurostar Revival

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 12:29:48 GMT

I’m at St Pancras where the Eurostar link to Paris is coming back to life.

Hotel quarantine and how to avoid it.

And correcting more official nonsense about testing to travel to the UK.

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August 7th - Pings on Planes

Sat, 07 Aug 2021 13:00:44 GMT

Why I don’t think any major holiday location will be going red.

Pings on planes: what are the rules and how will they change?

And why it’s the Yorkshire Riviera for me!

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August 6th - Mexican Wave

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 13:02:14 GMT

The Mexican wave of escaping Brits.

Nine out of ten returning holidaymakers take PCR tests. Really?

And French bookings go through le toit – the roof.

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August 5th - France's Reprieve

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 12:33:13 GMT

France gets a reprieve after the Réunion affair.

Mexico goes red, but India and the UAE turn amber.

And the green list expands. A bit.

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August 4th - The Stretch

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 12:27:57 GMT

Stretch out to Paris and Amsterdam in business class comfort.

Beware of engineering works over the August bank holiday weekend.

And a look ahead to tomorrow’s traffic light announcement.

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August 3rd - All Change for the Amber Watchlist

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 11:19:23 GMT

All change for the Amber Watchlist

The view from Canada on the UK’s border rules.

And British Airways is back between Belfast and Glasgow.

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August 2nd - Amber Watch List

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 11:03:47 GMT

Amber watch list: what is it, and should you be worried?

International cruising restarts. Or does it?

And what’s heading down the track in terms of rail fares?

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August 1st - New York to Boston

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 10:47:31 GMT

Could changing planes in “red list” countries become quarantine free?

Stay away a day longer – if you’re coming in from an amber nation, fully vaccinated.

And New York to Boston by seaplane, starting on Tuesday.

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July 31st - Side-tripping

Sat, 31 Jul 2021 12:09:15 GMT

The Covid numbers from Europe and what they could mean in the week ahead.

With double-jabbed Europeans and Americans coming in to the UK from Monday, what are the rules on timing to avoid quarantine.

And could a side-trip take you out of self-isolation? I’m waiting to find out.

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July 30th - Italy Extends Quarantine

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 14:13:37 GMT

France looks set be upgraded from its amber plus loneliness.

Italy extends the quarantine spell for British holidaymakers.

And Saudi Arabia opens up to tourists once again. Should you go?

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July 29th - Island of Réunion

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 11:59:38 GMT

The new rules on quarantine-avoidance for people vaccinated in other countries.

International cruising is allowed once more.

And the bizarre story of Réunion and the amber plus list.

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July 28th - Passport Checker in Check

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 12:38:35 GMT

Six months on, the UK may finally grant quarantine-avoidance to people vaccinated in other countries.

The Home Office “passport checker” is back and it’s just about working.

And the worst job in travel public relations is up for grabs.

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July 27th - Checkpoint Bravo

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 13:57:47 GMT

Today: What is Checkpoint Bravo and what could it mean for your travels?

Ryanair warns of “bogus discount scam”

And a Paris landmark restaurant is under threat.

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July 26th - The Status of Foreign Jabs

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 13:10:10 GMT

Foreign jabs – their status for avoiding UK quarantine.

Heathrow and Ryanair report many millions more in losses.

And the Home Office admits its online passport checker is useless.

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July 25th - Who, What, Why, When & Where?

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 11:00:08 GMT

The key questions you are asking me about travel in the time of coronavirus – what’s been weighing down my virtual mailbag, from travelling if you’re recovered from Covid to the chances of foreign vaccinations being recognised by the UK for the purposes of avoiding quarantine.

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July 24th - Sinking of Queen Mary

Sat, 24 Jul 2021 12:07:53 GMT

The race to the sun is under way – or is it?

When your local airport will be busiest this summer.

And could Queen Mary soon be sunk – deliberately?

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July 23rd - What's Wrong with Canada?

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 13:09:52 GMT

At the start of what should the busiest weekend of the year for Britain’s airports, my best guess on traffic light changes.

What’s wrong with Canada, exactly?

And an update on rail travel.

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July 22nd - Testing for Croatia

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 11:51:55 GMT

Advice for rail passengers this summer.

The two testing issues that international travellers from the UK most often get wrong.

And Croatia is the latest quarantine-free country to demand tests from British holidaymakers.

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July 21st - Hypersonic Air Travel

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:21:40 GMT

Today: As the summer getaway begins, if you’re driving, these are the key congestion locations in the UK.

Italy: what’s happening with quarantine for Brits?

And hypersonic air travel: coming to an airport near you?

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July 20th - The Irish Experience

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 12:43:49 GMT

Today: sadly I’m back from Ireland already, but I want to give you an update on the travelling experience between Great Britain and the Republic.

easyJet loses £40 per second – but the boss tells me the future looks bright.

And Crossrail could accelerate Heathrow airport journeys.

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July 19th - Freedom Day

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 13:01:42 GMT

Today: I’m in hot and sunny Dublin, capital of the only no-hassle foreign country.

“Freedom day,” at least for some.

And how to launder red list status from Turkey.

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July 18th - The French Flavour

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 11:05:37 GMT

There is a French flavour with France making access much easier for vaccinated visitors.

And how the transit rules will apply for people returning via France.

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July 17th - France Goes Amber Plus

Sat, 17 Jul 2021 13:15:33 GMT

France goes to amber plus – I’ll be talking through all the implications of that overnight move.

And in one piece of good news: Ireland is as green as can be.

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July 16th - Ireland Goes Green

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 16:33:44 GMT

Green light for Ireland from Monday.

In quarantine and already double jabbed? What happens from 4am on Monday?

And Thailand's Koh Samui opens up.

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July 15th - Balearics Downgraded

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 14:47:38 GMT

The Balearics downgrade to amber list, while Bulgaria and Croatia get upgraded – what it means for your trip.

Malta softens its stance on the Indian variant of the AstraZeneca jab.

And I’m in Carlisle for a new exhibition, opening today.

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July 14th - Buy on Board

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 09:30:46 GMT

On British Airways, “buy on board” is back for economy passengers in Europe.

Travelling by train on the West Coast main line? Watch out for closures tonight.

And Manchester’s revived Terminal 2 opens today – with Heathrow Terminal 3 following tomorrow.

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July 13th - Bank is Closing

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 16:02:35 GMT

Rail Fare Reform – I’ve been hearing from a train ticket guru.

Beneath the City of London, the Bank is closing for four months.

And is red to green feasible in Thursday’s traffic light shuffle?

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July 12th - Center Parcs is Coming Home

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 11:26:21 GMT

Green list speculation mounts.

Center Parcs is coming home. To Crawley.

And Heathrow’s woes continue.

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July 11th - Journey to Space

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 10:35:19 GMT

Journey into space – will orbital tourism take off?

Planning your August trip? Not so fast.

And how to avoid peak prices on the West Coast Main Line.

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July 10th - Malta's Vaccine Surprise

Sat, 10 Jul 2021 13:26:32 GMT

Just started quarantining from an amber list country? Keep going.

Malta’s vaccine surprise.

And Wizz Air drops its UK domestic flights before they’ve even started.

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July 9th - Issue with European Vaccines

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 21:06:14 GMT

How bad will the queues be for passport control this summer?

What’s wrong with European vaccines?

And some of the possible green list countries.

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July 8th - When Amber Turns Green

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 13:45:42 GMT

When Amber turns Green – I’ve got all the details of the new “vaccination vacation” plan.

When does it start?

How will it work, especially for children?

And how does the travel industry respond?

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July 7th - The Word of Committees

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 13:16:52 GMT

New vaccination trials at Heathrow. What’s happening – and what isn’t?

Face masks on the Tube could continue.

And MPs demand action to win back the confidence – and business – of rail passengers.

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July 6th - Face Mask Special

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 12:03:38 GMT

Face masks on public transport after England's rules are relaxed on 19 July.

What’s happening on trains, boats and planes? I have the answers.

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July 5th - The Legacy of Thomas Cook

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 12:36:04 GMT

180 years on from Thomas Cook’s first excursion, what is his enduring legacy?

Face masks on trains. What’s happening?

And cutting through the confusion on testing.

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July 4th - Passport Perils

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 12:47:17 GMT

The passport perils of Brexit

Travel industry's great and good demand freedom

And new air routes possibly coming to an airport near you.

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July 3rd - Set Sights to Ukraine

Sat, 03 Jul 2021 14:05:04 GMT

Why you should go to Ukraine.

It’s a year today since the great unlocking of international travel: how different things are now.

And more on the Indian variant of the AstraZeneca vaccine: no need to panic.

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July 2nd - Flights on the Rise

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 14:15:32 GMT

Could an Indian vaccine scupper your planned trip?

More on Spain’s tests for British travellers.

And the number of flights is increasing – particular on Ryanair.

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July 1st - Prove It!

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 14:55:20 GMT

Spain spells out what tests you will need to visit.

Malta makes a U-turn on how to prove you’ve been jabbed.

And the next candidates for the red list?

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June 30th - Not All Roads

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 13:58:06 GMT

Today: not all roads lead to Rome for England fans.

Malta seems to get tougher – but Portugal eases its restrictions.

Who said travel was supposed to be easy?

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June 29th - Gateway to the Highlands

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 12:57:32 GMT

Today: more on those Mediterranean restrictions.

Labour wants the borders closed.

And how to travel in Scotland during the Covid era.

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June 28th - It's the Small Things

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 15:48:41 GMT

Today: as Mediterranean Islands go green for travellers to the UK, the barriers go up for British visitors.

A leading analyst says 22 more countries deserve to be on the green list.

And don’t neglect the small things – the travel industry really can’t afford to mess up.

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June 27th - Elephants in Central London

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 13:00:54 GMT

Could a new health secretary change the way that travel opens up?

The Boeing 737 Max is back and starting operations for the summer.

And the elephants have landed in central London.

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June 26th - Who Can Go to Malta?

Sat, 26 Jun 2021 11:30:55 GMT

The new rules brought in by Malta just one day after they were put on the Green List.

What happens to your insurance and points if you are to go against foreign office advice?

And why we should be cruising the Balearics.

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June 25th - Who's Gone Green?

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 10:51:33 GMT

Who’s gone green? Who hasn’t, and why not? And the red list arrivals.

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June 24th - Passport Problems

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 13:21:19 GMT

Holidays postponed: most travel bookings last week were for next year.

The Foreign Office drops its warning against travel to China.

And a reminder about passport problems post Brexit.

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June 23rd - Travel Day of Action

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 13:14:29 GMT

“Travel Day of Action”: What the industry is demanding – and what it might get?

“We won’t do anything to put public health at risk” – so does that include not making them stay in the UK?

And easyJet’s last throw of the dice goes wrong, with new flights from Manchester to Scotland already called off.

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June 22nd - More Vaccines Less Travel

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 10:44:15 GMT

The strange tale of vaccine contraction: the more British people are jabbed, the less travel there is.

Will Matt Hancock ease quarantine?

And Indiana Wants Me, but Cornwall Doesn’t Necessarily

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June 21st - Take a Chance on Malta?

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 13:30:01 GMT

Pilots’ union says UK is doing worst in Europe for flying.

Should you take a chance on Malta going green?

and Aer Lingus starts charging for cabin baggage.

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June 20th - What Could Go Green?

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 14:16:02 GMT

As the next “traffic light review” approaches, what “green list” additions might there be?

Could British Airways abandon Gatwick?

Seven years late: part-time season tickets are about to arrive on the railways.

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June 19th - Turning Point in the Towel War

Sat, 19 Jun 2021 10:48:32 GMT

Germany’s tabloid press mocks the UK’s travel restrictions

Italy makes arrivals from the UK quarantine

And when will the UAE escape the UK’s red list?

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June 18th - England Receives Red Card

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 13:06:03 GMT

Jersey gives England a red card – but allows vaccinated travellers to swerve quarantine.

Rail passengers face disruption from London to Inverness as rail strikes increase.

And when might Turkey escape from the “red list”?

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June 17th - Airline Industry Take on Government

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 13:59:27 GMT

Manchester airport and Ryanair take legal action against the government

“We have the toughest border measures anywhere in the world,” says the prime minister.

And easyJet’s last throw of the dice on summer routes.

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June 16th - Boeing 737 Max

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 13:42:42 GMT

The Boeing 737 Max is on its way to Ryanair – would you step aboard?

Manchester passengers lose the Irish connection to America for the summer.

And the race is on: a rail record attempt tomorrow between London and Glasgow.

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June 15th - Delay Day

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 12:33:53 GMT

Delay day – what does the postponed reopening in England mean for travel?

Ryanair’s Belarus diversion: new revelations to MPs

And a new ferry link between Wales and Northern Ireland.

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June 14th - What a Difference a Month Makes?

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 13:05:24 GMT

Four weeks since the Green List was created – what has changed since then?

Cancelled flights: be sure of your rights.

Faster trains promised from Edinburgh and Newcastle to London – but not for a year.

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June 13th - Stobart Air Takeover

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 11:50:54 GMT

Aer Lingus and British Airways take over from failed Stobart Air.

easyJet cancelling flights in July.

Lufthansa deploying its biggest planes.

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June 12th - Portugal Eases Testing Requirements

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 14:41:35 GMT

Stobart Air collapses: why, what it means and your rights.

Postponement for 21st June domestic reopening looks bad for travellers.

And in the unlikely event you are going there anytime soon, Portugal has eased testing requirements.

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June 11th - The Mountain of Domestic Tourism

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 17:12:57 GMT

Holiday prices collapse to Portugal – but soar to Jersey.

Domestic tourism: a mountain to climb.

And Heathrow numbers are down 90%, once again.

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June 10th - President in Cornwall

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 14:13:07 GMT

As Joe Biden arrives in Cornwall … the UK gets another travel taskforce, this time looking at restarting transatlantic travel.

British Airways and Ryanair face legal action over refunds.

And how slowing down on the rails can save you cash.

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June 9th - It's All Cancel Culture

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 12:37:09 GMT

Scottish cruise cancellation – more misery on the ocean wave.

Another round of travel industry fury with the government’s “traffic light” policy.

And Britain's biggest holiday company extends cancellations.

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June 8th - A Tale of Two Futures

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 14:57:27 GMT

Today I’ve spoken to two top travel chief executives: the boss of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and the CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, a consortium of travel agencies. Very different views on the future.

And from one analyst of infection figures: the dozen European countries on the amber list that have lower rates than the UK.

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June 7th - The Cost of Travel Restrictions

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 16:42:05 GMT

Today leading travel boss reveals some business owners are losing their homes due to restrictions around coronavirus.

Airline execs say there should be more travel between the UK and US.

And a brief review on the state of the railways.

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June 6th - Cabinet Summer Bust-Up

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 14:07:48 GMT

Revelations of a cabinet bust-up over the freedom to travel this summer – a battle that the transport secretary, the travel industry and the holidaymaker lost.

With hundreds of flights now being cancelled, what are your rights – according to law, not the airlines?

And the Channel Island of Guernsey invents a fourth traffic light – the blue list. Could it catch on?

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June 5th - Escape from Portugal

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 12:15:11 GMT

Escape from Portugal – what are the options?

As Portugal closes down, the Faroes open up.

And how long does passport control at Heathrow actually take?

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June 4th - The Shadow Over Travel

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 10:38:32 GMT

Travel industry responses to the extraordinary downgrading of Portugal to the amber list – and your rights if you are booked to travel imminently to Portugal.

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June 3rd - Despair in the Departure Lounge

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 15:16:18 GMT

The travel industry is in utter despair at leaks from government that indicate no more countries are being added to the "green list" and that Portugal is set to be moved to "amber" – with quarantine required of holidaymakers.

My calls to the Department for Transport are going unanswered.

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June 2nd - The Waiting Game

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 15:11:12 GMT

We still don’t know when the green list will change.

Gibraltar starts warning travellers of the consequences of a trip across the border to Spain.

And the tourism minister tells me: this British overseas territory is the safest place in Europe.

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June 1st - From the Rock of Gibraltar

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 11:33:04 GMT

Today I'm looking at Heathrow's brand new Red List Terminal and what that means for airport operations and passengers.

An on location report of the experience you can expect visiting Gibraltar.

And it looks as though the expected Green List review we hoped for will not be arriving Thursday.

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May 31st - Gibraltar's Success

Mon, 31 May 2021 10:55:28 GMT

Gibraltar is the tourism success of early summer – I’m at the airport to report for you.

The public mood, though, seems to be anti-travel according to a ComRes poll for The Independent.

And the weekend numbers at the start of half term spell gloom for the travel industry.

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May 30th - Back in the Air

Sun, 30 May 2021 10:11:31 GMT

Back in the air – how different is the flying experience from Heathrow?

As Europe turns green, is the UK going red?

And what is the outlook for Eurostar in the coronavirus era?

Sign up to Simon's free weekly newsletter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 29th - Ireland Opens

Sat, 29 May 2021 10:00:14 GMT

Ireland opens up – but with a Brexit bite.

Could the green list additions be limited by the length of queues at Heathrow?

And why it pays to book ahead for train travel.

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May 28th - Update on Green List Announcement

Fri, 28 May 2021 15:28:27 GMT

Update on green list announcement timing – I’ll bring you the latest.

Bank holiday travel: what’s happening on the roads and railways?

Jersey opens up for vaccinated travellers.

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May 27th - When's the new Green List?

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:43:47 GMT

France puts the UK on its version of the amber list.

When will the new green list be announced – and which islands might make the cut?

More on the rails: passenger numbers will return, the transport secretary assures me.

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May 26th - Airline Fury

Wed, 26 May 2021 13:53:20 GMT

Airlines’ fury at green list.

Green list won’t be changing dramatically.

Every single train job saved in coronavirus pandemic.

Please excuse background noise on today's bulletin.

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May 25th - Diversionary Tactics

Tue, 25 May 2021 11:57:15 GMT

Belarus: the travel repercussions continue.

Diversions: in normal times why do they happen? And what are the consequences?

Green/amber/red: did we get any clues from Monday night’s debate in Parliament?

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May 24th - What are the Implications for Ryanair Forced Landing?

Mon, 24 May 2021 10:37:12 GMT

Ryanair plane forced to land in Belarus: what are the implications?

After the scare, how do the airlines stack up for safety?

Race to Spain gets under way: but how much “amberlust” is there?

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May 23rd - Answering Your Questions

Sun, 23 May 2021 11:05:48 GMT

Today I'm tackling three questions:

Why can unvaccinated people from Portugal come to the UK, but vaccinated visitors from the US cannot?

How much notice will those in amber destinations get to return home if that country is put on the red list while there?

Why has easyJet cancelled almost all its flights to Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands for June?

Sign up to Simon's free weekly newsletter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 22nd - Should You Stay or Should You Go?

Sat, 22 May 2021 10:34:27 GMT

Stay or go? Why has Spain said it wants Brits, but Germany has placed arrivals from the UK on its own version of the amber/red list.

Predictions for the next green list review – who’s up, who’s down.

And the latest on those stationary high-speed trains.

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May 21st - Canary Confusion

Fri, 21 May 2021 12:48:57 GMT

Big news from Spain today: the prime minister in Madrid says welcome back Brits from Monday.

But the government warns against travel to, say, the Canary Islands. Except it also says it’s fine to visit the Canary Islands. Confused? I’ll do my best to help.

And the latest pronouncements on the green list from politicians and the medical profession.

Sign up to Simon's free weekly newsletter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 20th - Railway Special

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:07:45 GMT

It’s a railway special from Britain’s railway station, Clapham Junction. What the heck is Great British Railways, and what will it mean for passengers?

Split-ticketing and other money-saving tips. I’ll be leaving Clapham Junction on a train to Southampton. So of course I bought, perfectly legally, a ticket from Brighton.

And the latest from Grant Shapps on that Green List.

Sign up to Simon's free weekly newsletter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 19th - Government Say no to Travel Abroad?

Wed, 19 May 2021 11:58:05 GMT

After recently opening travel restrictions in the UK, some government ministers now say do not travel abroad. Apart from those that say, do travel abroad?

I look into the recent decisions made by the European Union and how it will effect you.

And we see a return to premium class on British railways.

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May 18th - View from the Balcony

Tue, 18 May 2021 09:46:23 GMT

The travel experience in summer 2021 – worth it when you get here. But then there’s the getting back …

What the European Union will decide on Wednesday – and how that won’t affect anything returning to the UK.

And just what the world didn’t need: another Icelandic airline.

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May 17th - London to Faro

Mon, 17 May 2021 10:56:47 GMT

I’m speaking to you from a Ryanair Boeing 737 which is shortly landing at Faro airport in Portugal, after a two-and-a-half hour flight from London. I’ll talk you through the travel experience.

I paid £25 for my flight and Ryanair has just announced a loss of £700m. Could the two things be connected?

And bets on the changes in the quarantine-free “green list” – when and where?

Please excuse background noise on today's episode.

Sign up to Simon's free weekly newsletter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 16th - Packing Day

Sun, 16 May 2021 10:53:57 GMT

Portugal is the destination of the week – and I will talk you through the possibilities and the flights departing tomorrow.

I’m packing for my trip to Portugal – and the mountain of documentation required is daunting.

And Brexit brings many effects – could you have to pay €30 to stay with friends in their French property?

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May 15th - 5000 to Portugal

Sat, 15 May 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Today I’m talking about the update finally announced yesterday afternoon by Portugal, which has had many of us rushing around today trying to find a PCR test that will be ready by Monday morning.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed to me that anyone arriving from any green list country who was there before the change from amber to green must quarantine.

And in Florida, Walt Disney World and Universal no longer demand the wearing of masks outdoors.

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May 14th - The Race to the Sun

Fri, 14 May 2021 11:10:39 GMT

With three days remaining before the ban on international travel is listed, we still don’t know if Portugal – the only major, viable tourist destination – will welcome British holidaymaker.

If you are tempted to get away, I have the starters in the “race to the sun” that begins at dawn on Monday.

And there’s a call from the first minister of Wales to holiday at home this year.

Sign up to Simon's free weekly news letter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 13th - On the Beach

Thu, 13 May 2021 11:12:09 GMT

May 13th - Today, Simon Calder, travel correspondent with The Independent, discusses the plan by On the Beach to “minimise the number of holidays that need to be rearranged or refunded”. Its plan: ”We have stopped selling summer holidays for 2021," says the major online travel agent.

Travel firms have been warned ‘to respect the refund rights of holidaymakers’ by Competition and Markets Authority. So what tricks have they been up to?

And in the wake of news of a possible direct ferry service from UK to Porto in Portugal, what other sea links could be brought back?

Sign up to Simon's free weekly news letter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 12th - All Aboard!

Wed, 12 May 2021 10:46:55 GMT

May 12th - Today Simon Calder travel correspondent with the Independent reveals the possibility of a a direct ferry service from UK to Porto in Portugal, at the same time TUI look to put on more capacity on flights to the green list country whilst predicting big losses. TUI CEO also professes not to understand the 'Green List' why is Majorca with the same infection rate as the UK not on it? Plus lots more. Sign up to Simon's free weekly news letter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and all the very latest is available 24hrs a day at independent.co.uk.

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May 11th - Trains, Planes and Automobiles

Tue, 11 May 2021 10:33:58 GMT

Travelling abroad is one thing, but currently getting from one end of the country to the other is a challenge, as Britains train networks are in chaos, Simon brings us the very latest. Green Day is on the way, but what does that actually mean? British Airways issues a warning. Simon Calder, the Independents travel correspondent brings you his daily bulletin on the latest goings on in the world of travel. Sign up now for Simons weekly bulletin at independent.co.uk/newsletter and you can get all the latest news 24hrs a day at Independent.co.uk. Subscribe now to get this bulletin daily.

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May 10th - What next for the Green List?

Mon, 10 May 2021 10:45:50 GMT

Simon Calder travel correspondent for the Independent begins his daily bulletins on the situation with travel and UK Government restrictions on Green, Amber and Red lists. Today Simon takes us through review timings and when will the lists change? when is the best time to book your break? and why is TUI selling packages that aren't on the green list? Sign up to Simons weekly travel newsletter at independent.co.uk/newsletter and get the very latest on independent.co.uk. Subscribe and review.

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Green List Travel with Simon Calder

Sat, 08 May 2021 09:37:25 GMT

The Independent brings you a daily update on The Green List with our travel correspondent Simon Calder the UK's leading travel journalist. His daily insight will help you navigate your travel plans, where can you go? How much will it cost? Test or no test? Sign up to Simon's weekly news letter too at independent.co.uk/newsletter and don't forget you can stay up to date with world events at Independent.co.uk. Subscribe now so you don't miss the very latest on the travel lists and the UK Government's restrictions.

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Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast

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Changing planes in the danger zone

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Esther, Queen of the Desert

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Could you be tempted by a political tour?

Finland: In the far-from-bleak late winter

Gulf crisis: my assessment of the aviation impact

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‘Heathrow’s third runway should have been built 10 years ago’

Red tape gets even more tangled from today

First time in Africa for senior travel writer Natalie Wilson

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"Huge, massive beautiful place" – welcome to Mongolia

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Egypt: new opportunities in an ancient land

'Please, let's get on with expanding Heathrow'

The expert's guide to the great cities of the world

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Insider’s guide to Portugal’s Algarve

Rome's most celebrated public space now costs €2 for admission

Your audio guide to Argentina

Insider tips on Buenos Aires

Is flying really cheaper?

China: 'Go before you get too old' – because so much walking is involved

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What are the world’s most useful currencies for travellers?

Skyscanner expands its price-comparison service to include package holidays

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Liverpool John Lennon airport sets a new passenger record

Michael O'Leary on Elon Musk, air traffic control and drinking at airports

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Fly supersonic between London and New York for £4,000 return?

Boom Supersonic's big idea for a small impact on the planet

Welcome to Supersonic week! Will passengers ever break the sound barrier again?

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Greece: is it really a year-round destination?

How tourism can help endangered species

Travel Desk Tuesday: top tips for '26 from Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman

Preston to Carlisle – the pretty way

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