Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe now and have it delivered every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe now and have it delivered every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here to get delivered every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Subscribe here and have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up for it here and have it delivered every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to get it delivered every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to get it delivered every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up for it here and have it arrive in your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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?This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I share my experience navigating the bustling, chaotic Guatemala City Airport, revealing the unexpected hurdles from arrival to departure.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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."This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.This podcast is free, as is my weekly newsletter. Sign up here to have it delivered to your inbox every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.