Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast
Episodes
May 10th - M25 shutdown: a test of traveler patience
10 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 rea...
May 9th - Laying the track for Summer 2024
09 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ant...
May 8th - What's going on with the UK's eGates system
08 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Tens of thousands of airline passengers arriving at airports across the UK faced waits of several hours last night after another collapse of the eGate...
May 7th - Strike updates from Waterloo station
07 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 driver...
May 6th - Britain's last embrace of Europe?
06 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Thirty years ago Queen Elizabeth II and French president Francois Mitterand officially opened the Channel Tunnel between Folkestone in Kent and Calais...
May 3rd - The Ghost of the Orient Express
03 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 overnig...
May 2nd - Lounging about with Rob Burgess
02 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 t...
May 1st - Taking in the new frontier of passenger lounges
01 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
I'm in Newcastle, whose international airport is the venue for a world lounge first: three tiers, loosely corresponding to economy, business and...
April 30th - Track troubles: a preview of May's Rail disruptions
30 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today, from Euston Station, I explore the looming disruptions poised to challenge UK rail passengers this May. From Network Rail's engineering project...
April 29th - Heathrow strike insights: A day at Paddington station
29 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today's podcast brings you to Paddington Station, where I speak with passengers just off the Heathrow Express. Despite the ongoing UK Border Force str...
April 26th - From Italy's tracks: assessing UK's proposed rail reforms
26 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
April 25th - Navigating Venice’s new tourist fee: insights and impacts
25 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
April 24th - Heathrow hits high marks: a look with CFO Javier Echave
24 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join me, Simon Calder, in today's travel podcast as we delve into Heathrow's bustling activity and strategic outlook with Chief Financial Officer Javi...
April 23rd - Continuing Rail strikes: what it means for UK commuters
23 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
April 22nd - Heathrow strikes Alert: what you need to know
22 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 di...
April 19th - Reevaluating wildlife tourism with Paul Goldstein
19 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
April 18th - Stranded at Dubai: a travel crisis examined
18 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
April 17th - Global wanderer Arvi Bahal on his holiday in one of the world’s most dangerous places
17 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 countr...
April 16th - What to know if you're flying to the Middle East
16 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 in...
April 15th - Is JFK the worst airport in the world?
15 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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. ...
April 11th - "I’ve come to look for America"
11 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today I'm on the Greyhound bus from Albany New York to Boston, celebrating 110 years of this remarkable transportational institution.This podcast is f...
April 10th - Greetings from the Ethan Allen Express
10 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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. Fa...
April 9th - The solar eclipse from Montreal
09 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ro...
April 8th - Awaiting the Great American Eclipse: an airport diary
08 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 th...
April 5th - That Friday feeling as more rail strikes hit
05 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 4th - The battle for smoother airport security
04 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 rummag...
April 3rd- Train strikes across the UK: a traveler's strategy
03 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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. F...
April 2nd - Reimagining night travel: Europe's Rail revolution
02 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Bernhard Rieder shares insights on Austrian Railways' pioneering efforts with Nightjet. We cover the expansion of their network, the ...
April 1st - A little bit of history on your travels with Bettany Hughes
01 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TV historian Bettany Hughes is about to take viewers on more journeys across the world, with Estonia, Albania, Bulgaria and beyond featuring on the Ch...
March 29th - Manchester Airport reaches for the skies
29 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 Woodroof...
March 28th - Jet2 takes liverpool: a new chapter begins
28 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
March 27th - Passport validity exposed: Truths behind the tales
27 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join me, Simon Calder, as I debunk widespread passport validity myths, ensuring you're not wrongly denied boarding or renewing prematurely. From EU ru...
March 26th - Flight path to the future: aviation innovates and greens
26 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Explore aviation's exciting developments and eco-conscious shifts with Rhys Jones. From anticipated airline amenities to sustainable aviation fuels, d...
March 25th - Chasing shadows: the 2024 North American eclipse
25 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 Ame...
March 22nd - The sky's new hue: hydrogen-powered planes by 2035
22 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I chat with Airbus' Julie Kitcher about their bold steps towards environmental responsibility, including the exciting future of hydro...
March 21st - Rail and tube strikes: a new wave of disruptions
21 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today, I explore the enduring rail strike saga from Bristol Temple Meads, examining the causes, the unions involved, and the profound effects on the U...
March 20th - The secret world of frequent flyer schemes
20 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 B...
March 19th- Navigating Easter in Rome: insights from a tour guide
19 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Joining me, James Hill shared his expert advice on visiting Rome during the bustling Easter season and the significance of the papal jubilee. Offering...
March 18th - Reviving UK tourism: Insights and innovations
18 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's podcast, Bernard Donoghue, director of the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions, highlighted the ongoing recovery of the UK's visitor...
March 15th - GWR unveils battery-powered train in London
15 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
March 14th - National Express goes green: an electric transition
14 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
I caught up with National Express's John Balton to discuss their first electric coach trial and its implications for the travel industry. From enhanci...
March 13th - M25 Shutdown: unpacking the weekend's traffic challenge
13 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In conversation with Jonathan Wade from National Highways, I discussed the unprecedented weekend closure of the M25, highlighting the project's necess...
March 12th - Paris prepares for the world's visit during this summer's Olympics
12 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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,...
March 11th - Flying with confidence
11 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today's travel podcast shines a light on fear of flying. Commercial aviation has never been safer, with no fatal crashes involving scheduled passenger...
March 8th - Stranded in paradise: TUI's handling of a flight fiasco
08 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
I examined a significant flight disruption case with TUI in Barbados, questioning the airline's compensation strategy and underscoring the necessity f...
March 7th - A critical piece of infrastructure shuts down for repairs
07 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
March 6th - What Jeremy Hunt's budget has in store for travellers
06 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
March 5th - BA's Strategic Return to Southeast Asia: A Delicate Balance
05 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
I explore British Airways' cautious return to Bangkok with limited service and compare it to the extensive offerings by Gulf carriers to Southeast Asi...
March 4th - Ukraine Eyes Post-War Tourism Renaissance
04 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
March 1st - The Future of Rail: Expanding Access and Embracing Sustainability
01 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today, I chatted with Martin Gilbert about revolutionising UK rail travel with open access services like LUMO and Hull Trains. We delved into their su...
February 29th - Navigating the Skies: The Future of British Airways Pilots
29 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today, I had the pleasure of exploring the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy's induction of 100 new cadets, including Jasmine, Maria, and Lux. T...
February 28th - Flight Deck Futures: BALPA's Vision with Amy Leversidge
28 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Amy Leversidge, BALPA's pioneering general secretary, discusses the critical balance between technology and human expertise in aviation, expressing co...
February 27th - Wendy Wu: Pioneering Unique Journeys in the World of Travel
27 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Wendy Wu's innovative approach transformed a personal travel setback into a thriving global business, Wendy Wu Tours. Expanding beyond Asia to new, un...
February 26th - Are Boeing going to cost holidaymakers more for European holidays?
26 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Could your holiday flight cost more because of an inflight scare and a problem with contaminated “powder metal”? Delays in Boeing aircraft deliver...
February 23rd - Is this Ireland's most beautiful coastal trail?
23 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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, nort...
February 22nd - The UK's ETA on Electronic Travel Authorisation
22 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
You might have missed it, but today the UK extended its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to cover another six Middle East countries. Visitors fro...
February 21st - How Heathrow is flying back to profits
21 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
February 20th - How can Wizz Air compete with other airline giants?
20 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 abou...
February 19th - Sailing Home: A New Zealand Odyssey Aboard Queen Victoria
19 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
February 16th - Journey Through Sarajevo: Echoes of the Past Meet Modern Skies
16 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
February 15th - From Aslef Strikes to French Rail Chaos: A Turbulent Journey for Train Travellers
15 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today, I discuss the multi-dimensional rail disruptions in the UK, spotlighting the Aslef union strikes and separate disputes affecting LNER and North...
February 14th - The Scales of Air Travel: Addressing the Needs of Plus-Size Travellers
14 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today's discussion focuses on the implications of passenger weight for airline safety, fuel use, and the comfort of plus-size travelers. We explore ho...
February 13th - Motorhome Adventures Across Europe: A Unique Group Travel Concept
13 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
February 12th - Election Year Adventures: Exploring Global Politics with Guided Tours
12 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join me as I explore the concept of political tours with Nicholas Wood, revealing how travel can deepen our understanding of global political events. ...
February 9th - Redefining the City Break: New Favourites and Timeless Tips
09 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 perfe...
February 8th- Aviation Legacy: A Tour of Air Museums with Experts
08 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, join me and Alistair Gunn as we navigate the fascinating world of aviation museums and graveyards. We highlight must-see exhibits lik...
February 7th - The Pandemic and Beyond: Dragoman's Overland Odyssey
07 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Hear from Charlie Hopkinson on how Dragoman Overland weathered the storm of COVID, managed a fleet stranded worldwide, and the brand's exciting transi...
February 6th - Cultural Journeys: Saudi Arabia Through the Eyes of an Adventurous Accountant
06 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Sanna Daw, the adventurous accountant, as she shares her unique Christmas experience in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the cultural nuances and the e...
February 5th - Breaking the Sound Barrier: Memories of Concorde with Captain Andy Mills
05 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join me as Captain Andy Mills shares his experiences flying Concorde, from the unmatched thrill of supersonic travel to the iconic aircraft's untimely...
February 2nd - Central American Departures: Patience Required at Guatemala City Airport
02 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today, I share my experience navigating the bustling, chaotic Guatemala City Airport, revealing the unexpected hurdles from arrival to departure.This ...
February 1st - On the Road in Antigua: Exploring Guatemala's Colourful Buses
01 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
From Antigua, Guatemala's bus station, today's podcast takes you on a sensory journey through the heart of Central American transport. Discover the ar...
January 31st - Boutique adventures in Panama City
31 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
January 30th - Navigating the 2024 Rail Strikes: Aslef vs Train Operators
30 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
January 29th - Luxury or liability? The Debate Over Giant Cruise Ships
29 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today I explore the complex narrative surrounding the 'Icon of the Seas', the world's largest cruise ship. I discuss its extravagant offerings against...
January 26th - Gratuity Grievances: The Tipping Debate Continues
26 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The contentious issue of tipping in the wake of a disappointing meal. Today I present a compilation of listener opinions on tipping etiquette, dissect...
January 25th - To Tip or Not to Tip: A Global Dilemma
25 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join me as I share my experience with tipping etiquette around the world and discuss the appropriate tipping etiquette in various regions, from the no...
January 24th - Uncovering the Secrets of Currency Exchange
24 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 D...
January 23rd - The Great British Rail Sale: A Chat with Rail Minister Huw Merriman
23 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join me, Simon Calder, as I converse with Rail Minister Huw Merriman about the Great British Rail Sale. We explore enticing rail deals amidst potentia...
January 22nd - A Week of Disruptions: UK Travel's Rough Ride
22 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 disr...
January 19th - Booking flights to Australia next Christmas
19 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 fu...
January 18th - Will discount train fares go off the rails?
18 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
January 17th - Inside the aviation industry with Ryanair
17 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today's podcast: an exclusive interview with Michael O'Leary, chief executive of Europe’s biggest budget airline, Ryanair.He tells me about his worr...
January 16th -The Future of UK Rail Travel: LNER's Ticket Revolution
16 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join me, Simon Calder, as we explore LNER's innovative approach to train tickets, replacing traditional off-peak tickets with a new flexible system. T...
January 15th - UK Rail Strikes: A Never-Ending Saga
15 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 s...
January 12th - The pitfalls of "Sixth Freedom" flying
12 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
January 11th - Aviation's Remarkable Recovery: A 2023 Overview
11 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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,...
January 10th - Why Boeing 737 Max 9s are still in operation
10 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
January 9th - Heathrow's Time Adjustment: BA's Updated Connecting Policy
09 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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. ...
January 8th - Mid-Air Mystery: Unpacking the Alaska Flight Door Mishap
08 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
I'm Simon Calder, reporting on the curious case of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282. Departing from Portland, Oregon to Ontario, California, this journey o...
January 5th - Tube Tensions Rise: A Week of Disruption Ahead in London
05 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 U...
January 4th - Navigating Travel Insurance: A Family's Cautionary Tale
04 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 highli...
January 3rd - Aviation Safety in Focus: The Tokyo Airport Incident
03 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
January 2nd - 2023 was the safest year ever for passenger aviation
02 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The saddest part of my job as a travel correspondent is to write about tragedies, which includes airline accident. But compared with previous years, t...
January 1st - Smart passport gates
01 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
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...
December 29th - New Year's Travel Guide
29 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
I'm at London Bridge station assessing the problems for travelers in the run-up to New Year.See you all in 2024! This podcast is free, as is my weekly...
December 28th - Scenes of Chaos and Confusion
28 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
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 co...
December 27th - The UK's Christmas Transport Policy
27 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
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 ev...
December 26th - Boxed in on Boxing Day?
26 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Simon Calder debates whether the national rail trains should run on Boxing Day and if it effectively eases travel stress. This podcast is free, as is ...
December 25th - A Special Church on Christmas Day
25 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
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 l...
December 22nd - The aftermath of Storm Pia
22 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
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 P...