

Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast
The Independent
Simon Calder is the Independent’s travel correspondent, the UK’s leading travel journalist. From news updates to discussions with experts, Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast will bring you all you need to know from the world of travel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 3, 2024 • 8min
April 3rd- Train strikes across the UK: a traveler's strategy
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.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.

Apr 2, 2024 • 6min
April 2nd - Reimagining night travel: Europe's Rail revolution
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.

Apr 1, 2024 • 11min
April 1st - A little bit of history on your travels with Bettany Hughes
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.

Mar 29, 2024 • 7min
March 29th - Manchester Airport reaches for the skies
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.

Mar 28, 2024 • 10min
March 28th - Jet2 takes liverpool: a new chapter begins
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.

Mar 27, 2024 • 7min
March 27th - Passport validity exposed: Truths behind the tales
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.

Mar 26, 2024 • 8min
March 26th - Flight path to the future: aviation innovates and greens
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.

Mar 25, 2024 • 6min
March 25th - Chasing shadows: the 2024 North American eclipse
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.

Mar 22, 2024 • 11min
March 22nd - The sky's new hue: hydrogen-powered planes by 2035
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.

Mar 21, 2024 • 6min
March 21st - Rail and tube strikes: a new wave of disruptions
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.


