The Travel Expert with Simon Calder

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  How 9/11 reshaped travel forever and what the future holds for airport security 11.09.2026 30мин

  This week as a catastrophic air traffic control meltdown disrupted 300,000 travel plans, Simon Calder and Greg Dickinson discuss whether regular aviation chaos is the new normal. Greg takes us behind the scenes to the highly secure NATS headquarters, and Simon proposes an ingenious camp-bed solution to rescue stranded passengers. Plus, 25 years on from the tragic events of 9/11, we reflect on how that day permanently reshaped aviation and airport security. From the introduction of liquid rules and reinforced cockpit doors to the surprising rise of Ryanair in the aftermath, we discuss the legacy of these changes and look ahead to the future of biometrics and relaxed rules at the gate.And finally the team answers your travel questions. This week one listener is on the hunt for an accessibility-friendly summer birthday destination in Portugal next year, and Greg and Simon share their top three South American countries to visit.Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here.Video Producer: Carla MercerExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan SearleHighlights:Air traffic chaos: Is it time to get used to regular ATC meltdowns?25 years since 9/11: How the tragedy reshaped travel and what the future holds for airport security Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  North vs. South: Settling the ultimate staycation debate 04.09.2026 28мин

  Following a major cybersecurity breach at Manchester Airport, Greg and Simon discuss whether it’s ever truly safe to log on to airport Wi-Fi - and the essential steps you must take to avoid “juice jacking” while charging your devices on the go.And is September still the bargain travel time we all hope it is, or are prices finally catching up to the peak summer rush? We break down the latest data to see if your autumn escape is still a steal.In the second half of the show, we settle the great English debate: where exactly is the North-South divide? We’re joined by the Telegraph’s Rosa Silverman to fight it out - from coastal gems like Whitby vs. Whitstable to the best city breaks in the country - to decide which half of the UK should host your next trip.As ever, the team tackles your travel questions – this week, a reader's search for the perfect solo getaway in November. Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Chris January Highlights:North vs. South: Which half of England is better for your next UK staycation?The death of the shoulder season: Are cheap autumn holidays finally extinct? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Exposed: The terrifying risk of lithium batteries exploding on planes 28.08.2026 30мин

  Following a high-stakes experiment at a laboratory in Warwick, Greg reveals why airlines are so terrified of lithium battery fires - and the essential safety rules you need to know before you fly.Plus, we explore the world’s first round-the-world holiday by private jet. At £173,000, we discuss whether it’s the ultimate bucket-list trip, or if there are far more affordable ways to see the globe without the six-figure budget.And, dealing with a potential "passport catastrophe" for travel between Britain and Ireland, this week Simon and Greg dissect whether the seamless travel era is coming to an end.As ever, the team answers your travel questions, including a reader's search for the perfect family villa holiday in 2027 that doesn't break the bank.Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan SearleHighlights:Passport catastrophe: Is the end of seamless travel to Ireland finally here?£173k for a private jet tour: Bucket-list adventure or overhyped extravagance? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The forgotten corners of Spain hungry for more tourists 21.08.2026 29мин

  Looking for a quick getaway? This week, Simon and Greg dive into the rise of the “micro-cation” - the trend of squeezing maximum adventure into minimum time, and whether it’s a sustainable way to travel.Plus, with bank holiday weekend approaching, they share essential advice on avoiding sky-high last-minute fares and finding the best deals for a final summer escape before the rain returns.And we're joined by The Telegraph's Spain expert Nuria Cremer-Vazquez to discuss why, as visitor numbers hit record highs, it’s time to look beyond the usual hotspots to discover the untapped potential of northern Spain, from the culinary delights of the Basque country to the secret regions of La Rioja. As ever, Greg and Simon answer your travel questions. This week they discuss the rules on taking walking poles in hand luggage and share their recommendations for Graham’s search for the best Canary Islands destination.Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan SearleHighlights:The rise of the micro-cation: travel trend or extreme day trip?Beyond the overtourism: exploring the forgotten corners of Spain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Will you soon be catching an overnight train direct from Scotland to Paris? Plus the rewards (and risks) of taking a gap year 14.08.2026 32мин

  All aboard! This week, Simon and Greg debate the future of rail travel as we examine the feasibility of a direct overnight train from Scotland to France. Plus they look at further Eurostar developments—including the upcoming stop in Antwerp.Plus following the recent solar eclipse, Simon and Greg share their essential intel for your future eclipse-chasing adventures, from the best spots to catch the 2027 “eclipse of the century” in southern Spain or north Africa, to the 2030 event on the Skeleton Coast.And if you have someone in your life who got their A-level results, you may be interested to hear The Travel Expert guide to the modern gap year.As ever, Greg and Simon answer your travel questions. This week they discuss independent travel in Barbados and recommendations for LGBT-friendly holiday destinations for winter sun. Plus, why you would be a ‘Canny Lass’ to explore Newcastle by river.Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan SearleHighlights:The rewards (and risks) of taking a gap yearEdinburgh to Paris direct? The grand plans for Britain’s international rail network Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  100ml airport rules were ‘security theatre’ all along 07.08.2026 34мин

  It has been 20 years since the 100ml liquid restrictions were first introduced at airports, and many travellers are asking the same question: when will it finally come to an end? This week, Simon and Greg look at why the rule persists, the confusing inconsistency between airports, and what the future of aviation security actually looks like.We also examine Gatwick’s second runway, which has officially been given the go-ahead, clearing the path for a massive £2.2 billion expansion. From the potential for cheaper flights and slot availability to the serious concerns raised by local residents regarding noise and air quality, we explore what the project really means for your future travel plans, and whether this long-debated expansion will actually deliver on its promises or simply bring years of disruption.We also turn our attention to the growing disruption impacting your river cruises, as Europe’s hot, dry summer lowers water levels on major rivers. We investigate your essential rights: can you claim compensation if your luxury cruise unexpectedly turns into a coach trip, and which routes are still reliable choices for your next getaway?As always, Simon and Greg answer your pressing travel questions, including the best areas to stay for a first-time trip to Istanbul and advice on flying long-haul with young children. Plus, we share a final tip on catching the upcoming eclipse in Spain.Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan SearleHighlights: 100ml airport rules were ‘security theatre’ all alongGatwick’s second runway has officially been given the go-ahead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  British travellers advised to prepare ‘evacuation grab bags’ during holidays 31.07.2026 28мин

  With wildfires causing disruption across Europe, this week’s episode focuses on your essential rights if your holiday destination becomes a disaster zone. Simon and Greg break down what you can do if travel plans are affected and share crucial evacuation advice from the British Red Cross to ensure you are prepared.Elsewhere in the news this week, the anti-tourism protests in Mallorca. Are the protesters' concerns valid, and should you be worried if you have a trip booked this summer?And we take a deep dive into the Unesco World Heritage List. What is the impact of "museumification" on these sites, and are some of the new additions - from yodelling to bagpiping - actually necessary?As always, Simon and Greg answer your pressing travel questions, including a recommendation for a quieter side of Corfu. Plus, we highlight the exciting new Eurostar connection to Antwerp.Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan Searle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Ryanair ‘will not wait for anybody’ as Britons prepare for summer of border chaos 24.07.2026 34мин

  In this week’s episode, Simon and Greg speak exclusively to Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary as he warns British travellers that his airline won't wait for passengers caught up in passport queues this summer.They also discuss the harrowing mid-air emergency on a flight from Greece to Germany where a cabin window shattered and a passenger was partially pulled through the window.Moving from airport border chaos to airline rules, O’Leary launches a fiery attack on the European Parliament over new hand luggage regulations, and calls for the UK government to scrap Air Passenger Duty.Let The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterSend your questions to [email protected] Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan Searle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The best (and worst) Greek islands 17.07.2026 33мин

  As Simon dials in from a taverna on the island of Patmos, this week’s episode focuses on the best ways to explore the Greek islands. Where is best for a luxury escape or a family getaway, and what is the best possible island-hopping itinerary? And after a hectic 48 hours in Dubai, Greg shares his findings as geopolitical tensions ramp up in the Gulf. He found cut-price hotels, stoic locals, mobile phone missile alerts, but not too many British tourists as the mercury hit 45C. Elsewhere in the news this week, Simon reveals that Heathrow has lost its crown as Europe’s busiest airport. Turkey’s young megahub, Istanbul Airport, has taken top spot. Greg and Simon discuss why, and how, the Turkish airport has risen above London Heathrow.As always, Simon and Greg answer your pressing travel questions, including a recommendation request for a European minibreak in October, and the man who thinks he has found an innovative solution to the EU 90-day travel limit imposed on British citizens.Send your questions to [email protected] our latest travel adviceCheck your passport validitySign up for The Telegraph Travel newsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan Searle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Why the North has better seaside towns than the South 10.07.2026 34мин

  In this week’s episode, Simon and Greg explore the impending “staycation stampede” as the UK swelters in yet another heatwave: is it a real trend, or just the usual summer rush?They also discuss whether the best seaside towns are in the North or the South, and delve into the great debate of sandy versus shingle beaches.Moving from the coastline to the skies, they discuss the potential easyJet takeover by investment firm Castlelake and what it means for your future travel plans. Plus, the latest on the new “Euro-visa”, Etias, which might be delayed once again. As always, Simon and Greg answer some of your pressing travel questions, including overlooked budget travel destinations in France and advice on a trip to Jordan. Send your questions to [email protected] The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterLead Producer: Georgia CoanHead of Travel: Ben RossVideo Producer: Carla MercerStudio Operator: Meghan SearleHighlights:The great North vs South debate: where is Britain’s top seaside resort?What a potential easyJet takeover means for your holiday plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The best (and worst) of US travel, according to the co-founder of Lonely Planet 03.07.2026 29мин

  In this week’s episode, Simon and Greg welcome into the studio the co-founder of Lonely Planet, Tony Wheeler. Tony has travelled to every corner of the world, including 47 US states. To mark the 250th anniversary of US independence, Greg and Simon quiz Tony on his opinions on tipping culture, roadside motels, and the pros and cons of the Amtrak service.They also discuss the recent chaos across European airports, which saw one group of British schoolchildren stranded overnight at Barcelona airport – why didn’t their airline step up to the mark and provide accommodation?Plus, they answer your burning travel questions, including a Scandinavian city break dilemma, and the ideal time to book a flight to Prague. Send your questions to [email protected] our latest travel adviceCheck your passport validitySign up for The Telegraph Travel newsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan SearleHighlights:The best (and worst) of US travel, from the co-founder of Lonely PlanetYour rights when flights go wrong Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Europe's top ‘coolcations’, and why the ‘no-fly cruise’ is on the rise 26.06.2026 24мин

  You can watch The Travel Expert on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7B8r8XAkKIYIn this week’s episode, Simon calls in from a boat in the Outer Hebrides while Greg roasts in central London. With the mercury surpassing 40°C in some corners of Europe, they discuss the best destinations to sidestep the Continental heat, including a “coolcation” in a laid-back Spanish coastal town.Plus, they discuss the Foreign Office removing its Dubai travel advisory. What does this mean for long-haul stopovers, and will holidays to the Middle East now be cheaper? Simon and Greg delve into what it all means.As Simon weaves between Scottish islands, they discuss the rising popularity of the “no-fly cruise” — from British shores you can reach the Med, the Norwegian fjords and even Greenland without boarding a flight. Do the pros outweigh the cons? Plus, they answer your burning travel questions, including how many bottles of duty free alcohol you can take onto a flight, and the best way to tackle mega-airports with mobility requirements.Send your questions to [email protected] our latest travel adviceCheck your passport validitySign up for The Telegraph Travel newsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: James EnglandHighlightsEurope's top ‘coolcations’ to beat the summer heatWhy does British transport fall apart during a heatwave? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The world’s first 20-hour flight, plus why budget airfares are rising 19.06.2026 26мин

  In this week's episode, Simon and Greg discuss the EU's controversial air travel reforms, which could affect British passengers. Under the proposals, airlines warn fares could rise, child-seating policies will be overhauled, and a new system is designed to make compensation claims easier.Plus, the latest news from Project Sunrise: Qantas' ambitious plan to link London and Sydney non-stop. Simon and Greg discuss the benefits, and the most pressing concerns, of spending up to 20 hours in the air.They also answer your burning travel questions, including why some airlines let passengers check in with an out-of-date passport, and recommendations for a trip to Lake Bled in Slovenia. Plus, why Zanzibar is shaping up to be one of the hottest destinations for next winter.Send your questions to [email protected] our latest travel adviceCheck your passport validitySign up for The Telegraph Travel newsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: James England Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  A million dollar holiday? Inside America's World Cup rip-off 12.06.2026 28мин

  In this episode of The Travel Expert, Simon Calder and Greg Dickinson tackle the complex travel conundrums surrounding the 2026 World Cup.They discuss the US border headaches and travel rip-offs that have plagued the tournament so far, and delve into one quite extraordinary $1m package holiday to watch the final in New York City. Plus, Simon's strategies for a sub-£1,000 alternative.With the solar eclipse just two months away on August 12th, they share expert advice on how to witness the path of totality in Spain without breaking the bank, including the best viewing locations and why you shouldn't rely on luck with the clouds.They also answer your burning travel conundrums, including how to handle EU border fingerprinting and recommendations for your last-minute August holidays.Send your questions to [email protected] our latest travel adviceCheck your passport validityLet The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterVideo Producer: Carla MercerProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossStudio Operator: Meghan Searle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Is your summer holiday at risk? How to outsmart the European border chaos 05.06.2026 21мин

  In the first episode of The Travel Expert, Simon Calder and Greg Dickinson discuss the chaos caused by the EU's new biometric border measures, and dissect how to make things as painless as possible when travelling to Europe this summer. Plus, they share their greatest travel experiences – from Turkey's Lycian Way to the Perito Moreno glacier in Argentina – and answer your pressing travel conundrums. Send your question to [email protected] world’s greatest travel experiences, according to 50 experts: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/world-greatest-travel-experiences-experts/Simon Calder: I’ve uncovered the best and worst times to fly to Europe’s busiest airports: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/advice/tips-for-beating-eu-border-chaos/Let The Telegraph Travel newsletter from Simon Calder be your guide to inspiring destinations at home and around the globe. Every week, Simon and our team of experts will send you the latest news, features, opinion and advice. Sign up here: http://telegraph.co.uk/travelnewsletterProducer: Georgia CoanExecutive Producer: Louisa WellsHead of Travel: Ben RossVideo Producer: Carla MercerStudio Operator: Meghan Searle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Coming Soon: The Travel Expert 27.05.2026

  Join Simon Calder and Greg Dickinson on The Travel Expert, a new podcast from The Telegraph. Available every Friday, wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.