Departures: Excess fares

BRITISH Airways promised this week to 'bring the whole world within everybody's reach', with a range of low fares for autumn. But weekend surcharges and government taxes, including the Air Passenger Duty to be introduced on 1 November, can push prices much higher. A weekend in New York in November, for example, will cost pounds 223 rather than the advertised figure of pounds 168. Nevertheless, there are some extremely good fares, such as Rio de Janeiro for pounds 309 (all in). Bookings must be made before 31 August. BA's reservations number is 0345 222111.