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Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast

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.

Latest episode

Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast featured episode thumbnail

3 February 2026

Is flying really cheaper?

That’s the title of a challenging event being organised by campaigning group Flight Free UK. Director Anna Hughes talks to me about exploring Europe by rail, bus and ferry rather than taking to the skies – ahead of an online event on Thursday 5 February that anyone can attend.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/flightfreeuk

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More episodes

2 February 2026
China: 'Go before you get too old' – because so much walking is involved
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The first UK tour operator to China in the 1970s was Regent Holidays. Neil Taylor, now a tour leader and travel guide writer, was the man behind the trips behind the "Bamboo Curtain". He contrasts then with now, and offers advice for anyone seeking to take advantage of the new visa-free status of British holidaymakers.
This podcast is free, as is Independent Travel's weekly newsletter. Sign up here to get it delivered to your inbox.
30 January 2026
China visa for UK holidaymakers could be dropped as early as Monday, says top tour operator
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29 January 2026
How do passengers feel about the luggage rules on budget airline?
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Britain's biggest budget airline, easyJet, has had its knuckles rapped over its charges for larger pieces of cabin baggage. I have come to London Gatwick airport, its main base, to explain the issue – and what lies behind it – and hear from passenger Helen Baillie who never pays more than she needs.
This podcast is free, as is Independent Travel's weekly newsletter. Sign up here to get it delivered to your inbox.
28 January 2026
What are the world’s most useful currencies for travellers?
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Once again I am talking to Kaya Niedenthal of the Currency Online Group – but in unusual circumstances. He is a busy man so I could interview him only on the move, from his high-rise office in London’s Waterloo to the nearby station. The dollar is king, the euro is queen and the pound is still more a prince than a joker, is my conclusion.
This podcast is free, as is Independent Travel's weekly newsletter. Sign up here to get it delivered to your inbox.
27 January 2026
Skyscanner expands its price-comparison service to include package holidays
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- Spotify