As the global pandemic tantalises UK holidaymakers with last-minute spikes, the government’s Thursday reviews invariably result in last-minute changes to the travel corridor rules. Transport secretary Grant Shapps makes his decision based on “science” and then puts into place a 4am quarantine deadline for the following Saturday. He has been charged with an on/off travel…
Bergamo, Lombardy: Six months on from the COVID 19 lockdown
Before the virus hit northern Italy the prosperous city of Bergamo was enjoying a tourist boom. Its airport (Orio del Serio, branded as ‘Milan Bergamo’) is Ryanair’s biggest Italian hub, serving around 90 cities in Europe and beyond. Although overshadowed by the more famous cities of northern Italy, Bergamo has a majestic setting high on…
Rolling Stones open their flagship store in Carnaby Street, London
If you want satisfaction, the Rolling Stones may be able to provide it. The rock ‘n’ roll legends are opening their world-first flagship store, ‘RS No. 9 Carnaby’ tomorrow on 9th September at 9 Carnaby Street in London’s Soho. And if you love London, you can get now also get your rocks off checking out…
Travel in the COVID world – is there a way to stay on the move?
“You must stay at home” Boris utters five crushing words, and that’s it; eight flights cancelled, hotel bookings doomed and the supermarkets run out of toilet rolls. A new normal we are told, well, it doesn’t feel very normal to me. There are 193 countries in this wonderful world of ours, on seven continents. I…
Confusion for arrivals from Portugal and Greece as the devolved nations disagree on the science
Once again, the quarantine quagmire sees travellers and the beleaguered travel industry pulling their hair out in sheer frustration as the rules change almost on a daily basis and often with just hours notice. In this pandemic world, travellers hang on every word and decision made by the Department for Transport so that they can…
Activ5: A workout in your pocket – do it on the plane, train, standing or sitting
Activ5 Portable Strength Training Device Price (rrp): £129.99 If you don’t fancy going to the gym or just too busy, then bring the gym to you. This app-based Activ5 black and orange device has been dubbed “a tiny gym in your pocket”. It is a portable fitness device, that fits easily between your hands and allows…
Want to hire a Tesla for the day? There’s an app for that. It’s contactless but is it dependable?
There’s nothing new about hiring a car for a day trip, but what is new is that you can hire the magnificent electric Tesla Model 3 or Model S car via the new UFOdrive app. It’s contactless and available 24/7 with no queuing or long-winded paperwork. Sounds good. Yet, is hiring an electric car, never…
Virgin Atlantic offers free COVID-19 insurance
It’s good news for Virgin Atlantic customers who are now eligible for free COVID-19 insurance cover on all new and existing bookings. The policy is applied automatically to all flights booked with Virgin Atlantic and will complement existing travel insurance. The insurance policy is provided by Allianz Assistance to cover emergency medical and associated expenses…
Brain Teaser fun from Exodus Travels
How well do you know your European flags? Try a quick travel-themed quiz that will put your geography skills to the test. This colourful brain teaser from Exodus Travels, asks you to find the flags of 5 popular European countries, amongst a collage of flags from around the world. With many of us staying closer…
Why Ride4Rangers matters
I should be on my way to Zimbabwe next week, back to Mana Pools and the mighty Zambezi, to Hwange and its myriad elephants, to the indomitable force of Victoria Falls. But Covid-19 has put a stop to all that, dramatically turning my travel dreams to dust. Instead, together with friends, I’ll be in London…