The Travel Expert with Simon Calder

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Why the North has better seaside towns than the South

July 10, 2026

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 late...

The best (and worst) of US travel, according to the co-founder of Lonely Planet

July 03, 2026

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 air...

Europe's top ‘coolcations’, and why the ‘no-fly cruise’ is on the rise

June 26, 2026

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 wi...