The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Heathrow Express bookings, Guernsey flights, and Warwick Castle lodges: Travel agenda
Where to go and what to know
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.US visa change
Travellers to the United States who have visited Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan since 1 March 2011, or who hold dual nationality with these countries, will no longer be able to travel with an Esta. It is now necessary to apply for a visa prior to travel, although certain travellers may be deemed eligible for waiver. travel.state.gov
Flight delay
The launch of the world's longest flight, on Emirates from Dubai to Panama City, has been delayed by two months. The link was due to start on 1 February, but has now been deferred to 31 March. The airline says it has been delayed “in order to fully receive all regulatory codeshare approvals from the wider Central and Latin America region”. emirates.com
Heathrow less
A family of four can now travel at weekends on the Heathrow Express for £22 return, so long as they book 90 days in advance. The one-way adult fare is at an all-time low of £5.50 one-way, and accompanying under-16s travel free at all times. But the corresponding 90-day midweek fare has almost doubled to £12.10 one-way. heathrowexpress.com
Baltic tunnel?
Finland and Estonia have launched a study to dig a 57-mile rail tunnel beneath the Baltic between their capitals – nearly twice as long as the Channel Tunnel. The total cost of the link is estimated at around £8bn, and the plan assumes that the EU will pay around 40 per cent of the cost. bit.ly/BalticTunnel
Island partners
The Guernsey-based airline, Blue Island, has signed a franchise agreement with Flybe. Blue Island's flights to, from and between the Channel Islands will soon be bookable at flybe.com, and the aircraft will be rebranded. Flybe has similar agreements with Loganair and Stobart Air. blueislands.com
Bite plight
The mosquito-borne Zika virus is now spreading in the Caribbean, according to Canadian health officials, who warn of local transmission in Martinique and Haiti. Zika is similar to dengue fever in both symptoms – fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis – and the fact that no vaccination is available. Pregnant women are advised not to travel to affected regions. bit.ly/ZikaNHS
Kingdom come
Warwick Castle will open 28 family friendly lodges on its grounds from 1 July. Set in woodland, they will sleep up to five guests and feature medieval flourishes as well as TVs, wet rooms and wi-fi. Overnight stays will start at £203 per lodge, including breakfast in the banqueting hall and two days' access to the castle and its attractions. warwick-castle.com/sleepovers
Suffragette city
The Houses of Parliament are running a season of Suffragette-themed tours. Blue Badge-guide-led visits called “From Petitions to Prime Minister: A Short History of Women in Parliament” will run on Saturdays in February and March, and on some Wednesdays. The 90-minute tours cost £25. parliament.uk/visiting
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments