Colombia: South America’s most up and coming destination (part one)

Only a decade ago Colombia was a place for the hardy, or some would say foolhardy, visitor, but recent years have been ringing in the changes in this north-western corner of the South American continent

Bulgaria ancient treasures, current events and great value

Anthony reports on Bulgaria and an extraordinary memorial garden created by a Queen for herself and meets up with two famous footballers…

Two Minute Guide to France

As we celebrate France on their national holiday we begin a week of stories on France starting with a brief introduction to each of the 22 French mainland regions and Corsica.

James, the Giant Peach and the Norwegian Sailor’s Church

In Cardiff Bay, not far from the Millennium Centre is what you might consider an oddity, a church. What’s so strange about that you might say, Wales is full of churches and chapels. The difference is that this is a Norwegian church which tells a story about Cardiff that many people don’t know. And today, Norway’s national day, it re-opens after seven months spent on refurbishment.

Selecting a seatmate

Flying can be fun- unless that is you’re sat next to the flight neighbour from hell (for 10 of the worst travelling companions check out http://www.cd-traveller.com/2009/12/11/the-worlds-worst-flying-companions/).

However help could soon be at hand: Dutch airline, KLM. and Malaysian airlines are already testing a new programme that allows passengers to pick their in-flight neighbours by evaluating Facebook and LinkedIn profiles before take-off and other airlines are expected to follow suit.

“New” Gatwick

From today Gatwick is no longer run by BAA. Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), the owners of London City Airport, take over the running of the airport so what might be expected? In the short term, probably only cosmetic changes like signage, uniforms and names will alter. But what should happen in the longer term?

A problem with the old owners was that, by owning so many airports around London, competition was stifled so the first thing I should like to see is a wider net of destinations. Bring back more North American and Asia Pacific flights so there will be a true alternative to Heathrow and don’t let Gatwick drift into just being an airport for charter holiday flights and no-frills airlines.

Letter from France: March 2012

Whether you’re a novice or seasoned traveller, France will steal your heart. Each month, Frederic – our French correspondent – gives us the low-down on what to see and do across the channel