Rail access arrives at Los Angeles International Airport
The LAX/Metro Transit Center is set to open at 5 p.m. PT and will connect travelers to the K or C rail lines, which can then whisk them north in the direction of central Los Angeles, south toward beach cities or east along Interstate 105.
The breakthrough is an absolute necessity for organizers of the 2028 Olympics if they're going to fulfill their vow of making it a "no car Games."
"This is a big day for L.A.," County Supervisor Janice Hahn said in a statement shortly after a ceremonial ride at the new station.
Hahn, the MTA chair, used good humor and invoked the memory of an arch conservative to toast this new rail option.
"President Reagan once said the nine most terrifying words were, 'I'm from the government, and I'm here to help.' But here in L.A., we know they have always been: 'Hey, can you give me a ride to LAX?'" quipped Hahn, the daughter of late political titan Kenneth Hahn who played a key role in bringing the Brooklyn Dodgers west in 1957.
"Well now — for the first time ever — you can say: 'No way. Just take Metro.' '
This option still isn't a 100% tire-free experience.
Arriving LAX passengers still have to take a bus shuttle, which is set to run every 10 minutes, from the airport to the new station, which is about two miles east of Terminal 1.
The LAX People Mover is being built and targeted for completion by year's end.
Once the People Mover is rolling, LAX will have rail service that its peers have offered for decades.
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has been rolling passengers in and out of America's busiest airport, Hartsfield–Jackson, since 1988.
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a day ago
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There's a little-known way to nab free flights to Australia, Dubai and more
If it's your dream to travel, but you don't have the budget to make it a reality, you're in luck. There's a little-known way to save 50% on plane tickets, or potentially even get your flight completely free. But, it comes with some pretty serious responsibility. Juurnee is a website which connects people in need of a travel companion, to those who want to travel for less money. As a companion, the person you're accompanying pays in the form of footing a chunk – or even all – of your ticket cost. Those looking for help on Juurnee include anxious fliers, disabled or injured people, parents with young children, or the elderly. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Juurnee was created by Rachel Crampton, a Brit who lives in Australia, who was inspired to create the site after realising she needed some assistance on a long journey. The mum wasn't looking forward to a 23-hour flight from London to Sydney with three children under the age of five, but none of her relatives or friends were able to make the trip with her. So she decided to post about it on social media, offering £560 as a payment for anyone willing to assist her. Soon she was put in touch with a young Australian girl living in the UK, who was desperate to visit her family back home, but didn't have enough money to cover the cost of a flight. 'I couldn't have done it without her, so I created Juurnee to help other people, like me, find and book travel companions with ease,' Rachel explains. Those in need of a companion share their upcoming journeys on the site, with specific routes and dates, as well as the assistance they are in need of. Within this post, they'll also reveal what they'll be offering a companion in terms of payment. According to Juurnee, people are able to 'choose their own fee' but they recommend 'between 50% and 100% of the cost of flights'. To be able to apply for a journey, you'll need to sign up to the website. There are currently two plans available, a free membership and a premium $30 AUD per year (around £15). The free membership allows you to browse available journeys and get 'basic' support. While the premium one is where you can apply for trips, and match with those in need of help. The team at Juurnee then work behind the scenes to match travellers with companions for their trip. As part of this, Rachel shares that they use an AI third-party verification platform, to verify the identity of those who apply to be companions. Then, once matched, it's up to travellers to do their own checks. Rachel explains to Metro: 'People requesting the help can review applications from companions (including a photo, their bio and some information about why they would like to help, such as what skills and experience they might have, and their availability). They can then decide whether or not they'd like to explore any of the applications further.' If a traveller does decide to match with someone on Juurnee, contacts details are shared, and travellers and companions can get in touch. 'They can get to know each other a little to make sure they are happy to go ahead and they can of course conduct their own diligence — requesting evidence of skills and experience listed if they wish to do so. 'For example if someone only wanted to select a person with a DBS check, they would only accept someone as a match who had included in their application that this is something they held, then once matched they would be able to request sight of this document. 'As we ensure everyone is ID verified, this makes it much easier for our customers to do if this is something they require.' More Trending As such, many of those signed up to the site are qualified teachers, nurses, childcare workers, nannies and midwives. The most popular flight routes on the website go from London to Sydney as well as London to Dubai, but there are many other places you could be travelling to and from. Recent requests have included flights to Switzerland, Berlin, Los Angeles, New Zealand, India and Thailand. It's worth noting that some journeys will be for one-way flights, while others will be seeking help for return trips. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Tiny country with affordable cities and 'healing' saunas is Europe's fastest-growing destination MORE: I had the gayest night of my life at Sao Paulo Pride – the biggest queer party in the world MORE: The UK's best Cotswolds alternatives for last-minute summer staycations
Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
The tiny but beautiful country named Europe's fastest-growing destination
Lithuania has been a European hidden gem for years, but it's set for big things in 2025 (Picture: Getty Images) Sparkling lakes surrounded by lush pine forests. Cosmopolitan cities and medieval towns. Forest saunas, treetop walks, and Michelin-starred restaurants. This is Lithuania, a tiny country in the Baltic region that has just been named Europe's fastest-growing destination this year so far. Since topping the World Happiness Report for under-30s in 2024, Lithuania has drawn tourists thanks to better flight connections (you can fly direct to Vilnius from London and Bristol), and growing interest in less crowded places. From stunning landscapes embroidered with hundreds of lakes and rivers to its blossoming reputation as a culinary mecca, the buzz around the country and its pocket-sized capital is more than justified. With visitor numbers on the rise, there's never been a better time to explore all this lesser-known nation has to offer before everyone else does. Here's everything you need to know before you visit. Sign up to The Getaway newsletter Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Where to go in Lithuania Vilnius, Europe's most affordable capital Who doesn't love a city break. But with major destinations like Amsterdam, Berlin, and Madrid becoming busier and more expensive, many travellers are starting to veer off the beaten track. Enter, Vilnius. Named Europe's most affordable city break by Post Office Travel Money in 2024, Lithuania's capital is truly delightful. The buzz around Lithuania is more than justified (Picture: Metro) Metro's Alice Murphy spent 48 hours in Vilnius in November and found a charming town still reckoning with its complex past, where brutalist Soviet architecture meets high-end boutiques and a rapidly blossoming food scene. She wrote: 'It's been more than 30 years since Lithuania gained independence from the USSR, but the buzz of freedom is still in the air. And, drawn by vibey nightlife, dark history and reasonable prices, people are starting to take note. But despite direct flights from major UK airports such as Stansted and Luton, Vilnius remains off the beaten path for British travellers. The tourism board is willing to laugh at its obscurity, declaring the country the 'G-spot of Europe' — 'amazing, but nobody knows where it is'. Vilnius is gaining attention for its rich history and affordability (Picture: Getty Images) From winding cobbled alleyways and a bohemian quarter with elegant Baroque architecture, this is a city that knows where it comes from. The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights is a good place to start. After centuries of invasion and repression from Germany, Poland, and the Soviet Union, the museum is a sobering reminder of how Lithuanians fought to keep their culture alive. Guide and tour leader Lina Dusevičienė expands on the country's fight for freedom: 'The dramatic history of the last three centuries shows that no trouble, occupation, or oppression is strong enough to tame Lithuanians. The young and active people of Lithuania make everyone feel welcome and engaged in learning the history.' What our readers think of Vilnius: Melkuhn Andrea: 'I loved the big open spaces, the cat café and the history of this place. I saw only one group of tourists in August. If you don't like crowded places, please go to Vilnius. I can't wait to go back, there are lot of coffee places which I want to try.' Robert Downing: 'Great place. Quiet and friendly. Not expensive.' Stuart Hunter: 'I worked there some years ago. Nice place and very nice people. And yes, it was as cheap as she says. Worth a visit.' Vilnius is also central to Lithuania's blossoming culinary scene, where tradition and innovation collide. 'Lithuanians have always been deeply connected to their traditions, native ingredients, time-tested cooking methods, and the stories that come with them,' explains Niels Peter Pretzmann, owner of Senatorių pasažas restaurants and shops. 'The practice of using farm produce, cooking all parts of the animal, foraging and preserving vegetables for winter has been passed down through generations. Add a healthy dose of curiosity about global gastronomy trends, and you get what we all hope for — a seasonal, sustainable cuisine that reflects Lithuania's well-defined seasons.' Farm-to-table restaurants such as the popular 14 Horses serve up lamb dumplings loved by generations of Lithuanians, and higher-end establishments are also making their mark. Take Dziaugsmas, one of four local restaurants to receive a star in 2024's first-ever Michelin guide to Lithuania. Offering a €67 (£55) tasting menu that includes black pudding doughnuts and moreish bone marrow, it's clear Lithuanian chefs are respecting their cuisine while keeping an eye on the future. Niels, who is also the owner of a sustainable farm called Farmers Circle on the outskirts of Vilnius, notes how Lithuania's food scene holds immense potential for slow tourism. He believes reconnecting with the places where food is grown, and embracing unhurried, immersive experiences, is the key to Lithuania's uniqueness. He says: 'We encourage guests to slow down, stay overnight, and wake up to the peaceful serenity of farm life. These could be some of the most precious experiences of our generation.' Go Vilnius, the city's official tourism and business development agency, agrees that sustainability is a priority. And, since Vilnius holds the title of Green Capital of Europe this year, it's also at the heart of the city's plans. 'We focus on sustainable tourism — whether it's eco-friendly transport and dining, supporting local businesses, or encouraging visitors to explore beyond the Old Town,' the agency says. 'We invite people to check out unique neighbourhoods and historic spots outside the city, like Trakai and Kernavė.' These lesser-known trips are driven by new initiatives such as 'Meet a Local', a program where tourists can connect with locals and explore Vilnius and its surrounding areas from a resident's perspective. Starting your journey in Vilnius? The capital has scores of affordable accommodations, including the Comfort Hotel LT – Rock 'n' Roll, TripAdvisor's top rated for value with rooms from €68 (£57) per night. For luxury, head to Hotel Pacai, a stylish hotel inside a Baroque palace where Napoleon Bonaparte once stayed. The 104 rooms feature glossy marble bathrooms, centuries-old exposed brickwork and beds so comfortable you won't want to get up. But the real draw is the location, on what was once Vilnius' 'royal mile'. Step out of the cobbled courtyard and you're right beside the old town, minutes from the city's finest restaurants, boutiques and landmarks. Double rooms with breakfast start from £162 per night. Ancient Kaunas There are many reasons Kaunas was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023. During the interwar period, Lithuania's second city was nicknamed 'Little Paris' for its Art Deco architecture, fashion, academic life and relaxed café culture. Just a one-hour drive from Vilnius, this city is also steeped in rich history. A trip to Kaunas should not be skipped (Picture: Getty Images) Having been a settlement since the 10th century AD, it was initially founded as a fortress in 1030 before becoming a town in 1317. It's in the Old Town where this vibe is felt most strongly, from the medieval Cathedral-Basilica to Kaunas Castle. With restaurants and bars aplenty, it's easy to pass hours here, drinking coffee or a glass of traditional mead, the national drink of Lithuania. Metro's Kirsten Robertson visited Kaunas in December 2023 and said the Aleksotas Observation Deck is well worth the trip for a panoramic view of the city. You can walk up the hill, drive up or glide up on a funicular for €1. Staying in Kaunas and looking for Art Deco inspiration? The four-star 'Kaunas' hotel offers pure vibes for a steeper €106 (£88) per night. Palanga and the Baltic coast Lithuania is not known for its beaches, but its position on the Baltic Sea means it has plenty of charming coastal spots. Even luxury is accessible here. Lithuania boasts many wellness resorts, the biggest in the seaside town of Palanga, a popular summer resort with 13km of white sandy beaches. Here you'll find the world's largest amber sauna, which uses amber and infrared rays to warm the body. Supposed benefits include pain relief, improved circulation, and relaxation. Visitors can experience this for next to nothing at SPA Amber Palace, a four-star spa with a swimming pool and jacuzzi. The treatment typically ranges between €20-€30 (£16-£24) per person. Lithuania's sand dunes could be mistaken for the Spanish coast (Picture: Getty Images) While you're in the area, a trip to the 'Lithuanian Sahara' is non-negotiable. The Curonian Spit is a spectacular collection of coastal dunes, so stunning it's been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parnidid, the largest of the drifting dunes, is an Instagrammers paradise. The country works hard to maintain Parnidis' dune landscape and its natural inhabitants. To ensure people can enjoy it for years to come, visitors are asked to stick to the designated walking routes and areas. If you're after pure R&R, stay along the coast somewhere like the Kerpė Hotel. Described as '4-star accommodation with spa facilities including a Turkish steam bath, jacuzzi and Himalayan salt room,' rates start from €93 (£77.50) per night. Pagan history Scratch Lithuania's devoutly Catholic surface and you'll find a strong pagan culture still permeating the nation. The country was the last pagan state in Europe, only converting to Christianity in the 14th century. As such, folklore traditions are very much alive. For context, Christianity first arrived in Britain in the 4th century. Throughout the year, Lithuania honours this sacred heritage in myriad ways. One of the most prominent events is 'Joninės,' also known as Midsummer Day, on June 24th. This pagan festival celebrates the summer solstice, and people gather to sing songs, weave flower crowns and hunt for mythical fern blossoms. Lithuania's stunning countryside is replete with hundreds of lakes and rivers (Picture: Getty Images) In the mornings, revellers wash their faces with morning dew and walk barefoot in the belief it has healing powers. By night, they gather around bonfires, jumping over the flames to herald good health. Best time to visit Lithuania It depends on what kind of traveller you are. The summer season is Lithuania's busiest time for tourists. With a relatively warm Baltic Sea and long bright days where temperatures range between 17°C and 23°C, June, July and August are also filled with summer festivals. Vilnius hosts the Lithuanian Song and Dance Festival and Klaipėda has a Sea Festival. Spring and late autumn is the time to see Lithuania's streets a lot quieter. Those after a coolcation should visit the Baltics during the winter, to enjoy cheap Christmas markets and snowcapped hills. How to get to Lithuania Getting to Lithuania is straightforward and cheap. Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air fly direct to Vilnius from major London airports (Stansted and Luton), with one-way fares costing as little as €30 (£25). After landing, four buses run directly to the city centre and surrounding areas. The journey takes less than 15 minutes and buses run regularly, roughly every 10 to 30 minutes. Single tickets can be bought from the driver for €1 (83p). Alternatively, you can fly to Kaunas International Airport, the second-busiest in the country. Located in central Lithuania, it's 14km northeast of the ancient city of Kaunas and 100km west of Vilnius. This airport mostly caters to low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz, with some one-way flights from Stansted, Luton or Bristol costing as little as €24 (£20). Looking to head straight for the lapping waves of the Baltic Sea? Palanga International Airport is the smallest airport in Lithuania and offers flights to the coast and its nearby locations. These fares are steeper, averaging between €108-€120 (£90-£100) from Stansted. A tip for explorers Lithuania's geographical position makes it perfect for multi-country holidays. In December 2023, Lithuanian Railways introduced a daily Vilnius to Riga train, the capital of Latvia. You can reach the city in just six-and-a-half hours by train, with second-class tickets costing €24 (£20). Following a few days exploration, hop on a five-hour train to Tallinn, Estonia's capital, where you'll complete the three Baltic states in one trip. Tickets are just as cheap, priced at €30.50 (£25.30). For Lina, it's Lithuania's reachability that convinces her the country can blossom into a mainstream destination. She says: 'The more people visit, learn the importance of nature, appreciate hard work for freedom and self-expression, the better the world may become.' Travellers can easily visit Estonia via train from Lithuania (Picture: Getty Images) Arrow MORE: A new luxury bus will connect 6 European cities for the first time — for £137 Arrow MORE: I had the gayest night of my life at Sao Paulo Pride – the biggest queer party in the world Arrow MORE: The UK's best Cotswolds alternatives for last-minute summer staycations
Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
A luxe new bus will connect 6 European cities for the first time
Sleeper buses push even the most seasoned travellers to the limit: stifling heat, cramped seats and only a few snacks and your phone to get you through. But now, a bougie service is set to add some glamour to European road journeys. Swiss company, Twiliner, aims to 'reinvent' long-distance travel with swanky buses that look a lot like first-class plane cabins. Their latest offering? A new route that connects six European cities. Starting in Zurich, the bus stops at: Basel Luxembourg Brussels Rotterdam Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. The journey, which takes 12 hours and 15 minutes all in, ends in Amsterdam. It's the first time all six cities will be connected in a single overland route. As it stands, you can get from Zurich to Amsterdam overnight, without flying, by hopping aboard the ÖBB Nightjet — a train that takes 12 hours and 10 minutes. However, while the train might be fractionally quicker, you'll be paying £145 one way for a bed, in a cabin shared with up to three people, or £86 to share with up to six people. The Twiliner, on the other hand, is all about the elevated experience. Each bus has space for 21 travellers, with seats that recline into proper beds, plus duvets and pillows. There are even private changing areas so you can get cosy in your PJs before you drift off. Each seat also has electric outlets, a reading light, oh and there's complimentary WiFi and toilets on board. More Trending There's a snack bar for food and drinks. Plus, water and coffee are free. The check-in experience is stress-free. Unlike catching a flight, you only need to turn up 15 minutes before departure. You also get a generous baggage allowance – one 23kg bag and another 5kg carry-on – both of which are free. The new Twiliner route launches on November 13, with one-way tickets starting at 150 Swiss Francs. That's around £137. A second route from Zurich to Barcelona will also be operating. Metro's Alice Murphy was invited to stay to spend a night at the Dolder Grand. Europe's well-heeled elites have lived the high life here since 1899, deep in the forest on the Adlisberg mountain. Here's what she had to say about it. 'Affectionately known as the grand dame of Zurich, this place rolls out the red carpet for its A-list guests. I mean this literally: a red carpet leads to the hotel's front entrance. Elton John has laid his head here, as has King Charles III, back when he was still a bachelor prince. The Lionesses stayed at the Dolder as they defended their title at the 2025 UEFA Women's Euros. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Two cruise passengers die in separate drownings on same day at Bahamas resort MORE: Severe rush hour delays in London with train and Tube lines suspended MORE: 'Gifted' European city that's 25°C in September with Mediterranean beaches and £85 flights
