Technical issues delay fast ferry launch to St Malo
Ferry operator DFDS said its fast ferry, the Tarifa Jet, will not enter service until next week.
The ferry was due to start taking passengers to St Malo last Friday when the Danish firm took over Jersey's sailings but journeys were cancelled due to technical issues.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said the vessel is undergoing surveys for the issue of a passenger certificate.
Chris Parker, DFDS Route Director for Jersey, said: "I'm sorry that we have to make these changes to the schedule" and added an alternative ferry would be in operation.
DFDS took over the service in March from previous operator Condor Ferries, which ran the service for 60 years.
The Tarifa Jet has been undergoing a refit in Portland to prepare for the new service.
DFDS said the Stena Vinga ferry will operate the route to France from Thursday to Monday, with up to two rotations daily to accommodate all passengers.
The company said customers with existing bookings would be contacted with details of the changes to the schedule and alternative options.
Services between Jersey and Portsmouth would be operated on a replacement vessel, with no changes to the schedule.
DFDS apologised for the inconvenience to passengers at the start of the Easter holidays.
Mr Parker said: "As we eagerly await the Tarifa Jet to come into service, we want to make sure that passengers are able to travel with as little disruption as possible.
"I'm sorry that we have to make these changes to the schedule for this weekend and I would like to thank islanders for their continued patience with us."
Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.
Ferry firm's first scheduled sailing cancelled
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- New York Post
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Atlantic
15 hours ago
- Atlantic
Where Is Barack Obama?
Last month, while Donald Trump was in the Middle East being gifted a $400 million luxury jet from Qatar, Barack Obama headed off on his own foreign excursion: a trip to Norway, in a much smaller and more tasteful jet, to visit the summer estate of his old friend King Harald V. Together, they would savor the genteel glories of Bygdøyveien in May. They chewed over global affairs and the freshest local salmon, which had been smoked on the premises and seasoned with herbs from the royal garden. Trump has begun his second term with a continuous spree of democracy-shaking, economy-quaking, norm-obliterating action. And Obama, true to form, has remained carefully above it all. He picks his spots, which seldom involve Trump. In March, he celebrated the anniversary of the Affordable Care Act and posted his annual NCAA basketball brackets. In April, he sent out an Easter message and mourned the death of the pope. 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'I don't know that anybody is relevant in the Trump era,' Mark Updegrove, a presidential historian and head of the LBJ Foundation, told me. Updegrove, who wrote a book called Second Acts: Presidential Lives and Legacies After the White House, said that Trump has succeeded in creating a reality in which every president who came before is suspect. 'All the standard rules of being an ex-president are no longer applicable,' he said. Still, Obama never presented himself as a 'standard rules' leader. This was the idea that his political rise was predicated on—that change required bold, against-the-grain thinking and uncomfortable action. Clearly, Obama still views himself this way, or at least still wants to be perceived this way. (A few years ago, he hosted a podcast with Bruce Springsteen called Renegades.) From the July 1973 issue: The last days of the president Stepping into the current political melee would not be an easy or comfortable role for Obama. He represents a figure of the past, which seems more and more like the ancient past as the Trump era crushes on. He is a notably long-view guy, who has spent a great deal of time composing a meticulous account of his own narrative. 'We're part of a long-running story,' Obama said in 2014. 'We just try to get our paragraph right.' Or thousands of paragraphs, in his case: The first installment of Obama's presidential memoir, A Promised Land, covered 768 pages and 29 hours of audio. No release date has been set for the second volume. But this might be one of those times for Obama to take a break from the long arc of the moral universe and tend to the immediate crisis. Several Democrats I've spoken with said they wish that Obama would stop worrying so much about the 'dilution factor.' While Democrats struggle to find their next phenom, Obama could be their interim boss. He could engage regularly, pointing out Trump's latest abuses. He did so earlier this spring, during an onstage conversation at Hamilton College. He was thoughtful, funny, and sounded genuinely aghast, even angry. He could do these public dialogues much more often, and even make them thematic. Focus on Trump's serial violations of the Constitution one week (recall that Obama once taught constitutional law), the latest instance of Trump's naked corruption the next. Blast out the most scathing lines on social media. Yes, it might trigger Trump, and create more attention than Obama evidently wants. But Trump has shown that ubiquity can be a superpower, just as Biden showed that obscurity can be ruinous. People would notice. Democrats love nothing more than to hold up Obama as their monument to Republican bad faith. Can you imagine if Obama did this? some Democrat will inevitably say whenever Trump does something tacky, cruel, or blatantly unethical (usually before breakfast). Obama could lean into this hypocrisy—tape recurring five-minute video clips highlighting Trump's latest scurrilous act and title the series 'Can You Imagine If I Did This?' Or another idea—an admittedly far-fetched one. Trump has decreed that a massive military parade be held through the streets of Washington on June 14. This will ostensibly celebrate the Army's 250th anniversary, but it also happens to fall on Trump's 79th birthday. The parade will cost an estimated $45 million, including $16 million in damage to the streets. (Can you imagine if Obama did this?) The spectacle cries out for counterprogramming. Obama could hold his own event, in Washington or somewhere nearby. It would get tons of attention and drive Trump crazy, especially if it draws a bigger crowd. Better yet, make it a parade, or 'citizen's march,' something that builds momentum as it goes, the former president and community organizer leading on foot. This would be the renegade move. Few things would fire up Democrats like a head-to-head matchup between Trump and Obama. If nothing else, it would be fun to contemplate while Democrats keep casting about for their long-delayed future. 'The party needs new rising stars, and they need the room to figure out how to meet this moment, just like Obama figured out how to meet the moment 20 years ago,' Jon Favreau, a co-host of Pod Save America and former director of speechwriting for the 44th president, told me. 'Unless, of course, Trump tries to run for a third term, in which case I'll be begging Obama to come out of retirement.'


USA Today
2 days ago
- USA Today
You don't need a passport at these 7 US destinations that feel international
You don't need a passport at these 7 US destinations that feel international Show Caption Hide Caption Travel tips: What to do if you lose phone, passports These four travel tips will help in case you find yourself without a phone, ID, passport or credit card while traveling. Problem Solved Traveling internationally as a family is a true privilege, but not everyone can swing a journey abroad. Flights alone can put you well over budget, especially if you need to purchase multiple seats. Yet for parents who want to take their kids to a new, unfamiliar place without breaking the bank, there's still hope. Dotted around the country are unique U.S. family vacations that feel just like a visit to another country. Satisfy your craving for foreign landscapes and cultures with one of these seven spots for unique family vacations in the continental United States. (Note that most of these destinations also offer the chance to learn about the area's Native American history, which shouldn't be missed.) Why you can trust us: At FamilyVacationist, our picks are always based on our own real-world experiences, local knowledge and interviews, and in-depth analysis of travel trends. Read more about our travel recommendation methodology here. GO ABROAD: 7 kid-friendly European river cruises to consider in 2025 1. Chimayo, New Mexico Feels like: Mexico's Countryside The Sangre de Cristo Mountains hold many secrets, and one of them is the village of Chimayo. Only a roughly 30-minute drive from Santa Fe, Chimayo looks like something out of a vintage postcard from rural Mexico. Its pueblo-style architecture, weaving shops, and slower way of life make a visit here one of the most unique U.S. family vacations. Chimayo's close proximity to Santa Fe means you can easily spend a few nights in town or visit as a day trip from the city. Families can relish a handful of educational experiences that showcase the local history and culture at the Chimayo Museum, El Santuario de Chimayo church, and Rancho de Chimayo. There are also outdoor activities like the Santa Cruz Lake and rafting in the nearby Rio Grande Gorge. Where to Stay: Find plenty of smaller, independently run inns and B&Bs in Chimayo, including Casa Escondida, which sits on six beautiful acres of mountain landscapes. Bonus points for the ultra-comfy beds and family-friendly rooms. SOUTH OF THE BORDER: The ultimate guide to family vacations in Mexico: Beaches, ruins, and unforgettable adventures 2. Solvang, California Feels like: Denmark Your kids will feel like they've stepped into a fairytale in this colorful European-style town tucked away in California's Central Coast. Since being founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, Solvang has preserved its authentic history, architecture and culture—all of which is palpable as families meander down its festive downtown. The Solvang Trolley is a great way to get the lay of the land upon arrival. Families also will love visiting the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, which offers scavenger hunts; as well as the Old Mission Santa Ines museum; Ostrich Land; Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch; and Nojoqui Falls Park. Don't forget to stop at the whimsical Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor for a sweet treat. Where to Stay: Solvang has a real mix of accommodations, including the luxe dude ranch Alisal Ranch and downtown's hip and boutiquey The Winston. GO WEST: 7 affordable California vacation ideas for the whole family 3. Alys Beach, Florida Feels like: Santorini, Greece White stucco buildings overlooking shimmering waters conjure up scenes of Santorini, Greece – only at Alys Beach, the sand is powdery white. Nestled along Florida's pristine Panhandle, this family-friendly, planned community offers the aesthetic of Greece at a fraction of what you'd likely pay to haul the entire gang to the islands. Family amenities include a resort-style pool, private beach access, bike rentals with baby seat mounts available if needed, a nature preserve with a boardwalk and trails, an amphitheater that hosts occasional concerts and movie nights, splash pad-style fountains, and seasonal blueberry picking along Lake Marilyn. (Learn what makes the Panhandle one of the top unique Florida attractions for kids.) Where to Stay: There are no hotels in Alys Beach (for a traditional hotel stay, look to nearby Panama City Beach), but there are plenty of vacation rentals featuring great design and local vibes. ALL-IN-ONE VACATIONS: 7 best all-inclusive resorts in Florida for families 4. Holland, Michigan Feels like: The Netherlands Much like what you'd see in the Netherlands, fields across Holland, Michigan, dazzle with the colors of tulips in the spring. The annual Tulip Time Festival is one of the city's greatest attractions, but there are many more reasons why this little slice of Dutch paradise makes for one of the most unique U.S. family vacations. Nelis' Dutch Village offers a glimpse of what the Netherlands was like more than 100 years ago. Must-visit sites for families include the Windmill Island Gardens, Outdoor Discovery Center and the shallow-water Ottawa Beach, which has a playground, restrooms, and general store on site. Where to Stay: In addition to all the usual major hotel chains, you'll also find Teerman Lofts, a hotel that offers fully furnished luxury apartments instead of the usual hotel rooms. MIDWEST MAGIC: These 13 Midwest vacations are the perfect way to bring the whole family together 5. 1000 Islands, New York Feels like: Northwestern France (Cotes-d'Armor) The northwestern coast of France isn't on many families' radars. Its small archipelago of Ile-de-Brehat, however, is a hot spot for Europeans who are drawn to its dramatic landscape of tiny, lush islands surrounded by deep-blue water. The setting shares similarities with New York's 1000 Islands, particularly Alexandria Bay, whose Boldt Castle can make anyone feel like they've teleported to Europe. A quick, 30-minute drive from Alexandria Bay to the charming town of Cape Vincent will give you a closer look at the 1000 Islands' French history, which is celebrated every year at the French Festival. Other activities like hiking, go-kart rides, drive-in movie showings, boating, and water sports all cater to families with adventurous spirits. Where to Stay: Roadside motels, little inns, and family-run resorts rule when it comes to lodgings in Alexandria Bay. For castle views and a swimming pool, check out The Ledges Resort & Marina. BEYOND THE BIG APPLE: 13 best New York family vacations from the Adirondacks to the Erie Canal 6. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California Feels like: The English Countryside From 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' to the 'Harry Potter' series, family films have long fed the desire for many to visit England's countryside. For those not able or ready to fly across the pond, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a lovely and unique U.S. family vacation. Quintessential English cottages, tucked-away courtyards, and cobblestone streets look as if they've been plucked from a town like Rye or Stratford-upon-Avon. Enjoy a more British experience with an afternoon cuppa at the local tea house and imported British treats at the candy store. And don't forget to make time to check out Carmel Beach; Point Lobos State Natural Reserve; the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum; the Forest Theater; and the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium. Where to Stay: Family-friendly lodging options in Carmel (which includes Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley and Carmel Highlands) include Quail Lodge Golf & Club, which has big rooms and suites plus a year-round heated outdoor pool. PACK YOUR FLIP-FLOPS: 8 best hotels on the beach in California 7. Helen, Georgia Feels like: Bavaria, Germany German traditions like Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets have become pretty ubiquitous, but few places close to home can transport you to Deutschland like Helen, Georgia. What makes this one of the top underrated U.S. cities for a pseudo-international getaway is not only its Bavarian look and feel, but also its sheer variety of activities that both parents and kids will love. A candy factory, a handmade wooden toy store, a recreational center with Alpine-style miniature golf, and the award-winning Cabbage Patch Kids toy store will make little ones' dreams come true. Throw in authentic restaurants serving up everything from schnitzel to spaetzle, an Alpine mountain coaster and scenic nature hikes, and everyone will be a happy camper. (See why Helen is also one of the best skip-gen destinations that guarantee fun for both grandparents and grandkids.) Where to Stay: When it comes to places to stay in Helen, you can choose from its blend of chain hotels and independent motels and inns. For everything you need with kids, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Helen is a good bet. You don't need a passport at these 7 US destinations that feel just like an international vacation originally appeared on More from FamilyVacationist: The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. and are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology, we review and select family vacation ideas, family vacation spots, all-inclusive family resorts, and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators, tour operator reviews, tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations. If you buy an item through a link in our content, we may earn a commission.