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The Independent
40 minutes ago
- The Independent
The ‘world's best train' to launch new mountain route next summer
A train operator crowned the 'world's best' will roll out a new rail journey through the Canadian mountains next summer. The Rocky Mountaineer will travel between Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper for a 'limited time' in June and July 2026 as part of a new route, named 'Passage to the Peaks'. In July, Travel + Leisure proclaimed the Rocky Mountaineer the world's best train route in its annual awards survey. According to Rocky Mountaineer, the new journey is for travellers who want to immerse themselves in 'evergreen forests, sparkling glacial lakes, and towering mountains.' The package has been introduced for the summer of 2026 to coincide with Fifa World Cup events taking place in Vancouver. Rocky Mountaineer said: 'With the city expected to welcome a significant number of visitors, we're excited to offer an alternative route for those seeking a quieter experience.' Passage to the Peaks is a two-day journey with an overnight stay in a hotel, although packages can be extended for up to nine nights. Rail fans will be set back between £1,670 and £7,193 per person, depending on which of the seven packages customers choose. The route through the Canadian Rockies can be taken westbound or eastbound, passing highlights such as Mount Rundle, Pyramid Falls and Mount Robson. Optional activities include gondola rides to the top of Sulphur Mountain and a ride on an Ice Explorer to the Athabasca Glacier – located on one of the largest ice fields south of the Arctic Circle. The Rocky Mountaineer isn't the only operator trying something new in 2026. A new rail journey from Adventures by Rail will roll travellers around the world in 100 days – if passengers splash out over £100,000 on a ticket. In April, the tour company offered 12 customers the chance to book a mammoth adventure through Europe, Asia and into North America. The flagship 'Around the World by Train in 100 Days' journey departs London on 17 March 2026, and includes iconic rail routes such as Japan's Shinkansen bullet train and an Orient Express-inspired trip through Istanbul. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder's podcast
The Independent
5 hours ago
- The Independent
Sri Lanka visas to be made free for UK tourists
Sri Lanka has announced plans to waive visa fees for British travellers in a bid to boost tourism. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath reportedly confirmed that tourists from 33 new countries, including the UK, will be able to visit the island without paying visa fees at the Hotel Show Colombo 2025 on Friday (25 July). Travellers from the US, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and Australia will also be able to enter without paying visa fees, reported Travel + Leisure Asia. Mr Herath added that Sri Lanka 's government face an annual loss of up to £50m by waiving the visa fees. However, the minister expected higher tourist footfall from the free visas to make up for the loss in economic gains. According to a government press release, Mr Herath said that Sri Lanka's tourism industry is 'steadily progressing day by day', with the tourism sector expected to become a 'key contributor' to strengthening the national economy. He said: 'We have stabilised the economy, and through policy changes in tourism, we aim to ensure steady growth in arrivals.' Travellers from seven countries – China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia and Japan – have had a visa fee waiver to enter the South Asian country since September 2024, following a trial phase in 2023. British passport holders currently have to apply for a 30-day tourist visa with a $50 (£37.50) fee to visit Sri Lanka. According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), Sri Lanka welcomed 2,053,465 tourists in 2024. Of these, the island hosted the most Indian, Russian and British travellers. The start date for free visa entry is unknown; however, it is expected that eligible travellers will still need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in advance, free of charge. The Independent has contacted Sri Lanka's Ministry of Tourism and the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority for comment.
Daily Mail
6 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Quiz reveals which UK town you should visit next based on your personality type
Yorkshire offers a bit of everything - from rolling hills to cobbled streets rich in history and bustling cities. To celebrate Yorkshire Day, August 1, LNER has created a personality quiz spotlighting all the greatness God's Own Country represents. It features six locations across the region, York, Bradford, Harrogate, Leeds, Whitby and Hull, each offering its own unique charm and character. The quiz asks ten lifestyle-related questions ranging from favourite meals, music preferences and Sunday activities. It then formulates which Yorkshire destination best suits the participant. The cities are matched to six personality types, the Comfort Seeker, the Urban Explorer, the Romantic Rambler, the Cultural Creative, the Adventurer and the Timeless Wanderer. Once completing the quiz, participants should have a destination suggestion within Yorkshire that reflects their preferences. York boasts rich history, with a medieval castle and the quaint cobbled Shambles, the city has plenty for visitors to explore. While Bradford, which was named as the UK's City of Culture 2025, has museums and restaurants offering a range of cuisines. Harrogate, where the iconic Betty's tea room originated from, the spa town features vibrant shops and characterful buildings. A major city in Yorkshire, Leeds has a plethora of markets and intricate Victorian shopping arcades. Those hoping to delve into history and culture won't be disappointed with the bustling city, as it boasts multiple museums and galleries. Seaside town Whitby, in North Yorkshire, boasts a picturesque harbour and 20 beaches. While Hull is rich with maritime heritage and has plenty of stunning historical buildings. David Flesher, Commercial Director at LNER, said: 'We know people are looking for more than just places to visit – they want travel to feel personal and meaningful. 'The Yorkshire Personality Quiz is a fun way to explore the region through your preferences and discover destinations that resonate.' He added: 'Whether it's the timeless beauty of York, the cultural richness of Bradford, or the urban energy of Leeds, Yorkshire has something for everyone. 'This campaign celebrates its diversity and encourages people to experience more of it, in ways that feel just right for them.'
