European Headlines Archives

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*Note: Support for headline summaries has been discontinued as of the end of 2010. Please see our Travel News daily headlines including archives of the preceding week's headlines for the latest news in Europe.

December 2010

Tube Strike Set for Monday

December 22 — London Tube drivers will go on strike on Monday, December 27 (Boxing Day) in a dispute over pay. The 24-hour walkout is set to begin at midnight December 26. London Underground, which operates the subway system, says it will attempt to bring in back-up drivers but travelers should expect delays and cancellations.

European Airports Dig Out From Storm

December 22 — Airports and airlines across Europe are trying to dig themselves out from a backlog of passengers as a series of winter storms subsides. More flights are getting in and out of London's Heathrow Airport, but it is still operating on a reduced flight schedule. Disruptions are still being felt at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, which is also struggling to sort out a huge amount of baggage that became separated from passengers when flights were cancelled. Germany's Frankfurt airport and Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, France report that operations are returning to normal, while delays and cancellations are still reported at airports in Berlin, Germany and Vienna, Austria.

American Airlines, Orbitz Part Ways

December 21 — Travelers searching the website Orbitz will no longer see airfares for American Airlines after the airline pulled out of the travel website. American will continue to honor tickets previously sold on Orbitz, and will continue to provide its fare information to other travel websites. American also sells tickets on its own website. The airline decided to pull out of Orbitz after a dispute over whether Orbitz should get fare information from a third-party distribution company or directly from American. In a similar move, Delta Airlines has pulled its fare information from CheapOAir, OneTravel, and BookIt travel websites.

Snow Disrupts European Travel

December 20 — New winter storms today worsened travel delays and disruptions in Europe, where thousands of flights have been cancelled and officials are calling for travelers to forgo trips over the holidays if possible. Two days of snow over the weekend brought air travel to a standstill at London's Heathrow Airport, a major hub, causing repercussions across the Continent and in the US. Delta Airlines is warning American passengers flying to Amsterdam, London, Frankfurt, and Paris for the holidays that their flights may be disrupted. Forecasts are calling for more icy, cold weather tomorrow.

Snow and Ice Return to UK

December 16 — Travelers in the United Kingdom should expect isruptions this weekend as snow and ice return. Up to 10 inches of snow are expected to fall across the northern part of the country on Saturday, where the wintry conditions were already blamed for several car crashes on Thursday. Some flights were delayed at Heathrow, Aberdeen, and Kirkwall airports, and some trains were cancelled in Scotland.

EU Court Approves Dutch Ban on Pot for Tourists

December 16 — A European Union court has found that the Dutch city of Maastricht can legally bar tourists from coffee shops that sell marijuana. Maastricht's law was targeted at "drug tourists" who drive to the Netherlands from Germany and Belgium strictly to buy drugs that are illegal in their home countries. Netherlands government officials have announced plans to turn the country's 300-some marijuana-selling coffee shops into private clubs, barring tourists from entering and purchasing drugs.

Avoiding Germs in the Air

December 15 — Budget Travel has released its list of the top places where germs breed on passenger airplanes. The top offender: drinking water from onboard tanks (and coffee and tea made with tank water) which can harbor E. coli. Advice: stick to bottled water and avoid ice. Other germ zones to avoid or disinfect before using: seat pockets (where people tend to store dirty napkins and tissues), tray tables (60 percent test positive for the MRSA superbug), airplane food (bring your own), airplane pillows and blankets (rarely washed), and last but not least, the airplane bathroom (use a napkin to open the door and close the toilet lid; use hand sanitizer instead of water to wash up).

One Dead, Two Injured in Stockholm Attack

December 13 — A man suspected of being a suicide bomber was killed and two people injured in two explosions in downtown Stockholm, Sweden on Saturday. The deceased man was identified as an Iraqi-born Swedish citizen who was educated in Britain. The bombs — two strapped to the suspect and another in a car — detonated near the pedestrian-only shopping street of Drottninggatan. Police are continuing to search for accomplices both in Stockholm and in London, and are investigating links to threatening messages received by a Swedish news organization earlier that day.

Glastonbury Thorn Tree Chopped Down

December 11 — A famous tree near England's Glastonbury Abbey has been chopped down, with most of its limbs cut off in what police there are calling an incident of vandalism. The thorn tree was thought to have been at least 100 years old. According to legend, it was a descendent of a thorn tree first planted in Glastonbury by St. Joseph of Arimathea over 2,000 years ago. Sprigs from the tree are traditionally placed on the Queen's dining table at Christmas time. Officials hope the tree will recover and put out new shoots in the spring.

Milan Cathedral Lit From Inside Out

December 9 — The stained glass windows at the Duomo Cathedral in Milan, Italy, are now permanently illuminated from the inside. A ceremony was held on December 8, the feast of the Immaculate Conception, to turn on the permanent light installation. The windows will be illuminated through January 10, after which the lights will be turned on for religious holidays and on Saturdays and Sundays year-round

Paris Crippled by Heavy Snow

December 8 — The Eiffel Tower closed today and thousands of drivers and air passengers were stranded by heavy snowfall in Paris, France. Four inches of snow fell in Paris — the most seen in France's capital city since 1987. Some flights were cancelled at Charles de Gaulle airport due to icing and slick conditions on the runways, but TGV train service was uninterrupted.

Travelex Offers Chip-and-Pin Debit Card

December 8 — US travelers frustrated by European tollbooths and ticket machines that won't accept our magnetic-stripe debit or credit cards may be interested in a new product from Travelex: preloaded debit cards with European "chip-and-pin" technology. In Europe, many automated kiosks — and an increasing number of retail shops — won't accept debit or credit cards that don't have both a microchip and pin number. Travelex's Cash Passport cards have both the US-style magnetic-stripe and the European-style chip-and-pin, are available pre-loaded with euros or pounds, and carry no separate fee (but be aware that a fee is built into the exchange rate when you load the card).

Twentieth-Century Art Museum Opens in Milan

December 7 — The new Museo del Novecento, Milan's museum of 20th-century art, has opened to the public and is free to visit through the end of February. Designed around a spiraling ramp, the museum's exhibits include works by Picasso, Braque, Klee, Kandisky, Modigliani, Boccioni, and De Chirico, with one room dedicated to Lucio Fontana of slashed-canvases fame. The Museo del Novecento is located on Milan's Piazza del Duomo.

Venice Under Water

December 3 — The first major high-water of the season has hit Venice, with more than half of the lagoon city under water. Called the "acqua alta," the water reached 136 centimeters (4.4 feet) above sea level and a system of raised pontoons was deployed to act as walkways. The highest acqua alta was in 1966, when water levels reached 194 centimeters (6.3 feet).

Plastic Bags Banned in Italy

December 3 — Italy is poised to ban plastic shopping bags as of January 1, 2011 — implementing a ban first approved in 2007. The ban had been scheduled to roll out in 2010, ending the production and distribution of plastic shopping bags, but was delayed by one year thanks to lobbying from the plastics industry. More than 73 percent of Italians support the ban.

Global Entry Program Helps Travelers

December 2 — The New York Times blog "In Transit" reports that the US Customs and Border Patrol's frequent-flier program, Global Entry, actually does help travelers get through the airport faster. The program allows Global Entry members returning to one of 20 US airports from international destinations to clear customs and border security on their own, at a kiosk that scans a traveler's passport and fingerprints (skipping the wait in line for a staffer). The program is open to tourists as well as business travelers. To sign up, you must pay $100 (good for 5 years), complete an online application, and have an in-person interview. The New York Times found Global Entry to be useful for those who travel internationally several times a year or who pass through especially crowded US airports.

UNESCO Inspects Pompeii Wall Damage

December 2 — Inspectors from the UN cultural organization UNESCO are in Pompeii, Italy, investigating the collapse of several walls at the ancient site. Three walls have collapsed this week, following the collapse of the House of Gladiators last month. Italian officials blame the collapses on heavy rain but UNESCO has said it is concerned that inadequate measures are being taken to protect the ruins.

Winter Weather Disrupts Travel Across Europe

December 2 — Extremely cold temperatures, high winds, and heavy snow are causing travel disruptions across Europe and have led to several deaths. People are being advised to allow extra time for journeys or avoid traveling if possible. Airports in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom have reported flight delays and cancellations, with Prague airport closing. Eurostar service from France was delayed due to heavy snow and commuter trains was cancelled in parts of Germany. Thousands of drivers were trapped in their cars on icy roads in Belgium and France, while in Denmark the Danish army was called out to help stranded motorists.

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum Opens

December 1 — The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum has opened in Alloway, Ayrshire, and is dedicated to the man known as "Scotland's national poet," who died in 1796. The official "grand opening" is set for January 22, when Alloway celebrates its Burns Weekend festival. The museum holds 5,000 artifacts, including some of Burn's original manuscripts, and links several sights in Alloway. Alloway is about 40 miles southwest of Galloway.

November 2010

Tate Britain to Undergo Renovation

November 30 — A £45 million renovation of the Tate Britain in London will include re-establishing the building's neoclassical portico facing the Thames as the museum's main entrance. In addition to moving the main entrance, plans call for shifting the café from the basement to a garden terrace, adding a spiral staircase leading from the center of the rotunda to the floor below, and opening a circular walkway at the top of the rotunda to the public for the first time. Work is expected to be complete by 2013.

High-Speed Train to Link Valencia and Madrid

November 28 — A new high-speed train will begin running next month in Spain between Valencia and Madrid, cutting the trip between the two cities to 90 minutes from about four hours. The AVE train (Alta Velocidad Española) begins running on December 19.

Islamic Art on Show in Milan

November 26 — The Palazzo Reale Museum in Milan, Italy is hosting a show of Islamic art drawn from the collection owned by the ruling family of Kuwait. The exhibit, titled, "Art of the Islamic Civilization" will be on show through January. Included are over 350 pieces, such as carpets, textiles, illuminated manuscripts, ceramics, and jewelry. The exhibit focuses on the development of Islamic art from the 8th to the 18th centuries.

TSA Unveils Air Travel App

November 25 — The Transportation Security Administration is offering a free app for iPhone users to help travelers get through airport security with less hassle. The app, called My TSA, has a searchable database of prohibited items, lists wait times for security lines at US airports, and offers tips on packing.

Date Set for Royal Wedding

November 23 — Ending years of will they or won't they speculation, Britain's Prince William and his fiancé Kate Middleton have announced they will be married on Friday, April 29, 2011 at Westminster Abbey in London. The wedding day has been declared a public holiday for all of the United Kingdom. Travelers planning to visit London near the wedding date should book hotel rooms far in advance and be prepared for congestion in the city. Westminster Abbey hosted the weddings of the Queen and Queen Mother, as well as the funeral of Prince William's mother, Princess Diana.

Germany on Alert for Terrorist Attack

November 18 — Security at train stations and airports in Germany has been tightened, in response to what the German government called "strong evidence" that terrorists are planning an attack there before the end of November. Border controls have also been stepped up. One German newspaper reported that crowded Christmas markets could be a target, a statement that was refuted by government officials.

Nuremberg Exhibit Marks Nazi Trial

November 18 — A new exhibit opens Sunday in the Palace of Justice building in Nuremberg, Germany, marking the 65th anniversary of the Nazi war crimes trial. The exhibit includes original video and audio recordings from the trial proceedings, as well as examples of modern trials such as the Yugoslav war crimes tribunal. The new exhibit takes up four rooms above Courtroom 600, where the original Nazi trail was held. A glassed-in viewing area allows visitors to look in on the courtroom, where trials are still held today.

Dutch Consider Banning Pot Purchases by Tourists

November 17 — Tourists could be banned from buying marijuana in the Netherlands if a proposal before the Dutch government gains approval. It's part of a broader crackdown on drug use in the Netherlands, where "coffee shops" that legally sell small quantities of marijuana are a popular tourist attraction. Some cities near the Belgium border, including Maastricht, have already restricted drug sales to foreigners. A nationwide ban, where only local residents would be able to buy the drug, has been agreed by the government, but has not been formalized into law and there is as yet no timeframe for its adoption.

Mosque of Süleyman Reopens

November 16 — The restored Mosque of Süleyman in Istanbul, Turkey has reopened to the public after a three-year closure. Restoration work focused on retrofitting the mosque, build from 1551 to 1558, to withstand earthquakes. The work also restored original inscriptions on the hanging pendants that decorate the mosque. The mosque's exterior was cleaned and inferior cement from an earlier restoration was replaced with mortar closer to the original made of ground lime and brick. Officials next hope to restore the grounds surrounding the mosque.

Pace of Growth Slows for Global Tourism

November 13 — The continuing recession will cause a slowdown in the growth of global tourism next year, according to a report from Euromonitor. Tourism is expected to rise about 4 percent in 2011. That compares with a 5 percent growth rate in 2010, and a decline of 5 percent in 2009. Leisure travel is expected to continue to decline, without enough growth in business travel to make up the difference.

Italian Museums Close for Strike

November 12 — Most of Italy's major museums were closed today as workers walked off the job in a one-day strike to protest funding cuts. The Italian government has proposed cutting €280 million from its culture budget over the next three years, and is seeking private investors to help fill the gap. The collapse of the Gladiator School building at Pompeii last week was evidence of the difficulty Italy faces in maintaining its many cultural sights.

Michelangelo's David to Stand Atop Duomo For A Day

November 8 — Visitors to Florence this Friday, November 12 will see Michelangelo's David as the artist originally intended it — standing atop the Duomo. It won't be the original marble statue, however, but instead a fiberglass copy, which will be installed above the Duomo's dome for one day as part of the Florens 2010 Culture Week.

New London Hotel Charges for Extras

November 8 — A London hotel chain, Tune Hotels, is trying the a lá carte pricing model favored by budget airlines. Rooms range from $54 to $99 but don't expect free toiletries or in-room hair driers. You'll pay $2.40 to rent a towel, $4.80 to watch TV, $6 for Wi-Fi, $7 for breakfast, and $12 for daily housekeeping (it's free after three days). Budget Travel magazine says the nickel-and-dime approach is worth the up-front savings. The first Tune Hotel is near Westminster; 14 more are expected to open around London in the next two years.

Greece Resumes International Mail After More Letter Bombs Found

November 6 — Greece's ban on international mail has been lifted after a week of mail-bomb scares. On Thursday, Athens police detonated a parcel bomb that had been sent to the French Embassy there, and intercepted letter bombs being sent by air mail to Europol in the Netherlands and Luxembourg's European Court of Justice. Several other letter bombs were discovered earlier last week at embassies in Athens. One addressed to Italian Prime Minister Silvia Berlusconi was intercepted in Bologna, and one addressed to German Chancellor Angela Merkel was found in Berlin. Two suspects have been arrested and one person slightly injured.

Letter-Bombs Found at Athens Embassies; Minor Injuries

November 2 — Letter bombs exploded at the Swiss and Russian Embassies in Athens, Greece on Tuesday without injury, while a bomb addressed to the Mexican Embassy injured a mail courier. Additional explosive devices were found in packages addressed to the French, Bulgarian, Dutch, and Chilean embassies in Athens, and an explosive package that was shipped from Greece was found at the Berlin, Germany office of German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Greek officials said the bombs were the work of domestic terrorists and were not tied to the package bombs found in air cargo from Yemen last week.

New ID Rules for Air Travel Take Effect

November 1 — New identification rules for air travelers go into effect today in the US, requiring airlines to collect your full name, date of birth, and gender when you purchase airline tickets. The Transportation Security Administration will use this information to check passenger identities against a terrorist watch list. The name you use on your airline reservation must match what appears on your passport or driver's license. Officials advise travelers to check for misspellings when you book your ticket and contact your airline if you find an error, and use your full name when you book your ticket (no nicknames). If you've recently changed your name (through marriage or a legal name change), use the name that appears on your passport or driver's license.

London Tube Strike Tomorrow

November 1 — A 24-hour strike by London Underground maintenance workers, drivers, and station staff is expected to begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Tube service is expected to be disrupted all day Wednesday. Transport for London, which operates the London Underground, is scheduling 100 extra buses and capacity for 10,000 additional river boat-journeys as alternative means of transport. A similar strike on October 3 saw 60 percent of Tube service cancelled. The unions are protesting plans to cut 800 Tube ticket-office workers.

October 2010

Bombs Intercepted on Cargo Flights

October 31 — Airplane cargo is coming under increased scrutiny after two mail bombs were intercepted in Britain and Dubai. The mail bombs, which were addressed to Jewish synagogues in Chicago but appear to have been intended to blow up planes in flight, were traced to Yemen. Fed-Ex and UPS have suspended cargo shipments from Yemen, and Germany has also banned passenger flights from Yemen. US officials warn that more bombs may remain undiscovered in the air-cargo system, and are warning local law enforcement to be on alert for suspicious foreign-origin packages.

Strikes to Impact Travel in France October 28

October 27 — Another nationwide strike is planned in France on Thursday, October 28. The strike is in continuing protest of pension reforms which were approved today by the French parliament. One-third of flights will be cancelled at Charles de Gaulle Airport along with half of flights at Orly Airport. A small number of suburban trains are expected to be cancelled. Drivers can expect continued fuel shortages, with one in five Parisian gas stations shuttered as dock workers refuse to unload fuel at France's ports of Marseilles and Le Havre.

Strikes Continue in France

October 25 — Strikes in France over pension reforms are costing the national economy $562 million a day, according to the country's finance minister. Widespread fuel shortages could be coming to an end: Police have cleared protestors from the country's 200-some fuel supply depots, and oil refinery workers have voted to end strikes at three oil refineries. The return to work could be a sign that strike support is weakening, although unions have called for national strikes on October 28 and November 6.

High Water Hits Venice

October 25 — High tides and heavy rains have combined to hit Venice with the second "acqua alta" (high water) of the fall, with water levels at 102 centimeters (40 inches) above sea level. Less than 10 percent of the city is flooded, but more high water is forecast for November 1 and 7.

French Unions Vow to Continue Protests

October 21 — French union leaders are vowing to continue national protests against pension reforms next week, even as blockades of refineries and fuel depots are leading to fuel shortages. Unions were to meet later today to discuss scheduling a seventh day of national strikes, possibly on October 26. Some observers believe the strikes will lose momentum over the upcoming All Saints' Day holidays. The head of the French airline industry says the strikes have now cost the airlines more than the Icelandic volcanic eruptions earlier this year.

Colosseum Underground Open to Tourists

October 21 — Visitors to the Colosseum in Rome who join a guided tour can now visit the newly opened underground level, where gladiators prepared themselves for battle and where prisoners and animals were held. A recently completed €1 million restoration has opened the Colosseum's subterranean levels to the public along with the floor of the arena where the battles and spectacles were held. The renovation has also opened the third floor of the Colosseum, where the middle-classes were seated. Guided tours are €8, plus the regular €12 entry fee, and can be booked by calling 39-06-3996-7700.

Spain To Ban Smoking in Bars and Cafés

October 20 — Spain's Senate is expected this week to pass a strict new ban on smoking in bars, cafés, and other indoor public places. The ban would become law on January 2, 2011. Spain has been the only country in Western Europe to still allow smoking indoors. Rules adopted in 2006 made smoking off-limits in many offices but left it up to bar and café owners to decide for themselves whether to allow smoking.

Sixth Day of French Strikes

October 19 — The sixth day of strikes over pension reforms in France has turned violent, with more than 200 protests held across the country and police using tear gas to break up crowds of stone-throwing youth and students. About half of flights at Orly Airport were cancelled, as were one-third of flights at Charles de Gaulle. The majority of cancellations were on domestic and inter-European flights, with most international flights experiencing delays but not cancellations. Those traveling to or through France by air are encouraged to check with their airlines for the latest. Among the unions on strike are oil refinery workers, truckers, railway workers, air traffic controllers, and students. About half of regularly scheduled trains were cancelled, thousands of gas stations were closed due to fuel shortages, and classes were disrupted at nearly 400 high schools. France's current pension system allows workers to retire at age 60, among the lowest retirement ages in Europe. The French Senate is expected to vote later this week on a reform measure that would raise the retirement age to 62.

24-Hour Strike Affects Eurostar

October 18 — Eurostar train service between London and Brussels, Belgium was cancelled Monday due to a 24-hour strike by Belgium railway workers and caused disruptions to rail service in France, the Netherlands, and Germany. All of Belgium's train stations were closed Monday, and some disruption was expected Tuesday as well.

European Travel Alert Remains in Effect

October 14 — The US State Department is keeping a travel alert in effect for Europe, saying the threat of a possible terrorist attack remains credible. The US has come under criticism from some Pakistani and European officials for overstating the risk. The travel alert, which encourages travelers to use caution, is one step below a travel advisory, which would warn Americans against travel to Europe. A German citizen arrested in Afghanistan has claimed that terrorists are plotting an attack in an European city similar to that in Mumbai, India in 2008.

French Strikes Enter Third Day

October 14 — In the third day of labor unrest in France unions blockaded oil refineries and threatened to cause nationwide fuel shortages. Protest rallies were also held at many high schools, with some closing. But public transportation in the capital of Paris has improved, with most of the Métro in service and about half of SNCF trains running. Earlier in the week, the Eiffel Tower closed when workers walked off the job. Unions are protesting pension reforms which would raise the minimum retirement age to 62 from 60.

Protected Status Sought for Gondolas

October 12 — Venice is petitioning the United Nations' cultural organization, UNESCO, to include gondolas on its list of protected World Heritage Sites. The city of Venice is already on UNESCO's list. The organization has recently started adding threatened traditional arts and crafts, such as gondola-making, to its list of important cultural sites.

Expect Disruptions in France

October 11 — One-third of flights at Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport are expected to be cancelled tomorrow as workers there again walk off the job to protest the government's planned pension reforms. Half of flights at Paris' Orly airport will be cancelled, and disruptions are planned on the Paris Metró as well as suburban trains. This will be the fourth mass protest in the past month, with French unions threatening to make this an open-ended strike. Further demonstrations are planned on Saturday.

Turbine Hall at London's Tate Modern Covered in Sunflower Seeds

October 11 — A carpet of hand-painted, porcelain sunflower seeds has covered the floor of the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London. The art installation by Chinese artist Ai Weiwei opens tomorrow and runs through May 2. Visitors are encouraged to walk over and through the seeds, pick them up and let them run through your fingers, all the while imagining the workers in China who created them.

Moravsky Krumlov Loses Slav Epic to Prague

October 8 — The National Gallery of Prague has removed the 20 paintings that make up Alphone Muchas's Slav Epic from the castle in Moravsky Krumlov where they've been on display for almost 40 years. The paintings are expected to be shown temporarily at the National Gallery's modern art branch in Prague, near Holesovice train station, until a suitable permanent home is found somewhere in the city. Mucha's heirs and the town of Moravsky Krumlov oppose the move and are continuing a legal fight to regain custody of the paintings.

Countries Issue Competing Travel Warnings

October 7 — Some European countries have also issued their own terrorism-related travel alerts, following the United States' announcement Sunday of a traveler alert for Americans in Europe. Britain is warning its citizens about travel to France and Germany, France is warning its citizens about travel to Britain, and Sweden is advising tourists to "travel with caution," its lowest level of alert. It seems most travelers are taking the alerts in stride, with no reports so far of a drop-off in European travel.

Toxic Spill Threatens Danube

October 6 — A toxic spill of red sludge from a Hungarian metal-processing plant could reach the Danube River, officials said today. Since the reservoir in western Hungary burst on Tuesday the spill has inundated three towns and killed at least four people, with over 100 injured and three still missing. The sludge has also contaminated the Mosoni-Danube, one of the main tributaries of the Danube.

John Paul II Museum to Be Built

October 6 — The cornerstone of a new museum about the late Pope John Paul II has been laid outside his family home in the Polish town of Wadowice. The museum will show the pope's childhood home as it appeared in the 1920s, and is set to open in 2012. Homes nearby will be converted into an exhibit about John Paul's life.

Albertina Museum Shows Michelangelo Drawings

October 5 — The Albertina Museum in Vienna is hosting a special exhibit about Michelangelo, showing drawings that range from early sketches to drafts of the Sistine Chapel frescoes. The drawings are on loan to the Albertina from the Louvre in Paris, the British Museum in London, and the Metropolitan Museum in New York. The drawings will be on display through January 9.

U.S. Issues Terrorism Alert for Travel to Europe

October 4 — The U.S. State Department has issued an alert for American travelers to Europe, urging caution about possible terrorist attacks. The alert follows reports of a possible Pakistan-based terrorist plot to attack cities in Britain, France, and Germany. While the alert doesn't discourage travel to Europe, it does encourage Americans to be vigilant while using public transportation or at tourist sights. The alert does not specifically name any European cities or countries as potential targets.

Travel Chaos Follows London Underground strike

October 4 — The second of several planned 24-hour strikes by London Tube workers has commuters and tourists struggling to get around the city. Transport for London reports that 40 percent of Underground trains are running, but union leaders say that number is inflated. All service on the Circle line has been cancelled, with partial cancellations and delays on all other Tube lines. The Docklands Light Railway is reported to be running as normal. Transport for London is running extra buses and boats in an effort to offer alternative transportation during the strike. Two more strikes are planned in November if the labor dispute remains unresolved.

Monet Exhibit Opens in Paris

October 4 — The Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais museum in Paris, France will host a special Monet exhibit through January 24. On display are 200 works highlighting Monet's evolution from a painter of realistic landscapes to the father of the French Impressionist movement. Included are several examples of how Monet would return to the same location to reinterpret the scene in different light.

September 2010

Europe Terror Threat Uncovered

September 29 — A terrorist plot to attack citizens in Britain, France, and Germany in a Mumbai-style shooting spree has been uncovered, government officials said today. The terror threat level was not raised because the plot was believed to be still in the planning stages, however the Eiffel Tower was evacuated briefly, British and French police were placed on alert, and suspected terrorists are being sought in Pakistan.

Strikes Disrupt Several European Countries

September 29 — A general strike in Spain has grounded two-thirds of flights in and out of that country, stranding thousands of passengers. Ground transportation is disrupted as well, with most high-speed trains cancelled and protests staged outside bus and Metro stations in Madrid. In Brussels, Belgium, a coalition of trade unions gathered thousands of marchers to protest spending cuts by EU governments, and some flights have been cancelled there too. Protests were also staged in Italy and Greece, and in Dublin, Ireland a protestor drove a cement mixer into the gates of the parliament building.

"Mad Men" Style on Show at London Fashion and Textile Museum

September 27 — London's Fashion and Textile Museum is hosting an exhibit of "Horrockses Fashions: Off the Peg Style in the '40s and '50s" — the retro styles sported by actors on the popular TV show "Mad Men."). Horrockses was a British fashion design firm that was hugely influential during the late 1940's and early 1950's. The exhibit runs through October 28.

Munich Marks Oktoberfest's 200th Birthday

September 23 — The Oktoberfest celebration is on in Munich, Germany, 200 years after the royal wedding party that started the annual homage to Bavarian beer. To mark the festival's 200th birthday Munich is hosting a special exhibit of Oktoberfest history and a beer tent serving a commemorative "Jubliee" brew. There's even an Oktoberfest app for iPhone users which calculates your blood-alcohol level and tells you which beer tents are open when. About 1.6 million gallons of beer will be consumed during the festival, which runs through October 4 and is expected to draw six million visitors. This is the first year that smoking will be banned in the beer tents.

Baths of Caracalla Open After Dark

September 21 — Visitors to Rome's ancient Baths of Caracalla can now see the baths at night, minus the crowds and heat of a daytime visit. Guided night tours of the baths — which once covered 28 acres and were encrusted in grand mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures — are scheduled for Saturday evenings from now through October 23 and are offered in English and Italian (English tours only at 10 p.m., must reserve by calling 06-3996-7700).

Plastic Water Bottles Banned in 5-Terre

September 21 — Plastic water bottles have been banned in the national park along Italy's scenic Cinque Terre, where instead park officials hope tourists and hikers will buy reusable metal flasks that can be refilled at several newly-installed public water fountains. The ban is an effort to reduce litter and plastic consumption on the scenic coastline, where some two million plastic bottles were discarded last year — 400,000 in the month of August alone. The first of several water fountains dispensing both fizzy and still water will be installed next month in Riomaggiore, with more to come in Vernazza and Monterosso.

Road Fatalities Drop

September 20 — Traffic-related fatalities dropped over the last decade in most countries studied by the International Transport Forum, with Portugal topping the list for safety improvements. Traffic-related fatalities were down 55 percent in Portugal from a decade ago, to 7.9 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2009 (making it the 14th most dangerous of the 33 countries studied; the US is fifth with 11.1 deaths per 100,000). The United Kingdom is the safest country for drivers, with only 3.8 deaths per 100,000, followed by Sweden and the Netherlands (both 3.9). The highest traffic-death rates among European nations were in Greece (13.8), Poland (12.0), and Belgium (8.9).

Transatlantic Flights More Expensive for Americans

September 20 — A report in the Dallas Morning News found that Americans pay more to fly roundtrip to Europe than Europeans do to fly roundtrip to the US. Tickets are as much as 40 percent more expensive if the journey originates in the US, compared to the same flights originating overseas. In addition to paying more for base fares, Americans pay higher fuel surcharges (about $320 on international flights) compared to $262 for Europeans. The report recommends traveling Monday through Wednesday when fares are cheaper.

Colosseum to Go Up in 'Flames'

September 16 — An art installation will make it seem the Colosseum in Rome is going up in flames this weekend. Images of a huge virtual inferno inside the ancient structure, created by a series of projectors and screens, will be visible through the Colosseum's arches. The Colosseum is the latest in a string of major monuments to be "burned" as part of an art project called "City on Fire: Burning the Roots of Western Culture." History records one instance when the Colosseum really burned: in the year 217, when lightning ignited fires in the structure's wooden upper levels.

Tourism to Turkey on Upswing

September 15 — The number of tourists visiting turkey is up nearly seven percent from last year, increasing to 16 million from 15 million in 2009. Nearly one-fifth of all visitors to Turkey are from Germany, followed by Russia (11 percent) and the United Kingdom (8 percent). About 2 percent of visitors to Turkey are from the United States.

Vatican Library Reopens to Scholars

September 13 — The Apostolic Library at the Vatican in Rome will reopen to scholars on September 20 after a three-year renovation to improve its cataloguing system and security measures. The library houses about 65,000 manuscripts including the oldest known complete Bible.

Oldest Steamship Heads for London

September 13 — A floating museum is planned for what is thought to be the world's oldest steamcoaster. The SS Robin, built in 1890, recently underwent a £1.9 restoration in Suffolk and will be temporarily housed at the Port of Tilbury near London while awaiting a permanent home.

Strikes Disrupt Travel in France, London

September 7 — Strikes in London and France are snarling traffic and disrupting travel plans. In London, a one-day strike by Underground workers protesting job cuts brought the city to a virtual standstill as commuters and tourists struggled to get around in jam-packed taxis, buses, and boats. Three more Tube strikes are planned in October and November. In France, unions held a one-day national strike to protest a planned raise in the minimum retirement age. Protests were held in the streets, some flights were affected, and many regional trains were cancelled, but the Paris Metro operated nearly as normal.

Visitors to US to Pay Fee

September 7 — Starting tomorrow, a new $14 fee will be required for visitors to the US from 36 visa-waiver countries, mostly in Europe and the far East, including the United Kingdom, France, Sweden, Australia, and Japan. Those visitors are already required to fill in an online form called an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) prior to entering the US. The fee will go towards a new fund for tourism promotion, and covers travel to the US for two years.

Greek Smoking Ban Takes Effect

Sept 1 — In an attempt to lose its status as Europe's smokiest country (42 percent of Greeks over age 15 smoke), Greece has outlawed smoking in enclosed spaces, including bars and restaurants. Violators face the possibility of serious fines (up to €500), which are expected to be enforced, as earlier smoking bans have been largely ignored. Many restaurant and café proprietors, who face substantially bigger fines than individuals (up to €10,000), say they will nevertheless ignore this ban as well, arguing that the ban will cost them business at a time of unusual economic uncertainty.

More Mucha in Prague

Sept 1 — Fans of Czech Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha have an extra stop to make in Prague this month: Besides the Mucha Museum's excellent collection, visitors can also see his works in a three-room exhibit at the city's Municipal House, itself a remarkable Art Nouveau work (Namesti Republiky 5). The show, held in honor of Mucha's 150th birthday, emphasizes his famous romantic posters of women, and on his political efforts on behalf of Czech independence from Austria-Hungary.

August 2010

Storm Topples Anne Frank's Tree of Hope

August 24 — The tree that gave hope to Anne Frank as she and her family hid from the Nazis in WWII Amsterdam was toppled by a storm Monday. The diseased 150-year-old tree had been held up by a steel support system which appears to have failed during the storm. Declared a safety hazard in 2007, plans to cut down the tree met with public protest and instead efforts were undertaken to mitigate the fungus and moths that had caused the trunk to rot.

Hendrix Exhibit at London's Handel House

August 22 — A "Hendrix in Britain" exhibit will be on display beginning August 25 at the Handel House Museum in London. From September 15-26 visitors will also be able to tour Jimi Hendrix's apartment, which is adjacent to the Handel museum. According to curators, Hendrix was intrigued to learn that he was living above the classical composer's former quarters and drew inspiration from Handel. It will be the first time Hendrix's apartment has been open to the public since the guitarist's death in 1970.

1.5 Million Americans visit UK

August 20 — About 1.5 million Americans visited the United Kingdom last year, making the US the biggest source of tourist dollars for the UK. All told 30 million people visited the UK in 2009, generating £1 billion in tourism revenue. According to the report, about one-third of the visitors made a trip to one of the UK's many museums and art galleries, with visits to the National Gallery up by 9 percent (visits to the Tate Modern and British Museum fell slightly). July to September are the most popular months for UK tourism.

German Train Crash Affects Travel

August 18 — A train crash southwest of Frankfurt, German is affecting train travel in the area, as well as international trains from France. Fifteen people were hurt when the train struck a truck that fell onto the tracks after sliding down a hill. Some trains are being redirected through Strasbourg.

British Airport Workers Call Off Strike

August 17 — A planned strike that could have closed several British airports has been averted. The union representing airport security, engineers, and firefighters at Heathrow, Stansted, Glasgow, Edinburgh and two other airports has reached a tentative agreement with BAA, the company that owns the airports.

New Tarmac Rule Reduces Delays

August 17 — Domestic flight delays seem to have been reduced by a new federal rule that hands out penalties to airlines whose flights sit on tarmacs for more than three hours. During the month of June, only three flights (all United Airlines) exceeded the three-hour wait time, compared to 268 flights in June 2009. Airlines had warned that the new rule would increase cancellations but the data shows there was no increase in cancellation rates during June.

British Airport Workers Vote to Strike

August 12 — Workers at six British airports — Heathrow, Stansted, Glasgow, Southampton, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen — have voted to walk off the job to protest low pay. BAA, the company that owns the airports, says it would be forced to close the airports if workers strike. No dates have been announced for the strike, and negotiations are set to continue on Monday.

Gibraltar Road Toll Proposed

August 11 — The mayor of the Spanish city of La Linea has announced plans to charge drivers heading to or from Gibraltar a €5 road toll. La Linea residents would be exempt from the toll, but not residents of Gibraltar, which is a British territory. It's unclear whether La Linea actually has the legal authority to impose a road toll at the border.

Spitfire on Display at Churchill Museum

August 9 — The Churchhill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms museum in London is marking the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain by displaying a full-size replica of a Spitfire fighter plane. The plane will be on display from August 16 to 31 outside the museum. The Spitfire is seen as a symbol of the Royal Air Force's bravery in keeping Nazi Germany from invading Britain. Winston Churchill's speech about the battle ("Never in the field of human conflict was so much owned by so many to so few") will be read aloud outside the museum entrance as a Spitfire flies overhead at 3:42 p.m. on August 20, commemorating the exact moment that Churchill spoke those famous words.

Stolen Art and Artifacts on Show in Rome

August 9 — An exhibit at the Vittoriano in Rome highlights the work of Italy's "art police" with a display of recovered artwork and artifacts. The pieces include paintings, statues, vases, amphorae, and jewelry, dating from the 7th century B.C. to the 2nd century A.D. Because the pieces were illegally excavated or stolen, little is known about their background, making it hard for archaeologists and historians to accurately date or place the objects. Art and historic artifact theft remains a problem in Italy, where the art police recovered over 11,000 stolen antiquities in the 24-month period between January 2008 and December 2009.

August Strike Set for Spanish Air Traffic Controllers

August 5 — The union representing Spanish air traffic controllers has voted to walk off the job in mid-August. The three-day strike is set to begin August 13 and could impact up to 2 million airline passengers at the peak of the summer tourism season in Spain. The controllers are protesting government plans to reduce their overtime pay and the allowable number of hours they can work.

Catch an Outdoor Movie in Amsterdam

August 4 — Amsterdam's Pluk de Nacht outdoor film festival runs from August 5 to 15 at the Steenen Hoofd, north of the city center. The films come from all corners of the globe and include features, documentaries, and shorts. Most will either be in English or have English-language subtitles. The festival has run each summer since 1993 and instills that cozy Dutch feeling of gezelligheid, with beach chairs, concession stands, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Tube Gets Air-Conditioning

August 2 — The London Underground has rolled out its first air-conditioned Tube trains on the Metropolitan Line. The fleet of 191 new trains is being introduced on the Metropolitan Line through 2010 and 2011. London's transit agency hopes to have air-conditioned trains on about 40 percent of the Underground network by 2015, including the Circle Line, the Hammersmith & City Line, and the District Line. Temperatures in the Underground have been recorded as high as 90 F.

July 2010

Ping-Pong Across London

July 28 — Over 100 ping-pong tables are being installed in public spaces are London this week as part of "Ping! the London Ping-Pong Project." The public is invited to play ping-pong in streets, squares, parks, shopping centers, and transport hubs including Regents Park, Covent Garden, St. Pancras Station, the National History Museum, and even at Heathrow Airport. The ping-pong tables will be available through August 22. Ping! is a follow-up to last year's public art event that placed pianos on London streets for the public to play.

Catalonia Bans Bullfights

July 28 — The parliament of the Catalonia region of Spain has voted to ban bullfighting as of January 2012. The only functioning bullring in Catalonia is in Barcelona. The vote followed a public petition drive in which over 180,000 people supported banning bullfights as cruelty to animals watched mostly by tourists. By rejecting a well-known Spanish tradition, the vote is also seen as a political statement on the part of independent-minded Catalans.

Vatican City Enforces Dress Code

July 27 — While a modest dress code (no bared shoulders or knees) has long been enforced at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, guards on St. Peter's Square have begun turning improperly-attired locals and tourists away from all of Vatican City. No official announcement has been made about the change in enforcement, but tourists are advised to dress modestly for any visits to Vatican City, the Vatican Museum, and St. Peter's.

More Fake £1 Coins in Circulation

July 27 — Britain's Royal Mint reports that nearly two million counterfeit £1 coins were returned last year, and estimates that one in 36 £1 coins in circulation are fakes. Fake £1 coins tend to have poorly defined ribbing on the edge or an indistinct design of the Queen on the face. Another ways to spot a counterfeit coin: the Queen's head and the pattern on the back should both be upright when the coin is turned over — fakes tend to get one image at an angle.

Europe by Eurostar

July 27 — Eurostar has launched a new website, Europe by Eurostar, that offers not only information on the high-speed train but also on the destinations it serves. In addition to timetable and ticketing information, the site includes articles and blogs on arts and culture, cuisine, music and nightlife, fashion, and events. Most helpful is a map that integrates multiple country's national rail services with the Eurostar, allowing a sort of one-stop-shopping for multi-destination journeys.

French Flight Disruptions Expected

July 20 — French air traffic controllers are expected to walk off the job tonight in a one-day strike, disrupting flights in and out of the country. Airlines have been asked to cancel 20 percent of flights at Charles de Gaulle Airport near Paris on Wednesday and about half of flights at Orly Airport. Air France has said it expects to operate all of its international flights as normal, but will cancel about 20 percent of its medium- and short-haul fights. The union representing the air traffic controllers is opposed to a unified all-Europe air traffic control system.

Stieg Larsson "Millenium" Tour Offered in Stockholm

July 17 — Fans of the Swedish author Stieg Larsson can now take a tour of Stockholm and see sights mentioned in his Millennium crime trilogy, including "The Girl with a Dragon Tattoo." The two-hour tours run on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m., leaving from the Stockholm City Museum at 1 Bellmansgaten (120 kr). Tickets are sold at the Stockholm City Museum and at the Stockholm TI. Both also offer a 40-kr "Millennium map" for travelers who want to find the Larsson sights on their own. Included are the Kaffebar where journalist Blomqvist hangs out in the novel, and the Kvamen bar, where the tattooed girl meets up with her rocker friends.

New Playhouse Set for Old Shakespeare Site

July 16 — A London theater company is planning to erect a new playhouse on the site of a 16th-century building known as "The Theatre," where historians believe Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet had its premiere. Remains of The Theatre, including a curved brick Tudor wall and a patch of hard-pressed gravel (where "groundlings" may have stood to watch plays), were discovered beneath a Victorian-age warehouse. A dispute with The Theatre's landlord in 1598 led Shakespeare and his friends to dismantle the structure and rebuild it across the river as the more well-known Globe Theatre.

Schindler's Museum Now Open in Krakow

July 15 — What was once the sprawling factory of Oskar Schindler in Krakow, Poland is now a multimedia museum about Krakow during the Nazi occupation (1939-1945). Schindler's efforts to rescue his Jewish workers from the Nazis were made famous in the Steven Spielberg film, Schindler's List. The museum has been open since mid-June and cost about €3.7 million to build. It tells the story of how the German occupation affected Krakow residents — both Jewish and Gentile.

Paris Plages Open July 20

July 15 — Paris' urban beaches, known as the Paris Plages, open for four weeks of city summer on July 20. In a tradition that began in 2002, three riverside thoroughfares will close to traffic and become sandy beaches, complete with lounge chairs, beach volleyball, and ice cream vendors. The beaches are located from the Louvre to Pont de Sully, at the Port de la Gare, and near Bassin de la Villette. The Louvre beach includes a swimming pool, concert stage, rollerblading, and climbing wall.

Estonia Set for Euro Adoption

July 14 — Estonia has received final European Union approval for the country to adopt the euro on January 1, 2011, replacing the kroon as its currency. Estonia will become the 17th member of the eurozone, having met the EU's requirements for inflation, debt, deficit levels, and stability. The last country to join the eurozone was Slovakia in 2009.

Speak Now on Airline Regulations

July 12 — A new website is soliciting public comment on airline regulations proposed by the Department of Transportation. The website, www.regulationroom.org, is a joint project of Cornell University, the National Science Foundation, and Google, and aims to make it easier for people to have a voice in government. If the new rules are adopted, airlines would be required to include all mandatory fees in the advertised price of tickets, quickly notify passengers of delays, and pay more to bumped passengers. Another rule would ban on peanuts on flights where a passenger has an allergy. Public comment is being accepted through August 9, and the new rules could go into effect in 2011.

Greeks Strike: Pension Cuts Approved

July 8 — Transportation services in Greece were disrupted by a general strike today, as union members urged parliament to turn down a proposed austerity package. Most ferries to the Greek islands were cancelled, as were trains, local buses, and some flights, and thousands of protestors marched through Athens. Parliament voted late in the day to approve the measures, which will raise the retirement age to 65 and reduce pension payouts.

Passport Fees Go Up July 13

July 7 — Now's the time to get or renew your US passport, in advance of a July 13 fee increase. That's when the cost for a first-time adult passport will jump from $100 to $135. The price to renew an adult passport will bump up from $75 to $110. New or renewed passports for those under age 16 will go from $85 to $105. Extra pages in passports, which had been free, will cost $82. For more information, see www.travel.state.gov.

June 2010

Normandy Hosts Impressionist Festival

June 28 — France's northern region of Normandy this summer is hosting its first Impressionist Festival, with over 150 events scheduled from June through September. The Rouen Fine Arts Museum will host a special exhibit of Monet, Pissarro, and Gauguin paintings through September 26, and summer evenings in Rouen will be lit up by an sound-and-light show called "Impressionist Nights." Starting in mid-July, lively open-air cafés called guingettes, like those immortalized in some Impressionist paintings, will be set up on riverbanks throughout the region. A complete list of events is available on the festival website.

Renaissance Drawings On Show at London's British Museum

June 28 — Over 100 drawings by Italian Renaissance artists are on display at the British Museum in London, including works by Raphael, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Fra Angelico, Botticeli, and Titian. The special exhibit is a collaboration with the Uffizi Museum in Florence, Italy, and many of the drawings are on loan from the Uffizi. The drawings show how artists experimented with their vision for the finished pieces. The exhibit runs now through July 25.

French Strike Impacts Travelers

June 24 — A strike by rail workers in France has affected travelers as far away as Switzerland, where about 60 percent of trains to France were cancelled, and Rome, where hundreds of passengers were turned away when the overnight train to Paris was cancelled. The French government has proposed raising the retirement age to 62, drawing ire from unions representing rail workers, teachers, postal workers, and other professions. In Paris, about half of regularly scheduled regional trains and a quarter of Métro trains were cancelled, along with about 15 percent of flights to Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports.

Strike Hits Greek Port of Piraeus

June 23 — Dock workers at the Port of Piraeus, near Athens in Greece, walked off the job today, disrupting travel plans for thousands of tourists. The port is the main dock for ferries heading to the Greek islands. The workers are protesting planned cuts to pensions, and blocked the gangplanks to ferries, preventing tourists from boarding.

London Tube Strike June 23-24

June 22 — A two-day strike by London's Tube-maintenance workers goes into effect at 7 p.m. tomorrow, and is expected to affect the Victoria, Jubilee, and Piccadilly lines. The strike is intended to protest what the union calls low pay and little job security. A planned 72-hour strike by Docklands Light Railway workers, also in London, was cancelled earlier today when the two sides reached an agreement on pay.

Greece to Pay Costs for Stranded Tourists

June 22 — The head of Greece's tourism board has said the country will pay for lodging for any tourists left stranded by strikes or as a result of a national disaster. Strikes protesting the Greek government's new austerity measures have resulted in fewer visitors to Greece, where tourism accounts for 20 percent of the GDP, or about one in five jobs. The new policy is intended to reverse that trend by encouraging travellers to visit Greece.

Italian Culture Ministry to Unveil IPhone App

June 17 — A free app available for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch as of July 1 will allow tourists to purchase tickets in advance (and skip the ticket-buying lines) for 40 of Italy's top sights, including the Colosseum in Rome, Pompeii, and the Uffizi gallery in Florence. The app, called I-MiBAC, was created by Italy's national ministry of culture and is currently available only in Italian. It also provides logistical information, photos, videos, background information, and GPS-enabled maps that can tell a user what cultural sights are nearby.

Caravaggio's Bones Identified

June 16 — Researchers have determined that human remains in a church crypt in Porto Ercole, Tuscany belong to the Renaissance artist Caravaggio, who they now believe died of complications from syphilis about 1610. Caravaggio revolutionized the art world with his chiaroscuro painting technique. His mysterious death has long intrigued historians, with some theorizing that he was assassinated or died of malaria.

Estonia Gets OK to Adopt Euro; Czech Republic to Wait

June 16 — The European Union has given the former Soviet Republic of Estonia the green light to adopt the euro in 2011, signaling that the EU will continue plans to expand its 16-member currency zone despite current financial struggles. The EU also announced it will begin membership negotiations with Iceland, which has been hit particularly hard by the economic downturn. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic said it will not adopt the euro until its internal fiscal problems are under control.

Mobile-Phone Apps Helps Travelers Find Free ATMs

June 14 — Two new, free mobile-phone apps can help travelers find no-fee ATMs. An app from Allpoint can locate 37,000 ATM locations, mostly in the US and the UK, that don't charge a fee to withdraw money (although you can still get slapped by an out-of-network fee by your own bank). Another app from Co-op Network provides a similar service for its US-network of no-fee, credit-union ATMs.

Prado Museum to Show Turner Paintings

June 14 — The Prado Museum in Madrid, Spain will host a major exhibit of the paintings of J.W.M. Turner, along with works by painters that influenced Turner such as Rubens, Rembrandt, Titian, and Canaletto. The Prado show includes Turner's masterpieces "The Wreck of a Transport Ship" and "Snow Storm: Hannibal and His Army Crossing the Alps" along with Rembrandt's "Girl at the Window." The Prado exhibit will run from June 22 to September 19.

Caves of Altamira to Reopen to Limited Visits

June 9 — Spanish officials plan to reopen the Caves of Altamira, which hold prehistoric paintings thought to be 14,000 to 20,000 years old, to limited visits next year. The caves in Spain's Cantabria region were have been closed for eight years after it was determined that heat and moisture generated by human visits was causing damage to the paintings, and a replica was built in a nearby museum in 2001. It's not clear how many people will be allowed to visit the caves each day.

Florence's Galileo Museum Reopens June 10

June 8 — Florence's Galileo Museum will reopen to the public June 10 after a two-year renovation. Among the exhibits are two telescopes, a compass, many other scientific instruments and models, and Galileo's tooth, thumb, and finger. The rest of Galileo's remains are buried at Florence's Sante Croce Church.

France Named Most Expensive Destination

June 7 — A survey by the flight comparison website Skyscanner found that France, Switzerland, and Denmark are the world's most-expensive vacation destinations. The survey compared the cost of a coffee, a beer, a room at a Marriot hotel, and a rental car from Avis in 30 different countries. Cyprus, mainland Greece, and South Africa were cheapest. Italy and Spain were the seventh and eight most expensive. Although many people believe Scandinavia to be among the world's most expensive destinations, only Denmark made the top-ten list, with Sweden at 13th and Norway at 18th.

Second BA Strike Comes to End; Third Strike Set For Saturday

June 3 — The second five-day strike by British Airways cabin crew ended today, even as union leaders planned a third walkout to begin on Saturday. After negotiations on salary and benefits broke down on Tuesday, the union threatened to organize even more strikes in July. BA says it is managing to fly about two-thirds of its ticketed passengers despite the strike, operating about 80 percent of its scheduled long-haul flights from London's Heathrow Airport.

Air Passengers Could Get More Rights

June 2 — New rules proposed by the US Department of Transportation would allow passengers to cancel airline reservations within 24 hours without a penalty, and would increase the maximum dollar compensation to $1300 for passengers who are bumped from overbooked flights. The proposal would also expand the new tarmac-delay rule — which requires that passengers be allowed to deplane if delayed for three hours — to include small airports and international airlines operating in the U.S.

Euro at Four-Year Low, Unemployment at Record High

June 1 — The European debt crisis pushed the euro to a new four-year low against the dollar today, as the currency slid to $1.2112. The euro fell seven percent against the dollar in May and has declined against the dollar for each of the past six months — the longest losing streak since the currency went into circulation in 1999.

A new report showed that European unemployment jumped to 10.1 percent in April, the highest rate since 1999. More than 23 million people are out of work in the 27-nation European Union. Spain has one of the highest unemployment rates, at 19.7 percent.

May 2010

BA Strike to Resume Sunday

May 28 — Cabin crews for British Airways are set to strike again for five days, starting Sunday, over disputes about pay and working conditions. If no agreement is reached, a second five-day strike, beginning June 5, is also planned. The airline expects to cut its London Heathrow service by more than half during this next wave of walkouts. So far, the strike has not disrupted flights from Gatwick or London City airports.

France Wins Bid to Host Euro 2016 Soccer Championship

May 28 — France narrowly beat out Turkey today in the high-stakes competition to host Euro 2016. Held every four years, the Euro Cup is second only to the World Cup for European soccer fans. The championship is planned to be even bigger in 2016, when the finals will take place between 24 teams from around Europe (up from 16 teams in 2012). To accommodate the expanded scope, the tournament will last a week longer, and France plans to build four new stadiums. The Ukraine and Poland are currently gearing up to co-host Euro 2012.

Colosseum Underground to Open This Summer

May 26 — Underground areas at Rome's Colosseum will be open to tourists later this summer. Visitors will be able to see the areas beneath the Colosseum's floor where gladiators suited up for battle, and where exotic animals such as lions and tigers were held in cages before being lifted by elevators into the arena.

BA Cabin Crew Strike Enters Third Day; New Talks Planned

May 26 — With a strike by British Airways cabin crew in its third day, the union and company officials say they will resume negotiations on Wednesday afternoon. More than 200 flights were cancelled Monday and Tuesday, but BA officials say they are getting 70 percent of passengers to their destinations. Talks between the two sides on Saturday were interrupted when Socialist protestors stormed the room.

Iceland Volcano Appears Dormant

May 24 — Scientists believe the volcano in Iceland that disrupted travel across Europe last month has returned to dormancy. Geophysicists with Iceland's Meteorological Office say the volcano is now releasing steam instead of ash and the overall level of seismic activity has decreased, nearly to pre-eruption levels. But they warn that there is no way to predict whether or when the volcano will erupt again.

Court Overturns BA Strike Ban

May 20 — Britain's High Court has overturned an injunction prohibiting British Airways cabin crew from going on strike, clearing the way for a series of five-day strikes to begin on Monday. A judge earlier this week had banned the industrial action. Some British Airways flights were disrupted even though there was no strike this week, because the airline had shifted workers and schedules in anticipation of the walk-out.

Picasso Among Stolen Paris Paintings

May 20 — A thief stole five paintings from the Paris Museum of Modern Art last night, including works by Picasso, Matisse, Georges Braque, Amedeo Modigliani, and Fernand Léger. The paintings are valued at €100 million. It appears the thief entered through a broken window at the rear of the museum.

Bath Fashion Museum to Show Diana Dresses

May 20 — A special exhibition at England's Bath Fashion Museum beginning this summer will showcase ten dresses worn by Princess Diana. The exhibit will run from July 17 through January 9, and include dresses from the 1980s through the 1990s.

Court Stops BA Cabin Crew Strike

May 17 — A judge has issued an injunction to stop British Airways cabin crew from walking off the job at midnight tonight in what had been planned as the first of four five-day strikes. Unite, the union representing the cabin crew, says it will appeal the courts decision. The airline also successfully stopped a strike by the same union in December by petitioning for a court injunction.

Euro Hits Four-Year Low

May 17 — The euro fell to a four-year low against the dollar today, as fears that Europe's financial crisis will worsen pushed it to $1.223. The euro has fallen seven percent against the dollar this month, reaching its lowest level since April 2006. An IHS Global economist predicts the euro will fall to $1.15, while Goldman Sach's is predicting it will bottom out at $1.21.

Greek Tourism Down in Wake of Protests

May 17 — Athens hoteliers are reporting that around 20,000 overnight stays have been cancelled in the wake of the May 5 protest riots that resulted in 3 deaths. Officials are worried that the violent protests in Greece earlier this month are endangering the important tourism segment of the struggling country's economy. Tourism generally makes up about 17 percent of the Greek economy.

Battle of Britain Monument Planned

May 17 — A 380-foot-high, £80 million beacon of steel and glass has been unveiled as the design for the Battle of Britain monument planned for the Royal Air Force Museum in Hendon, northwest of London. The Battle of Britain was waged in the air over Britain from July to October of 1940. Museum officials hope to complete the monument within the next few years, while veterans of the battle — many now in their 90s — are still alive.

British Airways Prepares for Cabin Crew Strike

May 13 — British Airways says it will operate as many flights as possible during a planned five-day strike by cabin crew beginning May 18. The airline hopes to operate all flights from Gatwick and London City airports, and between 50 to 60 percent of flights from Heathrow airport. The strike is the first of four planned by the Unite union from next week through mid-June.

Last Supper by Vasari to be Restored

May 13 — Damaged in the 1966 Great Flood in Florence, The Last Supper by Renaissance artist Giorgio Vasari will finally be restored. The painting on a wooden panel was covered by water and mud when Florence's Sante Croce basilica flooded and has been in storage for most of the past 40 years. The work is expected to cost at least $400,000 and could take several years to complete.

Ash Affects Flights in Morocco, Spain, and Turkey

May 11 — Ash from the Icelandic volcano caused airports to close Tuesday in Morocco and Spain, and delayed flights in Turkey. Airports in Casablanca, Tangiers, Rabat-Sale, and other Moroccan destinations were expected to remain closed through Wednesday morning, and it was unclear when airports on several of the Canary Islands would reopen. Some trans-Atlantic flights were delayed when Spain restricted its airspace to planes flying above 20,000 feet due to ash concerns. Airports in Istanbul remained open but ash to the west and southwest of Turkey's capital caused flight delays Tuesday afternoon.

Jewish Museum to Expand in Berlin

May 11 — The Jewish Museum in Berlin will renovate a 19th-century flower market across the street to hold its archives, library, and education center. The €10 million renovation will be directed by architect Daniel Libeskind, who designed the Jewish Museum's main building. The changes will improve access to the library and archives for the 750,000 people who visit the museum each year.

British Airways Union Plans Month of Strikes

May 10 — Unite, the union representing British Airways cabin crews in contract talks, has voted to hold a series of five-day strikes later this month. Union members plan to walk off the job May 18, May 24, May 30, and June 5, returning to work for 24 hours in between each five-day strike. British Airways officials say the company will do its best to continue most flights without disruption with volunteer workers acting as cabin crew.

Volcanic Ash Disrupts Weekend Flights

May 10 — Volcanic ash disrupted some European flights over the weekend, but nearly all airports had reopened by Monday. Some transatlantic flights were still being rerouted to avoid ash clouds, increasing flight times and causing some delays. The weekend's closures affected airports in parts of Portugal, France, Austria, Spain, Italy, Scotland, and Ireland. The European air traffic agency reported that 500 fewer flights traveled through its airspace on Monday than would normally be expected.

Pompidou Center Opens in Metz, France

May 10 — The new Pompidou Center museum of modern and contemporary art opens this week in the French city of Metz. The building, a branch of Paris' Pompidou Museum, was designed by architects Shigeru Ban, Jean de Gastines, and Philip Gumuchdjian. Its wavy wooden, Teflon, and fiberglass roof doesn't actually touch the museum walls, allowing open air to flow into the museum's entrance hall. The galleries themselves are closed off from the elements. The museum will show pieces drawn from the larger Pompidou's extensive collection, beginning with nearly 800 works by artists such as Matisse, Picasso, and Kandinsky.

Greece Protests Turn Deadly

May 5 — Protests and a general strike in Greece turned deadly today when three bank employees died after protestors fire-bombed a bank in downtown Athens. Protestors are mounting violent opposition to spending cuts and tax increases which the Greek government plans to impose as part of a €110 billion bailout package from the EU and IMF. The general strike cancelled all flights to and from Greece, as well as train and ferry service.

Scottish and Irish Airports Closed by Ash

May 5 — Airports in Scotland and Ireland are expected to remain closed through midday Thursday due to volcanic ash from Iceland, although Edinburgh's airport may reopen sooner. The ash cloud closed Irish airports on Tuesday as well.

More Volcano Disruptions Likely

May 5 — Officials are warning travelers to be prepared for more travel disruptions as the Iceland volcano continues to erupt. While there is no way to predict how much ash will be produced, scientists point out that the last time this volcano erupted, the eruption continued for two years. That makes it likely that there could be more travel disruptions in coming months.

Ireland to Close Airports Tuesday

May 3 — All flights in and out of Ireland are cancelled for Tuesday morning due to a change in weather patterns that is bringing more volcanic ash south from Iceland. Airspace remains open to planes flying over Ireland enroute to other destinations.

United to Buy Continental Airlines

May 3 — United Airlines plans to pay $3 billion to purchase Continental Airlines, creating the world's largest airline, flying to 370 destinations in 59 countries. The merged airline would carry the United name and have US hubs in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and San Francisco. United and Continental are currently the third and fourth largest airlines in the US, behind Delta and American.

Terror Exhibit Opens in Berlin

May 3 — A new exhibition center opens May 7 at the "Topography of Terror" in Berlin, marking the site where the Gestapo and SS operated the Nazi police state. The new center includes a museum and library and opens up the entire 11 acre site to public view. The former Gestapo offices and prison were destroyed during World War II, and much of the site remained covered by rubble for decades. The "Topography of Terror" is within walking distance from Berlin's Holocaust memorial, Jewish Museum, and Checkpoint Charlie.

April 2010

EU to End Liquid Restrictions by 2013

April 29 — The European Union plans to end the current restrictions on liquids in carry-on baggage by April 2013. That's when new equipment will be available at all EU airports that can screen liquids for explosive materials.

Hampton Court Uncorks Fountain of Wine

April 29 — Hampton Court Palace in London has installed a wine fountain, a replica of a 16th-century version unearthed at the palace by archaeologists and believed to have been used by King Henry VIII. The replica wine fountain, located in the palace's inner courtyard, is 13 feet tall and decorated with gold leaf. It will run with red and white wine on weekends and holidays, at a cost of £3.50 a glass.

Anne Frank's Diary on Display

April 28 — In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Anne Frank House, nearly all of Anne Frank's diary is now on display at the museum. The Jewish teenager's red plaid diary had been on display there for some time, but has now been joined by two school exercise books and loose pages that had been stored in the Netherlands' government war archives. Also on display is a book of short stories Anne wrote and a notebook where she copied favorite quotations. Over a million people are expected to visit the Anne Frank House this year.

Europe Considers Unified Airspace

April 26 — Under criticism for the fragmented response to the volcanic ash cloud that paralyzed European airports earlier this month, European governments are now considering taking action to unify their airspace. While there is a continental air traffic agency, each country has its own regulatory body and decision-making authority for when to close its airports. The Single European Sky system would unify control of all European airspace with one regulatory body, similar to the Federal Aviation Authority in the US.

Cleared for Takeoff: Europe's Airspace Reopens

April 21 — Much of Europe's airspace is now reopened, with 21,000 flights expected to take place Wednesday, just 7,000 shy of a regular weekday. London's Heathrow Airport, Europe's busiest, finally reopened Tuesday night, bringing all of Europe's main airports back into operation after six days of shutdowns due to a volcanic eruption in Iceland. British Airways was seen as having forced the British government's hand, launching several international flights back towards London Tuesday afternoon even before the airspace was reopened. Some were forced to land elsewhere but others were finally cleared to land at Heathrow.

Despite the good news, many passengers remain stranded worldwide, competing for seats on already-booked flights. More than 100,000 flights were cancelled due to the eruption, at an estimated cost of over $1.7 billion, with millions of passengers affected. Some airline officials have criticized European governments for being overly cautious and grounding flights unnecessarily.

Some European Airports Resume Flights

April 20 — The shifting ash cloud from Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano kept London's Heathrow Airport closed on Tuesday but several other European airports were able to reopen after six days of closures. The European air traffic agency expected about half of Tuesday's scheduled flights to go, an improvement over the nearly 70 percent cancellation rate earlier this week. Planes were able to depart from airports in Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Scotland, and Switzerland, but airports in Britain, Denmark, Norway, and the Ireland remained closed. All of Europe's airspace above 20,000 feet has reopened to air travel, meaning that intercontinental flights can resume. Clearing the backlog of stranded passengers could take days, as they vie with current passengers for limited seats.

Heathrow, Gatwick Remain Closed

April 20 — London's major airports remained closed today, with officials now saying airspace over England and Wales will likely stay closed until early Wednesday morning. Airline executives are pushing for authorities to relax the restrictions and establish safe flying corridors similar to those now being employed in the European Union. British Airways, Ryanair, and EasyJet cancelled plans to fly out of Heathrow today, and some British Airways flights headed to the UK from points around the globe were diverted to other European airports.

Europe Hopes to Resume Limited Flights Tuesday

April 19 — More flights may begin in fly over Europe on Tuesday, following news that the European Union has divided airspace into three zones: no-fly, clear to fly, and a "caution zone," where there is less chance that planes will encounter volcanic ash. Several countries are taking extraordinary measures to help their citizens return home from abroad, with Germany authorizing Lufthansa to fly 50 long-haul planes at a very low altitude, and the British Royal Navy sending warships to ferry passengers across the English Channel.

Air Travel Disruptions Continue; Spain Offers to Become Emergency Hub

April 19 — Less than one-third of Europe's scheduled flights took off on Monday, with most planes in northern Europe still grounded due to the ash cloud from Iceland's volcanic eruption. One estimate puts the number of affected passengers at nearly seven million. More than 63,000 flights have been cancelled since Thursday. The New York Times is maintaining a frequently updated map of Europe's airport closures here.

Some smaller airports reopened Monday but Europe's five largest airports — in Britain, France, Germany, and the Netherlands — remained closed. Airports are open in most of southern Europe, including most of Spain, Portugal, southern Italy and France, Greece, and Turkey. Spain offered to become an emergency hub for flights, and said it will increase the frequency of bus, train, and ferry connections.

Volcanic Ash Cancels Flights Across Northern Europe

April 15 — Air travel worldwide has been disrupted by a cloud of ash drifting south and east across northern Europe from a volcanic eruption in Iceland. At least 6,000 flights have been cancelled — about a quarter of the daily flights across Europe — with safety concerns grounding planes in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, France, Belgium, and Germany. The ripple effect has spread across the Atlantic, with all UK-bound flights from New York cancelled and flights to other parts of Europe rerouted. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines regarding schedule changes and rebooking.

Exchange Rates Favorable for Travel to Europe

April 15 — Favorable exchange rates are making European travel more affordable for American tourists. The dollar has gained roughly 5 percent against the pound and 10 percent against the euro over the past six months. At its 2008 low, the dollar bought only 0.63 euros — today it buys 0.75 euros. While the difference may seem small, it can add up to hundreds of dollars saved over a two-week trip.

Travel to Europe Up, Along with Fares

April 15 — According to a report in the New York Times, more Americans will visit Europe this summer, even as air fares stay high. American Express says summer bookings to Europe are up by more than 10 percent over last year, and the Airlines Reporting Corporation is reporting a 20 percent increase in ticket sales for Britain, France, Germany, Greece, and Spain. Summer air fares to Europe are up about 17 percent over 2009, according to Travelocity, with fares to Western Europe averaging $1300.

Assisi's Giotto Frescos Digitally Reconstructed

April 12 — A special exhibit in Assisi, Italy digitally reconstructs Giottto's famous cycle of frescos depicting the life of St. Francis. The exhibit, on now through September 5 at the recently restored Palazzo Del Monte Frumentario, gives visitors a chance to see a high-definition reconstruction of the frescos as they would have appeared when Giotto painted them at the Basilica of Asissi. Touch-screen computers allow visitors to compare the fresco today with the digital "original," while an animated 3-D rendering allows visitors to "walk" into the famous fresco scene where the pope welcomes the saint.

Shroud of Turin Goes on Display

April 12 — The Shroud of Turin, which some believe to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ, is now on display at the cathedral in Turin, Italy. This is the first time in a decade that the shroud has been viewable by the public, and about two million people are expected to visit the shroud during its six-week display. Pope Benedict XVI is expected to visit Turin on May 2. Reservations are required to see the shroud.

Poland in Mourning After Plane Crash

April 11 — A plane crash in Russia has taken the lives of many of Poland's top government officials, including its president and his wife, leading politicians, and the head of the national bank. The plane was carrying 96 passengers on their way to a memorial service at Katyn, where its estimated that 20,000 Poles were killed by the Soviet army during World War II.

Spirit Airlines Tries Carry-On Fee; Ryanair Could Move Ahead with Pay Toilets

April 7 — Travelers and airline executives are watching carefully for reaction to Spirit Airlines' announcement that they will begin charging $20 to $45 each way for carry-on bags. The small Florida airline is the first to institute fees for carry-on bags. Spirit also charges for checked luggage.

Irish discount airline Ryanair later this year will begin offering some daily flights with no checked luggage allowed at all, and is still considering plans to install coin-operated restrooms on its planes. The goal is to reduce in-flight restroom use and eventually remove some plane restrooms to make space for more seats.

Chefs Lead Walking Tours of Rome

April 7 — One of Rome's walking tour companies, Context, is now offering city walks designed and led by professional chefs and food writers. "Savoring Rome: A Culinary Stroll" leads visitors through the heart of Rome, sampling traditional street food such as coffee, gelato, biscotti, and pizza. Guides teach about Roman cuisine and how to order food in Rome's cafés and shops.

Security System Revamped for International Flights

April 2 — The US will launch a new system to screen international travelers this month to avoid the extra scrutiny that passengers from 14 countries, most of which are Muslim, faced after the "Christmas bombing" attempt last December. Rather than a blanket screening, official say the new system will "surgically target" those who might be a security risk. Citizens of the following nations faced the intense screening: Afghanistan, Algeria, Lebanon, Libya, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Yemen, Cuba, Iran, Sudan, and Syria.

Colesseum Opens Gladiator Exhibit

April 2 — This summer, visitors to Rome's Colesseum can see an exhibit of artifacts from gladiatorial games of the past, plus reproductions of ancient armor and weapons. About 30 items unearthed at Pompeii are on view, along with reconstructions of head gear, tunics, and swords. Researchers used ancient writings plus mosaics, graffiti, frescos, statues, and everyday items to create the facsimiles. The exhibit closes Oct. 2.

Courts Halt Planned Rail Strike in UK

April 1 — A judge issued an injunction against a move by British railroad workers to strike for four days starting April 6. The judge agreed with company claims that there were irregularities in the vote authorizing the strike. The union vowed to hold another strike ballot soon. It is protesting a plan to cut 1,500 jobs and increase the workload on evenings and weekends.

March 2010

British Airways Strike Ends; UK Rail Strike May Start April 6

March 30 — The union representing British Airways cabin crews says it will end its four-day strike at midnight March 30 (7 p.m. EDT, 4 p.m. PDT), but threatened to resume striking sometime after Easter. Meanwhile, the British union for railroad signalers and maintenance staff announced a four-day strike starting April 6 that will paralyze the rail network. Officials estimate that only one in five trains will be running. National Rail will have service updates on its website.

Ceiling in Nero's 'Golden House' in Rome Collapses

March 30 — A section of an ancient tunnel in Rome collapsed Tuesday (March 30), damaging a ceiling in Roman Emperor Nero's famous "Golden House." The popular tourist site, located between the Colesseum and the Roman Forum, has been closed for renovation, and no one was injured. Officials blame record amounts of rain for the collapse. Completed in A.D. 68, the palace got its name from the profuse use of gold leaf on its walls.

British Airways Strike Begins March 27

March 26 — British Airways says it will serve more than 75 percent of its passengers during a cabin crew strike scheduled for March 27-31. The airline says at Heathrow at least 55 percent of short-haul and 70 percent of long-haul flights would operate, and all flights would operate out of Gatwick. The airline has a special website with strike-related updates.

Kensington Palace Redo Creates 21st-Century Experience

March 26 — Once home to Princess Diana, London's Kensington Palace now holds actors, lighting displays, and places for audience participation, all in the hope of turning a visit to the 17th-century royal palace into a modern experience. Visitors can sit on a throne in a royal hall and write sympathy notes to a long-dead queen.

EU Agrees to Greek Bailout Plan; Euro Rises

March 26 — European leaders agreed March 25 on a plan to use the International Monetary Fund and eurozone nations to back Greek debt. The package could reach up to $31 billion if Greece can't satisfy the bond market on its own. As a result, the euro rose against the dollar to $1.3393.

Strike Update: British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air Portugal

March 24 — British Airways cabin crew workers plan to walk off the job again this Saturday in four-day strike unless the airline agrees to resume contract talks. A three-day strike last weekend caused some flights to be cancelled, but the airline reported it was able to carry about two-thirds of its passengers thanks to fill-in staff and chartered jets. A special webpage has been set up to keep passengers apprised of the situation.

Pilots at Lufthansa have voted to strike at all of the airline's German locations April 13-16. The strike will also impact flights operated by Lufthansa's budget subsidiary, Germanwings. TAP Air Portugal pilots today called off a planned six-day strike when the union came to an agreement with the airline on benefits and pay.

Staffordshire Hoard to Stay Local

March 23 — A collection of more than 1,500 pieces of Anglo-Saxon gold and jewels found in a English field in July will stay in local museums, after a successful £3.3 million fundraising drive. The Staffordshire Hoard will be kept at the Birmingham Treasures & Art Gallery in Birmingham and at the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery in Stoke-on-Trent. Another £1.7 million is needed for the seventh-century hoard's conservation and display.

Passport Day is March 27

March 22 — Regional passport agencies across the US and many local passport offices will open their doors to walk-up applicants on Saturday, March 27 for national Passport Day. Generally you need an appointment to get a passport at a regional passport agency, or must apply by mail. A list of all regional passport agencies is on the State Department's website.

British Airways Strike Enters Third Day

March 22 — A strike by cabin crew workers at British Airways is entering its third day, with the union and airline disputing the extent to which the strike is impacting travel. According to the union, 140 British Airways planes have been grounded and most planes flying are doing so without cabin crew. The airline says it was able to fly 60 percent of scheduled passengers on Sunday and that more employees are turning up to work than expected.

Vatican to Investigate Visions of Mary

March 17 — A 20-person commission from the Vatican will investigate reports that the Virgin Mary is appearing to people in Medjugorje, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Six children reported the first sighting in June 1981. Believers say the vision has appeared daily for the past 30 years, bringing about 30 million people to visit the small town.

London Jewish Museum Reopens

March 17 — London's Jewish Museum has reopened following a $15 million expansion. The museum tells the 1,000-year history of the Jewish people in Britain, and their impact on British culture (the signature British pub meal, fish and chips, may have its roots in fried fish eaten by Sephardic Jews who immigrated to Britain from Spain and Portugal). One room is dedicated to the Holocaust. )

British Airways Cabin Crew to Strike

March 15 — The union representing British Airways cabin crewmembers has voted to walk off the job March 20-23, and again March 27-30. The strike could be averted if the union accepts a last-minute contract offer from British Airways — that vote will happen March 19. The airline has trained 1,000 staffers from other departments to fill in for the striking cabin crew workers, and hopes to keep 60 percent of its flights running in the event of a strike, including international service from New York.

Safety Fears Stop Cheese From Rolling

March 15 — The Cooper Hill Cheese Rolling Committee has cancelled the annual rolling of the cheeses in Gloucestershire, England due to safety concerns brought on by the increasing number of spectators. Over 15,000 people attended last year's cheese rolling, about 10,000 more than organizers were prepared to accommodate. The committee is looking for ways to reduce attendance, avoid damage to private property near Cooper Hill, and keep roadways open for emergency vehicles.

EU Considers Greek Bailout

March 12 — Despite German opposition, the European Union is considering a huge bailout package designed to rescue Greece from its financial woes. Details of the bailout were to be finalized today, and are said to include about €25 billion in loans and loan guarantees. The EU is also considering tougher financial rules for the other eurozone member nations.

Greece Shut Down by 24-Hour Strike

March 11 — Travel to and from Greece has been paralyzed by a general strike that has cancelled all international flights and trains. All bus, subway, and ferry service has also been cancelled. More than 20,000 demonstrators protested in central Athens as the country's two labor unions called for workers to resist the government's plan to raise taxes and cut benefits. Two police officers were injured and 10 protestors arrested when the protest turned violent near Athens University.

British Airways Strike Possible

March 11 — More than 12,000 British Airways cabin crew workers could walk off the job next Thursday unless the company and flight attendants' union come to an agreement. The union is considering a 10-day strike, which could disrupt travel plans for thousands of passengers. British Airways has been training ground crew to take the place of the flight attendants in the event of a strike.

Face-Lift Planned for Rome's Colosseum

March 10 — A year-long restoration project is expected to get underway at the Colosseum in Rome later this year. It includes cleaning the monument, exchanging ugly fences for more attractive barriers, and improving the safety of the Colosseum's third tier and underground network of tunnels. Plans also call for permanent illumination system to be installed.

Greek Civil Servants Strike; EU Discusses Support

March 8 — Public employees in Greece went on strike again Monday as the European Union considers how best to help the debt-stricken nation. Greece could look to the International Monetary Fund for help if the EU doesn't come through. In Athens, garbage collectors, tax collectors, and court employees began a week-long series of work stoppages. A general strike by all public employees is planned for Thursday and could affect buses, trains, and airports.

Uffizi Sends Paintings to China

March 8 — Several famous paintings will not be on display at the Uffizi Museum in Florence for the next 18 months, as they go on a tour of China. Included are Botticelli's Adoration of the Magi, Titian's Venus and Cupid with Partridge, and Tintoretto's Leda and the Swan.

More US Airports Get Body Scanners

March 6 — The Transportation Security Administration on Friday listed more US airports that will receive full-body scanners: San Diego, San Jose, Oakland, Fort Lauderdale, Columbus, Cincinnati, Charlotte, and Kansas City. Body scanners went into use at Boston's Logan International last week, and will go online this week at O'Hare in Chicago, joining 40 other machines already in use at 19 US airports. A full list is available on the TSA's website.

Pope to Open Barcelona's Sagrada Familia in November

March 4 — The landmark Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona will be inaugurated on November 7 by Pope Benedict XVI. Artist and architect Antonio Gaudi designed the striking, Modernist cathedral and worked on it from 1882 until his death in 1926. Since then cathedral construction has continued in fits and starts. A portion is set to open for worship in September, with an overall estimated completion date of 2026. While in Spain the pope will also visit Santiago de Compostela on November 6 for its Jubilee celebration. One of Spain's biggest tourist attractions, the Sagrada Familia is considered to be Gaudi's masterpiece.

Amsterdam to Host Tulip Days

March 4 — Amsterdam will host a Tulip Days festival on April 24 and 25. As part of the festival, tulips have been planted in gardens at museums — including the Museum Van Loon, office buildings, and private homes, turning the entire city into one big tulip garden. Many of the otherwise private gardens will be open to the public during the festival. In addition, the Rijksmuseum will host an exhibit of 17th and 18th century tulip-related art through June 1.

Storm Drenches Coasts of France, Spain, and Portugal

March 1 — A powerful storm barreled across the Atlantic coasts of France, Portugal, and Spain on Sunday, breaching sea walls and leaving at least 50 people dead. The coastal town of L'Aiguillon-sur-Mer in France was swamped by 26-foot-high waves, and power was cut off to more than a million homes. About half of the flights were cancelled at Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport, and winds were clocked at 108 miles per hour at the top of the Eiffel Tower. The storm then traveled northeastward into Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, where several people were killed by falling trees.

Chopin Museum Opens in Warsaw

March 1 — The new Fryderyk Chopin Museum has opened at Ostrogski Castle in Warsaw, Poland. The opening was timed to coincide with the 200th anniversary of Chopin's birth. Chopin lived in Warsaw from infancy until age 20, when he moved to Paris and made his living by giving piano lessons. Among the artifacts on display are his death mask, a lock of his hair, and the piano on which he composed his final works. The museum includes themed rooms designed to bring to mind Chopin's time in Paris, his stay at a French chateau with writer Aurore Dupin (better known as George Sand), and his death, likely from tuberculosis, in 1849.

February 2010

Air Travel Strike Update

February 23 — Half the flights have been cancelled at Orly airport near Paris, France and one-quarter of the flights at nearby Charles de Gaulle, after air traffic controllers walked off the job to protest cuts. The air traffic controllers plan to stay on strike through Friday. So far, Air France is reporting no disruptions to international flights. In Germany, Lufthansa pilots have agreed to go back to work and resume negotiations, ending their planned four-day strike after only 24 hours. Lufthansa said it would take several days for the airline's operations to return to normal. In Britain, British Airways cabin crews have again voted to strike but no date has been set for the job action. The cabin crew union last year voted to strike over the Christmas holidays but that strike was deemed illegal by a court before it began.

Body Scanners to be Installed at Italian Airport This Week

February 23 — Airports in Rome and Milan will test full-body scanners for passengers flying to the US beginning as early as next week. The scanners are being installed at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in Rome and at Malpensa Airport in Milan on a test basis. In addition to US-bound flights, the scanners will be used on some flights to Great Britain and Israel.

Lufthansa Pilots to Strike Next Week

February 18 — Lufthansa pilots have voted to walk off the job in a four-day strike next week, from midnight Monday to midnight Thursday. The strike could cause travel disruptions for passengers flying on Lufthansa or its subsidiary, Germanwings. Pilots are protesting what they see as moves by Lufthansa to shift passengers to other subsidiaries with lower wages. Lufthansa officials say passengers with flights booked during the strike period will receive full refunds if they choose not to fly or if their flights are cancelled, or can rebook without a penalty.

One Million Reserve Spots to See Shroud of Turin

February 18 — The Shroud of Turin, believed by many Christians to be Christ's burial cloth, will go on display from April 10 to May 23 at the cathedral in Turin, Italy. So far over one million people have made reservations to see the shroud. Traditionally the Shroud only goes on display every 25 years but church officials are making an exception to help Turin's struggling economy.

Deutsche Bahn Backtracks on English Words

February 17 —Criticized for using too many English words, Germany's national rail system Deutsche Bahn says it will stop using English terms such as "Service Point" on train station signs, reverting to German as the primary language. English will still appear as a secondary language on important signs that international visitors need to read. However, some firmly entrenched English names, such as the "InterCity Express," will remain unchanged.

Eurostar Suspended Through Monday

February 17 — High-speed Eurostar train service from London to Brussels is cancelled through Monday, as investigators continue to investigate a fatal commuter train crash in Halle, Belgium. Eurostar service between London and Paris is unaffected, but Thalys service from Brussels to Amsterdam is suspended and only a handful of trains are running to Cologne, Germany and Paris, France.

Oberammergau to Stage Passion Play

February 16 — The Bavarian town of Oberammergau will stage its once-a-decade Passion Play this year. The play will be staged five days a week, beginning May 15 and running through October 3. Saved from the plague, the town in 1633 vowed to put on a "passion play" every ten years as a show of gratitude. The play has been staged every decade for the last four centuries, with the cast made up entirely of villagers.

Greek Strikers Protest Government Cuts

February 10 — A national strike by public employees in Greece has closed schools, cancelled some flights, and disrupted medical care at hospitals. The country is under pressure from the European Union to cut its 12.7 percent deficit, amid fears that Greece's economic woes will drag down the euro currency. But the union representing public employees is opposed to government plans to raise the retirement age, freeze public-sector salaries and hiring, and increase some taxes.

American Airlines to Charge for Blankets

February 10 — American Airlines will join Jet Blue and US Airways in charging passengers an extra fee for pillows and blankets. American will begin selling pillow-and-blanket sets on May 1 for $8 on most domestic flights and flights to Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, Central America, and the Caribbean. You can still get a free pillow and blanket on American's transatlantic flights.

Stuttgart's Porsche Museum Marks One-Year Anniversary

February 5 — The Porsche Museum in Stuttgart, Germany is celebrating is one-year anniversary with several special events. In its first year of operation, the futuristic museum has drawn 530,000 visitors to see 80 exhibits, a rotating collection of 300 rare cars, and historical models. Visitors can also watch reconstruction of Porsche models underway in the Museum Workshop.

Safer Beer Pints Proposed in Britain

February 4 — Could shatter-proof pint glasses be one solution to alcohol-fueled violence in British pubs? The Home Office thinks so, and has enlisted a team of engineers to come up with new, shatter-proof pint glasses. The goal is to reduce the number of glass-related injuries in pubs (87,000 last year). But pub owners, already struggling to stay afloat in tough economic times, are concerned about the cost of replacing their beer glasses.

France Refuses Citizenship to Man with Veiled Wife

February 3 — France's department of immigration has refused to grant citizenship to the Muslim husband of a Frenchwoman who wears the full Islamic veil. An immigration official said the application was denied on grounds that the man was "depriving his wife of her liberty" by requiring her to have her face covered. The French government is considering a partial ban on full veils in public places, and a recommendation to refuse residence permits and citizenship to anyone "showing visible signs of radical religious practice."

Heathrow, Manchester Airports Enforce Passenger Scanning Rules

February 1 — Passengers at London's Heathrow and Manchester airports who refuse to comply with a full-body scan will not be allowed to board their airplanes, according to new security rules there. Only a small number of passengers will be selected for the scans, which are part of new security for US-bound flights.

Public Given Access to Pompeii Excavation in Progress

February 1 — Beginning this month, the public will be able to see first-hand the excavation and restoration of the House of the Chaste Lovers at the archeological site of Pompeii. Visitors will be able to enter parts of the building where archaeologists are at work, in an "open-door" excavation that Pompeii officials hope will give the public a greater understanding of both Pompeii and the work that is involved in bringing its treasures to light. The House of the Chaste Lovers is named for a fresco on one of its interior walls.

Times Readers Name Istanbul No. 1 Place to Go

February 1 — In an nonscientific poll, New York Times readers recently named Istanbul as their most-recommended destination for 2010 travel. Rounding out the top 5 were Colombia, Seoul, Costa Rica, and New York City.

January 2010

New Siena Museum About Water

January 27 — The new $2.5 million Museum of Water is now open in Siena, Italy, bringing to life the 15-mile underground water network that allowed this Tuscan hill town to thrive. The first parts of the water system were built as early as the 11th century, tapping into underground streams and deep water sources to provide water for drinking, storage, fish ponds, and irrigation. Some of the centuries-old aqueducts were still in use as of a few decades ago.

Fewer People Flew in 2009

January 27 — International air travel fell 3.5 percent in 2009, and airlines worldwide lost approximately $11 billion, according to a new industry report. The average plane took to the skies only 76 percent full, as fewer passengers chose to travel by air. United Airlines reported it carried 11.2 percent less passengers in 2009 than in 2008, while AirTran reported a 2.5 percent decline in passengers.

ABBA Exhibition Opens at Earls Court

January 26 — An over-the-top, touring ABBA exhibition is on show now through the end of March at Earls Court in London. Dubbed "Abbaworld," the exhibition includes 25 rooms full of Abba memorabilia, mock-ups of the studios where the band worked, and interactive features that let visitors cut their own ABBA demo-tapes or perform live on stage with the band — in holographic form. The four band members were on hand for the exhibit's opening night party. After London, Abbaworld is scheduled to make appearances in Australia and New York.

EU Considers Ending Air-Travel Liquids Ban by 2013

January 25 — The European Union is considering requiring its airports to install equipment that screens liquids in carry-on bags by 2013, simultaneously easing bans on liquids. EU rules on liquids are currently the same as in the US (3.5-ounce or smaller bottles that fit in a single quart-size plastic bag). Beginning in April 2011, passengers will be able to carry on liquids, aerosols, and gels bought in duty-free airport shops outside the EU or on foreign airplanes. The EU is hoping that technology will be available by 2013 to effectively scan liquids stored within carry-on bags.

British Airways to Train Ground Crew to Replace Striking Flight Attendants

January 24 — British Airways has invited its baggage handlers, check-in agents, and other ground crew to complete a three-week training course preparing them to take over in-flight duties in the event the airline's flight attendants go on strike. Pilots could also be trained as flight attendants. Unite, the union that represents British Airways' flight attendants, is threatening a 10-day strike this spring to protest planned job cuts.

National Trust Sights Now on Street View

January 21 — Google Street View has expanded to include pictures of more than 20 National Trust sights in the UK that are not easily accessible by car. You can now see Street View images for Stonehenge, the Avebury Stones, Corfe Castle in Dorset, Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire, Plas Newydd in Wales, Mussenden Temple in Northern Ireland, Lindisfarne Castle in Northumberland, Lyme Park in Cheshire, and Ham House near London. Cyclists on three-wheeled tricycles mounted with 360-degree cameras took the pictures last summer. Google trikes will visit even more National Trust sights this year, including Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway.

Auschwitz Sign Returned

January 21 — The stolen "Arbeit Macht Frei" sign has been returned to the museum at the Auschwitz death camp in Poland. Thieves made off with the 16-foot-long sign last month after cutting it into three pieces but were quickly identified. Museum officials say the sign, which was created by camp prisoners, will be restored but they have not decided whether it will be reinstalled above the camp's main gate. A copy of the sign was put up after the theft.

Euro Falls to 10-Day Low

January 18 — The Euro fell to $1.4336, a 10-day low against the dollar, as European Union officials seek reassurance from Greece that its will get a handle on its spiraling deficit through spending cuts and tax increases. Officials worry that Greece's financial problems will cause trouble for the entire euro-zone, especially if the country defaults on its debt or is forced to ask for a bailout from another EU member nation. Either action could make it more expensive for all EU countries to borrow funds.

Eurostar to Pay Millions in Compensation

January 18 — Eurostar will pay passengers affected by its holiday travel disruptions up to $15 million in compensation. Problems with condensation in the engines of five trains stranded thousands of people in the Channel Tunnel, and forced Eurostar to cancel all trains for three days, affecting thousands more.

Cabin Crew Plan March Strike at British Airways

January 18 — The union representing British Airways cabin crews will ask its members to vote on a strike action, which could see the 13,000 union members walk off the job beginning March 4. The airline and union are at odds over planned layoffs, which would cut the number of crewmembers on long-haul flights.

Fuel Surcharges Go Up on Flights to Europe

January 13 — Fuel surcharges on round-trip flights to Europe have increased by $20 at most major airlines. The fuel surcharge for round-trip flights to most cities on the Continent now stands at $280 (London is $242). United, Continental, and Delta are among the airlines that have bumped up their fuel surcharges.

Louvre Still World's Most-Visited Museum

January 13 — The Louvre Museum in Paris was visited by 8.5 million people last year, again securing its place as the world's most visited museum and matching its 2008 attendance record. Last year's second place museum, the British Museum in London, saw 5.6 million visitors last year, down from the 5.9 million who visited in 2008. In the US, the Smithsonian Museums reported 30 million visits in 2009, up from 25 million the year before. The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History was its most-visited museum, with 7.4 million visitors in 2009.

Baggage Fees Keep Going Up

January 12 — Delta, Continental, and United Airlines have all bumped up their prices for checked baggage on domestic flights, to $23 each way if paid in advance. It costs even more to check a bag at the airport. Most airlines now charge $20 or more to check one bag on a domestic flight, with the exceptions of Alaska Air, which charges $15; Southwest, with no checked bag fees; and JetBlue, which allows one checked bag at no cost.

Body Scanners at French Airports by Month's End

January 11 — Body scanners will go into operation for US-bound flights at France's Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports by the end of the month. The scanners will be used to conduct random searches. Passengers who refuse the body scanner will be required to undergo a pat-down search. The European Union remains divided about the scanners, which the US is asking international airlines to use on all flights to the US.

Northern Europe Snowed In

January 10 — Heavy snowfall across Northern Europe trapped over 160 people in their cars overnight in Germany, cancelled flights in Germany and France, downed power lines in Poland, and disrupted rail service across the region. Ferries across the Baltic were cancelled due to rough seas, and high-wind warnings were posted on the Oresund Bridge between Denmark and Sweden.

Eurostar Stalls Again

January 7 — Service on the Eurostar high-speed train between Britain and the Continent was disrupted again when a train stalled in the tunnel Thursday morning. Four other Eurostar departures were cancelled, and travelers were warned to expect more delays and possible cancellations. Eurostar was offering to reschedule trips at no cost. No cause was announced for the breakdown, but a similar service disruption prior to the Christmas holidays was blamed on heavy snow.

Winter Storm Freezes European Travel

January 7 — Air and train travel across Europe has been disrupted by unusually icy weather, as a new low temperature of -41.4 F was recorded in Hernaven, in Sweden's far north. All major UK airports are experiencing delays, as are airports in France, Ireland, Germany, and the Netherlands. In the Rhine region, two trains derailed, causing a ripple effect across the rail network. The Arctic freeze is being blamed for at least 100 deaths across Western Europe.

EU Split on Body Scanners

January 7 — European Union member nations are split on whether installing body scanners at airports will improve air travel security. At the urging of the US, Italy, Britain, and the Netherlands have announced plans to install scanners. But Belgian and Spanish officials have said the scanners are excessive, and Germany says it won't install scanners unless they become official EU policy. So far the EU has left the airport scanner decision up to its member nations, citing concerns about health and privacy. But new pressure is mounting for the EU to reevaluate its airline security policies after the attempted Dec. 25 terrorist attack.

Rare Painted Marble Sculptures at Rome's Palazzo Massimo

January 5 — Eleven rare painted marble sculptures, recently reunited after an investigation by Italian art police, will be on display at Rome's Palazzo Massimo through April 18. The pieces were discovered in the 1970s at the ancient Greek colony of Ausculum in southern Italy by tomb raiders. While some pieces were recovered by police, two were sold to the Getty Museum in California and only recently returned to Italy. The sculptures are believed to have decorated a 4th century B.C. tomb and retain some of their original paint.

Increased Security for All US-Bound Air Travelers

January 4 — The US Transportation Security Administration yesterday sent a new directive to international airlines, requiring extra screening of passengers traveling to the US from 14 high-risk countries such as Yemen, Nigeria, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. The extra layer of security will include pat-downs, physical searches of carry-on luggage, and possibly full-body scans or explosive detectors. All passengers on US-bound international flights can expect to be subject to more of these kinds of searches, as airlines have been directed to increase random screenings. Plane captains have the option of requiring passengers to remain in their seats for the final hour of flights, without access to electronic devices or carry-on luggage. Although the TSA required the new rules to go into effect today, the Associated Press reports few changes so far at most European airports, which see about 800 daily trans-Atlantic flights to the US.

Medieval York Minster Window Saved

January 4 — British fire crews last week saved the York Minster's 600-year-old Great East Window from damage during a fire. The window, completed in 1408, was taken down in 2008 for restoration, a project expected to take 10 years. The fire in the stonemason's yard where the 300 panels of stained glass were being stored is under investigation.

 

 

December 2009

International Air Passengers Face Changes to Rules

December 28 — Travelers flying home to the US from overseas should be prepared for temporary changes to air safety rules, and are being advised to arrive at airports an extra hour before their flights. British Airways, Virgin America, and Air Canada passengers bound for the US are being limited to one personal carry-on item, such as a purse, computer bag, or small backpack. All other baggage must be checked. In addition, several international airlines are limiting passenger access to carry-ons and requiring passengers to remain in their seats during the last hour of a flight. For more information, see www.tsa.gov, and check with your airline for specific carry-on rules.

Security Changes Cause some European Flight Delays

December 28 — Passengers at some European airports are experiencing delays as tougher security measures are implemented in the wake of a passenger's attempt to light an explosive on an Amsterdam-Detroit flight. Heathrow Airport in London and Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris report one-hour delays. New measures include more pat-downs and more thorough searches of carry-on luggage.

Eurostar Resumes Service

December 22 — The Eurostar high-speed train has resumed service between Britain, France, and Belgium. It had been shut down for three days after snow caused five trains to break down in the tunnel under the English Channel. The shut-down stranded upwards of 40,000 people in London, France, and Brussels.

More British Flights Cancelled

December 22 — Easyjet today cancelled 180 flights, Ryanair cancelled 65 flights, and British Airways cancelled several short-haul flights due to a snowstorm in Britain which has caused several airport closures. London's Gatwick airport was closed for several hours yesterday due to the snow, and London's Luton airport was closed overnight. Freezing fog was disrupting flights at London's Stansted airport.

Travel Chaos Follows Eurostar Shutdown, Flight Cancellations

December 21 — Passenger service on the Eurostar train linking Britain to the Continent has been cancelled again for the third day, leaving thousands of passengers stranded on both sides of the English Channel. The problem has been compounded by severe weather in both France and Britain, which has led to hundreds of flights being cancelled and disrupted. Inverness and Aberdeen airports are closed until further notice, most flights from Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris are severely delayed, and London's Gatwick and Heathrow airports are running several hours behind. Car service through the Eurotunnel has also been affected.

The Eurostar trouble began on Friday when several Eurostar trains became stuck in the tunnel, stranding some passengers for up to 15 hours. Eurostar officials are scrambling to find a fix for the problem, which they say was caused by the extreme temperature difference between the warm tunnel and the freezing temperatures outside.

Auschwitz Sign Recovered

December 19 — Five men have been arrested after allegedly stealing the infamous sign from the gate to the Auschwitz memorial in Poland. The sign, with its cynical phrase, "arbeit macht frei" ("work will make you free"), went up over Auschwitz's main gate in May 1940. More than a million people, mostly Jews, died at the Nazi death camp. The sign was stolen on Friday and recovered on Sunday. It had been cut into three pieces and was hidden in the woods near the northern Polish town of Czernikowo. A replica sign is currently in its place above the gate.

British Airways and Eurostar Strikes Averted

December 17 — A court has blocked a planned 12-day strike by British Airways cabin crew that threatened to disrupt holiday travel. The union representing British Airways cabin crew may appeal the court's decision, and could also ask its members to vote on another strike action in the new year.

A planned 48-hour strike by train managers on the high-speed Eurostar rail line has been called off, after managers agreed to a contract. However the union representing Eurostar drivers say they still plan to walk out tonight at midnight, with more strikes planned for December 26 and 27.

Flyglobespan Goes Belly Up

December 16 — The Edinburgh-based discount airline Flyglobespan has gone out of business, cancelling all flights and leaving about 5,000 passengers stranded and 800 employees out of a job. Last year Flyglobespan carried more than 1.5 million passengers on 12,000 flights. Travelers with flights booked on Flyglobespan can call 0871/271-9000 for information.

Bullfighting Ban Considered in Barcelona

December 17 —The Catalan parliament in Barcelona is considering a proposed ban on bullfighting, after being presented with a petition signed by 180,000 bullfighting opponents. The petition asks for bulls to be covered by existing animal rights laws, which would effectively outlaw bullfighting.

Belgrade-Sarajevo Railway Reopens

December 13 — The capital cities of Serbia and Bosnia are again linked by train, 17 years after rail service between Belgrade and Sarajevo was cut by war in the former Yugoslavia. Before the war, three daily trains ran from Belgrade to Sarajevo in six hours; the new train will take eight hours due to poor track conditions and will run once a day.

Air Travel Down for Holidays

December 10 — Fewer people will travel by air this holiday season, according to the Air Transport Association of America, which represents the US airlines. The number of travelers is expected to decrease by 2.5 percent, to 41 million people. December 27, December 28, and December 29 are projected to be the busiest travel days of the season. Although fewer people are traveling, travelers should expect flights to be full because airlines have cut back on the number of flights they're offering.

Oberammergau a "Destination to Watch"

December 10 — The Bavarian town of Oberammergau made USA Today's list of "Destinations to Watch in 2010," thanks to its once-a-decade, 2000-castmember passion play which will be staged this year. Travelers will have more options for reaching Germany in 2010, when Continental starts new nonstop service between Newark and Munich and Air Berlin starts nonstop flights between San Francisco and Dusseldorf.

JFK Runway to Close for 4 Months

December 7 — One of the three runways at JFK Airport in New York will be closed for four months next year and completely rebuilt. In an effort to reduce congestion, US airlines that serve JFK are being asked to stick with their reduced winter/spring flight schedules for both domestic and international flights through July instead of ramping up flight frequencies for the summer as usual. The runway project is slated to begin in March and be complete by late June. JFK consistently ranks among the busiest airports in the country with one of its worst on-time records.

Paris Museum Strike Continues; Some Museums Open

December 7 — A labor strike, now in its second week, is continuing to lock tourists out of many famous museums and sights in Paris, France. The Orsay Museum, palace at Versailles, parts of the Louvre, and the Arc De Triomphe reopened on Sunday after having been closed for several days. But several other museums, including the Pompidou Center, remain closed, and it was unclear whether the museums that opened over the weekend would remain open this week.

Strikes Shutter Important Paris Sights

December 3 — Tourists in Paris were dismayed by a second day of museum closures as a result of workers' strikes. The Louvre and the Palace at Versailles are closed, as are the Orsay Museum, Pompidou Center, Rodin Museum, and Arc de Triomphe. Some sights outside Paris, including the chateaux in Azay-Le-Rideau in the Loire Valley, are also closed. Striking employees are protesting government plans to cut the number of museum workers.

Victoria & Albert Museum Opens Renaissance Wing

December 3 — The Victoria & Albert Museum yesterday opened its new $49 million Middle Ages and Renaissance wing. Ten galleries are dedicated to European art and design, from the fall of the Roman Empire and the Dark Ages that followed, to the rise of the Renaissance. Tapestries, architectural elements, stained glass, religious vestments, and Italian Renaissance sculpture are among the more than 1,800 objects on display, including the complete Santa Chiara chapel from Florence.

EU Visa-Free Travel Extended to Some Balkan Nations

December 2 — The European Union will allow citizens of the Balkan nations of Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia to travel within the EU's borderless "Schengen" area without visas. The visa-waiver does not apply to Kosovo, whose contested bid for independence from Serbia has not been recognized by all EU members. The Schengen Agreement allows visa-free travel in 25 European countries (of the 27 EU nations, only the UK, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania, and Cypress are not part of the Schengen pact; Schengen also covers three non-EU nations — Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland).

 

 

November 2009

London's Oyster Cards Available Online

November 30 — Travelers planning a trip to London can now buy the Oyster Card, the prepaid transit card used on London's bus and subway lines, in advance via the Internet. It takes about 7 to 12 days to have a card delivered to a US address. For more information, check out the London transportation agency's visitor shop.

Swiss Vote to Ban Minarets

November 30 — The Swiss people have approved a referendum banning the construction of minarets, the tall columns outside many Islamic mosques. Many religious and world leaders, including several within Switzerland, denounced the vote as an offense to religious freedom. The Swiss government opposed the measure, which was placed on the ballot by a far-right group who claims minarets are a symbol of "fundamental Islam" and incompatible with Swiss democracy. The four existing minarets in Switzerland will be allowed to stand. The referendum may face a court challenge, and is seen as a stark reminder of Europe's struggle to come to terms with an increasingly multicultural populace.

Euro Gains as Dollar Slides

November 25 — The dollar is at a 15-month low against several major currencies, even as several reports point to a generally positive outlook for the US economy. The euro is at a 15-month high of $1.50.

Delaroche Masterpiece to be Shown At London's National Gallery

November 24 — A famous painting by French artist Paul Delaroche, feared lost during World War II, has been found at Mertoun House, the Scottish home of the Duke of Sutherland where it apparently was stored away for safety during the Blitz. The 1837 painting, Charles I Insulted by Cromwell's Soldier, is nearly 10 feet long and 10 feet tall and is considered one of Delaroche's masterpieces. The painting, will go on display at the National Gallery in London from February 24 to May 23, 2010.

Ara Pacis Painted with Light

November 23 — The Ara Pacis, the first-century B.C. Roman altar to peace, was "painted" with a light-projection system on Sunday. Archaeologists studied the entire altar, made of stark-white stone, for traces of its original brightly colored paints. Light technicians then created a cutting-edge light system to project a replica of the altar's exact colors onto the surface of its intricately carved friezes. The light projection system will only be used on special occasions.

Ten Best Christmas Markets

November 19 — The Guardian newspaper in London has named its favorite Christmas markets in the United Kingdom and on the Continent. Their favorite UK markets are: Greenwich Market in London (Dec 9-24 and 27-31), Leeds Christkindlmarkt in Yorkshire (Nov 13-Dec 20), the Padstow Christmas Festival in Cornwall (Dec 4–6), the Fête dé Noué in Jersey (Nov 26-Dec 20), and Caerphilly Market in Wales (Dec 12-13). Their favorite European markets are in Zurich, Switzerland (Nov 27-Dec 24); Mechelen, Belgium (Dec 18-20); Tallinn, Estonia (Nov 29-Jan 7); Krakow, Poland (Dec 1-31); and Nord-Pas de Calais, France (Nov 27-Dec 24).

Credit Card Security Breach in Spain

November 18 — A massive credit-card security breach in Spain has caused one German bank to recall upwards of 100,000 cards as a precaution. The European offices of Visa and Mastercard say their systems were compromised but so far they've received no actual reports of fraud. There were no reports of US-issued cards being affected.

Venetians Stage Mock Funeral

November 16 — A group of Venetians staged a mock funeral for their city on Saturday, bemoaning the historic city's falling native population. The increasingly expensive lagoon city now has only about 60,000 full-time residents, as more and more buildings are converted into hotels and rental apartments for the over 2 million tourists who visit each year. City officials say the funeral bell is being tolled too soon, pointing out that the total lagoon population is closer to 120,000 if students and residents of nearby islands are included.

Prague to Reenact Velvet Revoluation

November 11 — Prague will stage an reenactment of the Velvet Revolution on November 17, marking the 20th anniversary of the student protests that drew police beatings and arrests but ultimately lead to a democratic Czech Republic. A commemorative "20 Years Without the Curtain" parade will trace the route from Albertov to Narodni Street, where a memorial service will be held, followed by a concert. Former political prisoner (and former Czech Republic president) Vaclav Havel is scheduled to participate. The event is open to the public and sponsored by the nonprofit group Curtain.

Filmmuseum Under Construction in Amsterdam

November 10 — Ground has been broken on a new building for Amsterdam's Filmmuseum. The angular building will rise above the harbor across from the Central Station and is expected to open in 2011. The current museum, within the Vondelpark, will remain open during the construction project.

Rome's "Chariot Angels" Ready to Answer Questions

November 9 — Tourists with questions about transportation, sights, and hotels in Rome have a new source of information: the "Chariot Angels." Rome's tourist information office has stationed 16 workers in bright red-and-yellow, chariot-shaped, modified Segways around the city center, Fiumicino Airport, and Termini Station. The Chariot Angels are fluent in six languages. Unlike the chariots of Ancient Rome, these chariots have a top speed of about 4 miles per hour.

Germany Marks Berlin Wall Anniversary

November 9 — German citizens, tourists, and leaders from around the world are flooding to Berlin today to mark the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. German Chancellor Angela Merkel welcomed former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and Polish leader Lech Walsea to the event, which included music from Bon Jovi and Beethoven and memorials for the 136 people killed trying to cross the border during its 28-year history. One thousand giant plastic dominos were placed along a 1.5-mile section of the wall's former route and were to be toppled Monday night. Also in Berlin to mark the anniversary are US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.

No Fee to Book by Phone with Expedia

November 5 — The online travel agency Expedia has eliminated its $20 fee for booking airfares by phone, hoping to lure more customers away from airlines and traditional travel agencies. Only a small minority of airline passengers book by phone, and often face steep fees from online travel agencies and airlines, ranging from $25 per ticket at Orbitz or Travelocity to $35 per ticket at US Airways.

London's Mayor Proposes Monument to "Rival Eiffel Tower"

November 2 — The mayor of London has proposed that the city build a £15 million monument at its Olympic Park, "to rival the Eiffel Tower in Paris." A panel is considering proposed designs from five artists and is expected to announce its decision within the next few weeks. The monument would be paid for by the wealthiest man in Britain (and eighth richest man in the world), industrialist Lakshmi Mittal.

North African Sun to Power Europe

November 2 — A Munich, Germany-based consortium has announced plans for a enormous Sahara Desert solar project that could supply 15 percent of Europe's energy needs within the next four decades. Electricity could start flowing from the system of solar power plants as early as 2015. The project would build a huge network of solar power plants in North Africa and the Middle East that would superheat water, powering steam turbines to generate electricity. A portion of the power generated would be used locally, with the remainder being transported over high-capacity cables to Europe.

 

October 2009

Finland is World's Most Prosperous Country

October 29 — A UK think tank has named Finland as the world's most prosperous country, according to a report issued today. The rankings are based on factors including individual wealth, economic growth, personal freedom, democratic government, public health, and quality of life. The top five nations were Finland, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. The United States was ranked ninth.

Prague's National Memorial Reopens

October 26 — Prague's National Memorial on Víktov Hill was reopened by President Vaclav Klaus in a ceremony on Sunday, and will reopen to the public this Thursday, October 29. Built in the 1930s to honor Czechoslovak soldiers from World War I, it later hosted the Czechoslovak parliament and served as a Communist mausoleum. It has now been re-envisioned as a National Museum of Czech and Czechoslovak modern history. Among the items on display are letters, photographs, and personal effects of some of the pivotal figures in the Czech revolution. Repair work continues on the memorial's 18-foot-tall equestrian statue of Hussite warrior Jan Zizka.

Topkapi to be Istanbul's New Museum District

October 26 — Turkish officials plan to turn the Sur-i Sultani (Topkapi City Walls) area of Istanbul into a new museum district. Plans call for the demolition of non-historic buildings, restoration of some historic structures, and the transfer of several buildings from other government agencies to the Topkapi Palace museum. Currently some buildings within the palace complex house government offices that are unrelated to the museum, including the ministry of education, postal and telecommunications offices, a hospital, and a vocational high school. The additional space will allow the museum to display more of its collection and open more of the palace to the public. Istanbul's Military Museum, currently in the Harbiye district, will move to Topkapi Palace.

Little Mermaid Replica to Fill in at Tivoli Gardens

October 22 — A replica of the famous Little Mermaid statue will adorn the lake at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark next year during the original's absence from that city's harbor. The real Little Mermaid statue is headed to Shanghai, China for much of 2010 to take part in the World Expo. The replica, which belongs to the family of Little Mermaid sculptor Edvard Erickson, will be on display at Tivoli Gardens from April 16 through mid-September, 2010.

Delta Airlines Expands International Routes

October 21 — Delta Airlines is offering new direct international flights beginning in summer 2010. Delta will begin flying direct from John F. Kennedy airport in New York to Copenhagen, Denmark on May 28 as part of a codeshare agreement with Air France-KLM. And beginning June 1, Delta will add three direct weekly flights from Seattle airport to Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Overall, Delta is expanding service to 17 cities worldwide.

Car Traffic Banned in Florence's Main Piazza

October 19 — Cars, buses, and even horse-drawn carriages will be banned from the main piazza in Florence, Italy as of October 25. The piazza will become a pedestrian-only zone, and the ban on traffic celebrated that evening with an open-air concert.

Cutty Sark Reopening Delayed Until 2011

October 19 — Visitors to Greenwich, England will have to wait until spring 2011 to see the historic Cutty Sark clipper ship. The Cutty Sark, built in 1869, had already been closed for restoration for over a year when it was heavily damaged by a fire in 2007. Earlier plans had called for it to reopen to visitors in summer 2010. Now the Cutty Sark Trust says that while the covering over the ship will be removed next summer, the public will not be allowed onboard until Easter 2011.

NYSE Expansion Brings 400 Jobs to Belfast

October 19 — Belfast, Ireland, hard-hit by the global economic crisis, is welcoming a satellite office of the New York Stock Exchange that will create about 400 new jobs there. The jobs will mostly be in information technology and software programming and will be based in Belfast's Adelaide Exchange building. The announcement followed last week's visit by US secretary of state, Hillary Clinton, to a meeting of Belfast business leaders.

London Travel Fares to Jump in 2010

October 15 — Fares for London's Underground will rise by 3.9 percent in 2010, with the zone-one fare using a Oyster card rising from £1.60 to £1.80. Bus fares will jump by 12.7 percent, and the congestion fare to drive in central London will rise to £10. Most London Travelcard prices will stay the same, but the price of a seven-day bus pass will go from £13.80 to £16.60. In addition, work to upgrade Victoria Station will be delayed until 2018, and there will be minor cuts in service to both the Tube and bus system. The number of people using the Tube fell by 6.4 percent in August, the biggest drop in 20 years.

Vatican Puts Galileo's Telescope and Texts on Display

October 14 — The Vatican Museums are displaying some of Galileo's original manuscripts alongside an exhibit of early telescopes and celestial globes. The exhibit, titled "Astrum 2009: Astronomy and Instruments" outlines the development of astronomy and marks the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first celestial observations. The Catholic Church tried Galileo as a heretic in the 17th century for postulating that the Earth revolved around the sun. The exhibit runs through January 16.

Romania Dedicates Holocaust Memorial

October 14 — A new memorial in Bucharest, Romania honors the 300,000 Jews and Roma (Gypsies) who were killed during the Holocaust in that country. Some of Romania's leaders have in the past denied there had been a Holocaust in Romania, making the $7.4 million memorial's unveiling a true milestone. Today, fewer than 6,000 Jews live in Romania.

Czech Republic Last Holdout on EU Treaty Ratification

October 12 — Poland's president on Saturday approved a new European Union treaty, which would create the offices of EU president and foreign minister. All EU member nations must ratify the treaty for it to be adopted, with the Czech Republic as the only country remaining to adopt the treaty. A Czech court is reviewing the treaty to see whether it meshes with the Czech constitution. It must also be signed by the Czech president, who has said the treaty will threaten Czech's human and property rights, and could open up the possibility of property claims from Germans who were expelled from Czechoslovakia after World War II.

Mary Rose Artifacts On Display

October 12 — The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth, England has put several artifacts on public display for the first time, as part of a fundraiser for a new museum at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Among the items on exhibit are a comb, a giant wooden spoon, a leather satchel, and parts of musical instruments, all recovered from the Mary Rose. There's also a new movie about the Tudor warship, which sunk off Portsmouth in 1545 while King Henry VIII watched. The new museum will hold the remains of the ship, along with a reconstruction of its missing side, and will open to the public in 2012.

Giant Eyes Gaze Across Paris

October 11 — Giant pairs of women's eyes have been printed along the banks of the River Seine in Paris, France as part of a large-scale art installation titled "Women are Heroes." The exhibit, which runs through November 2, is intended to honor the courage and resilience of women in communities racked by violence and war.

US Airlines Add Overseas Luggage Fees

October 8 — More US airlines are charging passengers to check a second bag on overseas flights. Charges average $50 one-way, significantly higher than similar fees for domestic travel, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times. Checking in and paying the fee online can save you a few bucks, but the best approach is to pack light.

"Bluehenge" Found Near River Avon

October 7 — Archaeologists have discovered evidence a smaller circle of stones near Stonehenge in southwest England, dubbing it "Bluehenge" for the Welsh bluestones it was built with. Bluehenge is about 2 miles away from Stonehenge, along the River Avon. Some believe it lends credence to the long-debated theory that Stonehenge was a huge funeral complex, with Bluehenge as the start of a processional route between the two stone circles.

Nefertiti Returns to Neues Museum

October 7 — Berlin's restored Neues Museum has welcomed back its most famous resident: the 3,300-year-old bust of the Egyptian queen Nefertiti. The bust, one of the world's most iconic pieces of sculpture, had been on display in the adjacent Altes Museum during the restoration and was originally brought to Berlin from Egypt in 1913. Egypt contends the bust was obtained illegally and is pressuring Germany for its return. The renovated Neues Museum reopens to the public October 17.

Norway Named Best Place to Live

October 5 — An annual United Nations report ranking 182 countries has named Norway the world's best place to live, based on its high life expectancy, literacy, education system, and economy. Rounding out the top three were Australia and Iceland. The US came in 13th place, and the UK in 27th. The three least-desirable countries were Niger, Afghanistan, and Sierra Leone. The report highlights the ever-growing gap between the world's richest and poorest nations. Based on 2007 data, it does not reflect the impact of the recent global economic crisis.

Ireland Approves EU Lisbon Treaty

October 3 — A nationwide referendum on the European Union's Lisbon Treaty was approved by a strong majority of Irish voters, just 16 months after Ireland rejected the treaty in an earlier vote. The treaty requires approval from all 27 member nations of the EU. World attention now turns to Poland and the Czech Republic, where ratification measures by each country's parliament are awaiting presidential signatures. Ireland was the only EU nation to hold a public referendum on the treaty, which establishes the post of EU president and changes the way the EU makes major policy decisions.

 

September 2009

Nero's Rotating Dining Room Uncovered in Rome

September 30 —Archaeologists believe they have discovered the fabled rotating banquet hall of Roman emperor Nero. The 50-foot wide, circular dining room is thought to have rotated atop a 13-foot-wide pillar — imitating the movement of the Earth — and was part of Nero's opulent Golden Palace, built in the first century A.D. atop Palatine Hill in Rome.

Liquid Restrictions to Continue on US Flights

September 30 — New technology that would allow the US Transportation Security Administration to loosen its rules on liquids in airline carry-on luggage has so far failed to deliver, with TSA officials now saying the ban on liquids will continue for some time to come. Last year, the TSA had said the new scanners would have allowed airline passengers to carry liquds in their carry-ons by 2010.

Germany Travel Alert Issued

September 24 — The US State Department issued a travel alert today for Americans visiting Germany, after German authorities received threats of a terrorist attack following the federal election there on Sunday. The travel alert asks Americans to be aware of their surroundings, maintain a low profile, monitor news reports, and consider security when selecting hotels, restaurants, and activities.

Thieves Steal Magritte Painting

September 24 — A small museum in the former Brussels home of surrealist painter Rene Magritte was the site of an armed robbery Thursday. Two men escaped with Magritte's 1948 painting Olympia, valued at $1.1 million. The thieves held museum staff and tourists at gunpoint during the robbery.

Anglo-Saxon Treasure Trove Discovered in England

September 24 — An unemployed man using a metal detector has uncovered a huge treasure trove of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver artifacts in a field in Staffordshire, England. Experts say the extraordinary find, including helmets, sword handles, religious artifacts, and gold jewelry, dates from 675 to 725. So far over 1,300 separate items have been catalogued, some of which are on temporary display at the Birmingham Museum.

US Airports Offer Flu Shots

September 20 — Many US airports are offering seasonal flu shots not only to staffers but also to passengers. Among the participating airports with international connections are Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson, Boston Logan, Charlotte-Douglas, Chicago O'Hare, Des Moines, Cleveland Hopkins, Denver, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Louisville, Memphis, John F. Kennedy, Newark Liberty, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix Sky Harbor, San Francisco, and Tampa. It is possible that some airports will also offer the H1-N1 flu vaccine when it becomes available later this year.

Remains of St. Thérèse on British Tour

September 19 — St. John's Cathedral in Portsmouth, England is drawing religious pilgrims from across Great Britain as it hosts a visit of the relics of St. Thérèse. Thérèse was a French Carmelite nun who died in 1897 at age 24. She is also called "the Little Flower" and is a patron saint for the sick. The relics will visit several cathedrals and convents across Britain, plus a prison and a London hospice.

Glasgow Airport Rail Falls Victim to Budget Cuts

September 18 — Plans to link downtown Glasgow with its airport by rail have been scrapped due to budget concerns. The proposed Glasgow Airport Rail Link project was axed as projected costs rose to £395 million. Glasgow's airport rail, and a similar project in Edinburgh, were part of Scotland's bid to host the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Glasgow will instead seek to expand bus service from the airport.

Vandalism Closes Paris' Catacombs

September 17 — Paris' famous catacombs will be closed indefinitely following a spate of vandalism. The catacombs contain the remains of nearly 6 million Parisians. The remains were transferred to the underground tunnels in the late 18th century to relieve overcrowding in Paris' cemeteries. Vandals appear to have scattered the bones and skulls along the catacomb's walking paths. More than 250,000 people each year visit the small section of the catacombs that are open to the public.

Ice Age Center Opens in Cresswell Crags, England

September 15 — Britian's new National Ice Age Center is now open in Cresswell Crags, Nottinhamshire, near a limestone gorge where evidence of Neanderthals has been uncovered. Exhibits at the £7 million ($11.5 million) complex include mammoth bones found in the caves, fossils, and a map showing Britain in its Ice Age form — as part of the Continent. Guided tours visit three caves with ancient engravings of reindeer, bison, and birds. For information see www.creswell-crags.org.uk.

Ryanair Nets £500 Million in Fees

September 14 — Discount airline Ryanair, as well-known for its myriad of extra fees as for its rock-bottom airfares, brought in almost £550 million ($903 million) last year in baggage fees and extra charges for insurance, one-way flights, check-in, and in-flight food. A group of researchers found that almost 20 percent of Ryanair's revenue comes from these ancillary fees.

Checked Bag Fees Go Up

September 14 — As of November 25, Virgin Atlantic will limit economy passengers to a single checked bag and will charge £32 if you check it in online (£40 if checked at the airport). Upgraded passengers can check a second bag for an extra £90. And as of October 7, British Airways will match VA's checked-bag prices (£40 for the first bag, £90 for every bag after that).

Codex to Join Last Supper

September 10 — The Santa Maria delle Grazie Church in Milan, Italy, best known for Leonardo da Vinci's painting The Last Supper, will display Leonardo's entire 1,119-page Atlantic Codex in a series of 24 exhibitions over the next six years. This is the first time the entire Atlantic Codex has been on public display. The codex has been called a "Renaissance technical encyclopedia" for its detailed drawings, not only of Leonardo's inventive ideas but also as a record of technology during Leonardo's lifetime. The first exhibit, "Fortresses, Bastions, and Cannons" will feature 45 drawings and opens today.

Vatican Extends Nighttime Hours

September 9 — The Vatican Museum in Rome will extend is popular Friday late night hours into the fall. Well-known as one of Europe's most-crowded tourist destinations, the Vatican this summer tried staying open late on Fridays in an attempt to spread out the crowds. The 7 to 11 p.m. Friday openings will now continue through October, with last entry at 9:30 p.m. Mandatory reservations can be made on the museums website (www.vatican.va).

British Mobile Phone Companies to Merge

September 8 — The UK's third- and fourth-largest mobile phone companies, Orange and T-Mobile, intend to merge, leapfrogging over competitors 02 and Vodafone to create that country's largest mobile phone provider. No decision has been made on whether the merged company will keep the Orange or T-Mobile name, but officials say a number of the company's now-redundant retail outlets will close. The deal must be approved by EU regulators.

Virgin Atlantic Partners with Eurostar

September 3 — Virgin Atlantic passengers can now book Eurostar high-speed rail tickets at the same time as their airline tickets. The e-ticketing agreement is a first for both Virgin Atlantic and Eurostar, and is aimed at making smoother connections possible for travelers.

Airline Shake-Ups

September 3 — EasyJet, the second-largest budget airline in Europe, is cutting the number of flights it offers at Luton airport, cancelling all flights to East Midlands airport, and laying off or relocating as many as 200 workers. The cuts to the flight schedule will go into effect in 2010. Meanwhile, the Slovakian-based budget airline SkyEurope has filed for bankruptcy and suspended all its flights, stranding hundreds of passengers.

 

August 2009

Continental Charges International Passengers for Second Bag

August 31 — Another major airline, Continental, will begin charging passengers flying to Europe $50 to check a second bag as of September 15. American, United, Delta, and US Airways already have fees for the second checked bag on transatlantic flights. Most international passengers are allowed to check one bag without a fee.

Copenhagen Seeks To Increase Cycling

August 28 — One-third of commuters already bike to work in Copenhagen, Denmark; now the city is hoping to increase that number to 50 percent by 2015. The city has 217 miles of bike lanes, recently made one major bridge off-limits to cars, and added car lanes to another bridge. Copenhagen is also considering charging vehicles to enter the city center during peak hours.

Capri's Blue Grotto Reopens

August 27 — The famous Blue Grotto on the Italian island of Capri has reopened to tourists. The Grotto was closed earlier this week following reports of a foul smell and strange foam on the water's surface, and two men were arrested on suspicion of having pumped raw sewage into the lagoon. But environmental test results released later in the week found no pollution in the Grotto's blue water.

Dutch "Moon Rock" Turns Out To Be Petrified Wood

August 27 —The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, The Netherlands has determined that what it thought was a moon rock is actually just a piece of petrified wood. The "rock" was given to the museum by a former prime minister, who received it as a gift from a US ambassador in 1969 during a visit by the three Apollo 11 astronauts.

Map Shows London Tube's Hot Spots

August 26 — The world's oldest subway system — the Tube in London — is well-known for being hot and stuffy. Now the Times of London has published a "heat map" revealing actual temperatures in the Underground's eleven tunnels range from 79 degrees at their coolest to 86 degrees in the hottest tunnels. Actual temperatures inside subway cars are probably even warmer, although they weren't measured in this study. New air-conditioned subway cars will begin running on London's Metropolitan Line next year, with four more lines to receive air-conditioning by the year 2015.

Fires Threaten North Athens

August 24 — Smoke hangs over Greece's capital city today as over 2,000 firefighters battle wildfires to the north of Athens. Wildfires are also burning on the Greek islands of Evia, Skyros, and Zakynthos. The mainland fires began on Friday near the city of Marathon and spread over the weekend to over 37,000 acres, causing thousands to evacuate their homes. On Monday officials said the area under firefighters' control was growing as more firefighting planes arrived from other countries and the EU. Ninety separate fires have been reported but so far no deaths are attributed to the blazes and most tourist destinations seem unaffected. Fires in 2007 killed 70 people in Greece and led to investigations that arsonists were clearing land for development.

Pitti Palace Shows Jordanian Artifacts

August 20 — A special exhibit running through October 19 at the Pitti Palace in Florence, Italy features artifacts from two archaeological sites in Jordan. The focus is on Montreal Castle, a castle built in Jordan's Great Rift Valley by French crusaders in the 1100s which was once at the center of trade routes between Egypt and Syria. The exhibit also includes artifacts from Petra, along with some pieces of Islamic art.

Tourists Asked to Respect Venetian Cemetery

August 20 — Relatives of people buried on Venice's San Michele Island, also known as the "Island of the Dead," are up in arms over an increase in the number of tourists visiting the cemetery there. Local families have complained that their visits to the graves of their loved ones are being disturbed by large, loud groups of tourists.

Italy Braces for Heat Wave

August 18 — Temperatures are expected to push the 100-degree mark in several cities across Italy this week, leading authorities there to issue a heat-wave warning. The high heat warning for Bologna, Milan, Bolzano, and Rome today will be extended to include Perugia, Civitavecchi, and Palermo tomorrow. Temperatures are expected to stay in the 100s for several days.

UK Airport Workers Threaten to Strike

August 18 — Workers at Gatwick, Manchester, and Stansted airports near London have threatened to go on strike over the upcoming bank holiday weekend. The union representing baggage handlers and check-in workers say the companies that own the airports have gone back on a pay-raise agreement reached during contract negotiations last year, which narrowly avoided a strike then.

TSA Steps Up Secure Flight

August 16 — The US Transportation Security Administration yesterday began the second phase of "Secure Flight," a program aimed at standardizing the way airline passenger names are compared to terrorist watch lists. Earlier this year airlines were asked to begin collecting passenger names exactly as they appear on passports; now they'll also need to provide passengers' gender and birthdates. Airlines are in the process of updating their reservation systems to accommodate the new data. A video and set of FAQs about Secure Flight are available on the TSA website, www.tsa.gov. Passengers are advised to make sure their names appear in the same form on all relevant IDs: drivers licenses, passports, and frequent-flier accounts.

Vatican Opens Late on Fridays

August 16 — The Vatican Museum in Rome will offer evening hours on Fridays from September 4 to October 30. The museum will be open from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., with last admission at 9:30 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made online for a €4 fee available online. Evening Vatican tickets are €14 apiece (€8 for kids).

Tourists Encounter Shortage of Rental Cars

August 14 — Some tourists in Europe are finding it difficult to rent a car this summer. It appears that many rental companies cut back on their supply of cars in anticipation of a downturn in tourism, and others were unable to finance scheduled new car purchases. Now a surge of last-minute travelers is outstripping supply. The problem has been reported in Spain, France, Italy, Britain's Lake District, and Scotland. Some tourists report being charged several times the regular rate. One solution may be to ask for a larger car; the shortage is mostly affecting compact cars.

World's Top Art Hotels

August 12 — The Guardian newspaper has named the world's "artiest" hotels. Topping the list: Provence's Colombe D'Or hotel in St Paul de Vence, France, which is decorated with original pieces by former guests Picasso and Matisse. Also listed: the whimsically-decorated Fox Hotel in Amsterdam), the Atelier Sul Mare in Sicily, where each room is a self-encapsulated piece of art, the Hotel du Petit Moulin in Paris, designer Christian Lacroix's homage to the Marias neighborhood), and the Broomhill Art Hotel, set amid a 10-acre sculpture park in North Devon, England.

New Magazine Focuses on "Experiential Travel"

August 11 — A new travel magazine, titled Afar, launches next month with a focus on what it calls "experiential travel." In a press release, Afar's publishers say the magazine will appeal to "cultural explorers," who seek to connect with people and places in a more authentic way than the average tourist. Magazine articles will explore cultural experiences and encourage deeper connections with other people and cultures. The magazine will be published six times a year.

Tricycles Expand Google's Street View

August 10 — Google is expanding its Street View maps of France to include photographs of major historical sights, public gardens, and other areas accessible only to pedestrians. It has hired cyclists to ride a tricycle mounted with nine cameras through sights such as the gardens at Versailles, the Jardin du Luxembourg, and Les Halles. Similar camera-topped tricycles photographed street scenes in Italy and Britain earlier this summer. The new images are expected to be added to Google Street View by year's end.

Check Your Passport's Expiration Date

August 10 — An article in the Washington Post reminds travelers to check the expiration date on your passport before setting off on your next trip. Many countries require passports to be valid for six months beyond the dates of your visit. Others require only three months. Specific requirements for each country are available at www.travel.state.gov.

France Sees Decrease in Visitors

August 6 — France, the world's number one destination for international travelers, reported a four percent drop in foreign visitors compared to last year. That figure could rise to as much 30 percent for July and August.

Tennyson Museum Opens on Isle of Wight

August 6 — Several events are planned on the Isle of Wight to mark the bicentenary of the birth of poet laureate Lord Alfred Tennyson (1809-1892). His home, Farringford House, now a hotel, has opened a museum-quality exhibit in its library including paintings, letters, and photographs from Tennyson's life. A new "toposcope" has been installed at the Tennyson Memorial overlooking the island's Freshwater Bay. And visitors can also walk the 15-mile Tennyson Trail from Carisbrooke Castle to Alum Bay. The Southeastern England tourist office has more information.

Buckingham Palace Opens to Public

August 6 — With Queen Elizabeth II away at her summer retreat in Scotland, 19 state rooms at London's Buckingham Palace have opened to the public. The annual opening is marked each year with a different exhibit about the monarchy — this year's exhibit, "Queen & Commonwealth: The Royal Tour" displays gifts presented to the Queen during her visits to member nations of the British Commonwealth, as well as formal gowns she wore on the trips. Also includes are photographs and videos of the visits. Tickets information is available here: www.royalcollection.org.uk.

Rome Sets Up Graffiti Wall

August 4 — Complaints about the rampant, disfiguring graffiti on public buildings and historical monuments in Rome have reached the ears of city officials. A 16-member clean-up crew has been formed and works around the clock, trying to keep ahead of the graffiti. And the city have set aside six miles of walls where it is okay for graffiti artists — some call them vandals — to tag and paint to their hearts' content.

Pound Rises to $1.70 Against Dollar

August 4 — The British pound has risen to $1.70 against the US dollar for the first time since October amid growing optimism about the UK economy. The pound has jumped 25 percent from its 23-year-low of $1.35 in January of 2009. Meanwhile, the US dollar has fallen to its lowest level since September.

New Service Stores Trip Confirmations

August 3 — A new service offered by www.tripit.com allows you to forward all your trip confirmation emails — from airlines, hotels, and car-rental agencies — to one central Internet depository. You can then print out a combined itinerary with all your information, or access your confirmations from the road. There's no cost for the basic TripIt service (but premium features come with a fee).

 

July 2009

EU Says Airlines Can't Turn Away Swine Flu Sufferers

July 30 — Passengers on European airlines who are turned away from their flight because they are suspected of having the swine flu could be eligible for financial compensation, refunds, or new flights, according to a EU transportation official. EU rules prohibit airlines from turning passengers away unless so ordered by a public health authority. Virgin Atlantic has said it will require sick passengers to produce a doctor's note saying they are fit to fly — potentially putting that airline in conflict with EU policy.

EU Tackles Lost Luggage

July 30 — Compensation for travelers whose luggage is lost by European airlines could go up to about $1500 under new rules under consideration by the EU. Statistics show that Europe's airlines lose about one bag for every 64 passengers.

London Counts Down to Olympics

July 27 — With three years to go before it hosts the 2012 Summer Olympics, London's Olympic organizing committee says preparations are on budget and on track. London marked the three-year point with special events at the new Olympic Park, where a new stadium and aquatics center should be finished by 2011. At the park, the River Lea is being cleaned and widened. Improvements to transportation include the new Javelin high-speed train, which will link St. Pancras in central London to Stratford International in east London in about 7 minutes, carrying 25,000 people an hour. After the games, the Olympic Park will become a large urban park.

New Brochure Maps Iron Curtain Bike Route

July 27 — A new 43-page brochure, available in English and German, maps out the 4,225-mile Iron Curtain Trail, a network of bicycle paths that follows the former Warsaw Pact-NATO border from northern Finland to the Black Sea. Trail improvements, signage, and historical markers along the trail have been made possible with EU funding. The bike route passes through farmland, villages, and nature reserves that are dotted with military roads, observation towers, and the occasional small museum. To learn more about the Iron Curtain Trail, and to download the official brochure, see www.ironcurtaintrail.eu/en.

Hagia Sophia Workers Uncover Angel's Face

July 26 — A well-preserved mosaic of an angel's face has been uncovered by workers restoring the ancient church of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. The Byzantine seraphim was among those covered by plaster when the church was turned into a mosque in the 1450s after Istanbul (then named Constantinople) fell under Ottoman rule. The angel was documented by Swiss architects in the mid-19th century but was then re-covered. Unfortunately, the newly uncovered angel's face is hidden from public view behind scaffolding. Workers will now attempt to reveal a sister seraphim on the other side of the dome.

Keats' London Home Reopens

July 23 — The north London home where poet John Keats wrote his famous Ode to a Nightingale reopens to the public on Friday following a £424,000 restoration project. The work has restored many of the rooms to their condition when Keats moved there in 1818, including the sitting room where he wrote the Ode and the bedroom of his next-door neighbor and fiancée Fanny Brawne. A new exhibit includes original letters from Keats to Brawne, and Fanny's engagement ring.

French Senate Approves Sunday Shopping Hours

July 23 — The French senate has followed the parliament in voting to approve a measure that will allow more retail shops to open on Sundays. The law must now be approved by the Constitutional Council, with a decision expected within two weeks. The move towards more Sunday shopping is seen as a significant cultural shift in France.

Ryanair To Cut Stansted Flights

July 21 — Discount airline Ryanair will make a 40 percent cut in the number of planes flying from its main UK hub, Stansted Airport near London, switching those planes to countries with lower airport taxes such as Belgium, the Netherlands, Greece, and Spain. The reduction translates to a 30 percent cut in the number of Ryanair flights offered at Stansted. Ryanair executives say it has become too expensive to operate in the UK, where the government has imposed taxes and fees on short-haul flights in an effort to cut carbon emissions and encourage tourism within the UK. Ryanair lost £169 million in 2008, compared to 2007's £390 million in record profits.

Turkey Extends Smoking Ban

July 20 — Turkey's smoking ban has been extended to include bars, cafés, and restaurants. The first phase of the no-smoking ban went into effect in May of 2008 and included most public buildings, workplaces, shopping malls, schools, and hospitals. Trains, taxis, and ferries are also subject to the ban.

Milan Bans Minor Alcohol Consumption

July 19 — Milan, Italy has become the first city in that country to bar anyone under the age of 16 from buying or consuming alcohol. In addition to making it illegal for those under 16 to purchase alcohol, the new law will fine parents who allow their underage children to drink. Critics say that "limiting wine is like limiting bread," and fear the ban could harm the Italian wine industry. The mayors of Venice and Rome have said they have no plans to follow Milan's actions.

French Parliament Approves Sunday Store Opening Hours; Senate to Vote Next Week

July 16 — The French parliament has approved a measure that will allow more retail shops to on Sundays, with the senate to vote next week. Supporters say it will increase employment and capture more tourist spending, but detractors criticize the plan as "destroying the fabric of French society." A 1906 law had made Sunday a mandatory day off, although a patchwork of loopholes allowed many shops and services to open on Sundays. The new law would give shops in Paris, Marseille, and Lille the option to open on Sundays. Sunday workers in those cities would receive overtime pay. Shops in several hundred smaller towns and villages of "tourist interest" could also open on Sundays but their workers would not qualify for the extra pay.

Iceland to Seek EU Membership

July 16 — Historically independent Iceland will seek membership in the European Union, following a much-debated vote of the parliament today. Hit hard by the financial crisis, Iceland's currency has fallen in value in the midst of bank collapses, retail bankruptcies, rising unemployment, and inflation. The ultimate decision about EU membership would require a vote of the Icelandic people and EU approval.

UK Puts Irish Passport Plan on Hold

July 15 — A plan to require people to show passports when traveling between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland has been put on indefinite hold. The passport controls had been proposed as a way to increase security and reduce the number of illegal immigrants entering the United Kingdom via the UK-Irish border. Northern Ireland had protested the measure.

Copenhagen Expects Record Year for Cruise Ship Passengers

July 14 — More than 330 cruise ships will dock in Copenhagen, Denmark this year, a 10 percent increase over last year's total and a new record. About 620,000 cruise ship passengers will visit the city. Copenhagen expects 2010 to bring even more cruise passengers to the city. About half the passengers both begin and end their cruises in Copenhagen, doubling the amount of time (and money) they spend there.

Observation Wheel Going Up in Copenhagen

July 13 — An observation wheel similar to the London Eye is under construction in the Axeltorv neighborhood of Copenhagen, Denmark. The 164-foot tall observation wheel will begin its three-month run in July, with 42 capsules. Passengers will enjoy a 13-minute trip with panoramic views of the city. The wheel is being built by the same company that built the London Eye and similar wheels in Berlin and Paris.

Global Tourism Falls 8 Percent

July 9 — The global financial crisis and swine flu fears have contributed to an 8 percent drop in international tourism, according to a new report from the UN World Tourism Organization. About 247 million people traveled abroad from January to April, about 22 million less than during the same period last year. The group is forecasting a 4 to 6 percent decline for the rest of the year. Europe experienced the highest drop-off, with 10 percent fewer international visitors.

Knut the Polar Bear to Stay in Berlin

July 8 — A dispute over Knut, the Berlin Zoo's popular three-year-old polar bear, has been settled, with Knut becoming a permanent Berliner. The Neumuenster Zoo, which owns Knut's biological father, had sued to gain ownership of Knut but instead accepted a $600,000 payment. Attendance at the Berlin Zoo has nearly doubled since Knut's birth there in 2006.

Memorial Unveiled at Hyde Park

July 7 — A memorial to the victims of the July 7, 2005 bombings in London has been unveiled in that city's Hyde Park. Prince Charles and Prime Minister Gordon Brown were among the public officials on-hand for the unveiling of 52 steel pillars, symbolizing the 52 people who died on three Underground trains and a bus when explosives were detonated by suicide bombers. The memorial is located between the park's Lover's Walk and Park Lane. The 11.5-foot-tall pillars are set in four groupings and are each engraved with the time and location of the bombings.

Entire Oldest Christian Bible Available in Digital Form

July 6 — Anyone can now access a complete copy of the world's oldest Christian Bible, known as the Codex Sinaiticus. Parts of the 1,600-year-old book are housed in four separate locations in Britain, Germany, Russia, and Egypt. Scholars worked for four years to transcribe the book, made of animal skins and discovered at a monastery near Mt. Sinai in the 19th century. The digitized version includes more than 800 pages.

European Mobile Phone Roaming Charges Fall

July 3 — New regulations went into effect July 1 in the European Union, decreasing the cost of using a mobile phone to "roam" outside its home territory. The new uniform charges for roaming cut some charges in half — for example, the cost of sending a text message drops from €0.28 to €0.11. Other new maximum charges while roaming: outgoing calls — €0.43 per minute, incoming calls — €0.19 per minute, and a megabyte data transfer — €1. More specifics are posted on the European Commission's website.

Institute to Track Stolen Jewish Art

July 1 — The new European Shoah Legacy Institute, supported by 46 countries, will focus on tracking the return of Jewish art and property stolen by the Nazis. The institute will be housed at Terezin, a former Nazi concentration camp in the Czech Republic.

Meals Tax Cut in Paris

July 1 — Beginning today, the French government will drop the value-added tax on sit-down restaurant meals from 19.6 percent to 5.5 percent, matching the tax at sandwich shops and fast-food places. Officials say the tax cut is expected to cost the French government about $3.3 billion, but should spur lower prices on many menu items and the creation of 40,000 new restaurant jobs. Taxes on alcohol remain unchanged.

 

June 2009

Lack of Cash Sinks Memorial to ABBA

June 29 — Escalating costs have sunk the much-anticipated ABBA Museum in Stockholm, Sweden. Plans to turn Stockholm's former Custom House into a museum about the band have now been scrapped, and the summer '09 opening cancelled. The collection of ABBA memorabilia will instead be sold to a promoter who hopes to stage a touring exhibition. Fans with tickets to the museum opening will receive refunds.

Cornerstone Laid for Warsaw's Museum of Polish Jews

June 30 — In a groundbreaking ceremony in Warsaw, Poland on Tuesday, the cornerstone was laid for a new Museum of the History of Polish Jews. The $144 million museum, which is set to open by 2011, will commemorate Warsaw's Jewish heritage (about a third of pre-WWII Warsaw was Jewish). It is located within the former Warsaw ghetto, where more than 400,000 Polish Jews were held captive during the Holocaust. The cornerstone uses bricks from the foundation of a Ghetto building that was the site of a Jewish uprising.

Museum of Climate Opens in Germany

June 29 — The new Klimahaus 8° Ost (Climate House 8° East) museum in Bremerhaven, Germany, about 2 hours west of Hamburg, opened Saturday. The museum includes rooms that simulate environments along the 8th degree east of longitude, making a complete circuit around the earth: from a Swiss mountain farm to Nigeria's semi-desert, a Cameroon jungle, Samoan island, Antarctica's ice sheets, the Alaskan tundra, the North Sea island of Langeness, and back to Bremerhaven. The interactive exhibits show the effect of the environment on the people who live in different places, and how climate change is affecting them. Museum directors expect 5,000 people a day to visit the museum for its kilometer-long journey around the earth.

Dolomites and Wadden Sea Named World Heritage Sites

June 26 — The Dolomite Mountains in Italy and the Wadden Sea along the coasts of Germany and the Netherlands have been added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites, while the Elbe River Valley in Germany was dropped in response to a bridge that is being build across the river. To be named a World Heritage site, local governments must present a plan for the site's upkeep and preservation. About 880 sites around the world are included on UNESCO's list.

Performing Arts Focus of Naples Show

June 26 — The National Archaeological Museum in Naples, Italy is hosting a special exhibit about the origins of the performing arts, with Greek and Roman mosaics, frescoes, and masks that are related to the theatre. Among the exhibits are 15 life-size plaster masks found at Pompeii, and photographs and models of the ancient stone theatres in Naples and Pompeii. The exhibit runs through August 31.

Visit the Colosseum at Night

June 22 — Nighttime visits of the Colosseum in Rome began last Friday and will continue through September 30, with a break in August. The Colosseum will be illuminated for the nighttime tours, which will include an exhibit on Emperor Vespasian and the Flavian Dynasty. The English-language tours run at 21:30 and 22:30 and cost €15. They must be reserved in advance (tel. 011-39/06-3996-7700, www.pierreci.it). As part of the same program, the Roman cultural ministry this summer will offer new daytime tours of the Temple of Romulus, the House of the Griffins, and the House of Livia.

Casa Buonarroti Shows Louvre Drawings

June 22 — The Casa Buonarroti (Michelangelo House) in Florence, Italy is displaying a series of 80-some drawings by Renaissance masters including Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Fra Bartolomeo, Pisanello, and Battista Franco. The drawings are part of a collection donated to the Louvre in the 1930s by French banker Edmond de Rothschild. Most of the pieces have never before been on public display.

Acropolis Museum Opens Saturday

June 17 — The new Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece will be inaugurated by Greek President Karolos Papoulias this Saturday. The striking concrete, marble, and glass museum, designed by American architect Bernard Tschumia and Greece architect Michalis Photiadis, is set at the base of Acropolis Hill with a direct view of the Parthenon. The museum's first level holds the lobby, temporary exhibits space, and a gift shop, with a glass floor through which visitors can see ancient ruins. The second and third levels hold 4,000 artifacts from the Acropolis, and plaster casts of many artifacts that are today housed in other museums, including the famous Elgin Marbles currently in London's British Museum. Construction began in 2004 and cost about $175 million. Entry will be €1 for the rest of 2009, rising to €5 in 2010.

Airlines Could Raise Prices

June 15 — The days of deeply-discounted airfares may be coming to an end, as airlines realize that the unsustainable fares fill seats but don't return a profit. Industry analysts speaking at a meeting of International Air Transport Association believe airlines may soon shift strategies, raising prices and cutting capacity. So fly now, while fares are cheap.

TSA Stops Posting Airport Security Wait Times

June 11 — The Transportation Security Administration's Wait Time Calculator webpage has been shut down for the rest of the year. The page reports average wait times at airport security lines, statistics which are then reposted by popular websites such as FlightStats, Travelocity, and the iPhone app TSAwait. With the loss of the TSA data, travelers are advised to check directly with their airports.

Snowdon Summit Café Opens

June 12 — Delayed for more than a year due to bad weather, the new café and visitors center is now open atop Snowdon peak in Wales. About 500,000 people visit Snowdon each year, some by foot and others via the mountain's Victorian-era rack-and-pinion train. The granite-and-glass building is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions on the 3,550-foot peak.

Trenitalia Faces Competition

June 11 — New high-speed trains are set to debut in Italy in 2011, providing competition for the national railway's Trenitalia service. The trains, called "Italo," will be operated by a privately-owned company, Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori, and will provide service between Naples and Turin. The trains will be able to travel at speeds upwards of 225 miles per hour, making the trip from Rome to Milan in three hours. Italo is partially financed by the French rail company, SNCF.

Venice Pushes Tap Water

June 11 — Dismayed by the number of plastic water bottles littering its piazzas and canals, Venice has launched an advertising campaign to get locals and tourists to drink more tap water. They've labeled their tap water "Acqua Veritas" and are promoting it on billboards and with free carafes distributed to Venetian households. They're also promoting the fact that Venice's tap water — available for free from public spouts across the city — comes from the same underground aquifier as San Benedetto, a popular brand of Italian bottled water. So far the campaign has reduced the amount of plastic trash by 27 tons per month over last year.

London Tube Shuts Down

June 10 — A 48-hour strike by subway workers in London has shut down most of the Tube network, causing long lines at taxi stands and overcrowding on buses. About 3.5 million passengers use the Tube each day. Some lines are still running, including portions of the Jubilee, Victoria, Metropolitan, and Piccadilly lines, as well as all of the Docklands Light Railway. The strike is set to end at 7 p.m. on Thursday but will likely continue to affect public transportation through Friday morning.

Fire Sale Prices on Flights to Europe

June 10 — Farecompare.com and Airfarewatchdog.com are reporting big discounts on flights to Europe, with flights as low as $400 roundtrip for New York to Paris this October. Most of the cheap flights are for travel this summer or fall, including $240 roundtrip from New York to Zurich, $296 to Rome; $300 to Barcelona; and $530 to London.

Picasso Sketchbook Stolen from Paris Museum

June 9 — A sketchbook of Pablo Picasso's valued at over $11 million has been stolen from the Picasso Museum in Paris, France. The sketchbook, with 32 drawings, had been kept in a glass case on the museum's first floor, and apparently was stolen after the museum closed on Monday evening.

Airline Ticket Requirements Changing, Slowly

June 8 — The US Transportation Security Administration's new Secure Flight program, which goes into effect August 15, requires travelers to use their full name, as it appears on their passport, birth date, and gender when booking airline tickets. The information will be used to compare against the TSA's terrorism watch list. However, many airline reservation systems are not yet set up to accept middle names, birth dates, or gender. Airline officials say passengers needn't worry about the requirement until the reservation systems are revamped. In the meanwhile passengers are reminded to use their given names (not nicknames) when booking tickets.

Get to the Gate Faster with Online Check-In

June 8 — More airline passengers are discovering they can save time by using online check-in before arriving at the airport. Most airlines now allow you to print your own boarding pass, pre-pay for checked bags if required, and bypass the traditional check-in line by dropping any checked bags at a "Web Bag Drop." In addition, several airports, including New York, Atlanta, Houston, Las Vegas, and Boston, are now testing paperless boarding passes which can be scanned from the screen of your mobile phone or PDA.

Bing Absorbs Farecast

June 8 — A website that predicts the price of airline fares and offers advice on when to book tickets, Farecast.com, has been rolled into the Microsoft's new Bing search engine. Travelers using www.bing.com/travel can see historical data for a particular flight route, current pricing trends, and get advice on whether to buy now or wait. Microsoft purchased Farecast.com earlier this year.

Eurostar Faces Competition

June 8 — Deutsche Bahn (Germany's national rail company), Air France, and possibly the Netherland's NedRailways are in the running to become competitors to Eurostar when the British government opens up the High Speed One rail line to new operators. The British government took ownership of the rail line when the previous owner, London & Continental Railways, ran into financial difficulties.

Venice Biennale Opens June 7

June 4 — The 53rd Annual Venice Biennale international art exhibit opens June 7, with installations at the Giardini, the Arsenale, and many other locations around the city. Ninety artists from 77 different countries are participating in the exhibit, which has the theme "Making Worlds" and runs through November 22.

Two New Contemporary Art Museums Open in Venice

June 4 — Coinciding with the Biennale, two new showcases for modern art have opened in Venice. The Punta della Dogana will display works from the collection of French billionaire Francois Pinault, including pieces by Jeff Coons, Sigmar Polke, and Cindy Sherman. It's located in a 17th-century coach house at the end of Dosodoro Island. The Museo Vedova, dedicated to the work of Venetian abstract artist Emilio Vedova, is located in the artist's former studio in a renovated warehouse. His paintings are displayed not on the wall, but on a series of automated tracks, continuously moving throughout the building.

Tube Strike Set for June 9

June 1 — The union representing thousands of Tube workers in London has voted to strike on June 9. Nearly all subway train service on the Tube network is expected to be cancelled during the 48-hour strike, causing severe disruptions in London, where over 3 million passengers use the Tube each day. The union is seeking higher salaries and opposes planned budget reductions which could lead to layoffs.

Rick Featured in TIME Magazine

June 1 — The June 8 edition of TIME magazine, in newsstands now, includes a feature story on Rick Steves by Michael Duffy.

 

May 2009

Trafalgar Square Fountain Flows Again

May 29 — A year-long restoration project is complete at the fountain in London's Trafalgar Square, where the water is flowing again after £190,000 in repairs and upgrades to the plumbing. The 1930's-era fountain was designed by Sir Edward Lutyens and had slowed to a dribble in recent years. The new pumps can shoot water 35 feet into the air and the fountain will now be lit by colored lights at night: green for St. Patrick's Day, blue for the St. George's Day, and orange-and-yellow for June's Story of London festival.

Florence's Galleria dell'Accademia Hosts Mapplethorpe with Michelangelo

May 27 — A temporary exhibit coinciding with the 20th anniversary of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe's death will run at Florence's Galleria dell'Accademia until September 27. The exhibition both compares and contrasts the art of 20th-century photographer Mapplethorpe with that of Renaissance master Michelangelo. Both artists's work celebrate the human form, and the exhibition sets 93 photographs by Mapplethorpe against Michelangelo's original David sculpture, as well as four drawings, a wax model and his Four Prisoners.

Magritte Museum to Open in Brussels

May 27 — A new museum dedicated to the artwork of 20th-century surrealist Rene Magritte opens June 2 in Brussels, Belgium, Magritte's hometown. Magritte, who lived from 1888 to 1967, was one of surrealism's great masters. The museum's collection includes 200 works from across his lifetime.

Expedia Cuts Fees

May 27 — Expedia has cut the fees it charges to book airline tickets using its website, and is also eliminating its cancellation fees on hotel, car rental, and cruise reservations. Their new policy will pass along only whatever change or cancellation fees the hotels, rental car companies, and cruise lines charge.

Delta to Still Charge $50 for Second Checked Bag to Europe

May 27 — Delta is scaling back on its plans to institute a $50 fee for most passengers to check a second bag on an international flight, as some major competitors have not matched it. The fee will now apply only to travel between the U.S. and Europe beginning July 1; the first checked bag on all Delta international flights remains free.

Delta, Air France, and KLM to Link Flights

May 27 — Delta Air Lines, Air France, and KLM have announced plans to link their transatlantic flights, providing more options for travelers seeking nonstop flights between major cities in the US and Europe. Travelers will be able to book transatlantic flights on all three airlines using any of the airline's websites, and mileage accumulated on one airline will count toward a frequent flier program with another.

Smartertravel.com Ranks Credit Cards

May 27 — Smartertravel.com has ranked the best credit and debit cards to use when traveling overseas. Capital One credit cards come out on top, with zero transaction fees for international purchases. USAA is next, with a 1 percent fee. Most other credit-card issuers, including American Express, Bank of America, Citibank, JP Morgan Chase, US Bank, and Wells Fargo, impose fees of 2 to 3 percent.

Use of Chip-and-PIN Credit Cards Growing in Europe

May 20 — US travelers may face problems when using their US credit cards in other countries. Many countries — including much of Europe — are switching to a type of credit card called "Chip-and-PIN" cards that require users to enter a unique code before the transaction is approved (similar to ATM cards). No US credit-card companies plan to adopt the technology. Although merchants are required to accept US cards with a valid picture ID to verify the customer's signature, this doesn't always happen. If you want to use your credit cards, bring several good picture IDs (for example, a passport and a driver's license). You may also want to have cash or use your debit card instead.

Ryanair to Abolish Airport Check-in

May 20 — As part of Ryanair's plan to abolish airport check-in desks by October 1, 2009, starting May 20, passengers must now check in online (£5/person charge for each flight). Online check-in is available from 15 days up to 4 hours before the scheduled flight departure time. Passengers must print out their boarding pass before going to the airport — if you arrive at the airport without a pre-printed check-in boarding pass, you'll be charged a £40 "boarding card re-issue fee." If you have baggage, use the Ryanair "bag-drop" service.

See the New Acropolis Museum For a Euro

May 20 — On June 20, the new Acropolis Museum in Athens will open at the foot of the Acropolis. As an incentive during these recessionary times, admission will be only €1 for the first six months. Visitors can see more than 4,000 ancient works in 215,000 square feet of display space. Greece hopes the new structure will help them regain the famous Elgin Marbles (which now reside in the British Museum in London).

Restored Michelangelo Statues on Display Again in Siena

May 18 — Four Michelangelo statues, part of the Siena Cathedral's Piccolomini altar, have been restored and are now open to the public. The statues, which depict St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Gregory the Great and St. Augustine (also referred to as St. Pius), were sculpted at the same time that Michelangelo was working on other masterpieces such as the David.

Less Planes Flying This Summer

May 15 — If you can afford to fly this summer, the skies will be less crowded due to the global recession, with the Air Transport Association estimating that 14 million fewer airline passengers will travel this summer compared to last summer. However, airlines are cutting back on flights, so planes will be crowded.

Stonehenge Setting to Be Improved

May 13 — Recently finalized plans to improve the tourism facilities at Stonehenge include closing one of the roads near the prehistoric monument and replacing the old visitor's center next to the site with a new center about 1.5 miles away from the stones (visitors will be able to take a shuttle bus from the new center to the site). Stonehenge will remain open to visitors during construction, which should be completed in time for the London Olympic Games in 2012.

American Airlines Now Allows One-Way Award Flights

May 11 — American Airlines' frequent fliers can now book one-way award flights for half the miles required to book a round-trip ticket. Called One-Way Flex Awards, the change lets AAdvantage members take a one-way trip for 12,500 points, half the 25,000 needed for a free round trip, and also provides more flexible booking options.

London's Popular Camden Market Reopens

May 9 — London's Camden Canal Market has officially reopened more than a year after being gutted by a huge fire. The reopening added 150 more stalls to the market, which draws as many as 300,000 visitors each weekend to its six open-air and indoor markets and bars, clubs, shops and restaurants.

New Exhibit at Hadrian's Villa in Tivoli

May 8 — Archaeological finds from the last several decades are on display for the first time in the modern town of Tivoli (formerly known as Tibur). The artifacts are displayed at Hadrian's Villa, the second-century palace built by the Emperor Hadrian, and the exhibition tracks the town's rise to prominence in the Roman Empire with a particular focus on the palace.

Louvre Highlights WWII Efforts to Save Art

May 7 — An exhibit opening today at the Louvre Museum in Paris highlights the lengths curators went to during World War II to protect the museum's invaluable collection. The display of black-and-white photographs show workers packing paintings to be shipped to the French countryside, and removing large sculptures to storage in the museum's basement. "The Louvre During the War" is on display through the end of August.

Canada to "Open Skies" to Europe

May 7 — Canada and the European Union have reached an "open skies" travel agreement similar to one between the US and EU, allowing more airlines to fly directly between the two nations and clearing the way for partnerships and code-sharing between Canadian and European airlines.

WHO Says No to Flu Travel Restrictions

May 4 — Travel restrictions would be of limited or no benefit in stopping the spread of the H1N1 flu virus (swine flu), according to a statement from the World Health Organization. The WHO is instead encouraging governments and citizens to focus on identifying potential cases and providing medical care. The WHO recommends that travelers protect themselves by practicing good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection, and delaying travel plans if ill.

H1N1 Virus Confirmed in 20 Countries

May 4 — Globally, about 1,000 people in 20 countries have been confirmed to have the the H1N1 flu virus, also known as swine flu. So far, the World Health Organization has kept its pandemic alert at level five, one level short of a full-scale pandemic. Officials are cautiously optimistic that the virus may not be as deadly or spreading as quickly as first thought. Air travel to Mexico has fallen drastically, and uncertainty about the virus has some travelers second-guessing their travel plans to other parts of the world. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Air Transport Association of America, last week issued statements reiterating that no all-out travel bans have been issued, and highlighting efforts being taken by airlines to keep aircraft air and surfaces clean.

May Day Protests in Europe

May 1 — Protestors took to the streets in many European capitals today, using traditional May Day workers' marches to voice displeasure with their governments' handling of the global economic crisis. Protests turned violent and rioters were arrested in Istanbul, Turkey; Berlin, Germany; and Athens, Greece. Marches were also held in Spain, Italy, France, and Russia.

Seven Dead in Attack on Dutch Royalty

May 1 — A man attempted to drive his car into a bus carrying the Dutch royal family in a Queen's Day parade in Apeldoorn, The Netherlands, killing himself, five spectators, and a police officer. The royal family was uninjured, but ten parade-goers were seriously injured and remain in the hospital. The driver, a 38-year-old unemployed Dutch national, is thought to have acted alone.

 

April 2009

WHO Raises Health Alert Level

April 30 — Confirmed cases of human-to-human transmission of the H1N1 flu virus (swine flu) have prompted the World Health Organization to raise its pandemic alert to level five, suggesting a global epidemic is possible. European health ministers will meet today in Luxembourg to discuss a French proposal to restrict travel to and from Mexico, the suspected epicenter for the outbreak. Cases have been confirmed in Mexico (168 suspected deaths, 8 confirmed deaths), the US (one death, 91 confirmed cases), Canada (19 cases), New Zealand (13), Spain (10), the United Kingdom (5), Germany (3), Israel (2), The Netherlands (1), Switzerland (1), and Austria (1). Suspected cases are under investigation in several other countries. Most of the patients involved had recently traveled to Mexico. So far the symptoms have been mild, with the only reported deaths in Mexico and the US.

Swiss Hikers Must Wear Clothes

April 29 — Hikers in the mountainous Swiss canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden can no longer hike in the buff, and those who do bare it all will face a fine of about $175. The practice of naked hiking had raised concerns from locals, who call it indecent and were worried it could turn off tourists. Naked-hiking participants call it an innocent hobby that has gotten a bad rap.

Lyceum to Get New Roof

April 29 — The remains of the Lyceum, the school established by Aristotle in ancient Athens, Greece, will be covered by a translucent steel-and-glass roof as part of an effort to conserve the eight-acre site. The $5.9 million plans call for the Lyceum and its surrounding archaeological park to open to the public by 2010. The work is being paid for through donations from a private company.

European Union Reacts to H1N1 Flu

April 28 — The European Union's Health Commissioner believes more cases of H1N1 flu (swine flu) will be diagnosed in European countries in the next few days. So far four cases of swine flu have been confirmed in the United Kingdom and Spain, with suspected cases in the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Italy, the Republic of Ireland, and Sweden. Swine flu has already been confirmed in the US, Canada, New Zealand, Israel, and Australia — in addition to 1,000 suspected cases and 152 probable deaths in Mexico, where the outbreak is believed to have originated. European officials are recommending avoiding non-essential travel to Mexico, and will meet Thursday to discuss whether to implement other travel restrictions.

Survey Says... Vienna is Top City

April 28 — A quality-of-life survey from the research firm Mercer found that Vienna, Austria is the world's most desirable place to live and work, followed by Zurich, Switzerland in second place. Rounding out the top 10 cities overall are Geneva, Switzerland (3rd); Vancouver, Canada (4th); Aukland, New Zealand (5th); Dusseldorf, Germany (6th); Munich, Germany (7th); Bern, Switzerland (9th); and Sydney, Australia (10th). Other European cities in the top 20 included Copenhagen, Demark (11th); Brussels, Belgium (14th); Luxembourg, Luxembourg (19th); and Stockholm, Sweden (20th). The survey considered factors such as social services, politics, traffic, crime, environment, restaurant quality, and the arts, but did not take into account the cost of living.

Flu Fears Raised

April 27 — The suspected deaths of 149 people in Mexico as a result of H1N1 flu virus (swine flu) and reported non-fatal cases in the US, Canada, Britain, Scotland, Spain, and New Zealand have world health officials taking steps to contain the spread of the disease. So far the World Health Organization has not recommended travel restrictions, but is urging travelers to use good hygiene and has encouraged governments to ready stockpiles of anti-flu drugs.

London to Join Age of the Bike

April 27 — The mayor of London hopes to install 6,000 bikes at 400 docking stations throughout the city by 2010. The program would operate similar to Vélib in Paris, where users pay a small fee for an hour's time on a bike, and can pick up a bike in one location and drop it off at another.

London Falls to 27th On List of Most Expensive Cities

April 27 — The latest Economist Intelligence Unit Survey found that London has tumbled to 27th among the world's most expensive cities, down from eighth position last year. Oslo, previously the most expensive city, has fallen to fifth place, below Paris and Copenhagen. According to the report, Western Europe remains the most expensive area of the world, with a cost of living on par with New York City.

EU to Investigate Transatlantic Airlines

April 22 — Several airlines that fly between North America and Europe are under investigation by the European Union for allegedly cooperating to restrict competition and raise prices in violation of antitrust regulations. The EU is investigating members of two airline alliances: Star Alliance (Air Canada, Lufthansa, United, and Continental) and Oneworld (American Airlines, British Airways, and Iberia).

Delta Adds Second-Bag Fee to International Flights

April 22 — Delta Airlines will begin charging international travelers $50 for the second checked bag beginning in July. Most US airlines now charge a fee on domestic flights for checked bags; Delta becomes the first to institute the second checked-bag fee on international routes. American, United, US Airways, and Continental are reportedly considering whether to follow in Delta's footsteps. Delta expects it will earn $100 million a year from the new fee.

Fresh Paint at Berlin Wall

April 22 — The East Side Gallery — the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall — is getting a $3 million facelift. After the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, a hundred-some artists from 20 different countries were asked to come to Berlin and paint murals on this stretch of wall. Now those artists have been invited to return and repaint their murals, many of which have been defaced by vandals or faded due to the elements. Organizers hope to finish the repainting in time to mark the 20th anniversary of the fall of communism later this year.

Love Unlocked at Rome's Trevi Fountain

April 21 — Hundred of padlocks attached to the gate at a church facing Rome's Trevi Fountain have been removed and are headed for the dump. The tradition of couples pledging their undying love with a padlock was inspired by the 2003 movie Tre Metra Sopra Il Cielo and started with lovers attaching locks to Rome's Ponte Milvio and throwing the keys into the Tiber River. The practice moved to the Trevi Fountain when officials removed the locks from the bridge. A similar tradition exists on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, where lovers risk a 50-euro fine. Italy's love-struck teens are being encouraged to instead declare their passion with a "virtual padlock" on a website.

14th-Century Castle Burns in Salzburg

April 20 — The 14th-century Arenberg Palace in Salzburg, Austria caught fire on Monday, sending three people to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. More than 100 firefighters were called in to battle the blaze at the historic chateau, which now houses the American-Austrian Foundation.

Overbooked Airlines Ranked

April 20 — A report in Forbes magazine found that 1 in 10,000 US airline passengers are bumped from their flights due to overbooking. The worst airline for oversold flights was Atlantic Southeast Airlines, which bumped nearly 4 out of every 10,000 passengers. The rest of the top 10 offenders: Conair, American Eagle, Pinnacle, Delta, Continental, Mesa, US Air, Sky West, and United.

Nefertiti's Bust Highlight of Altes Exhibit

April 18 — A new exhibit has opened at the Altes Museum in Berlin, Germany, with the restored bust of Nefertiti as its highlight. "Restoring the Archaeological Treasures" runs now through June 1. The exhibit includes information on 75 different restoration projects drawn from the vast collection of Berlin's national museums.

Blockade Cancels Dover-Calais Ferries; Threatens Eurostar

April 15 — A blockade by French fishing boats has caused all ferries between Dover, England and Calais, France to be cancelled. Service to Boulogne and Dunkirk is also suspended. Hundred of vacationing Brits are stranded in France, where a workers' union is threatening to blockade the Eurotunnel on Thursday. In England, the pile-up of trucks waiting to cross has led to road closures on the M20 highway near Kent.

Support Erodes for Spain's Beach Bars

April 14 — Spain's environmental protection agency has announced plans to close the traditional chiringuito (beach bar) restaurants that operate every summer along the Costa del Sol. Citing concern that Spain's beaches are over-developed, the agency is asking beach bars to move off the sand to locations just off the beach. Restaurant owners say the move would be devastating for tourism.

Fra Angelico Focus of Rome Exhibit

April 13 — Nearly 50 works by the Renaissance painter Fra Angelico are on display in a new exhibit at the Capitoline Museum in Rome through July 5. In addition to fine paintings and illuminations, the pieces include manuscripts and sketches. On display for the first time is Angelico's Saint France Receiving the Stigmata, a painting on loan from the Vatican. The exhibit marks 550 years since the death of Fra Angelico, who was made the patron saint of artists in the 1980s.

Parisian Park Hosts "Americans in Paris"

April 11 — The Jardin d'Acclimatation, a children's park in Paris, is hosting a month-long celebration of American culture now through May 10. Entertainment and activities include musical tributes to "Singing in the Rain" and "Grease," skateboard demonstrations, a basketball tournament, line-dancing lessons, a row of big American cars, and a pep-band parade. An exhibit of contemporary American art will be displayed near the entrance to the Garden. Food vendors will sell donuts. Entry is €2.70.

Luftwaffe Photos on Exhibit in Warsaw

April 8 — An open-air exhibit on now through May 24 in Warsaw, Poland shows the destruction of the city during World War II through a series of aerial photographs taken by the Luftwaffe. "Warsaw from Above" shows the Polish capital from 1940-45 to 1945, documenting the Nazi occupation and street fighting during the Ghetto Uprising and Warsaw Uprising. After quelling the Warsaw Uprising, the Nazis blew up most surviving buildings. Nearly 85 percent of Warsaw was destroyed during the war.

Italy Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 260; Aftershocks Felt

April 8 — The death toll in Monday's L'Aquila earthquake in Italy has risen to 260 people, and aftershocks were felt as far away as Rome on Tuesday evening. A state funeral is planned Friday to memorialize the dead. Rescuers are still searching the rubble for any survivors. Nearly 30,000 people were left homeless by the quake, which has reignited debate about how best to preserve Italy's centuries-old historic buildings while ensuring public safety.

London's Luton Airport To £1 Drop-Off Fee

April 8 — London's Luton Airport, home of the discount airline easyJet, will begin charging drivers £1 to unload passengers at the terminal. It will also limit drivers to 10 minutes in the drop-off zone. Luton already charges £1 for the clear plastic baggies needed to carry on liquid items and £1 for baggage carts.

Death Toll Rises in L'Aquila Earthquake

April 7 — The death toll from Monday's earthquake in L'Aquila, Italy has risen to 207, as rescuers continue to search for survivors trapped by the rubble. Between 10,000 and 15,000 buildings have been destroyed or damaged in the university city of L'Aquila and surrounding towns. The small town of Onna appears hardest hit, with 38 fatalities among its 300 residents. L'Aquila's landmark basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio sustained damage, as did the bell tower of the San Bernadino church and the cupola of Sant'Agostino church. In Rome, 70 miles away, the earthquake caused new cracks at the third-century Baths of Caracalla.

Rick Steves Tours Unaffected by Earthquake in Italy

April 6 — Rick Steves tours in Italy are continuing as planned without any adverse effect from the earthquake there. Francesca Caruso, a local guide in Rome, reports no visible damage to the city. She said the quake woke them up and lasted long enough for them to "figure out what was going on" and get up. Engineering inspectors are checking the Colosseum as a precaution.

Rescue efforts are underway in L'Aquila, the capital of the Abruzzo region (about 70 miles north of Rome), where the 6.3-magnitude earthquake was centered. Officials say 91 people have died and thousands of buildings are damaged.

Swiss Website Helps Plan Non-Motorized Transportation

April 6 — A new website launched by the Swiss government helps travelers see Switzerland on foot, by bike, and even on skates or in a canoe. The site, SwitzerlandMobility, helps plan routes with interactive maps and links to overnight accommodations and rental shops along 5,300 miles of paths.

Vatican Considers Staying Open Late

April 2 — One of the world's busiest (and most crowded) tourist sights, the Vatican Museum in Rome is considering whether to extend its open hours into the evening to better accommodate the 3 million people who visit it each year. The Vatican Museum includes the Sistine Chapel.

Fewer Passengers on European Airlines

April 2 — The Association of European Airlines, representing 34 airlines, reports that 5 percent fewer passengers flew during January and February 2009, and anticipates that March figures could drop as much as 10 percent from last year's tallies. Air cargo has fallen by about 20 percent compared to the first two months of last year. Individual airlines reported similar declines in passenger traffic: Air France and British Airways are both down by about 5 percent, while Lufthansa is off by 8.5 percent. Reporting the biggest drops are Icelandair (down 28 percent) and Lot Airlines of Poland (off 22 percent).

24-Hour Strike Disrupts Services in Greece

April 2 — More than 160 flights have been cancelled as thousands of Greeks participated in a 24-hour strike to protest the government's handling of the economic downturn, including a freeze on public-sector salaries and taxes on those earning high wages. Service was disrupted on the subway in Athens, urban buses, and ferries from the port of Piraeus. Unions representing teachers, bankers, government employees, and journalists took part.

Southampton's Titanic Museum to Open in 2012

April 1 — A new museum about the Titanic is planned to open in Southampton in 2012, a century after the "unsinkable" ship went down on its maiden voyage across the north Atlantic. Of the 1,500 people who died when the Titanic sank, one third were from Southampton (and all but one of the Southampton dead were crew members). Plans call for the exhibit to display artifacts from the ship, and include a recreated stateroom and recordings from survivors.

Wet Paint at Eiffel Tower

April 1 — An international crew has begun repainting Paris' iconic Eiffel Tower by hand, an 18-month project that starts up again every seven years. The gigantic iron tower will be repainted its signature color, "Eiffel brown." Painting the tower requires 66 tons of paint, 31 miles of climbing rope, and 25 painters hailing from Greece and Romania. The workers use small circular brushes to apply the paint.

Travel Sites Offer Refunds if Airfare Price Falls

April 1 — Some travel websites, including Travelocity.com, Orbitz.com, and Priceline.com, are now offering refunds if the price of your airfare goes down after you book and pay for your ticket. If you purchased the ticket directly from an airline, you may be eligible for a credit toward a future flight. However, most airlines charge an "administrative fee" of $150 to $250 that can wipe out any savings. Yapta.com tracks the price you paid for your ticket and alerts you if it drops to the point where seeking a refund makes sense.

 

March 2009

European Protesters March in G-20 Rallies

March 28 — Cities across Europe were the site of protests over the weekend as thousands of people took to the street in advance of the Group of 20 economic summit in London. In addition to demonstrations at London's Hyde park, protests and rallies were held in Berlin, Frankfurt, Vienna, and Paris. Demonstrators called for job creation and a sustainable economy.

Liverpool Canal Link Opens

March 25 — A 1.5-mile canal through the center of Liverpool has opened, reconnecting the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to Liverpool's redeveloping South Docks. Officials hope the new link will expand tourism in the city by bringing thousands of boats from the 127-mile Leeds and Liverpool Canal into the city center.

Danish Groceries to Accept International Credit Cards

March 24 — Danish Bilka, Netto, and Føtex supermarkets will begin accepting foreign credit cards in May. In the past the stores only accepted cash or the Danish national debit card. The stores will now accept all major credit cards issued by Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.

$4.7 Billion Loss Projected for Airlines

March 25 — Airlines around the world are expected to lose $4.7 billion in 2009, according to the International Air Transport Association. The anticipated 12 percent decline in revenue is significantly larger than the 7 percent drop-off experienced by the airline industry after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. About 5.7 percent fewer people are expected to fly this year, and airlines will carry 13 percent less freight. Losses will total $1 billion for airlines based in Europe.

Pay Homage to Beatles in London

March 25 — A new guidebook The Beatles' London: A Guide to 467 Beatles Sites in and around London takes Beatles fans to places where the Fab Four lived, recorded, and performed. Published by Interlink books, the book includes detailed maps and rare photographs.

Stone Lions Protected

March 25 — Steps are being taken to save hundreds of surviving stone lions in towns across northeastern Italy. Once the symbol of the republic of Venice, many of the "St. Mark's Lions" have fallen into disrepair. Historians believe as many of 4,000 lions have been destroyed since the Venetian empire fell to Napoleon in 1797.

G-20 Meeting Expected to Draw Protestors

March 23 — British police are warning that the Group of 20 economic summit in London on April 2 could draw violent protests by anarchists and those opposed to globalization. Anti-capitalist protestors have said they will stage a "Storm the Banks" protest that day, focusing on branches of the Bank of England. In July 2005, suicide bombers killed 52 people during the Group of Eight conference in Scotland.

Millions Participate in French Protests

March 19 — Street rallies in 200 towns across France drew an estimated one to three million people today as union workers went on strike in a call for job security and higher wages. About 40 percent of high-speed and regional trains were cancelled, but in Paris the buses and the Metro were on schedule (a new law requires minimum service during strikes). Orly Airport reported that about a third of flights were cancelled. Also taking part in the strike were teachers and workers from car manufacturers, oil companies, and retail stores. Unemployment in France is expected to jump to 10 percent this year.

UK to Charge £50 Extra for Non-EU Visa

March 19 — The cost of a visa to work or study in the United Kingdom will be increased by £50 for non-EU citizens to help pay for police and translators. The UK is struggling to provide services to an influx of migrants from non-EU nations. Some in the UK have suggested imposing a points-based system for non-EU immigrants, giving priority to those with valuable job skills and education.

Inflation At 1.2 Percent in Eurozone

March 17 — A new report from the European Union puts the annual rate of inflation in the Eurozone at 1.2 percent in February 2009, up from 1.1 percent in January but down significantly from last year's rate of 3.3 percent. The annual rate of inflation fell in eleven EU member nations, went up in 13 nations, and remained stable in the other two. The lowest 12-month average rates were in the Netherlands and Portugal (2.2 percent) and the highest was in Latvia (14.1 percent). Prices rose the most for alcohol, tobacco, hotels, and restaurants, while prices fell for transportation, communications, and clothing.

Airlines Cheat Passengers Who Lose Bags

March 17 — The Airport Transport Users Council, a British consumer watchdog group, reports that most passengers receive far less than they should in compensation for lost baggage. Although airlines are required to financially compensate passengers when their bags are delayed or lost completely, many impose rules that make it tough for passengers to get their fair share. Some require that passengers provide receipts for each item lost; others reduce the compensation based on the age of the items. Low-cost airlines offer the smallest reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses when luggage is late (about $24).

US Airlines Scale Back International Flights; SAS Drops Seattle

March 12 — Several US airlines will reduce their international flight offerings in response to falling demand. United will scale back international flights by 15 percent, and Delta will cut its international flights by 10 percent. Continental is reducing both domestic and international flights by about 4 percent.

Scandinavian Airlines has announced it will cease its nonstop Seattle-Copenhagen route at the end of July, several months ahead of the previously announced end date.

Strikers Close Acropolis, Again

March 11 — The Acropolis in Athens, Greece was closed to tourists again today — the fifth time in two weeks that striking government employees left one of the world's top tourist destinations shuttered. Contract workers are demanding back pay and permanent jobs, and have threatened to continue striking until their demands are met.

Ryanair's Online-Only Check-In Begins in October

March 11 — Ryanair passengers will be required to use the Internet to check in for their flights beginning in October, when the airline will do away with airport check-in desks. In the meanwhile, passengers flying with only carry-on luggage can check in online at no charge, passengers with checked baggage will pay a £5 fee to check in online, and those who check in at the airport will be charged £10 for the service.

Travel Insurers Offer Job-Loss Protection

March 10 — Most travel insurance policies cover cancellation in case of job loss, a feature that is becoming more popular in this economic downturn. Travel insurers are promoting the coverage, and airlines and cruise companies are beginning to join in, offering cash refunds to passengers who are laid off. Most require that you have been employed by the same company for at least one year. On the flip side, some policies refund your money if you must cancel your trip because you are required to work.

Budget Cuts Close Scottish Sights

March 9 — The National Trust for Scotland, which manages historical buildings and sites, is laying off 91 people and closing several sights, including the Hill of Tarvit Mansion House in Fife, Leith Hall House in Aberdeenshire, the Arduaine Gardens in Argyll, the Inveresk Gardens in Midlothian, and the Mountain Visitor Center in Perthshire. Volunteers will be sought to keep the Kellie Castle in Fife open.

Shakespeare Portrait on Display

March 9 — A painting believed to be the only authentic portrait of William Shakespeare painted during his lifetime will be on display at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in Stratford-on-Avon, England from April 23 to September 6. Scholars believe the portrait was painted in 1610 and later used after Shakespeare's death to create the two more well-known images of the playwright: an engraving on a collection of his plays, and another portrait.

Shakespearean Theater Discovered

March 9 — The Museum of London has determined that foundations found in Hackney, on London's east side, are those of the theater where Shakespeare's plays were performed, and where the Bard himself performed. What is now the site of an abandoned warehouse is thought to have once held a theater, built in 1576, where Shakespeare performed from 1594 to 1597. The museum hopes to eventually reconstruct the theater.

Sicily Bridge Back On Again

March 6 — On-again, off-again plans to build a two-mile bridge from Italy to Sicily are back on again. Work on the road and rail bridge, which would be the longest in the world, is slated to begin at the end of the year, despite criticism that much of its funding will end up in the hands of the mafia. The project had been put on hold by Italy's previous administration.

Sesiwn Fawr Music Festival Cancelled

March 5 — The Sesiwn Fawr music festival, which draws thousands to Dolgellau, Gwynedd in North Wales each July, has been cancelled because of outstanding debt. The Irish band the Dubliners headlined last year's concert.

London Olympics Construction Turns Up Artifacts

March 5 — Workers have uncovered multiple historical artifacts at the future site of London's Olympic Park, under construction for the 2012 games. The Museum of London is cataloguing the discoveries, which so far include Iron Age skeletons, Roman coins, medieval pottery, a boat from the 1800s, and World War II helmets.

Fares Cut on Flights to Europe

March 4 — Summer airfare prices, including flights to Europe, are down 15 to 25 percent from a year ago. Among the airlines offering discounted fares to Europe is Lufthansa, with one-way summer fares of $333 from Houston to London, $396 from Chicago to Dublin, $431 from Boston to Paris, and $439 from New York to Frankfurt.

Basque Nationalists Fall From Power

March 3 — Non-nationalist parties have gained a majority in the regional parliament in Spain's Basque Country for the first time in three decades. The moderate PNV party, which favors self-rule for the Basque region, lost its majority to the strengthened socialist and conservative parties by one seat. The violent Basque separatist organization ETA called the results a fraud because two separatist parties were not allowed to participate.

Scotland Considers Ban on 2-For-1 Drinks

March 2 — Scottish officials are considering proposals that would set a minimum price for alcoholic drinks, ban popular two-for-one price offers, and allow local authorities to restrict sales to those under age 21. Scotland ranks eighth in the world for per capital alcohol consumption.

Gelato Sales Frozen After 1 A.M.

March 2 — City officials in Rome, Italy have banned the sale of ice cream, croissants, pizza, and sandwiches after 1 a.m. The city is trying to deal with a wave of late-night crime. Last summer it banned the sale of to-go alcoholic drinks after 9:00 p.m.

Website Send Postcards For You

March 2 — Travelers with access to a computer can quickly send a customized postcard anywhere in the world with the help of a new website, HazelMail.com. The site allows you to upload your own digital photo and type a customized message on the back side, then addresses the postcard and drops it in the mail for you. Postcards are $1.50 apiece to create and mail.

 

February 2009

Ryanair Considers Charging to Use the Loo

February 26 — Discount airline Ryanair is considering charging passengers to use the in-flight bathroom. Pay toilets would be accessed with a coin slot on the door, similar to those in many European public restrooms. Ryanair already charges fees for all checked baggage, for buying tickets by phone, and for in-person check-in.

Acropolis Closed by Strike

February 26 — A three-day strike will keep the Parthenon-topped Acropolis in Athens, Greece closed to tourists throughout the weekend. The striking guards, all temporary contract workers, are asking for their positions to be made permanent and wages increased.

See the Skies Like Galileo

February 25 — A replica of the telescope used by the 17th-century astronomer Galileo Galilei has been created to mark the 400th anniversary of Galileo's discoveries. It took two years for the team of scientists, historians, and astronomers to recreate the telescope, using handmade Murano glass. The scientists are now recreating some of Galileo's original observations, with plans to transfer them to a digital format and post them online for the world to see.

Agatha Christie's Home Opens to Public

February 24 — Greenway House, the holiday home of British mystery writer Agatha Christie, has opened to the public even as the UK's National Trust continues a multi-million pound restoration of the home as it appeared in the 1950s. The house, set on 30 acres in the Devon countryside, had been the private home of Christie's daughter and son-in-law until their deaths in 2004 and 2005. Visitors are encouraged to access the home by ferry from Dartmouth; those arriving by car must reserve a parking space in advance. The home is closed on Monday and Tuesday except in late July and August. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Statue of Queen Mother Unveiled

February 24 — A sculpture of the late Queen Elizabeth, who died in 2002 at the age of 101, was unveiled on the Mall near Buckingham Palace in London. Present for the ceremony were Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the royal family. The statue pictures the Queen Mother in her younger days, wearing the robes of the Order of the Garter, and stands near a statue of her husband, King George VI.

Ryanair Ditches Desks

February 24 — Ryanair says it will get rid of check-in desks at airports by the end of 2009. Limited baggage-drop facilities will still be available. The budget airline says most of its passengers are already checking in online. It hopes to reduce the number of passengers checking their bags to one in five.

Eurostar Back to Full Operations

February 23 — Eurostar service through the Channel Tunnel is back at full operating levels for the first time since a fire in September 2008, with as many as four high-speed passenger trains and six freight trains an hour passing through the repaired tunnel. A new direct train from Ashford to Brussels that had been delayed by the partial tunnel closure is now in service.

Coke Machines on St. Mark's Square?

February 23 — Venice is nearing an agreement with the Coca-Cola company that would allow the drink manufacturer to install vending machines in the lagoon city. Venice's mayor says the 60 vending machines will not carry the Coca-Cola logo and will only be allowed only at main vaporetto landings and at parking lots on the mainland. Critics fear the proposal will lead to vending machines on St. Marks' Square.

Free Drinks on US Airways; More Airlines Say No to Cash

February 23 — Beginning March 1, US Airways will stop charging for soda, juice, and coffee on its domestic flights. The airline instituted a $2 charge for the drinks in August, but decided to reverse the decision when no other airlines followed suit.

American Airlines has joined the list of airlines requiring credit or debit cards to pay for onboard purchases of snacks, alcoholic beverages, and headsets on domestic flights. Other airlines with "cashless" cabins include Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and AirTran, and United Airlines is considering the change. Cash is still accepted on international flights.

"Stag" Parties Stay Home

February 19 — The falling pound may spell the end of a tourism boom in Eastern Europe, where bars and hotels in places like Riga, Latvia and Kiev, Ukraine had become accustomed to a steady stream of British bachelors, bachelorettes, and their drinking buddies. The demise of wild "stag party" weekends, made popular by low-cost airlines, is being blamed on the weak value of the British pound, which has made it more expensive for Brits to take foreign trips. Even cities like Prague, Czech Republic, are feeling the pinch.

Tourists Leave Guadeloupe

February 19 — Three nights of riots have caused thousands of tourists to cancel vacations to the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, which is administered by France. Some tourists who had been stranded at their hotels by the disturbances were able to begin flying out on Thursday, after police cleared barricades from major roads. Despite its strong tourism industry, unemployment on Guadeloupe is about 23 percent and about 13 percent of its residents live in poverty. Protestors are calling for the French government to increase minimum wages.

Acropolis Museum Grand Opening Set for June 20

February 18 — Opening ceremonies for the New Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece will be held on June 20. The $166 million museum was designed by US-based architect Bernard Tschumi and Greek architect Michalis Photiadis, and will hold about 4,000 ancient works. The centerpiece is a room where Greek officials hope someday to reunite the remaining bits of the Parthenon frieze with the so-called Elgin Marbles (removed to Britain 200 years ago, and now held by the British Museum). For info see http://www.newacropolismuseum.gr/eng.

Madrid Metro Museum Opens

February 15 — The new Estacion de Chamberi museum in Madrid traces the history of Western Europe's second-largest subway system. The museum is housed in the Chamberi station, which has been restored to its 1919 appearance and is accessible through a modern entrance on Chamberi Square. For info see http://www.esmadrid.com/anden0 (Spanish-language only).

Complaints in Writing Only, Please

February 12 — United Airlines will close its a call center that has handled complaints, and will disconnect its customer relations phone number, instead asking customers with complaints to send a email or send a letter. Reservations agents will still be able take complaints by phone.

Vienna Displays Items Stolen from Jews

February 10 — A new exhibit at the Museum for Applied Arts (MAK) in Vienna displays paintings, sculptures, photographs, and personal items looted by the Nazis from Jewish families after Austria was annexed by Germany in 1938. It documents the journey each piece took, from being stolen to being returned to its original owners or their descendents.

Thefts Threaten Paris' Bike Program

February 10 — Since its inception a year and a half ago, most of the 15,000 bikes in Paris' citywide Vélib rental system have been stolen or destroyed by vandals. The private company that operates the bike program is now seeking financial assistance from the city of Paris, saying it can no longer afford to keep replacing the bikes. The program has been wildly popular, with over 40 million bike rides logged in 18 months.

Darwin's 200th Birthday Celebrated

February 9 — A special exhibit at the Down House (about 18 miles from the center of London), opens February 13 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, and the 150th anniversary of the publication of his natural selection theory. Darwin moved to the house in 1842 and lived there until his death in 1882. Included in the exhibit: the copy of Das Kapital sent to Darwin from Karl Marx, the tiny notebooks which he kept on his five-year sea voyage aboard the Beagle, and a life-size reproduction of Darwin's cabin on the Beagle.

Best Budget Hotels Named

February 8 — The British newspaper The Observer has named the best budget hotels in the United Kingdom. City Inn received the top ranking for its nicely-appointed rooms at budget prices (£59-79 in London). Premier Inn (£50-88) and Travelodge (£29 and up) tied for second place, with Premier getting better marks for its breakfast. Rounding out the list were Express by Holiday Inn (£40-91) and Jurys Inns (£49-75), both downgraded for their outdated interiors.

Fewer People Applying for New Passports; Three-Week Turnaround Common

February 5 — The number of people applying for US passports has dropped to the point where many applicants are receiving their new passports within three weeks. Due to the recession, the State Department now expects to issue only 12 million passports in 2009, down nearly 25 percent from earlier forecasts of 17 million. It remains to be seen whether new rules affecting land border crossings into Canada and Mexico that go into effect June 1 will spur more applications, and raise processing time. A rush on passport applications two years ago caused six-month delays in processing.

EU Takes Issue with "Buy American" Clause

February 3 — European Union officials are upset with a clause in the US economic stimulus plan which would require that the projects funded by the bill use only iron, steel, and manufactured goods produced in the US. The EU has said it will complain to the World Trade Organization (WTO) if the "Buy American" clause remains in the plan, and has warned that the clause could lead to similar "Buy European" moves, reducing profitable trade on both sides of the Atlantic.

Snow Causes Travel Nightmare in Great Britain

February 3 — Heavy snowfall across England, Scotland, and Wales yesterday made travel a nightmare, cancelling flights and trains, causing major highway backups, and even disrupting the London Tube. The storm dumped the most snow in 18 years, closing schools and universities. Many businesses were also shuttered as employees found it impossible to get to work. The storm was blamed for two deaths on Mount Snowdon in Wales.

Ryanair: Duty-Free Must Fit in Carry-On

February 3 — Passengers with duty-free items that don't fit into a single piece of carry-on luggage will now be charged a £30 fee by Ryanair. Ryanair has said the rule is intended to limit exceptions to its rule which allows passengers only one piece of carry-on luggage. As well as duty-free items, all laptops, purses, and cameras must fit within the single carry-on.

SAS to Cut 8,600 Jobs

February 3 — Scandinavia's flagship airline, SAS, will cut 8,600 jobs as it attempts to cut costs in the face of spiraling losses. The airline's overall employment will drop from 23,000 to 14,000. SAS will sell Air Baltic and divest itself from stakes in several smaller airlines, including Spainair, Spirit, Air Greenland, BMI, Estonian Airways, Skyways, Cubic, and Trust.

 

January 2009

Palladio is Focus of London Exhibit

January 31 — An exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts in London celebrates the 500th anniversary of the birth of Andrea Palladio, the Italian whose signature style influenced the architecture of cities throughout Europe. The 200-item show includes 80 drawings signed by Palladio and 40 paintings.

Restaurant for Pilgrims Opens at St. Mark's Square

January 30 — A new "restaurant for pilgrims," La Basilica, has opened at St. Mark's Square in Venice. Operated by the same non-profit organization that manages the basilica, the restaurant will offer three-course lunches for €13 and hopes to be a less-expensive dining option than the traditionally high-priced cafés on the square.

Budget Travel Surveys 2009 Travelers

January 27 — One-third of those responding to a nonscientific survey by Budget Travel plan to take a vacation in 2009, with 31 percent planning to travel to Western Europe.

Seventeen percent plan to take a cruise, while 16 percent will couch-surf at the home of a relative. Among the most popular destinations: France, Italy, Mexico, England, Germany, Hawaii, and Costa Rica.

Strikes Bring France to Standstill

January 29 — Strikes across France on Thursday caused transportation delays for commuters and travelers. In Paris, most Metro service was disrupted, as were many suburban trains and bus lines. Flights were delayed at many airports and the rail line between the two Paris airports cancelled all operations. Several hundred thousand workers walked off the job to protest government policies.

And The Winner Is... Hoscars Announced

January 27 — Hostelworld.com has announced the winners of its annual Hoscars awards for best hostels in the world. Hostels in Lisbon, Portugal took the first three places: Travellers House, which also won awards for Best Location and Best Character; Rossio Hostel, which was also named Best Small Hostel and Most Fun; and the Lisbon Lounge Hostel, which also was awarded Cleanest Hostel. Rounding out the list: no. 4, The Riverhouse Backpackers, Cardiff, Wales; no. 5, Greg & Tom Hostel, Krakow, Poland; no. 6, Sitting on the City Walls Courtyard House, Beijing, China; no. 7, Academy Hostel, Florence, Italy; no. 8, Goodnight Backpackers Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal; no. 9, Flamingo Hostel, Krakow, Poland; and no. 10, Mambo Tango Backpackers, Barcelona, Spain. The Best Hostel Chain award went to Wombats. Hostelling is becoming more and more popular — according to Hostelling International, hostel bookings increased 14 percent in 2008 over 2007. More than 75 percent of hostels now offer ensuite bathrooms and private rooms.

Marie Antoinette's Tree is Windstorm Victim

January 27 — A 223-year-old tree in the garden at Versailles Palace was felled by a winter storm there. It was one of the last original trees in the Hamlet, Marie Antoinette's private get-away within the palace grounds. The purple beech was planted in 1786. It had been damaged but survived a 1999 windstorm that knocked down thousands of other trees at Versailles.

Financial Crisis Forces Collapse of Iceland's Government

January 26 — Iceland's coalition government has collapsed, making it the first government to fail under the weight of the worldwide financial meltdown. Prime Minister Geir Haarde has said he will resign, bowing to public demand after the complete failure of Iceland's currency and financial system. It is unclear whether Iceland's president will have enough support in the parliament to form a new government, or if a special election will be held. Bad debt forced Iceland's three national banks to fail last year, causing the Iceland krona to nose-dive. The government is now responsible for repaying billions of euros to thousands of European citizens and organizations who had deposits at Icelandic banks.

Rome's Colosseum to Again Host Gladiator Battles

January 24 — Re-enactments of historic fights will be staged at the Colosseum in Rome beginning this spring, with modern-day gladiators wearing the same costumes and using the same weapons as their ancient counterparts. The re-enactments will be accompanied by readings of poetry from ancient Rome. It's still undecided whether a stage will be built over the arena's now-exposed basement, or outside the Colosseum. The fights are one of several events meant to celebrate 2009 as the 2000th birthday of Emperor Vespasian, who began the Colosseum's construction.

Pope Gets YouTube Channel

January 24 — Pope Benedict XVI has launched a dedicated channel on YouTube to bring his speeches and Vatican news to the public. The videos are available in Italian, German, Spanish, and English. The Vatican also has its own website at www.vatican.va.

Pound Falls to 23-Year Low Against Dollar

January 24 — The British pound fell to an 23-year low against the dollar on Friday on news that the United Kingdom is officially in a recession. The pound fell to $1.35, its lowest point since September of 1985. The euro is trading at $1.29, another record low.

Michelangelo Cross On Tour

January 22 — A wooden carving of Christ, recently attributed to Michelangelo, will be on display as it tours several Italian cities. You can view it in Trapani March 6-20, in Palermo March 22-April 3, and at Milan's Castello Sforzesco for several months beginning April 6. The sculpture, which was identified as one of Michelangelo's four years ago and has been dated to 1495, will eventually be added to the permanent display at Florence's Bargello museum.

European Union Seeks Summit with Obama

January 22 — Interest in the inauguration of Barack Obama was high across the world, including in Europe, where European Union officials are planning a summit meeting between the 27-nation union and the new US president. Likely on the agenda: greater European involvement in Afghanistan, sanctions on Iran, Israel's war with Gaza, and climate change.

Dollar Rises to Seven-Year High Against Pound

January 20 — The British pound today fell to its lowest level against the dollar in more than seven years, with the pound now worth about $1.386. That's translating into huge savings for travelers planning a trip to the United Kingdom, where a £150 hotel room that would have run you nearly $300 not too long ago now costs nearly a third less at $207. The pound has also fallen against the euro to €1.07.

Magritte Museum to Open in June

January 19 — A new museum of artwork by surrealist painter René Magritte will open in June at the Place Royale in Brussels. The museum is located near the Royal Palace and musical instrument museum and will display 200 pieces of art alongside letters written by the painter, photos, and drawings. The museum will be open Tue-Sun 9:30-17:00, Wed until 20:00. Info tel. 32-2508-3111.

Alcohol Sales Restricted in Rome

January 18 — The practice of selling alcohol "to go" in Rome's bars, restaurants, and supermarkets has come to an abrupt end, thanks to a three-month ban that took effect on January 16. Locals and visitors to Rome alike have made a tradition of buying drinks to sip outdoors, perhaps while strolling Campo de' Fiori, Trastevere, or Testaccio. But complaints about noise and the recent stabbing of an American tourist prompted the crack-down on alcohol sales. Nightclubs are still permitted to sell alcohol "to go."

Museums Stay Open Late

January 17 — The Guardian has compiled a list of Europe's best night art events. Topping the list is Le Grand Palais in Paris, which will stay open until 8 p.m. from January 30 to February 2. Also mentioned: Lange Nacht der Museen in Berlin on January 31 and August 29; Nuit des Musées (marked by 2,000 museums across Europe) on May 16, La Noche en Blanco in Madrid on September 12, and Museumnacht in Amsterdam on October 30 and 31.

Frenzy of Skating on Frozen Canals

January 16 — Canals froze this month in the southern part of the Netherlands for the first time in 12 years, as thousands of Dutch people strapped on their skates and took to the ice. Hardware stores sold out of skates, businesses reported a rash of employee "sick days," and hospitals saw an influx of broken limbs. Even newcomers to the Netherlands — among them immigrants from Indonesia and Morocco — took part in the traditional Dutch pastime.

Passport Checks Begin Between Britain and Republic of Ireland

January 15 — Formal passport checks will be phased in at air and sea crossings between Britain and the Republic of Ireland, as Britain seeks to improve security and immigration control. While formal passport checks will not be instituted at land crossing points between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, "ad hoc" immigration checks will be stepped up. The new legislation also makes it tougher for immigrants to become British citizens, requiring them to speak English and have no criminal record to qualify for a British passport.

Air-Fare Sale from Seattle

January 15 — TravelZoo reports that Air France has extended it sale on fares to select European routes from Seattle. Fares for travel through April 2 start at $188 each way, but you must book by January 30. Sample one-way fares from Seattle include $188 to Dublin, $296 to Budapest, and $304 to Paris. Prices do not include taxes, which can add up to $140 roundtrip, and there is a $20 to $30 surcharge for weekend travel. For information see http://www.travelzoo.com.

Record Number of Passengers Travel by Eurostar

January 13 — The high-speed Eurostar train carried 10.3 percent more passengers this year than last, a record 9.1 million people. That figure likely would have been higher still but for a September fire in the Channel Tunnel between France and England that disrupted service. The number of passengers traveling from France to England is up 15 percent, in part due to the falling value of the pound. Eurostar officials also say the railway's move to St. Pancras in London has made the service more accessible to travelers from across the United Kingdom.

Worst Airports Named

January 13 — Forbes magazine has named the world's worst airports for delays. The top-five worst airport for arrivals are: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mubai, India (50 percent on-time arrivals); Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, India (51 percent); Mohammed V International Airport, Casablanca, Morocco (54 percent); Bengaluru International Airport, Bengaluru, India (60 percent); and Orio al Serio International Airport, near Milan, Italy (61 percent). Two American airports nearly made it onto the top-five list: New York LaGuardia (62 percent) and Newark Liberty International (62 percent). London's Luton and Heathrow Airports aren't much better (63 percent).

The worst for departures are: Beijing Capital International, Beijing, China (48 percent); Manchester Airport, Northern England (49 percent); Venice Marco Polo Airport, Venice, Italy (54 percent); Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, French Riviera (56 percent); and Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino, Rome, Italy (58 percent). The world's least delayed airports are in Japan and Korea.

Air France Buys Stake in Alitalia

January 12 — Struggling Italian airline Alitalia has agreed to sell a 25 percent share in the company to Air France-KLM. Alitalia was sold by the Italian government last month to a group of private Italian investors, and will operate independently from Air France-KLM. Both Lufthansa and British Airways had expressed interest in buying part of Alitalia.

Scotland Celebrates Birth of Poet

January 10 — The 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland's national poet Robert Burns will be marked with several celebrations. On January 24 there will be a sound-and-light show at Burns' birthplace, Alloway, and a concert and reading are scheduled at Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall. A lantern procession is planned January 25 in Demfries, and special Burns festivals are set for May 16-24 in Ayrshire, and May 23 and July 24-26 in Mauchline. The festivities continue through the July 25-26 Gathering in Edinburgh and culminate in September when Burns' epic poem, Tam O'Shanter, will be performed across Scotland. Info: homecomingscotland2009.com.

Roman Forum Spruce-Up Planned

January 8 — A two-year project to spruce up the Roman Forum has been announced. Included in the project are a new lighting system, a walkway from the Forum to the Palatine Museum, and an underpass linking the Roman Forum and Trajan's Forum. Other work will remove old scaffolding, fences, and dig sites. Officials hope to be done by 2011.

Travel Delays in Europe; Dutch Take to Canals

January 8 — A protest by Alitalia ground workers at Rome's main airport has caused the cancellation of more than 100 flights. The struggling airline is poised for a "relaunch" next week under its new partnership with former competitor Air One. The workers are protesting job cuts. Freezing temperatures and record snowfall were blamed for travel delays across Europe, temporarily closing both airports in Milan, Italy, and causing train cancellations and delays in the south of France and the Italian Alps.

But people in the Netherlands were thrilled with the weather, as frozen canals filled with ice-skaters. Hopes were lifted that the country this year might hold an 11-city, 125-mile speed skating race that hasn't been held since 1997 due to the lack of winter ice. Organizers say they need two more weeks of freezing conditions before going forward with the event.

Greek Unrest Turns More Violent

January 5 — Unrest in Greece has turned more violent, with the shooting of a police officer during a protest at the Ministry of Culture in Athens. Officials say the shots were fired by members of a radical leftist militant group, the Revolutionary Struggle, which in 2007 claimed responsibility for attacks on an Athens police station and the US Embassy. Some security experts worry this signals a revival of domestic terrorism in Greece, others while say the group is simply taking advantage of the current political situation.

Slovakia Starts Using Euros

January 1 — At midnight Slovakia became the 16th nation to join the Eurozone, the group of countries that use the common euro currency. Slovakia is the second former communist country to join the Eurozone (Slovenia was the first). The Slovak koruna will remain in circulation until January 16. Slovakia joined the European Union in 2004, and hopes the switch to the euro will keep its economic growth on track.

 

December 2008

Travel Industry Predicts Fewer Travelers in 2009

December 29 — A report from the Travel Industry Association found that 4.8 percent fewer Americans visited Europe during the first eight months of 2008 than did so during the same period in 2007. That downward trend is expected to continue in 2009. The International Air Transport Association predicts that worldwide passenger air traffic will fall by 3 percent in 2009.

Pound, Euro Almost At Parity

December 29 — The British pound has fallen to a new record low against the euro, with one pound now equaling about 1.023 euros. The two currencies have already reached a one-to-one parity in many UK exchange bureaus, where one pound now buys one euro. The value of the pound has fallen along with UK home values and declining consumer spending. At its peak in 2000, one pound bought more than 1.7 euros; a year ago the rate was one pound to 1.4 euros.

Travel Could Be More Affordable in 2009

December 28 — The upcoming year may bring with it good-value travel opportunities, both domestically and internationally. The strengthened US dollar buys more overseas, making a trip to Europe less expensive. For example, a euro now costs just $1.39 in US currency, down from its April peak at $1.60 — meaning the US dollar buys about 20 percent more today than it did just a few months ago. Gas prices have fallen to a four-year low, and hotels are cutting prices to attract a dwindling number of travelers. If you can afford to travel, 2009 may be a good year to do it.

Greek Riots Symptoms of Larger Problems

December 25 — Three weeks of rioting and protests in Greece, sparked by the shooting death of a teenager, are a symptom of deeper problems, analysts say. The unrest is being fueled by high employment and unpopular government reforms. So far the demonstrations have attracted college and high-school students, leftist activists, and members of the "700-euro generation," recent college graduates unhappy with the nation's minimum wage. Working-class and middle-class Greeks have not yet joined in the protests. Businesses in Athens are estimated to have lost about $1 billion due to the unrest.

Riots Continue in Athens, Greece

December 21 — A gathering in memory of a teenager shot to death in Athens, Greece turned violent today, as protestors clashed with police. The incident escalated as police used tear gas to subdue the rock- and firebomb-throwing crowd. A group of protestors attempted to set the Christmas tree in Syntagma Square on fire but were repelled by police. It's believed that the unrest, which has gone on now for more than two weeks, is being driven by high unemployment among the nation's young people, who are calling for the unpopular prime minister to step down.

Riots in Malmo, Sweden

December 19 — The closure of an Islamic mosque and neighborhood center has prompted two nights of riots in the Swedish city of Malmo, where young people fought with police and set cars on fire. The center was closed when the building's owner did not return the Islamic group's lease; young people who squatted in the building were later forcibly evicted by police.

Dollar Rises

December 18 — The US dollar defied some expert predictions as it posted gains on Thursday against currencies including the euro and Japanese yen. The euro fell to $1.4243, down two cents; and the British pound fell five cents, to $1.5011.

Twelfth Day of Protests in Greece

December 18 — Unrest continues in Athens, Greece, where protestors on Thursday clashed with police at the central Syntagma Square, causing shoppers and families to flee. Protestors set fire to a van, burned furniture, and threw rocks and firebombs at police, who responded with tear gas. Hundreds of shop windows have been smashed in what has become nearly nightly violence. Thursday's violence followed a mostly-peaceful demonstration march of about 7,000 students. Also on Thursday, major labor unions in Greece held work stoppages, causing flight cancellations at the Athens airport.

Fuel Surcharges Cut by British Airways, Virgin Atlantic

December 18 — The falling price of oil is allowing British Airways and Virgin Atlantic Airways to cut their fuel surcharges, beginning with tickets purchased today. Both airlines are cutting the charge for long-haul flights of nine hours or longer from £96 to £66. Surcharges on domestic and European flights will go down by about 25 percent.

Dollar Begins to Fall as Recession Sinks In

December 17 — The euro jumped to $1.44 against the dollar on Wednesday from $1.4002 on Tuesday – the dollar' biggest one-day drop since the creation of the euro. It was also weaker against the British pound, Japanese yen, and Swiss franc. This fall, the dollar surged from historic summer lows as investors worldwide sought a safe haven from the worldwide financial crisis. But as the depth of the US recession becomes more apparent, and the Federal Reserve literally floods the market with cash, the dollar is looking like less of a safe bet. Experts are now predicting that is value will continue to decline.

Unrest Continues in Athens

December 15 — Protestors clashed with police outside the courthouse and police headquarters in Athens, Greece today, with police using tear gas to disperse the crowds. Polls show that most Greeks are unhappy with their government's response to the violence, now in its second week. Over 70 people have been injured in the protests, which began with the shooting death of a 15-year-old boy. Two police officers have been charged in his death.

High-Speed Train Connects Rome and Milan

December 15 — The new Red Arrow high-speed train is up and running between Rome and Milan. Trains run 18 times and day and connect the two cities in 3.5 hours. Improvements to the track between Florence and Bologna in 2010 will shorten the travel time to 3 hours. The new train offers a speedy alternative to driving or flying between Rome and Milan.

Travel Safety Tips Outlined

December 14 — The terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India have heightened some tourists' concerns about how to travel safely. But the RAND Corp. reminds travelers that their chance of being killed in a terrorist attack is about one in a million, compared with the average Americans' one in 8,000 chance of dying in a car crash. Tips for travelers from the US State Department include being aware of your surroundings, knowing where the exits are, avoiding crowds, and keeping a low profile. Filing your travel plans on the State Department's web site allows the agency to contact you in case of an emergency. The Association of Corporate Travel Executives recommends that travelers carry these four items: an LED flashlight (for light or to signal for help), a handheld water purifier, a portable radio, and a mobile phone with international service. Program the phone with the numbers for the US embassy, your tour operator, and your hotel. For more safety recommendations, see www.travel.state.gov.

Greece Suffers Five Days of Riots

December 11 — Athens, Greece is recovering after five days of unrest and a strike on Wednesday that cancelled all flights to the country. The riots were sparked by the shooting death of a teenage boy. Two police officers have been arrested and charged with the homicide. Store windows were broken and cars burned in riots in the capital city and other towns across Greece. The Greek government has come under criticism for not cracking down on the violence, but government officials said a strong response would have only escalated the situation.

Pound at Record Low Against Euro

December 11 — The British pound today reached a new record low against the euro, trading at €1.123, the lowest level since the euro was launched in 1999. Against the dollar, the pound gained one cent, to $1.4967. The dollar is at its lowest point against the euro in six weeks.

Monaco to Stay Small

December 10 — The principality of Monaco will not spend billions of dollars to build an artificial peninsula, extending the country into the sea. The $5-10 billion peninsula would have held shops, tourist attractions, and homes, and had been compared with Dubai's new palm-shaped artificial island. It would have increased Monaco's landmass by five percent. The Prince of Monaco shelved the project, saying it didn't do enough to protect the environment.

Activists Strand Stansted Passengers

December 8 — Activists protesting expansion plans at Stansted Airport near London forced one runway there to close, cancelling over 50 flights and delaying others. Protestors from the group Plane Stupid said they wanted to bring attention to the impact aviation has on climate change, and chained themselves to fencing near the runway, closing it for 2 hours. British police arrested 57 people for trespassing. The airport was criticized for the security breach that allowed the protestors access to the runway.

Vatican Calls for Parthenon Marbles to Reunite In Athens

December 4 — A Vatican official is calling for the Elgin Marbles to be returned to Greece. Currently many pieces of the Parthenon are held in museums in Britain, France, Germany, Denmark, and at the Vatican itself. The former director of the Vatican Museums is proposing that the fragments of the Parthenon be reunited in the future at a new "pan-European" museum in Athens. The Elgin Marbles were taken from Athens to London in 1801 by the British Ambassador, Lord Elgin. Greece has campaigned for decades to have the Marbles returned. The Vatican proposes a compromise, wherein the Marbles will be returned to Athens but fall under European Union control and with a British director for the new international museum.

British Airport Tax Goes Up

December 5 — Already among the world's highest, the tax paid by passengers flying out of British airports will go up by 10 to 50 percent in 2010. Taxes will be higher for passengers flying longer distances, and thus having a greater impact on the environment. As of December 2010, passengers flying more than 6,000 miles from a British airport will pay a £170 tax (it's now £80).

Salzburg Says No To Von Trapp Hotel

December 3 — The City of Salzburg has turned down plans to turn the former home of the von Trapp family (of Sound of Music fame) into a hotel. The villa's current owners had hope to convert it into a 14-room hotel, but neighbors feared increased traffic in the residential area. The von Trapps lived in the villa from 1923 to 1938, and it was used by Nazi Heinrich Himmler from 1938 to 1945.

Airline Roundup

December 3 — Lufthansa will launch a new airline, Lufthansa Italian, on Feb. 2. The airline will be based in Milan and fly to European cities including Barcelona and Paris. Lufthansa is also in talks to acquire struggling Italian airline, Alitalia. Discount airline Ryanair has offered to buy out its Irish rival Aer Lingus. Ryanair already owns 30 percent of Aer Lingus.

 

November 2008

European Mobile Roaming Fees Capped

November 30 — New rules will cap data roaming fees for European mobile phone users beginning in July 2009. Text messages sent while roaming will be capped at €0.11, and data downloads at €1 per megabyte. The rules apply to the 27 European Union member nations.

No Passports Needed: Switzerland Joins EU's Passport-free Zone

November 27 — Passports will no longer be needed when entering Switzerland, which has joined the European Union's passport-free zone. While Switzerland is not a member of the EU, it neighbors several EU countries and has met the union's security standards to become part of the borderless Schengen zone. As of December 12 passports will not be required at land crossings; airport controls will be lifted on March 29, 2009. Switzerland will be required to increase video surveillance along its border with Liechtenstein, which is not a member of the Schengen pact.

Bmibaby Suspends Some Summer Service

November 26 — The budget airline Bmibaby has suspended five routes which fly in summer from Birmingham International Airport in the United Kingdom. Bmibaby flights from Birmingham to Rome, Milan, Lisbon, Madrid, and Bordeaux will be suspended from March 29 to October 24. Bmibaby says it is responding to decreasing demand for "city breaks" from the UK.

Horse Heads to Welcome Visitors to Edinburgh

November 24 — Two 10-story high equine heads will guard the entrance to a new park near Edinburgh, Scotland. The sculptures, designed by Andy Scott and known as "The Kelpies," will be installed in 2010 or 2011 at the entrance to a new 740-acre park of forests, bike trails, and walking paths. Each will be 114 feet tall and weigh 400 tons. The Kelpies will have a functional purpose as well, operating the first lock on the east end of the Forth-Clyde canal. Andy Scott is best known for his large-scale sculpture "Heavy Horse," located off the M8 in Glasgow.

20 Percent of Amsterdam's "Coffee Shops" Targeted for Closure

November 21 — The Netherland's new national ban on marijuana sales within 250 yards of schools will result in the city of Amsterdam closing about 20 percent of its so-called coffee shops. Closure notices have been sent to 43 of Amsterdam's coffee shops, instructing them that they will need to close before the end of 2011. Among the shops targeted for closure is The Bulldog, an tourist landmark housed in a former police HQ. The Trimbos Institute for Mental Health and Addition reports that 30 years of tolerance for marijuana usage in the Netherlands has resulted in usage rates slightly above those in Germany and Scandinavia but below the rates seen in the US, France, and Britain.

Online Library "Europeana" Launches, Then Crashes

November 21 — An online library of Europe's cultural heritage launched last week and promptly crashed when too many people tried to access it at once. Plans are for the site to reopen in December, with beefed-up technology capable of handling the 10 million hits per hour experienced last week. The website features contributions from more than 1,000 institutions. Via the Internet, users will be able to access more than two million books, maps, recordings, photographs, documents, paintings, and films made available by organizations such as the British Library, Louvre Museum, European Commission, and the state archives of EU member nations. Contributions range from digital copies of the Gutenberg Bible to 1914 film footage of the WWI battlefields in France. You can visit Europeana at http://dev.europeana.eu.

Bmibaby Suspends Some Summer Service

November 26 — The budget airline Bmibaby has suspended five routes which fly in summer from Birmingham International Airport in the United Kingdom. Bmibaby flights from Birmingham to Rome, Milan, Lisbon, Madrid, and Bordeaux will be suspended from March 29 to October 24. Bmibaby says it is responding to decreasing demand for "city breaks" from the UK.

Horse Heads to Welcome Visitors to Edinburgh

November 24 — Two 10-story high equine heads will guard the entrance to a new park near Edinburgh, Scotland. The sculptures, designed by Andy Scott and known as "The Kelpies," will be installed in 2010 or 2011 at the entrance to a new 740-acre park of forests, bike trails, and walking paths. Each will be 114 feet tall and weigh 400 tons. The Kelpies will have a functional purpose as well, operating the first lock on the east end of the Forth-Clyde canal. Andy Scott is best known for his large-scale sculpture "Heavy Horse," located off the M8 in Glasgow.

20 Percent of Amsterdam's "Coffee Shops" Targeted for Closure

November 21 — The Netherland's new national ban on marijuana sales within 250 yards of schools will result in the city of Amsterdam closing about 20 percent of its so-called coffee shops. Closure notices have been sent to 43 of Amsterdam's coffee shops, instructing them that they will need to close before the end of 2011. Among the shops targeted for closure is The Bulldog, an tourist landmark housed in a former police HQ. The Trimbos Institute for Mental Health and Addition reports that 30 years of tolerance for marijuana usage in the Netherlands has resulted in usage rates slightly above those in Germany and Scandinavia but below the rates seen in the US, France, and Britain.

Online Library "Europeana" Launches, Then Crashes

November 21 — An online library of Europe's cultural heritage launched last week and promptly crashed when too many people tried to access it at once. Plans are for the site to reopen in December, with beefed-up technology capable of handling the 10 million hits per hour experienced last week. The website features contributions from more than 1,000 institutions. Via the Internet, users will be able to access more than two million books, maps, recordings, photographs, documents, paintings, and films made available by organizations such as the British Library, Louvre Museum, European Commission, and the state archives of EU member nations. Contributions range from digital copies of the Gutenberg Bible to 1914 film footage of the WWI battlefields in France. You can visit Europeana at http://dev.europeana.eu.

Donatello's David Returns to Bargello

November 19 — The bronze sculpture of David by Donatello will be back on display at the Bargello Museum in Florence, Italy beginning November 28, following an 18-month restoration process. Sculpted in the 1440's, Donatello's David is considered the first major work of Renaissance sculpture.

Budget Travel Offers Menu Decoders

November 18 — Budget Travel has unveiled several handy, printable menu decoders, available for free download on its website, www.budgettravel.com. There are decoders for France, Italy, Barcelona, Portugal, Prague, Morocco, and China. Each includes translations of common food words and descriptions of typical menu items.

Boarding Passes Replaced by Cell Phones

November 18 — Web-enabled cell phones and PDA, such as the iPhone and the Blackberry, may soon replace paper boarding passes for several airlines, including Continental, British Airways, Delta, Northwest, Southwest, Alaska, and Air Canada. Each airline has a different system, but in general passengers will receive a text message containing their boarding pass, and then show their phone at various airport checkpoints where the boarding pass can be scanned. The paperless boarding pass is being tested by Delta at LaGuardia Airport and by American airlines at Chicago O'Hare, LAX, and Orange County airports.

Giant Light Sculpture to Replace Colossus of Rhodes

November 17 — German artist Gert Hof has been tapped to recreate the Colossus of Rhodes as a gigantic light sculpture. The original Colossus was built on the Aegean island of Rhodes and is believed to have stood over 120 feet tall before being destroyed by an earthquake in 226 B.C. The new €200 million Colossus is expected to exceed its predecessor in height and will be combination of metal and light. The announcement was made at the a meeting of the World Trade Center Association in Dubai.

Strikes Cause Travel Disruptions in France

November 17 — A week of transportation problems awaits travelers in France, where rolling strikes by various unions are disrupting public services. A four-day strike by airline workers, expected to end late today, has caused the cancellation of hundreds of domestic and international flights. Rail workers plan to strike on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by teachers on Thursday and postal workers on Saturday. The unions are protesting government proposals to increase the number of hours in the work week and raise the mandatory retirement age.

Solar-Powered Vatican

November 16 — The Vatican has sought help from a higher power — this week firing up 2,400 solar panels on the roof of the Paul VI auditorium, which is used for the Pope's weekly audience in winter and bad weather. The solar panels will generate enough power to provide lighting, heating, and air-conditioning to the 6,300-seat auditorium, with extra power going to nearby buildings. Pope Benedict has been praised by environmental groups for his focus on environmental problems.

Scotland Replants Its Forest

November 15 — Volunteers and conservationists are working to restore forested lands in Scotland, with the goal of creating a greenbelt of reforested and ancient forest that will stretch across the country. So far the nonproft Trees for Life has planted 750,000 trees in an effort to join up patches of forest. There's also talk of reintroducing native species such as beaver, wild boar, and even the wolf. Trees for Life offers week-long planting trips, where volunteers plant trees in exchange for a stay in rustic accommodations: www.treesforlife.org.uk.

Greek Necropolis Unearthed in Sicily

November 11 — Archaeologists have discovered a huge, ancient Greek necropolis in the town of Termini Imerese in northern Sicily. The necropolis is thought to contain up to 10,000 tombs dated from between the sixth and fifth centuries B.C., including soldiers and civilians who died in the Battle of Himera in 480 B.C. The necropolis was discovered during construction of a railway, and the finds will ultimately be displayed at a new museum.

Rome Reconstructed

November 12 — Enthusiasts of classical Rome can see the ancient city come to life in two new formats. Google Earth has unveiled its version of ancient Rome, which shows the city just as it appeared on April 1, A.D. 320. The animated map allows users to float over the city in a sort of "virtual time machine," which includes 6,700 digitally-reconstructed structures. Users can go inside ten structures, including the Colosseum. The digital project was begun in 1997 at the University of Virginia. See it for yourself at http://earth.google.com/rome/. Tourists in Rome itself can experience the city in a new 3-D attraction opening November 20 near the Colosseum. Rewind Rome allows tourists to see a simulation of Rome as it appeared in A.D. 310, with virtual visits to reconstructed monuments including the Forum and the temple of Vesta. While based on archaeological evidence, the simulation includes a visit with a virtual Emperor Maxentius and a trip inside a crowd-filled Colosseum.

Europe Goes Bananas for Bicycle Sharing

November 9 — Bicycling-sharing programs in European cities are proving to be wildly popular in cities from Paris, France to Barcelona, Spain, where each bike logs about 10 rides a day. Even Rome has started a small trial program, Roma-n-Bici. The bike-sharing programs are aimed at easing congestion and reducing the environmental impact of motorized transport. They're made possible by smart-card technology that allows locals to quickly pick up and drop off bikes at hundreds of stands across a city. Most programs are not set up for tourists, and do not accept US credit cards as payment. North American cities have been slow to follow the trend, due to longer commutes and helmet laws, although Washington, D.C. and Montreal, Canada have trial programs underway.

United Drops Second Bag Fee

November 7 — United Airlines has changed course and will not institute a proposed $50 fee for the second piece of checked luggage. The fee will instead stay at $25, with a 20 percent discount to travelers who pay online for their first checked bag.

New Guidebook For Disabled Visitors to Venice

November 5 — A new guidebook to Venice offers help to travelers who use wheelchairs or have other mobility problems. The book offers detailed information on potential accessibility problems at popular sights, and short-cuts to help travelers get around (such as hidden elevators at sights, bridges with wheelchair lifts, and restaurants with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms). The book could also be of use to older travelers. For more info, see www.easytravelbooks.com.

Venice Keeps Up Its Cleanliness Campaign

November 4 — Venice is extending its campaign to keep the city clean even in the winter, posting bilingual signs at major sights and on Grand Canal water-buses. Six police officers are roaming St. Mark's Square to enforce a ban on eating there. A recent ban on birdfeed vendors has reduced the number of pigeons in the square to a few thousand, down from a high of 20,000.

Mediterranean Union Picks Barcelona for HQ

November 4 — The fledgling 43-national Mediterranean Union has picked the Spanish city of Barcelona for its headquarters. The union includes 27 European Union nations and several countries in Africa and the Middle East, and aims to improve water quality, seek renewable energy, and expand education.

Delta Airlines Adds Fee for First Bags

November 4 — Delta Airlines has given in to the trend, and will begin charging domestic passengers $15 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second checked bag. Delta, which is merging with Northwest, also announced it will eliminate some fuel surcharges for tickets purchased with SkyMiles. Several other fees have been reduced slightly to align with Northwest's fee structure.

Ryanair Hopes to Offer Cheap Trans-Atlantic Flights

November 2 — The Irish discount airline Ryanair, well-known in Europe for its rock-bottom prices, would like to begin offering trans-Atlantic flights for as little as €10 before taxes and fees. It is proposing service from airports near Dublin and London to US destinations such as New York, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Boston.

 

October 2008

Italian Wine Prices Fall

October 31 — About five percent more wine was harvested this year in Italy than in 2007, but the national winemakers association is predicting that prices will be about 20 percent less due to a drop in demand. The volume of exports of Italian wine to the US have fallen by nearly six percent.

EU to Approve Croatia's Membership

October 31 — Croatia could become a member of the European Union by 2011, provided it meets all the conditions in an EU report set to be approved this week. The report also outlines political reforms necessary if Turkey is to become an EU member, and says Serbia could become an EU candidate if it cooperates with the UN war crimes tribunal.

Airline Roundup

October 30 — The Denmark-based budget carrier Sterling Airlines is filing for bankruptcy and has suddenly ceased operations, stranding thousands of passengers. Sterling flew to 40 European destinations from hubs in Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm. Sterling joins several other airlines that have gone belly up in recent months, including XL Airways, Zoom, Eos, MAXjet and Silverjet.

Another discount airline, British-based BMI, announced yesterday that it will be taken over by Germany's Lufthansa Airlines, which will take an 80 percent share in the airline. The remaining 20 percent of BMI is owned by Scandinavia Airlines. BMI flies to 51 destinations and is the second-biggest carrier at London's Heathrow airport.

Domestically, the US government has given the green light to a merger between Delta and Northwest Airlines. Delta hopes to complete its buyout of Northwest by the end of the year.

Amsterdam's Museumnacht is November 1

October 29 — For the eighth year in a row, Amsterdam's top museums will stay open until 2 a.m. on November 1. On Museumnacht, 41 museums remain open late with fun activities for museum-goers. After the museums close, nine nightclubs will continue the celebration until dawn. Among the activities planned: a jazz concert at the 17th-century Portuguese Synagogue, a low-budget bar in Rembrandt's kitchen at the Rembrandt House, champagne tours at the Van Loon Museum, a live concert of 18th-century music at the Tassen Museum of purses, and love potions to sample at the van Gogh Museum. Tickets are €17 and information is available (in Dutch only) at www.n8.nl/2008.

Bid to Save Red Phone Boxes

October 27 — Small towns across Britain are scrambling to save their red telephone boxes. The phone booths, one an ubiquitous symbol of Britain, are in danger of disappearing altogether as British Telecom takes them out of service. Nearly 300 town councils have applied to "adopt" the telephone boxes, paying £500 a year for maintenance and to keep the phone operational.

Avoid the Rush: Apply Now for Passport

October 26 — Travelers are being advised to apply now for US passports for travel next year. Changes to US passport requirements being implemented in June 2009 are expected to result in a rush to get passports this coming winter and spring. The changes will require travelers to carry passports or the new "passport card" when traveling by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. (Passports are already required for all international air travel). The federal government has added staff in anticipation of a surge in applications, but recommends applying now, when the number of applications is at its traditional low point.

Rising Dollar Goes Farther in Europe

October 22 — American travelers to Europe are starting to see the silver lining in the global economic crisis, as the dollar makes strong gains against the world's benchmark currencies. The euro this week fell to $1.28, its lowest point in two years, and the British pound fell to $1.653, a five-year low.

Full Disclosure Required for European Airlines

October 22 — A new European Union rule requires airlines to clearly show — up-front — all taxes, fees, and surcharges added to the base price of a ticket. Any optional supplements and upgrades must also be presented to the consumer at the start of the booking process as "opt-in" choices. The new rules are intended to protect consumers using airline websites from "bait and switch" tactics where one price is displayed on the initial page, but a different — and much higher — price appears late in the booking process. Discount European airlines have been accused of misleading consumers in this way, often by automatically tacking on optional upgrades.

More Travelers Rely on Frequent-Flier Miles

October 21 — Airlines report that more customers are using frequent-filer miles to travel this year. For example, over 20 percent more frequent-flier miles have been cashed in at Continental Airlines this year than last. Despite a slew of new fees and restrictions on frequent-flier miles, many travelers are burning up their frequent-file miles as a way to pay for higher-priced airfare.

London's WWII Underground Tunnels For Sale

October 20 — A maze of underground tunnels in central London built to protect citizens from German bombs during World War II is up for sale. The tunnels are about 100 feet below the city and about a mile long. They were originally used by MI6, Britain's intelligence agency. After the war, the tunnels were used to store government documents and as a long-distance telephone exchange.

EU Keeps Climate Change Plan

October 16 — The European Union will keep to its plan of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by the year 2020, despite the recent global financial crisis. Poland and six other Eastern European countries had proposed pulling back from the commitment. The plan will require countries and businesses to implement cleaner technology, seek renewable energy, and reduce emissions from vehicles and manufacturers. The EU's original 15 member nations are on track to meet an earlier goal of cutting emissions by 8 percent by 2012.

Restoration Begins on Berlin Wall East Side Gallery

October 16 — A three-quarter-mile long remnant of the Berlin Wall known as the East Side Gallery will be dismantled and restored. The section of the wall was covered with murals in 1990 and attracts throngs of tourists. The $3 million restoration project will replace the original concrete with longer-lasting material, and the original 118 artists or their assistants are being asked to recreate their murals. The goal is to have the restored wall in place by November 9, 2009, the 20th anniversary of the fall of the wall.

Holmenkollen Ski Jump To Come Down

October 15 — Work to tear down a landmark in Oslo, Norway — the Holmenkollen Ski Jump — was to begin on Thursday. The jump, which was built used for the 1952 Winter Olympics, is being replaced in advance of the 2011 Nordic Skiing World Championships. Construction of the new ski jump is expected to be finished by 2010.

Fuel Surcharges Drop

October 14 — The falling price of oil has led some transatlantic airlines to reduce their fuel surcharges. According to Bestfares.com, fuel surcharges have dropped by an average of 18 percent, to about $280 per ticket, on flights from the eastern US to Rome, Madrid, and Amsterdam. Surcharges on flights from the western US to London have gone down about 17 percent, to about $366 per ticket. Industry analysts say the cuts may also reflect declining demand for flights to Europe.

Rising Seas Threaten Treasured Sites

October 13 — A recent report lists 142 ancient monuments, 111 historic buildings, and one historic garden which are at risk of flooding or erosion due to rising seas along the coast of southwest England. On the list: St. Michael's Mount, off Penzance in Cornwall; the boathouse at Agatha Christie's summer house in Devon; and Westbury Court Garden in Gloucestershire.

Top Art Museums Branch Out

October 10 — Paris's Louvre and Pompidou museums are opening branches in rural France, as well as in international destinations. The Pompidou will open a branch in the French city of Metz in 2010, while the Louvre is building an annex in Lens that will open in 2011. Another branch of the Louvre is being built in Abu Dhabi, and a branch of the Pompidou in Shanghai.

Ancient Stadium Opens to Public

October 10 — An ancient Roman stadium in Pozzuoli, Italy (near Naples) is once again open to the public, almost five centuries after it was buried by volcanic ash in the 1538 eruption of Mount Nuovo. A road was built through the center of the stadium in the 1930s. Archaeologists have dug out about half of the structure, which was built by Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius in 142 AD.

Green Light for Stansted Airport Expansion

October 9 — Stansted Airport near London has the go-ahead to expand, under a plan that would allow the airport to serve an additional 23,000 flights and 10 million passengers a year. The proposal had been shut down by a local council on environmental grounds, but the ruling was overturned by the UK transportation secretary. Long-term plans call for construction of a second runway at Stansted, which is located about 40 miles northeast of London and serves as a hub for several low-cost airlines.

Oil Prices Fall but Airfares Stay High

October 8 — The price of oil has fallen by roughly one-third since July — but it's still about 25 percent higher than it was at this time last year. Most airlines continue to struggle with high fuel costs. They have also cut back on capacity, so there are fewer tickets to buy. These two factors are keeping airfares high. Analysts say that oil must fall to $80 a barrel, or customer demand drop sharply, before we'll see any price relief on airfares.

Ryanair Considers Transatlantic Flights

October 8 — Europe's leading low-cost airline, Ryanair, is considering starting up a budget airline to fly between the US and Europe. The no-frills transatlantic service could be running within three years, according to Ryanair's CEO. The announcement drew comparisions to Canadian transatlantic start-up, Zoom Airlines, which went out business in August after only six years.

French Rail To Provide Taxis

October 7 — The French national rail operator SNCF plans to buy several hundred taxis in a bid to end the long lines for taxis at major train stations in Paris. The city currently has about 16,000 taxis — a number that has only gone up by about 2,000 since 1937. The SNCF fleet of taxis will use electric cars and be assigned specifically for use by rail passengers. The plan has drawn criticism from the taxi drivers' union, which is opposed to issuing additional licenses for taxi drivers.

US to Build New London Embassy

October 2 — The US will sell its embassy building on London's Grosvenor Square and build a new, more-secure embassy facility south of the River Thames. The US has had a presence on Grosvenor Square since the late 18th century. The relocation will take about five years.

Scots Plans Year-Long Homecoming Celebration

October 1 — Scotland will mark the 250th birthday of its national poet, Robert Burns, in 2009 with a year-long Homecoming celebration. Events kick off on Burns Night (January 25) and wrap up on St. Andrew's Day (November 30), with a country-wide program of events celebrating Scotland's culture, heritage, and contributions to the world, including Burns himself, whisky, and golf. One of the largest events will be Edinburgh's annual Gathering of the Clans, planned for July 25-26, 2009, with traditional Highland Games and a Clan Pageant.

Lower Estimate of Dresden Bombing Deaths

October 1 — A new report has pegged the number of people killed in the Allied bombing of Dresden, Germany during World War II at 25,000. Earlier estimates has put the number as high as 135,000. The civilian death toll in Dresden has long been a source of controversy. The report was commissioned by the German government and based on four years of research. Additional research will continue through 2009.

 

September 2008

New Bridge Could Be Dangerous

September 30 — Venice's new Constitution Bridge, the controversial Calatrava-designed glass-and-steel structure, opened at midnight on September 11. Since then at least 10 tourists have been injured on the bridge, tripping over its irregular-size stone and glass steps. The city council has said it has no plans to make changes to the steps — intended to encourage people to stop and take in the view — but may consider adding some warning signs.

Pope Urges Tourists to Travel Green

September 29 — Pope Benedict XVI today issued a call for people to live more simply and ethically, saying that people have a responsibility to protect nature and end the "indiscriminate use" of the earth's resources. The pope also urged tourists to travel in a sustainable way, with respect for the environment and local cultures.

Police Crack Down on Naples Mafia

September 30 — Police have made more than 30 arrests in a wide-scale crackdown on the Camorra Mafia ring in Naples, and have taken into custody three suspects in a recent massacre of African immigrants. Police seized automatic weapons and contraband police uniforms from a Mafia "safe house." Several hundred Army troops and extra police have been sent to the area.

Vacuum to Blame for Cutty Sark Fire

September 30 — Investigators have determined that the £10 million fire that seriously damaged the historic 19th-century ship Cutty Sark was sparked by a vacuum left switched on for two days. Some parts of the ship, which had been taken to another site for restoration, escaped damage. The fire pushed back the Cutty Sark's reopening in Greenwich to 2010. Once completed, visitors will be able to walk through and even under the ship.

Solar-Powered Vatican

September 29 — The Vatican is looking to a higher power — literally. It has installed 2,700 solar panels on the roof of the Paul VI auditorium, used for the Pope's weekly audience with pilgrims when the weather is bad. The solar panels will generate enough power to provide lighting, heating, and air-conditioning to the auditorium. When the auditorium is not in use, the power generated will be used in other parts of the Vatican facility. Pope Benedict XVI has been outspoken in support of using global resources more thoughtfully.

Brits Consider Changes to Rules of Succession

September 25 — Britain's government is circulating a proposal that would end the country's 300-year-old ban on Catholics ascending to the crown. The changes would also make it possible for a first-born daughter to become heir to the throne ahead of her later-born brothers. Current law excludes Catholics from succession and gives priority to male children. Some fear that any changes to the rules governing succession will eventually lead to the dissolution of the royalty.

Economy Puts Crimp in French Lunch

September 24 — The slowing economy has come to France, where 3,000 restaurant and bars closed their doors last month. Fewer French people are indulging in the traditional, leisurely, three-course lunch, instead grabbing a quick and cheap bite to-go at a supermarket or boulangerie. Those who still go out for lunch are ordering fewer extras such as appetizers, wine, coffee, or dessert.

Alitalia May Lose License

September 22 — Troubled Italian airline Alitalia may have to give up its aviation license this week unless its finances stabilize, the Italian government has said. A proposed bailout plan was voted down by the airline's unions last week, and the bankrupt airline could soon be forced to cancel all of its flights.

Stonehenge Dated to 2300 B.C.

September 21 — New, advanced carbon-dating has pinpointed the date of Stonehenge's construction to about 2300 B.C., about 300 years earlier than previously thought. An excavation inside the henge has also led archeologists to a new theory about the stone structure, which they now believe was a center of healing that drew people from as far away as the Alps. New evidence shows that people lived at the Stonehenge site as early at 7200 B.C.

Fire-Damaged Chunnel to Reopen

September 21 — The second train tunnel between France and Britain will reopen on Monday, after having been closed since a September 11 fire. The cause of the fire, which injured six people and destroyed a train and 27 trucks, has not been identified. The reopening will increase the number of daily trains between London to Brussels and Paris, which had been cut in half by the closure.

Cracks Return on Michelangelo's David

September 19 — Small cracks in Michelangelo's famous sculpture of David are back, less than four years after a major restoration of the statue. Experts at the Uffizi Museum in Florence, Italy blame the vibrations from tourists' footsteps, and are proposing a €1 million plan to insulate the statue.

Bankrupt Alitalia Begins Cancelling Flights

September 18 — The latest proposal by a group of investors to buy bankrupt Italian airline Alitalia has been rejected by the airline's unions. Alitalia has said it is running too low on cash to purchase jet fuel, and cancelled about 50 domestic and international flights on Wednesday due to striking unionmembers.

Resources for Americans Voting Abroad

September 15 — Several organizations are trying to make it easier for Americans abroad to take part in this fall's presidential elections. The Overseas Vote Foundation website allows voters overseas to print out an absentee ballot, filled in with the federal candidates unique to your home zip code, and return the ballots by FedEx for free or at a discount. Information on voting while abroad is also available through the websites of DemocratsAbroad, RepublicansAbroad, and the Federal Voting Assistance Program.

Eurostar Limits Service After Fire

September 14 — The Eurostar train is running again beneath the English Channel after a truck fire closed the tunnel last week. Service between Paris and London is limited to about 10 trains each way. About five trains a day are running between Brussels and London. Trains are running in one of the two tunnels; the second tunnel, where the fire occurred, remains closed. Due to the limited schedule, Eurostar is asking passengers to cancel or reschedule trips planned for this week. The tunnel remains closed to car and truck traffic.

Jumbo Hostel To Open at Stockholm-Arlanda Airport

September 12 — Sweden's newest hostel is a decommissioned 1976 Boeing 747-200 at the Stockholm-Arlanda airport. Opening in December 2008, the Jumbo Hostel will offer 25 triple rooms at about €110 per night (the cockpit suite will go for €500). The plane sits near the airport's main entrance and from the outside looks nearly flight-worthy — aside from its missing engines.

Modern-Art Exhibit at Versailles Draws Mixed Reviews

September 10 — A display of Jeff Koons' modern art sculpture has taken over the palace and gardens at Versailles outside Paris, drawing praise from some but criticism from palace purists. The 17 sculptures by American artist Koons include an aluminum red lobster hanging in the Mars Salon, a ceramic Michael Jackson in the Venus Salon, and a group of vacuum cleaners beneath a portrait of Marie Antoinette. The first large-scale display of contemporary art at Versailles will run through December 14.

Holiday Airfare Up 30 Percent

September 10 — Domestic travelers can expect to pay up to 30 percent more to fly over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, according to a report from Seattle-based Farecast.com. Fares for Thanksgiving 2008 are up 35 percent from 2007, while Christmas and New Year's fares are up 31 percent, averaging $420-490 for popular domestic routes. Farecast says that travelers flying to and from major airports may see prices drop the first part of October but everyone else should book early and be prepared to pay more than last year. Those who can extend their trip a few days beyond the most popular travel dates can save a few bucks.

British Airlines Urge Review of Liquid Ban

September 9 — Virgin Atlantic is asking the British government to review its restrictions for carry-on luggages, saying people are confused by varying restrictions at different airports across the world, and specifically asking for a review of the ban on liquids. The request follows the conclusion of a trial of eight men who allegedly plotted to blow up commercial airplanes using liquid explosives. Three were convicted of conspiracy to commit murder, four were found guilty of lesser charges, and one was cleared.

London Transit Fares to Go Up in '09

September 8 — Already among the highest in the world, London's transit fares will go up again in 2009. The least-expensive fare on the London Underground (using a prepaid Oyster card) and the least-expensive bus ticket will each go up by 10 pence, the Tube to £1.60 and the bus to £1.

Bridge to Link Denmark and Germany

September 4 — Work on a 12-mile bridge across the Baltic Sea linking Denmark and Germany could begin in 2012, with the bridge opening in 2018. The bridge would replace ferries between the two countries, and would go from Rodbyhavn, Denmark to Puttgarden, Germany. Denmark will foot the bill for the $7.4 billion toll bridge, which is opposed by some environmental groups and local residents.

London's Natural History Museum to Open New Wing in 2009

September 3 — A new wing at the Natural History Museum in London has been unveiled but won't open to the public until September 2009. Called the "Cocoon," the eight-story, temperature controlled structure set inside a glass atrium will eventually hold more than 20 million plant and insect specimens, along with labs for 200 scientists. Visitors to the museum, officially named the "Darwin Center Phase Two," will be able to watch scientists at work, researching everything from disease to climate change.

United Won't Charge for Overseas Meals

September 2 — United Airlines has changed its mind about charging coach-class customers for meals on flights over the Atlantic, and will instead continue to provide hot meal service for free on overseas flights. It will go forward with plans to replace hot meals for business-class customers with cold sandwiches on more than a dozen domestic flights.

Constitution Bridge to Open in Venice

September 2 — The controversial new bridge over Venice's Grand Canal is slated to open sometime on September 17, 18, or 19. Plagued by cost overruns and redesigns, the €11 million glass-and-steel bridge designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava will open to little fanfare. An inauguration ceremony that would have been attended by the Italian president has been cancelled, and Venice's mayor has said he'll mark the bridge's opening with a drink in a local bar. The structure has been named "Constitution Bridge" to honor the 60th anniversary of Italy's constitution, and links the Venice train station with Piazzale Roma.

 

August 2008

Discount Airline Shuts Down

August 28 — Zoom, a low-cost carrier specializing in flights between the United Kingdom and North America, has suspended operations due to financial difficulties. All of the airline's flights have been cancelled, leaving some passengers stranded.

Dollar Stronger Against the Euro

August 28 — This week the euro hit a six-month low, dropping to around $1.45 against the dollar. Gloomy predictions about the European economy have hurt both the euro and the British pound, which dipped to around $1.83.

Computer System Failure Delays US Flights

August 27 — Hundreds of flights were delayed yesterday when software that processes flight plans malfunctioned. The problem primarily affected flights in the northeastern US. The Federal Aviation Administration has reported that most flights are now back on schedule.

Train Derails in Portugal

August 22 — One passenger was killed and more than 20 injured when a train carrying about 50 people went off the tracks in the Carrazeda de Ansiaes region in northeast Portugal. The derailment is the fourth accident on this section of railway in less than two years. Carrazeda de Ansiaes, a wine-making region, is a popular tourist destination.

New Passport Card Now Available

August 25 — An alternative to the traditional US passport, the new passport card, can now be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The size of a credit card and less expensive than a passport, it is designed primarily for people living in communities near the US border. The card cannot be used for international air travel, which still requires a passport.

Etruscan Art from Hermitage on Display in Tuscany

August 20 — Multiple masterpieces of Etruscan art collected by the tsars of Russia will make a return trip to Italy in September. An exhibit at the Etruscan Academy Museum (Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca) in the Tuscan town of Cortona will display works on loan from the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, including a unique Etruscan bronze funerary urn. The exhibit runs through January 2009.

Deadly Plane Crash at Spanish Airport

August 20 — At least 150 people were confirmed dead and 19 injured after a plane crashed today during take-off at Madrid's Barajas Airport. Spanair Flight 5022 was bound for Las Palmas in the Canary Islands. Barajas Airport was closed for a few hours following the crash.

Strike Update: Gatwick and Stansted Airports, Eurostar

August 15 — Baggage and check-in staffers at London's Gatwick and Stansted Airports have voted to hold 24-hour strikes on August 25 and August 29. Union members at Manchester, Birmingham, and Newcastle airports could also join in the strike. If the strikes go forward, passengers on Virgin Atlantic, First Choice, Ryanair, and easyJet using these airports should expect delays and possible cancellations.

Janitorial crews on the Eurostar have voted to strike on August 25, but so far Eurostar officials are saying the strike will not impact the train service.

British Airways, American Airlines Form Alliance

August 14 — British Airways and American Airlines are proposing an alliance to share fares, routes, and schedules, jointly operating flights between North America and Europe. The partnership would include Spain's Iberia Airlines, which is in the process of merging of merging with British Airlines. The alliance must gain approval from US regulatory agencies and is opposed by rival airlines such as Virgin Atlantic.

Roman Coffins Discovered Near Hadrian's Wall

August 14 — Two Roman coffins, thought to be at least 1,800 years old, have been discovered in Newcastle, England. Archaeologists from Durham University believe the sarcophagi belonged to an important family from a nearby Roman fort along Hadrian's Wall. Also discovered in the dig: foundations of a Roman town, a cobbled Roman road, and several urns. The discoveries will be displayed at the new Great North Museum, opening in spring of 2009 in Newcastle.

Brussels Airport Strike Ends; Thousands Affected

August 13 — Air travel through Brussels Airport was back on schedule today, after negotiations brought a two-day baggage handlers strike to an end. During the strike most Brussels flights were either cancelled or diverted, affecting thousands of passengers. Over 20,000 pieces of luggage remain in piles at the airport, waiting to be reunited with their owners.

Egypt Formalizes Access to Giza Pyramids

August 11 — In an attempt to modernize and protect one of the most ancient of tourist sites, the Egyptian government has fenced off the three Giza pyramids, added video cameras and motion detectors, and restricted access by vendors selling souvenirs and camel rides. Tourists now enter the site through a single brick building, and security guards monitor the site for vandalism. A visitors center, cafeteria, and gift shop are in the planning stages, along with a system of golf carts that would allow tourists to drive to the pyramids.

New Rail System Planned in London

August 11 — A new rail system has been approved in London, the biggest expansion of the city's already extensive public transportation system in half a century. Dubbed "Crossrail," the $32 billion system will begin running in 2017 and will cut across London from west to east, starting west of London in the industrial town of Slough, and ending to the east in Brentwood. It will connect to the Tube and with Heathrow Airport, and should make it easier for visitors to stay in hotels outside of the city center.

Dollar at Five-Month High

August 8 — Rising inflation and economic worries in Europe are favoring the US dollar, which posted a five-month high against the Euro today. The euro fell to $1.50 against the dollar, down from $1.53 on Thursday. The British pound followed suit, falling to $1.91 against the dollar, down from $1.94. Less than a month ago, the euro reached an all-time high against the dollar at just over $1.60.

Travelers Warned About International Driving Permit Scam

August 6 — Many European countries require that you carry not only your US driver's license but also an International Driving Permit (IDP) when you drive a car while traveling. But don't purchase a fraudulent IDP from via an unsolicited email. These fake permits can cost from $60-$400 and will land you in hot water overseas. Only two organizations are authorized by the US State Department to issue the permits: the American Automobile Association (who issues them for $15 and the cost of two passport-size photos) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance.

Lufthansa Strike Ends

August 1 — A five-day strike by Lufthansa ground crews has ended, after disrupting both domestic flights in Germany as well as international flights between Germany and the US, Canada, Dubai, and India.

 

July 2008

Lufthansa Cancels Some International flights

July 31 — Lufthansa cancelled 128 flights on Thursday, including 28 international flights to the US, Canada, and India, as it struggles with a strike by its German ground crew and cabin staff. The airline has said it will try not to cancel any flights to China in anticipation of the summer Olympics. Representatives from the airline and striking union are in unofficial talks but no official negotiations are scheduled. The strike began in Frankfurt and Hamburg on Monday, with workers in Berlin and Stuttgart walking off the job on Tuesday.

Buckingham Palace Opens State Rooms to Public

July 29 — The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, Queen Elizabeth's official London residence, will be open to the public through September 29. The highlight of this year's summer opening is the magnificent ballroom, set as it would be for a State Banquet, with a horseshoe-shaped table laden with gilded silver and jeweled dishes. Visitors to the State Rooms can also see paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Poussin and Canaletto; sculpture by Canova; Sèvres porcelain; and fine English and French furniture. For information see www.royal.gov.uk.

Lufthansa Workers Strike

July 28 — A strike by Lufthansa ground crew and cabin staff has so far had little effect on flights, with only three percent of the airline's domestic and European flights cancelled. Long-distance flights were operating normally. The strike began in Frankfurt and Hamburg on Monday, with workers in Berlin and Stuttgart walking off the job today.

Roman Art on Display at British Museum

July 23 — A display of Roman Art is on exhibit now through October 26 at the British Museum in London. The exhibit focuses on Hadrian, with a bust of the emperor as a young man, a bronze figure of the emperor in battle, a marble faun from Hadrian's Tivoli villa, and images of Hadrian's male lover, Antinous. The works are on loan from the Capitoline and Vatican Museums in Rome, the Louvre in Paris, and recent excavations in Turkey.

More Bombings in Spain; Eight Arrested

July 22 — Eight members of a Basque separatist cell have been arrested and are accused of masterminding a series of recent bomb attacks in Spain. The terrorist group ETA had declared a cease-fire in its decades-long, violent campaign to separate the Basque Country from Spain, but resumed bombings in December 2006 after peace negotiations broke down. The cell is blamed for bombings on train stations, government buildings, and police stations. Most recently, the ETA claimed responsibility for five small bombings in northern Spain.

Beaches Open in Paris

July 21 — The annual Paris Plages has opened, transforming the riverside Seine into a summertime oasis. Started in 2002, the Paris Plages has expanded each year, and now includes 2,000 tons of sand, more than 1,000 lounge chairs, over 60 beach cabins, 950 trees, and 85 boats that people can sail for free. Activities and the resort-like atmosphere are centered between Quai Henri IV and Quai du Louvre, with pétanque, dance halls, fitness lessons, ping pong tables, concerts, cafés, and ice cream vendors. This year's beach fun kicked off with a three-kilometer long picnic, and will remain open through August 21. For information see Paris Plages at www.paris.fr.

Ryan Air Cuts Flights

July 17 — Discount carrier Ryan Air will cut back by 14 percent the number of weekly flights at Stansted Airport in Britain. It is also grounding planes at seven other European airports including Budapest and Valencia for six weeks, beginning November 4. Ryanair officials say the cuts are due to high landing fees at the affected airports and soaring fuel costs.

Louvre's Islamic Wing to Open in 2010

July 17 — French President Nicolas Sarkozy has laid the first stone for the Louvre Museum's new Islamic wing, expected to open in 2010. When it opens, it will be Europe's largest permanent exhibition of Islamic art. The $138 million, flowing glass-enclosed wing has been described as a "giant Muslim headscarf blowing in the wind." Officials hope the project will be a symbol of friendship between the secular nation of France and its fast-growing Muslim population, as well as with Islamic nations. The Louvre's Islamic art collection includes 10,000 pieces from the seventh to 19th centuries. Saudi prince Al-Waleed bin Talal has donated over $26 million to the project.

Restoration Planned at Bridge of Sighs

July 16 — A restoration project has begun at the Bridge of Sighs, the famous landmark in Venice. Scaffolding is being erected that will allow an assessment of bridge and the two buildings it links: the Ducal Palace and the Doge's prison. The restoration work is expected to take three years.

Cappucci-No: Snacks Banned at Roman Monuments

July 16 — Roman police are asking tourists to stop snacking at some of the city's most famous monuments — and issuing fines to those found in violation of the new rules. A ban on eating or drinking near several monuments in the historic city center is in effect July 10 through October. Violators can be fined $80. Officials say snacking visitors leave behind litter and hope the ban will preserve "decorum." But tourists are lamenting the loss of one of Rome's best, and least-expensive, experiences: enjoying a gelato or picnic at a famous monument such as the Spanish Steps. It's unclear whether the ban will be renewed next summer, and even less certain that Rome will be able to effectively police its many tourist sites (and millions of tourists).

British Museums Closed by Two-Day Strike

July 16 — Museums, libraries, government office, and schools closed across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland as government employees there walked off the job for a two-day strike. The union representing the government employees is seeking a larger pay increase for its members.

EU To Limit Price of Texting

July 15 — The European Union is proposing new rules that would cap the price of texting while in another country. Currently, it can coss European mobile phone users about 10 times more to send a text message while roaming in another country than to send a text message from the phone's home country. The average cost of a roaming text message in the EU is about €0.29, but can be as high as €0.80-1.50. The average cost for sending an average domestic text message is only €0.15.

Skytrax Names World's Top 10 Airports

July 15 — A survey of over 8.2 million airline passengers has ranked the world's airports based on security wait-times, baggage check, shopping, dining, and other services. Hong Kong International Airport was ranked as the world's best airport for the seventh year in a row. Rounding out the top 10 list: (2) Singapore Changi, Singapore; (3) Seoul Incheon, South Korea; (4) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; (5) Munich, Germany; (6) Kansai, Japan; (7) Copenhagen, Denmark; (8) Zurich, Switzerland; (9) Helsinki, Finland; and (10) Cape Town, South Africa.

EU Cracks Down on Misleading Airfares

July 9 — Discount European airlines, notorious for advertising come-on €1 fares on their websites, will now be required to prominently list all unavoidable taxes, fees and charges. In addition, optional items such as travel insurance must be sold on an "opt-in" basis only. A EU commission found that one in three European consumers had been misled by the websites of low-cost carriers. The rules require that all-inclusive fares must be made clear at the beginning of the booking process.

Changes Planned at Eiffel Tower

July 9 — A 10-year, $267 million plan is intended to make it easier and less-stressful to scale the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Some seven million people visit the Eiffel Tower each year, often waiting in line for more than an hour for the chance to go up. Plans call for a online ticketing system that would allow visitors to reserve 30-minute time slots. Also in the works: improved access for disabled visitors, larger shops, a redesigned first-floor restaurant, and new energy-efficient elevators.

She-Wolf Not So Old After All

July 9 — Carbon-dating has found that the "She-Wolf" statue, long a symbol of Rome, was created in the 1200s; and is not an Etruscan work dating from 500 B.C. as previously thought. The figures of Rome's founders — twin brother Remus and Romulus — suckling beneath the Lupa Capitolina were already known to have been added in the 15th century. The statue is on display at the Capitoline museum in Rome.

Public Can View Uffizi Restoration

July 8 — The copy of the Laocoon sculpture at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence is one of several pieces being restored in full view of public. Visitors to the gallery can watch as professional restorers work on the sculpture behind clear plastic screens, using lasers and de-ionized water to remove debris, wax, and dust. The pieces will also be checked for cracks and structural damage.

£100 Million in Donated Paintings on Display

July 8 — Eighteen recently donated masterpiece paintings valued at over £100 million are now on display at the Tate Museum in London. The paintings were donated by Simon Sainsbury, heir of the Sainsbury grocers fortune. The works include pieces by Monet, Degas, Rousseau, Freud, and Gainsborough, some of which have not been publicly displayed in over 50 years. The paintings will be shown at the Tate until October 5, and will then join the permanent displays there and at the National Gallery.

Strike Update: German Flights, Italian Buses and Trains Affected

July 7 — Over 200 flights have been cancelled due to a strike by a German pilots' union. The strike affects Lufthansa's regional carriers, CityLine and Eurowings, and has caused cancellations across Germany, but especially at Frankfurt and Munich.

In Italy, railway workers called a 24-hour strike at 9:00 p.m. Sunday, and were joined by local transportation workers this morning in Rome and Milan. Commuter trains continue to run but many local buses, trams, and subways have all been cancelled.

Pompeii in "State of Neglect and Deterioration"

July 7 — The Italian government has issued a state of emergency at the archaeological site of Pompeii, finding the 2,000-year-old site to be in a "state of neglect and deterioration." The move may eventually result in limits to the number of tourists who can visit each day. About 1,600 square feet of irreplaceable frescoes and plaster are estimated to simply crumble away each year. More than 2 million people visit Pompeii annually.

Denmark is World's Happiest Nation

July 3 — A new study has found Denmark to be the happiest country in the world. The World Value Survey talked with people in 97 countries to learn which nation is happiest. Puerto Rico was second-happiest, followed by Columbia. The United States placed 16th. Zimbabwe was the least happy. Also in the bottom 10 were Russia and Iraq. The survey found that personal freedom, political stability, gender equality, and social tolerance are better indicators of happiness than economic wealth. Social unrest and poverty contribute to greater unhappiness.

Smoking Ban Goes into Effect in Netherlands; Ban Proposed in Greece

July 1 — A smoking ban went into effect today in the Netherlands. It applies to all indoor public spaces, including restaurants and cafés, and even extends to the Amsterdam "coffee shops" where marijuana is bought and smoked. While technically illegal, Dutch police generally tolerate marijuana possession and smoking. But you'll have to smoke tobacco outside.

Greece plans to implement its own smoking ban, beginning in 2010. Smoking is already officially banned in Greek hospitals, offices, and taxis; that ban and a requirement that restaurants provide non-smoking seating have largely been ignored. More than one-third of all Greeks are smokers.

Fins Take Up Winemaking

July 1 — Warming temperatures have at least one Finnish farmer turning to a new crop: grapes for wine. But potential Finnish winemakers in the Aland Islands, about 1,000 miles northeast of Burgandy, have run into trouble with the European Union, which doesn't consider Finland a wine-producing nation and won't allow Finnish winemakers to sell their products — unless Finland forgoes EU farming subsidies it receives due to its harsh Arctic climate.

 

June 2008

US Airlines Slashing Routes; Prices Could Go Up 40 Percent in 4 Years

June 30 — The US airline industry is expected to cut the number of flights it offers by more than 10 percent, with more cuts in 2009. More than 100 US communities could lose regular commercial air service by year-end. Affected routes include second-tier markets such as Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and San Luis Obispo, California. Cuts are also being made in the number of flights to major international destinations such as London and Buenos Aires. A Lehman Brothers analyst predicts airfares could go up as much as 40 percent in the next four years.

High-Speed Trains Studied in UK

June 26 — Five routes in the UK are being considered for new high-speed trains, that would travel as fast as 180 mph. Network Rail, which owns Britain's rail infrastructure, is considering high-speed lines from London to Glasgow, London to Edinburgh, London to Cardiff, London to Bradford, and London to Birmingham. A high-speed line is set to begin operating between London and Ashford next year (on the same rails used by the Eurostar). British rail ridership has increased over 40 percent in the last 10 years. If approved, the new train lines could be operational by 2025.

Checkpoint Charlie Suggested for Cold War Museum

June 25—The former East German foreign minister has proposed that a museum commemorating the Cold War be built on a vacant lot near Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin. The famous former border crossing, a popular tourist destination, currently hosts a temporary exhibit about the Cold War and events in Berlin. An existing Museum of the Wall at the checkpoint focuses on the history of the Berlin Wall, and memorializes those who died trying to escape from East to West Germany.

Brunello Rules Go Into Effect

June 23 — New rules will require a signed certificate of authenticity for all Brunello di Montalcino wines imported to the US from Italy. The US had threatened to ban the popular wine when it was revealed that some wine producers were blending their wine with grapes other than the Sangiovese grown outside of Montalcino in Tuscany.

United, Continental Create New Alliance

June 23 — United and Continental Airlines have agreed to link both their domestic and international networks. The agreement allows the airlines to sell seats on each others' flights, link their frequent-flier programs, and share access to VIP airport lounges. Continental will join United's Star Alliance, a joint venture for trans-Atlantic flights with Lufthansa and Air Canada.

Cheap Airlines Increase EU Emissions

June 22 — The number of passengers on Europe's low-cost airlines doubled from 2005 to 2007, to 120 million passengers a year (up from 60 million). But with the cheap flights comes increased emissions of carbon-dioxide. From 1990 to 2005, total EU carbon-dioxide emissions from aviation grew by 73 percent.

Famous Bonnie Prince Portrait May Be His Brother

June 20 — New research has at least one art expert convinced that the portrait of Bonnie Prince Charlie at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh is not in fact Charles, but instead is Charles' brother Henry. An art researcher contends the painting is identical to a recently discovered portrait of Prince Charlie's younger brother, Henry, known as Cardinal York.

Florence to Revoke Dante's Exile

June 18 — The poet and political critic Dante Alighieri may be welcomed home to Florence, after 700 years of exile from the Italian city. The city council there is considering a motion to "rehabilitate" Dante at a public ceremony officiated by Florence's mayor. The ceremony would formally revoke the ruling that exiled Dante, author of "The Divine Comedy," in 1302. Dante is buried in Ravenna — Florence later honored him with an empty tomb in Sante Croce church.

Napoli Castle Stands in For Vatican

June 17 — The Reggia di Caserta palace outside Naples is standing in for the Vatican in the filming of Angels & Demons, the prequel to the Da Vinci Code. The Holy See refused to give permission to film the movie, which includes a plot to blow up the Vatican, in Rome. Tom Hanks reprises his role from the Da Vinci Code in the new movie.

British Museum Workers Walk Off Jobs

June 16 — Museums in London and York are being affected by an employee walk-out this week in a dispute over pay. The museums, including the Science Museum in London and the National Railway Museum in York, are remaining open despite being short-staffed. At issue are cost-of-living increases, which a government proposal sets at 1.5 percent.

Venice Suffers Under Weight of Cruise Ships

June 16 — A report from an Italian activist group, the Citizens Coordinating Committee Against Big Ships, has found that the big cruise ships that visit Venice on a daily basis are destroying the lagoon and creating environmental hazards. The report claims that the water displaced by cruise ships is damaging the seabed, shoreline, and Venetian buildings; and that cruise ships are major sources of pollution.

Ireland Sinks EU Treaty

June 13 — The people of Ireland voted 53 to 46 against approving the European Union's Lisbon Treaty, a document which would have served as a constitution for the EU, established an EU president, and widened the commission's authority over member countries. The treaty has been approved by 18 of 27 EU nations, with Ireland the only country required to hold a public referendum on the measure. Opponents feared the treaty would usurp Ireland's sovereignty — for instance, forcing it to overturn its ban on abortion — and require it to raise business taxes, stifling economic growth.

New Checkpoint System Rolled Out at Some US Airports

June 9 — A new system that allows airline passengers to self-select a line at the airport security check based on their "checkpoint skills" is being implemented at 21 US airports. The system, which borrows from the ski slopes, has three lines: the "black diamond" for experienced travelers, the "blue square" for infrequent travelers, and the "green circle" for families and people needing more time or help to get through security. The new system is earning mixed reviews from travelers. The Transportation Security Administration is also installing faster X-ray machines to speed up that part of the process.

French Workers To Strike Today and Tomorrow; Fuel Protests Block Several Borders

June 9 — Travelers to France should expect disruptions in public transportation and other government services today and tomorrow. French civil service workers, including railway employees, plan a 36-hour strike beginning late Monday. About half of all regional trains are expected to be cancelled, while high-speed TGV trains should be on schedule. An all-France strike has been called for June 17. The strikers are protesting government reforms to the 35-hour work week and pensions. Separate protests over fuel costs have truck drivers blocking roads and border crossings in France, Spain, and Portugal; fishing ships are blocking some ports.

Kew Gardens Opens Treetop Walkway

June 8 — A 60-foot high treetop walkway has opened at the Kew Royal Botanical Gardens in London. The 220-yard, circular aerial walkway garden gives visitors an entirely new perspective on the 18-century gardens. On a clear day you can see central London's skyscrapers from one of the walkway's viewing platforms.

Ferries Introduce Fuel Surcharges

June 8 — The Stena Line ferry system has announced a new €10 per car fuel surcharge for its Irish Sea routes including Rosslare to Fisguard, Dublin to Holyhead, and Belfast to Stranraer. The fee for walk-on passengers will be £2 apiece. SpeedFerries introduced a fuel surcharge last week on its cross-channel routes between Dover, England and Boulogne, France. And DFDS Seaways is cancelling its service from Newcastle to Norway in September, blaming the high cost of fuel.

Pompeii Comes Alive in Sound and Light

June 6 — One-hour sound-and-light shows titled "Sognopompei" will run now through November on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights in Pompeii, Italy (shows run daily August 8-17). The €20, one-hour tours culminate in the Forum with a video reenactment of the 79 AD volcanic eruption that buried the city, and include actors playing the part of ancient Romans. Saturday night tours are in English; other tours may be in Italian or Japanese. Reservations are required (tel. 39-081-1930-3885, www.sognopompei.com).

Western European Visitors to US Required to Register Online

June 3 — Beginning in August, tourists who can travel to the US without a visa will be required to register their biographical information online with the Homeland Security Department at least three days before they arrive. The requirement applies to visitors from 27 countries, including Western Europe, Japan, and Australia. It also includes those visiting from Brunei, New Zealand, and Singapore, and will soon also apply to visitors from the Czech Republic, Hungary, and South Korea.

Paper Airline Tickets Phased Out

June 1 — Paper airline tickets are no more, a move that is expected to cut the cost of issuing a ticket from $10 to $1 and save 50,000 trees a year. The International Air Transport Association will no longer supply paper tickets to most of the world's airlines and travel agents. With the rise of self-service ticket booking on the Internet, electronic tickets now account for over 95 percent of all tickets issued.

 

May 2008

Archaeologists Say Stonehenge Was Royal Burial Site

May 30 — Archaeologists studying cremated human remains buried at Stonehenge now say the stone circle was a burial ground for royalty. The burials began about 500 years before the first stones were erected some 4,500 years ago and continued after the stone circle was completed. The small number of graves in relation to the large number of dwellings found in a village nearby supports the theory that the buried individuals were from a single family of rulers.

Gas Price Shock Not Unique to US

May 29 — Americans are not the only ones struggling with the high cost of gasoline. With gas topping $9 a gallon in Britain, truckers shut down highways in London and Wales in protest. About half the cost of gas in Europe goes to taxes that are used to subsidize public transportation. (Combined gas taxes in Britain exceed $4 a gallon; by comparison drivers in the US pay about 50 cents a gallon in taxes). Some Europeans are calling for a rollback in fuel taxes.

Shakespeare's Grave To Be Renovated

May 29 — A renovation project is being considered for the Statford-upon-Avon gravesite of William Shakespeare. The stone grave, within the floor of the Holy Trinity Church, is beginning to crumble beneath the foot traffic of centuries of clergymen. Restorers will have to be careful: legend places a curse on anyone who disturbs Shakespeare's bones.

Leaning Tower Stops Leaning

May 28 — Seven years after a $40 million project to stabilize the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italian engineers say the tower is stable and shouldn't move again for 200 years. The project removed 70 tons of soil from the tower's north side, causing it to stand about 19 inches straighter than before. Now high-tech monitors buried in the soil beneath the tower show that it has stopped moving altogether.

More Taxis in Paris

May 28 — Strict rules on the number of taxi cabs in Paris are about to be relaxed — welcome news for travelers who often find it hard to catch a cab in the French city. The number of licensed Paris taxis will rise to 20,000 by 2012, up from the current 15,600.

New Railway to Perugia

May 27 — Like many Italian hill towns, Perugia has limited space for cars and buses. A new light rail line linking the valley floor to the town's historic center in 11 minutes is intended to alleviate traffic. Called the "Mini Metro," the train can carry 3,000 people an hour, and can move up to 72,000 people in and out of the city every day. Now Perugia's mayor is floating a plan to ban all automobiles from the city's center.

Drugged Tourist Killed by Train in Rome

May 27 — A 74-year-old California man died May 22 at Rome's Tiburtina rail station when he was hit by a train. The man appears to have stumbled onto the tracks after he and his wife drank cappuccinos laced with drugs. Italian police arrested a suspect seen on security video befriending the couple, and believe the suspect drugged the tourists in order to steal their luggage. Italian police also issued a warning about an increase in the criminal use of "narcotic spray" as a way to subdue passengers on sleeper trains and steal their belongings.

National Memorial Day for Irish Famine

May 23 — An official memorial day will be established in the Republic of Ireland to mark the "Great Hunger" of the 1840s. After the potato crop failed about one million people died of starvation and related diseases, and another million or more immigrated to the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Ireland's population was over eight million in 1841; by 1851 it had fallen to 6.5 million.

Repaired Scream Painting Again on Display

May 23 — The stolen, recovered, and repaired painting The Scream by Edvard Munch is back on display at the Munch Museum near Olso, Norway. The painting was damaged by armed robbers who pulled it from its frame during the theft in 2004. It was recovered in 2006 and museum workers have spent the last two years restoring The Scream and another stolen Munch painting, Madonna. A stain remains in The Scream's bottom corner.

American Airlines To Charge for Checked Bags

May 22 — Beginning June 15, American Airlines will charge passengers $15 to check even one bag on a domestic flight. American becomes the first major US carrier to institute a fee for the first checked bag (several airlines, including American, recently instituted a $25 fee for checking a second bag). The $15 checked-bag fee does not apply to international flights or business-class passengers. Some passengers fear that charging for checked bags will encourage more people to carry on their luggage, leading to longer airport security lines and fights for limited space in airplane overhead bins.

Rail Strike Underway in France

May 22 — Only half of trains ran in France today as rail workers there walked off the job to protest changes to pension plans. A minimum level of service was preserved on most lines, and the Metro in Paris was unaffected, as were the high-speed Eurostar and Thalys trains. Air travel at Paris' major airports was not affected but there were reported delays at smaller airports. An unrelated blockade of France's coastal oil depots by fishermen angry over rising fuel prices has disrupted ferry service between Calais in France and Dover in the UK.

Berlin Philharmonic Building Damaged in Fire

May 21 — A fire on Tuesday damaged the roof of the Berlin Philharmonic, but repairs to the building should be complete within a few weeks. The philharmonic expects to resume its concert schedule by mid-June. In the meanwhile it will play at other Berlin venues, including the Olympic Stadium. The yellow 1960s-era building near Berlin's Potsdamer Platz is a well-known landmark for its metal "circus-tent" roofline.

Borghese Gallery Hosts Correggio Exhibit

May 21 — Over 40 pieces of art by 16th-century artist Antonio da Correggio make up a special exhibit on now through September 14 at the Borghese Gallery in Rome. In addition to the Borghese's own Danaë, the exhibit includes: The Mystic Marriage of St. Catherine, on loan from Naples' Capodimonte Museum; Jove And Io and Ganymdede Abducted By The Eagle, on loan from the Kunsthistoriches in Vienna; The Education of Cupid, on loan from London's National Gallery; Venus and Cupid with a Satyr, on loan from the Louvre in Paris; The Adoration of the Magi, from Milan's Brera; Noli Me Tangere, from the Prado in Madrid; and The Four Saints, from from the Met in New York.

"Temporary" Accademia Bridge to Be Made Permanent

May 20 — Plans are afoot for the "temporary" iron-and-wood pedestrian bridge put up in the 1930s in Venice near the Accademia museum will finally be turned into a permanent structure. The Ponte dell'Accademia opened in 1933 but was intended to be a temporary bridge — now, nearly eighty years later, Venetian officials are considering making it a permanent structure.

Transportation Strike Updates

May 20 — Belgium: Eurostar service between London and Brussels was cancelled May 20 as Belgian rail workers walked off the job for a 24-hour strike. The strike also affected local and suburban rail service, including the Thalys. Eurostar ticket holders were advised to exchange their tickets locally for another date.

France: Regional train lines, flights, and access to airports will be affected by a nationwide strike this Thursday, May 22. Only about half the RER trains linking Paris to its airports will run. The Metro in Paris should continue to operate on schedule, as will the Eurostar to London and high-speed TGV trains.

Train strike advice: Essential, main-line service is generally preserved during a strike — check the rail company's website or ask a station personnel for help. If you're traveling with a railpass, don't validate it until you know you can use it (validated or partly used railpasses are not refundable). Reserved train tickets are refundable if the train does not run, generally at the place of purchase.

Imperial War Museum Celebrates Ian Fleming

May 20 — The Imperial War Museum in London is featuring a special exhibit about the life of Ian Fleming, the author who created James Bond. "For Your Eyes Only" examines how Fleming's wartime experiences influenced the plots of his Bond novels and inspired many of their heroes and villains, such as M and Goldfinger, and how James Bond fit in with the spies and technology of the Cold War. Exhibits include Fleming's desk and chair from his Jamaican home Goldeneye, where he wrote all of the Bond novels; annotated Bond manuscripts; a working Aston Martin DB5 with gadgets from the films Thunderball and Goldfinger; Rosa Klebb's flick knife shoes in From Russia with Love; Halle Berry's bikini from Die Another Day; and Goldfinger's golf shoes. The exhibit is £8 ($16) and runs through March 2009. For information visit www.iwm.org.uk.

Turkey Expands Smoking Ban

May 19 — A new smoking ban in Turkey applies to most enclosed public spaces, such as government offices, businesses, shopping malls, schools, and hospitals. Smoking is also banned on trains and ferries, as well as in taxis, and in outdoor spaces such as parks and stadiums. The ban will be extended to cafés, bars, and restaurants in July 2009.

Richard Serra Sculpture On Now at Paris' Grand Palais

May 13 — A grouping of five giant metal slabs by the American sculptor Richard Serra is on display now through June 15 at the Grand Palais in Paris. Titled "Promenade," the slabs are each 17 yards tall and weigh more than 70 tons. Serra designed the installation specifically for the space beneath the Grand Palais' monumental glass and iron ceiling. The exhibit is open Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. It is closed on Tuesdays. Admission is €4. For information visit www.monumenta.com.

Barcelona Ships in Water

May 13 — Water is being delivered by ship to the Spanish city of Barcelona, where a severe drought has dried up the usual water sources. The water deliveries are expected to go on for at least three months, while an emergency pipeline is being built. Future water needs are expected to be met by a desalination plant, due to open in May 2009. Water restrictions in force due to the drought have turned off city fountains and showers at beaches, and residents have been banned from watering their lawns.

More Flights to Heathrow; But Is It Worth the Hassle?

May 12 — Sabre Airline Solutions is reporting that the number of flights from the US to London's Heathrow Airport has increased significantly over last year, to more than 95 flights a day. And ticket prices to Heathrow have remained stable (excluding taxes and fuel surcharges), while flights to the rest of Europe are up about 10 percent. But problems at Heathrow's new Terminal 5 have many passengers wondering whether the convenient new flights are worth the switch from a less-congested airport with a better reputation, such as London's Gatwick.

Traveler's Choice Awards Names Top Destinations

May 12 — The online travel website TripAdvisor has named the top 100 favorite travel destinations in the world, based on votes and popularity rankings from travelers. The top European destinations, in order from 1 to 10, were: Rhodes, Greece; Salzburg, Austria; Amalfi, Italy; Bath, England; Siena, Italy; Dingle, Ireland; Bruges, Belgium; Lucerne, Switzerland; Vatican City, Italy; and Edinburgh, Scotland. The top 10 destinations worldwide were Milford Sound, New Zealand; Queenstown, New Zealand; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Cayo Largo, Cuba; Rhodes, Greece; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Cruz Bay, St. John; Bridgetown, Barbados; Banff, Canada; and Lake Tahoe, California.

Palau de la Musica Catalana Marks 100 Years

May 8 — An eccentric line-up of musicians will help the colorful Palau de la Musica Catalana in Barcelona, Spain celebrate its centennial this summer. The 1908 concert hall has a playful Modernista interior by Lluís Domènech i Muntaner, including a kaleidoscopic skylight and mosaics celebrating music and Catalan culture. On the playbill this summer are: Marianne Faithful (June 2), Sinead O'Connor (June 11), Ute Lemper (July 1), Suzanne Vega (July 7), and a festival of electronica (July 21). For concert information see www.palaumusica.org.

EU Approves Slovakia's Euro Bid

May 7 — Slovakia has won European Union approval to adopt the euro as its currency on January 1 of next year. It will be the 16th country to adopt the euro. Several other countries — namely Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic — have slowed their movement toward adopting the euro, which has risen to record heights against the dollar.

Buyer Beware: Misleading European Airline Websites

May 7 — According to an EU report, one third of European airline and travel websites mislead customers by hiding the true cost of an airline ticket. Of the 380 websites checked, nearly 140 were identified as being in violation of consumer protection laws. Most commonly, a website will advertise a bargain-basement fare, only to tack on airport taxes, miscellaneous charges, and booking fees at the end of the check-out process. Other sites automatically add on optional services, such as priority booking or cancellation insurance. Vigilant consumers can opt out by un-clicking a preselected box.

Aer Lingus Raises Prices for Checked Bags

May 6 — Irish airline Aer Lingus will now charge £8 ($16) to check in a bag online, and £12 ($24) to check a bag at the airport. Last week British Airways' raised its fuel surcharges, and easyJet hiked bag check-in fees.

Medieval Mosaic Restored at Westminster Abbey

May 5 — After having been covered up by carpet for about 150 years, the 13th-century Cosmati pavement at Westminster Abbey is now being restored. The medieval mosaic, installed in the 1260s and made of colored tile, glass, gemstones, and recycled bits of Roman statues, includes an mysterious inscription about the end of the world. The two-year restoration includes installation of a protective coating.

Museum of Fries Opens in Bruges

May 3 — The new Frietmuseum in Bruges, Belgium traces the history of the potato, from its humble Peruvian beginning to its reign as the world's most popular fast food. The Frietmuseum claims that the first fries came out of the hopper during a bitter winter in the 1700s, when the rivers froze solid and Belgians resorted to frying fish-shaped potatoes. The museum, located at Vlamingstraat 33, includes a café serving its own special-recipe fries. For information see www.frietmuseum.be.

Rome's Mayor Threatens Ara Pacis Museum

May 2 — The new, modern museum that surrounds the 2,000-year-old Ara Pacis in Rome is again a subject of controversy, as Rome's newly-elected mayor this week threatened to tear it down. Gianni Alemanno called the arching, glassy museum "invasive" and said he would put a referendum before Rome's citizens, asking them to decide the museum's fate. The museum, which opened in 2006, is popular with tourists, averaging several thousand visitors a day.

Pigeon-Feeding Banned at St. Mark's Square

May 1 — The long-standing tradition of feeding the pigeons on St. Mark's Square in Venice has come to an end. The city has made feeding the pigeons illegal — those who break the ban could be fined €50-500. The square's pigeon-food sellers have been forced to shutter their kiosks, some of which have been in the family for generations. According to city officials, Venice's 40,000-some pigeons are a health risk and a nuisance.

No Injuries in Basque Bombings

May 1 — The ETA, a Basque separatist group, detonated three bombs today in northern Spain, damaging government buildings but resulting in no injuries. One bomb exploded in Arrigorriaga, near Bilbao, and two went off in San Sebastian. The ETA wants independence for the Basque region, and in March claimed responsibility for the shooting death of a city councilman in the town of Mondragon.

British Airways Worst for Baggage

May 1 — Problems with the new Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport have dragged British Airways to rock bottom when it comes to European airlines and baggage. So far this year, British Airways has lost 28.9 bags per every 1,000 passengers. BMI, TAP Portugal, KLM, Luxair, Air France, Finnair, Alitalia, Lufthansa, and Austrian Air also rank within the bottom 10 performers. Turkish Airlines lost the least number of bags, a mere 4.3 bags per 1,000 passengers.

 

April 2008

Tempelhoff Airport to Close

April 28 — Berlin's Tempelhof Airport, which figured prominently in the 1948-49 Berlin Airlift, will close in October. A public referendum to save the historic landmark won a majority of votes but turnout was too low to certify the election. Once the airport closes, it's unclear what will happen to Tempelhof's giant air terminal — the third-largest building in Europe — which is a designated historic site. Some have proposed turning it into a museum, with a park where cargo planes once roared down the runways.

Ryanair, American Bump Fees for Checked Bags

April 28 — It now costs $32 roundtrip to check a bag on Ryanair, and $16 to use a staffed Ryanair check-in desk (it's free to check-in online). And beginning May 12, American Airlines will charge domestic economy-class passengers $25 to check a second bag. The new charge does not apply to business- or first-class passengers, or international flights.

New Multimedia Tour of Berlin Wall

April 27 — There's not much left of the Berlin Wall, but a new multimedia tour called "Walk the Wall" helps visitors retrace its route. The multimedia guides can be rented at five kiosks throughout Berlin beginning May 1 ($9.50-$24 depending on length of rental). The GPS-enabled units direct visitors along the former path f the wall, with audio files and video clips at key sights: Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate, the Eastside Gallery, the Topography of Terror, and the Berlin Wall Memorial.

Stolen Art Shown at Castel Sant'Angelo

April 24 — An exhibit on now through the end of June at the Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome highlights stolen art recovered in recent years by the Italian art police. Among the pieces on display: the second-century marble head of Roman Empress Faustina, a letter by 19th-century poet Giacoma Leopardi, and a VanGogh drawing. The show also includes a section of counterfeit art.

Deciphering British Rail Fares

April 24 — Famously complicated British rail fares will soon be a bit easier to decipher. Passengers now are faced with a bewildering array of ticket choices, but a new system will consolidate them into three ticket types: Advance (discounted, advance-purchase tickets), Off-Peak (tickets with restrictions, bought up to time of travel), and Anytime (unrestricted tickets bought up to the time of travel).

Euro Breaks $1.60, Sets New Record

April 22 — The euro topped out at $1.6012 against the US dollar today as the US economy continues to falter and European bankers consider raising interest rates to combat inflation. The British pound also rose today to $1.99 against the dollar.

Air Travel Roundup

April 20 — United Airlines bumped its ticket prices up not once but twice last week in response to rising fuel costs. United's fuel surcharge went from $50 to $70. Southwest also raised its prices twice last week. This marks the 12th time airlines have raised prices or fuel surcharges this year. US Airways will charge passengers an extra $5 to sit in an aisle or window seat in the first few rows of the coach section. Also last week, an airline industry report found that 42 million airline passenger bags were lost in transit in 2007, a full 25 percent more than in 2006. While the vast majority of travelers and their bags reach their destination together, one in 2,000 passengers' bags were never found.

Belgian Rail Strike Set for April 30

April 22 — Two rail unions in Belgium plan to strike on April 30 in a bid for higher pay. The strike would affect not only Belgian trains, but also high-speed international trains including the Eurostar to Britian, the Thalys to France, and the ICE to Germany.

Tube Strike Set for April 28

April 18 — London's subway system, known as the Tube, may come to a halt on Monday, April 28, when operators plan to begin a 48-hour strike to protest pension cuts. A similar strike in September closed two-thirds of the Tube network. For up-to-date details on Tube schedules, check www.tfl.gov.uk.

Botanical Art Gallery Opens at London's Kew Gardens

April 17 — The Kew Gardens in London has opened a gallery of botanical art, showing works from its formidable collection of over 200,000 items. This is the first time many of the pieces have been on public display. The inaugural exhibit, on now through October, showcases the most significant botanical artists from the 1700s to today, and includes works from the 18th and 19th centuries as well as contemporary botanical art on loan from the collection of Dr. Shirley Sherwood.

Compensation Increases for Bumped Airline Passengers

April 16 — Beginning May 1, US airlines who bump passengers onto later flights will be required to shell out more for your inconvenience. If you're bumped to a flight that arrives at your original domestic destination more than two hours after your original arrival time, you'll be compensated for the full price of the fare, up to $800. (The limit is $400 if you make it there within two hours). Airlines have a four-hour window to get bumped passengers to international destinations. The previous compensation limits, of $400 and $200, had been unchanged since 1978.

Goya Exhibit Opens at Madrid's Prado

April 15 — The Prado art museum in Madrid is hosting an exhibit of 200 Goya works with the theme "Goya in Times of War." The exhibit of 90-some paintings and more than 100 etchings and drawings focuses on a period at the turn of the 18th century marked by the French revolution, invasion by Napoleon, and Spain's war of independence.

Holocaust Train on Display in Berlin

April 15 — A train filled with photos of children deported by the Nazis during the Holocaust, along with their letters and drawings, is on display in Berlin this week. It's one of the last stops on the commemorative train's journey across Germany, ending May 8 at Auschwitz in Poland where many of the children were killed. Germany's state-run rail company, Deutsche Bahn, has been criticized for its refusal to let the train stop at Berlin's main station, the Hauptbahnhof. Instead the train will be located at the Ostbahnhof for its ten-day Berlin stay.

21 Percent Jump in Eurostar Ridership

April 14 — Two million passengers took the Eurostar between London, Paris, and Brussels from January to February, 2008 — a jump of 21 percent over 2007 ridership during the same three months. Eurostar reported that half the new customers were drawn to the train because of the convenience of its new north London terminus at St. Pancras, with the others defected from ferry or air service, which can be more expensive and take more time.

Oslo Christens Opera House

April 12 — King Harald of Norway opened the new state Opera House in Oslo at a gala attended by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Denmark's Queen Margrethe. The $835 million marble building juts into the Oslo fjord across from the main train station. Daily guided tours of the opera house including the back stage are $20 per person (more information at www.operaen.no).

British Airways to Delay Terminal 5 Transfer

April 11 — British Airways will wait until June to move more flights to the troubled new Terminal 5 at London's Heathrow Airport. BA had planned to move 120 flights to the new building from other Heathrow terminals on April 30. But significant opening glitches at Terminal 5, including a baggage system that waylaid more than 20,000 pieces of luggage and led to the cancellation of 700 flights, convinced BA to delay the move. The change will affect Air France-KLM and other airlines, who had planned to move into space BA will eventually vacate in Terminal 4.

Speed Limits Set on Autobahn

April 10 — The famously free-wheeling German autobahn is slowing down a bit, as Germany's northern state of Brennan this week imposed speed limits on the freeway. The 75-mile-per-hour speed limit applies only to a 40-mile stretch of the road. Carmakers have fought against imposing autobahn speed limits, while environmental groups are pushing the limits as a way to cut greenhouse gases.

New Constitution Adopted in Kosovo

April 9 — The parliament in Kosovo has adopted a new constitution for the country, which broke away from Serbia two months ago. Supporters hope the constitution will help Kosovo establish a legitimate government and end nearly 20 years of administration by the United Nations. So far about 40 countries, including the US, have recognized Kosovo as an independent nation; however Russia and Serbia continue to protest, as do ethnic Serbs who live within Kosovo.

Medici Tapestries on Display at Pitti Palace

April 8 — Newly restored tapestries are the focus of a new exhibition at the Pitti Palace in Florence, Italy running now through September 28. The display traces the influence of the Medicis on the tapestry industry in Florence. Cosimo Medici founded Florence's first tapestry factory in 1545. Over a thousand tapestries survive, and many are still displayed in Florence's public buildings. The Uffizi Gallery has begun a project to restore the fragile and deteriorating tapestries.

Mobile Phones Approved in European Airspace

April 7 — The European Union has approved new rules that will allow mobile phone users to make calls while onboard aircraft flying over Europe. Mobile phone users would be allowed to make phone calls once the plane reaches an altitude of 9,000 feet. Before they can begin offering the service, airlines will have to install new equipment that creates a circle of coverage around the plane, routing calls through satellites to mobile-phone towers on the ground. The pilot would be able to turn off the coverage if necessary. Air France could begin offering the service within a month.

Terminal 5 Baggage Woes Continue

April 5 — The new Terminal 5 at London's Heathrow Airport, intended to smooth travel for British Airways passengers, has instead resulted in hundreds of cancelled flights and thousands of mishandled bags. In the terminal's first few days of operation, at least 300 flights were cancelled and passengers were limited to carry-on bags only, while about 28,000 checked bags were delayed. The problems were the result of glitches with the terminal's new automated baggage-handling system.

Northwest Airlines Raises Prices; Aloha and ATA Shut Down

April 5 — Citing rising fuel costs, Northwest Airlines has raised prices on international flights, is cutting back its domestic schedule, and has instituted a hiring freeze. Northwest's fuel surcharge for European destinations is now between $115 and $155. Also this week, Aloha Airlines ceased operations after a month in bankruptcy protection, ATA Airlines suddenly cancelled operations as it filed for bankruptcy, and Minnesota-based Champion Air announced it will go out of business on May 31.

But Do They Offer Hot-Stone Massage?

April 5 — Baltimore-Washington International Airport will soon be the test site for a new approach in security screening. The Transportation Security Administration is trying out a more-relaxing security screening environment, complete with softly glowing lights, soothing mood music, and posted biographies of friendly employees. Officials hope that by helping most passengers to relax, suspicious passengers will be easier to identify. Also being tested is a new machine that uses radio waves to scan passengers beneath their clothes for hidden weapons.

Vestali Back On Patrol at St. Mark's

April 4 — Agents of Venice's "Urban Decorum" office will be back on patrol this spring and summer at St. Mark's Square. Tourists will be asked to refrain from sitting on the pavement, eating sandwiches on the square, or going without shirts. The seven female "guardians of decorum" have been nicknamed "Vestali," a reference to ancient Rome's Vestal Virgins — caretakers for an important temple. Venice is also limiting the sale of fast food in the piazza to cut down on trash.

 

March 2008

Efforts Underway to Straighten Venice Bell Tower

March 27 — A project to install a metal belt beneath the foundations of the bell tower on St. Mark's Square in Venice began this week, in an effort to stop the tower from leaning. The 324-foot tall bell tower was built in 1912. The tower is leaning about seven centimeters to one side, likely because of a failing foundation. The base of the tower will be wrapped in scaffolding for up to two years.

Tropical Butterflies Land In London

March 26 — The Natural History Museum in London this spring and summer will host a special exhibit of tropical butterflies and moths. The giant maze and butterfly house, filled with native plants and flowers, are located on the museum's east lawn and open daily from April 5 to August 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Entrance to the museum is free; entrance to the butterfly exhibit is $10 for adults, $7 for children, and $28 for families.

Open Skies Means More Options When Flying to Europe

March 26 — The new Open Skies agreement between the US and the European Union goes into effect March 30, making it possible for more airlines to fly to more cities on both continents. Industry-watchers are split on whether the new routes will result in cheaper airfares as airlines deal with high fuel prices and a flagging economy. Some of the new flights, such as those offered by OpenSkies (a new branch of British Airways), will cater to business and first-class travelers, with only a small number of economy seats.

New routes include: Aer Lingus — Orlando and Washington, D.C. to Dublin; OpenSkies — New York to Brussels and Paris; Continental — Newark and Houston to London's Heathrow; Delta — Atlanta and New York's JFK to Heathrow, JFK to Lyon, France, and Salt Lake City and JFK to Paris; Lufthansa — Seattle to Frankfurt; Northwest — Detroit, Minneapolis and Seattle to Heathrow; Air France — Los Angeles to Heathrow; US Airways — Philadelphia to Heathrow; United — Denver to Heathrow.

Trajan's Column To Be Lit Up

March 24 — Plans are underway in Rome to use beams of light to replicate the bright colors that once decorated Trajan's Column. The military conquests depicted on the now-white marble column were originally brightly painted, as were many Roman statues and triumphal arches. The illumination of Trajan's Column is planned to begin on weekends in 2009 and will coincide with new lights throughout the Roman Forum.

World's Most Expensive City: London

March 18 — A study of prices, rents, and salaries by the Swiss bank USB found that London is now the most expensive of the world's major cities. When rent is not considered, Oslo and Copenhagen are more expensive than London. The report found that the rising value of the euro has pushed up cost-of-living expenses in cities where the euro is the primary currency. For example Dublin has jumped from 13th place to fourth. Meanwhile the cost of living in New York has fallen along with the dollar, putting it in 18th place. London is now 26 percent more expensive than New York.

Airline News Roundup

March 18 — Ryanair is offering another round of "free flights" but travelers are warned to look out for hidden costs, such as travel insurance ($12), priority boarding ($6), checked baggage ($42 for two bags), food and drink on the plane ($10 and up), and fees for using your credit card to purchase the ticket. Air France will buy the struggling Italian airline Alitalia for $215 million. The takeover is expected to be complete by 2010. United Airlines and Continental Airlines on Friday raised some round-trip fares by up to $50 in response to high fuel costs. United's fare hike is in addition to its move earlier this month to boost domestic fuel surcharges by $10, bumping the surcharge to $50 on some round-trip flights.

New Terminal Opens at Heathrow

March 14 — Heathrow Airport's new Terminal 5 begins accepting flights and passengers on Thursday, March 27. Construction of the $9 billion terminal at London's extremely busy airport began in 2002. Terminal 5 will eventually accommodate 60 aircraft with 96 self-service check-in kiosks and 54 standard check-in desks, along with a new parking garage. Officials hope the new terminal, which will be used mainly by British Airways for international flights, will simplify and speed up check-in.

Euro Sets Record at $1.55

March 12 — The euro rose to about $1.55 against the US dollar today, an all-time record high. Its 1.5 percent daily gain was the European currency's biggest in over two years.

More Delays for Rome's Third Subway Line

March 7 — Exploratory digging for Rome's long-awaited third subway line has turned up everything but the kitchen sink: ninth-century pots and pans, a sixth-century copper factory, even a Renaissance palace. Plans call for the $4.6 billion USD third subway line to open in 2011, but it could be derailed as the historical discoveries stack up. While the subway itself would run in a tunnel 100 feet below the surface, its stairwells and air ducts would pass through shallower earth, likely disturbing archaeological evidence. A Roman government official will decide whether the historical relics can be moved, destroyed, or somehow displayed within the new subway system.

House of Augustus Opens in Rome

March 7 — Four recently restored and beautifully frescoed rooms in the former home of Emperor Augustus at Palatine Hill in Rome will open to the public this weekend. A guided tour of the house is included in the new Colosseum-Roman Forum-Palatine Hill combo-ticket, but entry to the rooms is limited to five people at a time.

Fuel Surcharges Go Up at Several Airlines

March 10 — Citing the rising cost of jet fuel, British Airlines has increased its fuel surcharge to £128 ($256 USD) for long-haul flights of nine hours or more. Lufthansa is increasing its fuel surcharge to €17 ($26) for flights within Germany and Europe, but so far has left its international surcharge unchanged at €77 ($118). United Airlines and Delta Air Lines increased their domestic fuel surcharges last week by up to $10 round-trip, bringing their total fuel surcharges to about $50 round-trip on some flights.

Colosseum Exhibits Roman Conquests

March 5 — A special exhibit on now through September at the Colosseum in Rome highlights the military triumphs of the Roman empire. The display of 100 statues, bronzes, bas-reliefs, and marble slabs includes representations of epic battles, conquered cities, captured prisoners, and looted treasure, shown alongside busts and portraits of heroic leaders such as Octavian and Caesar.

Germany Disrupted by Series of Strikes

March 5 — Many domestic flights are grounded and some international flights are delayed in Germany, where thousands of workers are striking for better pay. Frankfurt airport has cancelled 80 flights and Lufthansa airline at least 150. Bus and train drivers, school teachers, and other government employees represented by the Verdi public employees union walked off the job yesterday. In Berlin, striking transport workers have caused disruptions to the city's subway, bus, and tram systems. The national train drivers' union is also considering a strike that could affect Deutsche Bahn service on Monday.

Free Entry Ends at Roman Forum

March 5 — Visitors to the Roman Forum in Rome, Italy will pay an entry fee beginning Monday, March 10. The €11 ($16 USD) combo-ticket includes the nearby Colosseum and Palatine Hill. Officials say charging for entrance to the Roman Forum will help improve security. Proceeds will be used for further restoration projects.

 

February 2008

Venice Considers Entry Toll

February 28 — Officials in Venice are considering charging tourists a per-person entry toll to help raise funds for needed repairs and maintenance of the lagoon city. About 20 million people visit Venice annually. The "Ecopass" requirement would apply only to those without hotel reservations.

Dollar Falls to Record Low Against Euro

February 27 — The euro is trading at over $1.50 against the dollar, a record low for the US currency that is increasing the cost of travel to Europe. The dollar has fallen 12 percent against the euro in the last year alone.

US Airways Jumps on Baggage Fee Bandwagon

February 26 — Passengers checking more than one bag on US Airways will be charged $25 for the second bag beginning May 5. The third through ninth bag continue to cost $80 apiece. United Airlines announced a similar move earlier this month. The new policy continues to allow carry-on bags and one free checked bag per passenger. The fee does not apply to preferred frequent fliers and those flying first class.

Air Travelers Could Benefit from Transatlantic Price War

February 26 — The Open Skies agreement will open up more markets to European and American airlines on March 30, ending decades-old limits on transatlantic flights. But will deregulation of the US-to-Europe routes result in a price war? Air France, Delta, Northwest, Continental, and Lufthansa are among the airlines who will begin flying new transatlantic routes in April, and a few discount start-up airlines are offering new flights from New York to the United Kingdom. As a result, some industry watchers are predicting cheaper transatlantic economy and business-class fares.

Rail Touts Its Carbon-Friendly Side

February 26 — A 30 percent increase in business travelers on Eurostar, the high-speed train between London and Paris, is being attributed to concerns about global warming. Speaking to a European business conference, Eurostar chief executive Richard Brow said worries about climate change are prompting businesses to seek more environmentally-friendly means of transportation. A record 8.26 million travelers used Eurostar in 2007, a 5.1 percent increase over 2006. According to Eurostar, traveling round-trip from London to Paris via Eurostar results in carbon dioxide emissions of 10.9 kilograms of per passenger, while traveling by air results in emissions of 122 kg per passenger.

Website Predicts International Airfares

February 21 — The website Farecast.com now offers airfare predictions for more than 87 European markets, including London's Heathrow and Gatwick airports, Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Frankfurt. According to the website, airfares to popular European destinations this summer are trending 11 percent higher than in 2007. Its prediction of average fares from major U.S. cities to popular European destinations include Los Angeles to Paris, $1,150; New York's JFK to Frankfurt, $1,030; Chicago O'Hare to London Heathrow, $823; Dallas Ft. Worth to Amsterdam, $1,022; and Denver to Rome, $1,286. Farecast says its predictions are 74.5 percent accurate.

Delta to Add More International Flights

February 20 — Delta Airlines will expand its international flights this summer, with one extra weekly New York-Paris flight, along with an extra weekly flight from Atlanta to Venice, Italy; New York to Malaga, Spain; and New York to Cape Town, South Africa. A second flight will be added five times a week from Atlanta to Sao Paulo, Brazil. Delta is also adding service between New York and Lyon, France.

Irish Air Traffic Controllers May Strike

February 20 — Air traffic controllers in Ireland are threatening a one-day strike on Thursday, February 28 to protest overtime and hiring practices. If the strike happens, it could cancel about 450 flights, and would affect flights that pass across Irish airspace while traveling between the US and Europe. Unannounced work actions by the controllers have already disrupted some flights at Ireland's three airports over the past few weeks. Talks between the air traffic controllers' union and the government aviation authority are expected to begin on Monday.

Madrid-Barcelona Bullet Train Begins Service

February 20 — The high-speed AVE train between Madrid and Barcelona is finally up and running, cutting travel time between the two Spanish cities to a little over two and half hours. Planning for the train began nearly 20 years ago, but was delayed by construction issues. The train travels as fast as 186 miles per hour, with a round-trip ticket priced at €180.

Riots in Denmark; Suspects Held in Cartoonist Murder Plot

February 18 — Eight nights of rioting in Denmark have led to more than two dozen arrests amid vandalism to government buildings, schools, and cars. The rioters were mostly young immigrants. The unrest follows the re-publication of controversial political cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad with a bomb, and coincides with a new stop-and-search policy which allows Danish police to search people for weapons without cause. Also in Denmark, three people were arrested for allegedly plotting to murder the cartoonist who drew the satirical cartoon.

Mummies to Visit Italy's Iceman

February 19 — More than 70 mummies from Egypt, Asia, and South America will be on display from March through October, 2008 at the South Tirol Museum of Archeology in Bolzano, Italy, home to "Ötzi the Ice Man." Ötzi's 5,000-year-old body was found frozen in a glacier in 1991. "Mummies, the Dream of Eternal Life" will include mummies from the present day back to the very beginning of human existence.

Archeologists Disagree on Palatine Cave

February 15 — An underground grotto found in Rome may not be the Romulus Grotto after all. Archaeologists in November announced that the cave, discovered inside Palatine Hill, was likely the "Lupercale," a mythical place where the a she-wolf nursed Rome's founding brothers Romulus and Remus and where later Romans gathered to worship. Now a dissenting scientist says the grotto is simply a private monument to water nymphs.

Airlines To Refund Fuel Surcharges

February 15 — British Airways and Virgin Atlantic will refund nearly $200 million in fuel surcharges to airline passengers. The refund of £20 per roundtrip journey (about $39) is available to the 2.5 million US passengers who took long-haul flights with either of the two carriers between August 2004 and March 2006. US passengers can apply for the refund online at www.airpassengerrefund.com or by calling 1-877-625-9432.

Florence Considers Tram Line

February 14 — The people of Florence will vote this Sunday on whether or not to build a tram line through the city center. City officials have proposed the tram line as a way to reduce traffic and air pollution, but critics say it could actually damage the city's historic buildings and monuments. The tram line would run near the Baptistry and Duomo.

Berlin Plans Giant Ferris Wheel

February 14 — Berlin has announced it will build a giant Ferris wheel similar to the London Eye. The wheel will be over 600 feet tall — Europe's largest — and will cost over $166 million to build. Its 35 gondolas will carry 1,500 people at a time on a 35-minute ride.

Venice Pigeon-Feed Sellers Go to Court

February 11 — Venice's pigeon-feed vendors have gone to court to fight the city's new law banning them from St. Mark's Square. City officials are seeking an out-of-court settlement, offering to compensate the vendors for the value of their businesses. Venice has already banned people from feeding pigeons everywhere else in town, on the grounds that the pigeons are a health hazard and also pose a risk to historical monuments.

Parisian Air Traffic Controllers Strike

February 11 — Travelers are experiencing delays at Paris' Roissy/Charles de Gaulle airport and flight cancellations at Orly airport near Paris as the result of an air traffic controllers strike there. The French air traffic controllers' union says up to half of flights to and from those airports could be delayed or cancelled today and Friday; with about a third of all flights expected to be affected on Tuesday and Wednesday. The controllers are protesting a proposal to centralize all air traffic control at one airport.

EU, US Seek to Tighten Travel

February 11 — The 13 million Americans who travel to Europe each year will be fingerprinted at the European border if a proposal before the European Union is accepted by its parliament. The fingerprinting would start within a year. The proposal would also add satellite surveillance of European borders, and would add systems to limit travelers from overstaying their visas. The measures are targeted at reducing illegal immigration, EU officials say.

Meanwhile, the US government is asking the EU to provide more personal data on airline passengers, including those flying over but not landing in the US. It is also asking the EU to put armed air marshals on transatlantic flights, and has proposed requiring US visas for European visitors.

This spring the US plans to implement a permit system requiring Europeans to apply online for permission to enter the country before they can buy an airline ticket. The US already requires that fingerprints and photos of foreigners entering the country.

London's Camden Market Burns

February 10 — Two famous tourist attractions — London's Camden Market and its popular Hawley Arms pub — were damaged in a huge blaze there on February 9. More than 100 firefighters battled the fire, which apparently started in a market stall before spreading to nearby shops and apartments on Camden High Street. Visitors to the Camden area will find some roads, Underground, and train lines closed.

Delayed in 2007? You Probably Had Company

February 6 — More than one-quarter of all US domestic flights were delayed in 2007, the second-worst record since 2000. If you don't count cancellations, 2007 was actually the worst year on record for flight delays. In December alone more than one-third of all flights were either cancelled or arrived late. Analysts say the problem will only get worse, as airlines try to cut costs by using smaller planes with more booked seats.

Pack Light or Pay

February 4 — Taking a domestic United Airlines flight? Think twice before checking more than one bag — United has announced it will begin charging passengers $25 one-way for the second checked bag (even more for additional checked luggage). Travelers who belong to certain United frequent-flier programs are exempt, as are passengers with an international flight in their itinerary. United is presenting the second-bag fee as a way to keep ticket prices low. The company says second-bag fees and cost-savings from people bringing less luggage could total $100 million annually in new revenue. That's a lot of extra socks.

Should He Stay or Should He Go: Florence's David

February 4 — The Italian city of Florence is studying tourist congestion in its center, as its cultural chief continues to suggest moving Michelangelo's David to a site outside the city. His proposal would move the David from the Accademia museum (where it has been displayed since 1873) to the under-construction Maggio Fiorentino festival theater on the city's outskirts. But museum officials warn that the David is too fragile to move. A 2004 restoration found significant weakness and deterioration to the statue, which is now protected by a moving barrier of air.

 

January 2008

Del Piombo on Exhibit in Rome

January 31 — The Palazzo Venezia in Rome is hosting an exhibit of paintings by Renaissance artist Sebstiano Del Piombo. The exhibit runs through May 18 and will then move to the Gemaldegalerie in Berlin, Germany from June 28 to September 28. A contemporary of Michelangelo and Raphael, Del Piombo is best known for his life-sized portraits such as Family of Saints (on loan from New York's Metropolitan Museum) and Portrait of Dorotea (on loan from Berlin). Missing from the exhibit is Del Piombo's Raising of Lazarus, which was deemed too fragile to move from London's National Gallery.

YHA to Close Some UK Hostels, Update Others

January 29 — The Youth Hostel Association has announced it will close 35 hotels in England and Wales but will modernize and renovate another 37 properties. Twelve of the updated hostels will reopen to the public this summer, including a hostel near London's St. Pancras station. The YHA will also open three brand-new hostels in 2009, with locations in central London, Eastbourne, and Sussex. Altogether the YHA manages a network of 200-some hostels.

Historic Ships Get Lottery Funds

January 25 — The famous Victorian tea clipper Cutty Sark and the 16th-century warship Mary Rose will benefit from £31 million in United Kingdom lottery funds. The Cutty Sark, damaged by fire last year while under restoration at a Greenwich dry dock, will receive £10 million. Another £21 million will go toward building a museum in Portsmouth around the Mary Rose, Henry VII's flagship.

Death Train Exhibit Open in Berlin

January 25 — A new exhibit at the Deutsch Bahn station at Potsdamer Platz in Berlin examines the role that the German state railway company played in the Holocaust. Deutsch Bahn's predecessor, Reichsbahn, transported over three million people to Nazi death camps, and was paid for each passenger over age four. Most of those transported later died in the camps. The exhibit, "Special Trains to Death," includes documents and letters, photographs of deported children, and statements from Holocaust survivors. After Berlin the exhibit will travel to train stations in Frankfurt, Munich, Halle, and Muenster.

EU Proposes Fingerprinting Visitors

January 25 — The top justice official for the European Union is proposing that all visitors to the EU be fingerprinted in an effort to secure borders and prevent illegal immigration, and could also require that they register online before visiting. Both measures are similar to steps being taken in the US, where most visitors from Europe are now fingerprinted and a proposal to require an electronic visa was announced recently by the US Homeland Security Department. The EU is also under pressure from the US to collect more data on airline passengers flying into member nations.

Ryanair Charges More for Baggage

January 24 — Ryanair is raising its fees to check baggage or to check in at the airport. Checking a bag online now costs £6 (nearly $12) for the first bag and £12 for each additional bag; checking a bag at the airport now costs £12 per bag. The discount airline has increased the cost of checking in at the airport to £3, up from £2. (Online check-in remains free). Ryanair continues to allow travelers only one piece of carry-on luggage.

Rising Sea Levels Threaten Giant's Causeway

January 22 — The National Trust — the government agency responsible for Great Britain's historic sites — is warning that rising sea levels could threaten the Giant's Causeway and other important coastal sites in Northern Ireland. According to a new report, the causeway, a geological marvel born in an ancient volcanic eruption, could be partly underwater by 2020.

Locals Only on New Venice Waterbus; Line #82 Renamed #2

January 21 — A new vaporetto line in Venice is intended only for residents subscribed to a CartaVenezia pass. The #3 line (blue) is intended to give locals a faster way to get around the city without jostling with tourists for space on the popular crowded waterbus routes. It links Piazzale Roma to San Marco every 20 minutes, making all stops in between.

The #82 vaporetto line — most frequently used by tourists — is being renamed simply the "#2" line (red) and will see some changes in stops and timetables. The #1 line (white) continues unchanged except for adding daily stops at the Rialto Market.

Pound Down Against Euro; Up Against Dollar

January 15 — The British pound has fallen to a new all-time low again the euro (£1 = €1.33). Meanwhile the pound remains strong against the dollar (£1 = $1.95). Both the Bank of England and the US Federal Reserve are poised to cut interest rates next month in separate efforts to boost retail spending and bolster flagging economies.

More Passengers Take Eurostar

January 13 — An estimated 8.26 million people used the high-speed Eurostar train service between London and Paris last year, an increase of sixteen percent over 2006. Eurostar attributes the increase in train passengers to airport congestion, flight delays, and its move to the more-convenient St. Pancras station in London.

Air Travel Update

January 10 — British Airways has announced it will start a new airline this summer. The airline, called OpenSkies, will fly from New York directly to Brussels or Paris. If successful the airline could expand to serve Boston, Washington, DC, and Philadelphia; and European destinations such as Madrid, Milan, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt.

A new report shows US planes are becoming more crowded than ever, carrying four percent more passengers than the year before. They're also running late more often: Over a quarter of planes don't arrive on time. Meanwhile, many domestic airlines are planning to further cut capacity in 2008, cramming more passengers onto less planes to cut costs.

Venice Is Not For the Birds

January 10 — Venice's city council has voted to ban birdseed vendors from St. Mark's Square, where they have historically sold pigeon food to tourists. It's already against the law to feed pigeons elsewhere in the city. The pigeons (and their poop) are blamed for destroying historical monuments and buildings, putting public health at risk, and general messiness.

Even Virtual Roads Lead to Rome

January 8 — A new exhibit at the Baths of Diocletian Museum in Rome allows you to take a virtual tour of the ancient Roman street known as Via Flaminia, built in the third century. Much like the popular online game "Second Life," museum visitors create avatars and then walk along the reconstructed street, exploring monuments and villas and meeting political figures such as Emperor Augustus along the way. Users can also switch to a virtual tour of Rome as it appears today.

UK Allows More Carry-Ons

January 7 — Airline passengers are now allowed to bring two pieces of carry-on luggage with them aboard flights from the UK's Heathrow, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh airports. But the one-carry-on restriction remains in force at Gatwick, Bristol, Liverpool, and several other UK airports. To make things even more confusing, some airlines, including Easyjet, are maintaining the one-bag rule, while others, such as Virgin Atlantic, are allowing two carry-ons...for first class passengers only. Travelers to the UK are encouraged to check individual airline and airport websites for specifics.

Smoking Ban Approved in Turkey

January 4 — Following the trend throughout Europe, the Turkish parliament has approved a ban on smoking in all enclosed public places. The law, which goes into effect in 18 months, bans smoking in restaurants, cafés, and nightclubs. It also applies to passenger train cars, outdoor stadiums, and taxis. Turkey has already made smoking illegal at schools, government offices, and hospitals, although enforcement has been spotty. About 40 percent of Turkish people smoke.

Chairlift Accident Results in One Death

January 3 — A German man died and several people were injured in a ski chairlift accident near Grindelwald, Switzerland. Several chairs carrying skiers crashed to the ground when a cable separated from the guide wheel atop a 46-foot-tall support tower during windy conditions. Another 75 people were evacuated from the chairlift, located on the Kleine-Scheidegg pass.

British Airports Avert Strikes

January 3 — British airport workers and management have reached an agreement on pensions, averting strikes planned for January 7, 14, and 17. The strikes would have affected Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh, Stansted, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Southampton airports.

Milan Charges Cars for Polluting

January 2 — Milan, Italy has become that country's first city to charge a pollution tax to vehicles entering the city center. The Milan Ecopass tax varies by vehicle type depending on how much pollution it emits and ranges from €2 to €10 a day. Drivers neglecting to pay the tax can be fined €80.

Lithium Batteries Restricted in Checked Bags

January 2 — Beginning January 1, US airline passengers are no longer allowed to pack loose lithium batteries in their checked luggage. You are allowed to carry two spare rechargeable lithium batteries in your carry-on, but the batteries must be in a plastic zip-lock bag or in their original packaging. Lithium batteries already installed in cameras, laptops, or MP3 players are not affected by the new rule, which is intended to decrease the risk of fire from overheated lithium batteries.

 

December 2007

Best and Worst of European Airports

December 28 — Three European airports are named on the World Airport Awards list of the top 10 airports in the world for 2007: Munich at number 4, Zurich at number 6, Amsterdam at number 7 and Madrid Barajas at number 10. As for Europe's worst airports, unofficial surveys consistently name London's Heathrow airport, with Paris' Charles de Gaulle a close runner-up. Both are cited for delayed flights, long security and check-in lines, general congestion, and lack of amenities. Also noted for its congestion and poor customer service: Rome's Leonardo da Vinci airport.

Hungarian and German Rail Strike Updates

December 20 — A strike by rail workers in Hungary ended Tuesday after failing to stop legislation to privatize health insurance. In Germany, train drivers plan to strike beginning January 7 in a dispute over wages. A similar strike there last month caused disruptions to commuter and regional train service.

Smoking Ban Extends to French Cafés

December 20 — Beginning January 1, the French ban on smoking in public places will be extended to cafés, bars, restaurants, hotels, nightclubs. The ban is already in effect in school, offices, and hospitals. Smoking will still be allowed in outdoor seating areas. Some question whether the ban will spell the end of France's café society.

Frankfurt Airport to Add Runway and Third Terminal

December 20 — The international airport in Frankfurt, Germany will add a fourth runway and a third terminal by 2011. Frankfurt is Europe's third busiest airport — the two busiest are Heathrow in London and Charles de Gaulle in Paris.

Strike Report: Hungarian and German Rail; Virgin Atlantic Air

December 20 — A strike by rail workers in Hungary ended Tuesday after failing to stop legislation to privatize health insurance. In Germany, train drivers plan to strike beginning January 7 in a dispute over wages. A similar strike there last month caused disruptions to commuter and regional train service. And the union representing Virgin Atlantic cabin crews plans to strike January 9-10 and January 16-17, also in a disagreement over wages.

Airline Expansions Announced

December 17 — Discount airlines EasyJet and Ryanair are announcing major expansions. EasyJet will acquire GB Airways and expand its number of flights operating from England's Manchester and Liverpool airports in the coming year. And Ryanair has announced plans to double its fleet of planes and add 50 new routes by 2012, adding service to France, Germany, Italy, and Romania.

Pompeii Frescoes on Display in Rome

December 19 — "Pompeii Red," a special exhibit of restored frescoes from Pompeii and Herculaneum, has opened at the National Museum in Rome. Many of the frescoes have been in storage at Naples' Archeological Museum for years. Some of the frescoes were discovered years ago; others are more recent discoveries including an entire room from a Pompeii home. The exhibit ends March 20.

Strike Affects Hungarian Rail

December 16 — More than half of trains in Hungary aren't running today as rail workers there began an unlimited strike. Joining in the strike are thousands of teachers and health workers and some bus drivers, and a limited strike is planned at Budapest's Ferihegy Airport. The workers are protesting a government plan to privatize the country's health system and cut some pensions.

Leonardo's Drawings at Milan's Sforza Castle

December 12 — The 12th-century Sforza Castle in Milan, Italy is hosting a special exhibit of Leonardo da Vinci's anatomical drawings. The exhibit includes Leonardo's many sketches of the human form, animals — especially horses — and several editions of his Treatise on Painting. The castle is also home to a fascinating Museum of Ancient Art.

Italian Trucks Rolling Again

December 12 — A three-day strike by Italian truck drivers ended today, after causing food and gas shortages across the country. The strike also disrupted traffic as truckers used their big rigs to block access to major roads, ports, and border crossings. The truckers are protesting high fuel prices.

Augustus Rooms to Open in March

December 12 — Visitors to Rome, Italy this spring will be able to visit four newly restored rooms in a house from the era of Emperor Augustus. The rooms, with colorful frescoes, were discovered near Augustus' palace on Palatine Hill in the 1970s, but until now have been closed to the public. Admission to the Augustus Rooms will be included in the same ticket that covers entry to the Roman Forum, Colosseum, and Palatine Hill.

JFK Airport: No (More) Flights for You

December 11 — A federal plan to cut the number of flights landing and taking off at JFK Airport near New York is intended to reduce delays and missed connections at the increasingly busy airport. The move could mean fewer flights available at JFK, and could shift more flights to La Guardia and Newark Liberty airports.

Airlines Try In-Flight Internet Access

December 10 — JetBlue Airways next week will begin testing its free e-mail and instant messaging service for passengers. American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Virgin America intend to begin offering pay Internet access (about $10/flight) beginning in 2008. European airlines including Air France, BMI, and Ryanair are also testing in-flight Internet services. Some of the services work with passengers' own laptops or cell phones, while others use seat-back computer screens.

Mold Could Damage Cave Paintings

December 9 — Scientists are scrambling to figure out why mold is spreading in caves holding the France's 15,000-year-old Lascaux paintings. Possible culprits range from global warming to a faulty climate-control system. The cave will be closed for several months while the paintings are treated with a fungicide. The public has not been allowed entry to the cave since 1963 (tourists can instead visit a replica opened in 1983).

More Strikes in France

December 7 — Several unions representing French rail workers plan a 36-hour strike to begin at 8 p.m. on December 11, and could be joined on December 12 by bus and metro workers. Similar strikes last month brought public transportation in Paris to a standstill. Negotiations are continuing between the unions and the government, which wants to reform the retirement system.

You Too Can Be a Dancing Queen

December 6 — The new ABBA museum in Stockholm, Sweden, expected to open in June 2009, will include a studio where Abba fans can record themselves belting out hits from the '70s disco band. The three-story museum will display musical instruments and clothing donated by ABBA's four members, and will also include a dance floor.

ETA Attacks Lead to Madrid Demonstrations

December 5 — Thousands of people demonstrated in Madrid, Spain on Tuesday, protesting the deaths of two police officers there. The policemen died after being shot by suspected members of the Basque separatist group, ETA, while on a mission in a French village. ETA supports the formation of an independent Basque nation encompassing parts of north Spain and southwest France.

No Tunnel at Stonehenge

December 6 — A tunnel that would have rerouted a highway to pass beneath the monument at Stonehenge has been shelved by the British government. Officials balked at the tunnel's $1.13 billion cost, but the decision concerns those who fear the site will continue to deteriorate if something isn't done about the traffic. Traffic problems at Stonehenge, and improving the visitors center there, have been the subject of debate for nearly a decade.

Chalk Sketch is Michelangelo's

December 6 — A sketch found in the offices at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome is probably one of Michelangelo's last. The sketch will be unveiled on December 10. The chalk sketch of the dome of the basilica was created in 1563, the year before Michelangelo died. A note from stonecutter supervisor is written on the back, describing problems with transporting the stone.

Tourists Revolt in Macau, China

December 5 — About 100 tourists staged a revolt in Macau today, angry that they weren't allowed back on the bus after an over-long visit to a swanky shopping district. Riot police responded and four tourists were held for questioning. The tourists, from mainland China, said that their tour guides were refusing to take them to historical sights, instead forcing them to shop. Unfortunately for the Chinese, there are no Rick Steves tours outside of Europe.

German Rail Workers Agree to Deal

December 4 — The union representing train drivers in Germany has reached an agreement with the rail operator Deutsche Bahn, ending a dispute over pay that led to several strikes and disrupted travel here last month. The agreement won't be finalized until January but is expected to be approved by union members.

Berlin's Tempelhof Airport to Close in '08, Tegel to Follow in 2011

December 4 — Berlin's historic Tempelhof Airport will close to passengers in 2008 following a ruling by Germany's superior court. Several small airlines which use Tempelhof had protested the closure, which is planned as part of expansion at Berlin's Schönefeld airport. Schönefeld is expected to become the city's new hub by 2011, when Berlin's Tegel Airport is slated to close.

Greek Airline Faces Shutdown

December 3 — The Greek government is considering shutting down struggling Olympic Airlines, the country's national carrier, amid allegations of illegal financial subsidies. Based in Athens, Olympic flies to 35 domestic airports and 39 airports throughout the world.

Heathrow's Terminal 5 to Help Alleviate Crowding

December 2 — The new Terminal 5 at London's Heathrow Airport, opening March 27, is intended to alleviate congestion at one of the world's busiest airports. It is expected to serve 30 million passengers a year, with 60 flight gates and 29 security scanners. Inside the two-level terminal are a number of upscale stores and restaurants. The new terminal was designed by British architect Richard Rogers, who also designed the Pompidou Center in Paris. Opening of Terminal 5 coincides with an "open skies" agreement that will allow more airlines to fly between the US and Europe.

City to Mountain Funicular Opens in Innsbruck

December 1 — The new Nordkettenbahn funicular is up and running in Innsbruck, Austria, taking people from the city center to the peak of Hafelekar Mountain in about 25 minutes. The ultra-modern funicular (called the Hungerburgbahn) leaves directly from downtown, then links to a gondola that leads up the mountains — linking the city center to the mountain ski area. For details see www.nordpark.com.

 

November 2007

Swedes to Build Huge Moose

November 29 — A wooden moose so big that its feet will be in two different counties (Vasterbotten and Norbotten) is about to go up in northern Sweden, about 540 miles north of Stockholm. The moose, about 150 feet tall and 155 feet long, is being built at a cost of $9.4 million in hopes of drawing tourists to the area. It will hold a restaurant, theater, and, of course, a gift shop.

Rome Taxi Strike Continues

November 29 — A two-day taxi strike in Rome has tied up traffic throughout the capital city. Taxi drivers blocked traffic in central piazzas and refused to pick up travelers at Leonardo da Vinci airport and train stations. Drivers are protesting a city plan to issue more taxi licenses. Nationwide strikes by rail workers and bus drivers may follow on Friday.

Truckload of Beer Missing in Ireland

November 29 — Somewhere in Ireland, a really big party is going on. Police in Dublin are looking for a thief who stole 450 full beer kegs from the landmark Guinness brewery on Wednesday. The thief drove off with a truck loaded with 180 kegs of Guinness stout, 180 kegs of Budweiser, and 90 kegs of Carlsberg, together valued at over $230,000.

San Spirito Church Reopens in Florence

November 29 — The 15th-century San Spirito Church in Florence, Italy has reopened after a two-year closure. The church, designed by Brunelleschi, holds several important pieces of art, including a crucifix by Michelangelo and a Madonna by Filippino Lippi. The church was closed by vandalism and will now be staffed by 24-hour guards.

Riots in Paris Suburbs; Tourist Zones Unaffected

November 27 — Two nights of riots in suburbs outside Paris, France have injured nearly 80 police officers, as rampaging youth looted shops, fired guns at police, and set fire to cars, a library, and a police station. The riots started in Villiers-le-Bel, north of Paris, following the deaths of two teenagers whose motorcycle collided with a police car. Tourist zones within central Paris have not been affected by the unrest.

Third Airport Planned for Rome

November 27 — A third commercial airport is being planned near Rome, Italy in the suburb of Viterbo, about 62 miles north of the capital city. Rome's Leonardo da Vinci airport, in Fiumicino, is nearing capacity, and the nearby Ciampino airport has become increasingly popular among discount airlines. No date was given for when the Viterbo airport might open.

French Trains Back on Track

November 23 — Train service is nearly back to normal in France, following a strike which lasted for nine long days. Nearly all Metro trains are running, as are most high-speed trains from Paris, and about three-quarters of regional trains and buses. The union representing rail workers has agreed to talks with the French government but is threatening it could resume the strike in mid-December.

The rail strike was worsened on Wednesday when saboteurs attacked the high-speed rail system, damaging several lines. French teachers, hospital staff, postal workers, and utility workers held a 24-hour strike on Tuesday to protest poor pay; and university students continue to demonstrate.

More Money Needed For Cutty Sark

November 21 — Planned restoration of the historic tea clipper Cutty Sark, in dry dock in Greenwich, England, may not continue without an infusion of funds, officials said today. About one-quarter of the £25 million restoration project was complete six months ago when a fire severely damaged the 138-year-old ship. An extra £9 million is needed to repair the fire damage and complete the restoration. Before the fire, plans had called for the ship to be open to the public by November 2009; now that date has been pushed back to 2010. Investigators have not said what caused the fire.

Airlines Lose More Baggage

November 20 — The argument for carrying on your luggage was bolstered by a recent report, which found that one in 138 checked bags was lost by U.S. airlines during the first nine months of 2007 (compared to one in 155 bags in 2006). Almost all bags eventually find their owners, but that doesn't always make up for the headache of arriving at your destination without your clothes and toothbrush.

Archaeologists Find Romulus' Grotto

November 20 — Archaeologists have announced the discovery of an ancient, underground grotto linked to Rome's mythical founder, Romulus. According to legend, Romulus and his twin brother Remus were nursed by a she-wolf in a cave, which later was turned into a shrine by the Emperor Augustus. The vaulted grotto, discovered inside Palatine Hill, is adorned with mosaics and an image of a wolf. Archaeologists believe this may be the grotto described in antiquity as the "Lupercale," a place of worship. The discovery comes as Rome plans to reopen portions of Augustus' palace this spring.

France Transportation Strike Continues

November 19 — It's day six for a transportation strike in Paris, but there are some positive signs. More buses and trains are running today than at the beginning of the strike, and the rail unions have agreed to meet with negotiators on Wednesday. About 20 percent of Paris Metro trains, 30 percent of suburban trains, and 40 percent of buses are operating. Less than half of the 700 high-speed TGV trains are running (three-quarters of the Thalys trains to Belgium but only one-third of trains to Germany and Switzerland). A separate strike is planned Tuesday by government employees at hospitals, schools, post offices, and utilities.

Early Snow Kick-Starts Alpine Ski Season

November 19 — Last ski season was all about record low snowfall; this year Alpine ski resorts are rejoicing and opening early following unprecedented levels of snowfall this month. Some places have received more snow this November than they have since the 1950s. Major storms last week dumped more than three feet of snow in parts of the alps and ski resorts are now open in Austria, Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Travelodge Expands in Spain

November 19 — The Travelodge chain plans to bring 100 budget hotels to Spain by the year 2020, starting in Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia. The company is also expanding in the United Kingdom, where it has plans to add 40 new hotels over the same time period, focusing on the London area, Wales, and Scotland.

Jules Verne Restaurant to Re-Open at Eiffel Tower

November 18 — The made-over Jules Verne Restaurant, on the second level of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, reopens to the public on November 22. The upscale — and spendy — restaurant is being overseen by famous French chef Alain Ducasse.

Naples Bans Outdoor Smoking

November 18 — Indoor smoking in public places (restaurants, offices, government buildings) is already banned in Naples, Italy; now the city is banning smoking outdoors — in public parks and at cultural events — if children or pregnant women are present. Fines for violators range from $40 to $730.

London: Tutkanhamen on Display; Transport Museum Reopens

November 14 — A new exhibit, "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs," is now open at London's O2 Centre. Ticket prices are steep: £20 for adults (£15 on weekdays). King Tut's famous golden mask is not part of the exhibit, but visitors will see many other artifacts such as a gilded coffin, a decorative wooden chest, model boats, carved funerary figures, and a ceremonial shield.

The refurbished London Transport Museum reopens November 22 after a two-year renovation. The museum traces the social history of transportation, from the 1820s, when the London got its first buses, through the construction and expansion of the Metropolitan railway (now known as the Tube), and explores ways we might get around 50-some years in the future.

German Train Drivers Strike

November 14 — German freight train drivers walk off the job at noon today and will be joined by commuter and long-distance passenger train drivers tomorrow. The strike is expected to last for three days. Deutsche Bahn has said it will try to keep about 75 percent of long-distance passenger trains operating and about half of regional trains, with cancellations heaviest in eastern Germany. The rail company is bringing in buses to replace cancelled commuter trains. In Berlin, about a quarter of local trains are expected to run; in Munich about a third. Deutsche Bahn is posting information on its website.

France Grinds to a Halt

November 14 — Transport and utility workers in France have said the strike there will last at least through Thursday as they try to pressure the government into maintaining retirement benefits. Travelers to France are finding it difficult to link between main airports and train stations — buses, regional trains, and commuter trains are all affected. The London-Paris Eurostar, however, is running on schedule. Rail companies are posting updates on their websites: Thalys, SNCF (in French only), Paris Metro/RER (in French only), and Eurostar.

France Braces for Strike

November 13 — Widespread disruptions in public transportation and other services will begin Tuesday evening in France, where a rail strike is set to start at 8 p.m. Bus and Metro workers will walk off the job Wednesday.

Only about 90 of France's 700 high-speed trains will continue to run, along with about one in 10 buses and commuter trains.

International Thalys trains from Paris to Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne will be affected. All Elipsos/Talgo night trains (overnight between Paris and Barcelona or Madrid and between Barcelona and Milan or Zurich) have been cancelled, as well as Artesia night trains and Artesia day trains between Paris and Italy. Cancellation dates vary by route within the period of November 13–16.

The strike coincides with the opening of London's St. Pancras station, the new terminus for the Eurostar, where cross-channel service from London to Paris is planned to begin on Wednesday. Eurostar says it plans to use British crews to keep the service running throughout the strike, but is offering some ticketed passengers a free day-of-travel change.

The strike is expected to last at least several days. University and postal workers have announced they will show support by striking on November 20 and court workers on November 29.

Wheel Starts Turning in Belfast

November 9 — A 196-foot-high Ferris wheel, similar to the London Eye, has opened in Belfast, Ireland. The Wheel of Belfast stands near the City Hall and is expected to draw large crowds of tourists throughout 2008. Fifteen-minute trips cost £6 ($12.60) per person.

Paris Metro and Bus Workers to Join Striking French Railworkers

November 8 — Travelers in Paris and throughout France this week can expect significant travel disruptions. Paris Metro and bus workers have announced they will join six French rail unions in a strike to protest government pension reforms. The strike is set to begin Tuesday evening and — like last month's strike — could last several days.

Websites Help Air Travelers Stretch Out

November 8 — Three websites can help air travelers find seats with more legroom. Seatguru.com covers nearly 50 airlines with charts that compare seat size in first class and economy sections, and identifies seats that may have less legroom or are undesirable due to their proximity to bathrooms or galleys. Airlinequality.com rates seats on more than 325 long-haul airlines. Flatseats.com compares the fold-down "beds" in first-class and business-class.

Restored St. Pancras Terminal Opens in London; Eurostar Service to Begin

November 6 — The Victorian-age St. Pancras Terminal in London has been formally reopened by Queen Elizabeth II after a $1.68 billion restoration. Eurostar service to Paris and Brussels from the terminal will begin this Thursday, November 14. The restored terminal, which was the world's largest enclosed space when it was completed in 1868, now holds an upscale shopping mall, restaurants, the world's longest champagne bar, and a soon-to-come luxury hotel. High-speed rail service from St. Pancras to Kent begins in 2010, and to Stratford in 2012.

More Flights from US West Coast to Europe

November 6 — Aer Lingus will begin offering four weekly flights from San Francisco to Dublin, Ireland next week, with daily service beginning in March. It will soon also offer flights to Dublin from Orlando and Washington, D.C. Lufthansa Airlines will begin non-stop flights in March between Seattle and Frankfurt, Germany. The new flights are some of the first to be offered through a new "Open Skies" agreement that opens up more American cities to international carriers.

Some International Trains Cancelled in Anticipation of French Rail Strike

November 6 — Several international train departures have already been cancelled in anticipation of the announced November 13 rail strike in France. Cancelled are all Elipsos/Talgo Night trains (overnight between Paris and Barcelona or Madrid and between Barcelona and Milan or Zurich) as well as Artesia Night and Artesia Day (Paris-Italy). Cancellation dates vary by route within the period of November 13–16.

British Airlines to End Carry-On Restrictions

November 2 — British Airlines has announced it will soon ease restrictions on carry-on items. The security restrictions, which limit passengers to one carry-on bag, have been blamed for increased delays at some of the world's busiest airports, including Britain's Heathrow. BA says it will relax the restrictions this year as it phases in new x-ray equipment.

Senate Report Says U.S. Government Overcharging for Passports

November 2 — A congressional investigation found that Americans are being overcharged for their passports, which now cost $97 (plus an extra $60 for expedited service and $15 for photos). The investigation looked at a $30 portion of the processing fee, earmarked for the cost of clerks who examine and accept passport applications at post offices, passport offices, libraries, and courthouses. It found that the actual processing cost was closer to $13 to $16. The report estimated the government overcharged travelers $113 million in 2002 alone. The report comes on top of record passport backlogs over the summer. More than 500,000 people waited more than three months for their passports, and countless travel plans were disrupted.

 

October 2007

More Strikes Loom in France, Britain

October 31 — French transport and energy workers have announced they will strike across the country on November 13. French hospital workers, teachers, and other government workers are also planning strikes in late November. The strikes are in protest of French President Sarkozy's planned reforms to government salaries and pensions. Travel across France was disrupted for several days earlier this month due to a nationwide rail worker strike and an Air France strike. Because most railways aim to preserve "essential service" even during strikes, sporadic trains are likely to run on the main lines and the few remaining station personnel can tell you the expected schedule. 

In the United Kingdom, security, maintenance, firefighting, and administrative workers at seven airports — Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Southhampton — are threatening to strike over cuts to retirement benefits for new workers. The strike could come during the busy holiday season.

Restored Florence Baptistery Doors Displayed in New York

October 30 — Several panels of the 15th-century Florence Baptistery doors — Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise panels — are on display at the Metropolitan Museum in New York through January. Having already traveled to Atlanta and Chicago, the doors will make a West Coast appearance at Seattle's Art Museum (Jan-April), before being returned to the Duomo Museum in Florence. This is the first and likely only time the panels will be displayed in the United States. The panels, commissioned in 1425 and considered an icon of Renaissance art, recently underwent nearly 25 years of restoration.

Air France Strike Disrupts Flights

October 29 — A five-day strike by Air France cabin crews is expected to end today, after causing major headaches for air travelers in France over the weekend. More than one-third of Saturday and Sunday's flights were cancelled — mostly long-distance flights out of Paris. Affected Air France passengers were given vouchers for flights on other airlines or train travel. Those who could not reschedule were allowed to postpone their flights or were reimbursed for the cost of their cancelled ticket.

SAS Grounds Q400 Turboprops

October 29 — Scandinavian Airlines has announced it will cease flying its 27 Bombardier Q400 turboprops due to safety concerns. Cancellations and disruptions are expected on flights between Scandinavian hubs and the United Kingdom, Germany, and Poland. Landing gear failures on two of the Canadian-made planes in September led to groundings and safety inspections; a third crash-landing this weekend in Denmark prompted SAS to pull the Q400s from its fleet permanently. No-one was injured in the three crashes. In the United States, Seattle's Horizon Air — a division of Alaska Airlines — says it will continue flying its Q400 turboprops.

Galleries Receive Major Donation

October 29 — The Tate Museum and National Gallery in London have received a donated art collection valued at over £100 million ($205 million USD). The paintings were left to the museums in the will of British art collector Simon Sainsbury. A special exhibit at the Tate in summer 2008 will show all 18 paintings, including works by Monet and Gaugin; then the pieces will be divided between the two museums.

Train Service Back to Normal in France

October 20 — Train service in France is back to normal after a two-day strike by transportation workers protesting proposed cuts to government pension plans. At the height of the strike, a few departures of the London-to-Paris Eurostar were cancelled as were hundreds of regional SNCF and high-speed TGV trains, buses and trams were affected in nearly 30 French cities, and fewer than one in 10 Metro trains ran in Paris.

Strikes Disrupt Travel in Germany, Greece

October 19 — A nine-hour strike by German rail workers seeking a pay increase affected commuters and travelers in Munich and Frankfurt on Thursday. In Greece, fuel truck drivers ended their two-day strike on Friday after blocking parts of that country's busiest highway. The truckers are protesting changes that would increase competition among truckers.

Trajan's Market Now Open in Rome

October 18 — After a two-and-a-half year closure, Trajan's Market in Rome has reopened to the public, as has the new Museum of the Imperial Forum. The new museum contains artifacts including a giant hand from the Colossus, a huge statue of Rome's first emperor. Computers in the museum show how the Forum was built and rebuilt from 46 B.C. to A.D. 113 as different emperors took power.

Five Held in Monet Vandalism

October 10 — Four men and a woman have been arrested after breaking into the Musee d'Orsay in Paris on Oct 13 and damaging a Monet painting. The group — apparently drunk — were caught on security cameras forcing open a door. One seems to have punched Monet's The Bridge at Argenteuil, leaving the 1874 painting with a four-inch long gash. This is the latest in a string of thefts and incidents of vandalism raising concerns about the security of French museums, including the theft of a Monet painting in August from the Nice Museum of Fine Arts.

ETA Suspected in Bilbao Bombing

October 9 — A bodyguard was injured today when a car bomb exploded in Bilbao, Spain in what may be a renewal of the violent movement for Basque independence. The Spanish government blamed the bombing on the Basque separatist group ETA, although ETA has not issued a statement. Twenty-three ETA political leaders were arrested last week. More than 800 people have died in the 40-year conflict. A period of peace ended in December when an ETA bomb went off at the Madrid airport, killing two.

Acropolis Antiquities Begin Move to New Home

October 9 — Curators this weekend will begin the 10-month process to move more than 4,000 ancient artifacts and statues from the Acropolis in Greece into a new, modern museum at the base of the hill. Greek officials hope their efforts to safeguard the ancient works from the elements will increase pressure on London's British Museum to return a set of sculptures originally located in the Parthenon, now known as the Elgin marbles. The long-delayed Acropolis Museum is expected to open to the public in fall 2008.

Airlines to Provide Wi-Fi Access

October 8 — Several airlines are rolling out plans to make Wi-Fi Internet access available to air passengers while in flight. American Airlines will test its first Wi-Fi equipped plane in December and hopes to outfit all its 767s by 2008. Virgin Atlantic and Alaska Airlines are also working to equip their planes with Wi-Fi next year. Virgin Atlantic's Wi-Fi would be integrated into seat-back entertainment systems, so passengers wouldn't even need to bring their own computer to access the Internet. A recent survey found that nearly two-thirds of airline passengers want to be able to surf the Internet and check email while flying, and many said they would choose an airline based on whether or not Wi-Fi is available.

Arrests in Copenhagen Clash

October 7 — Nearly 440 people were held overnight in Copenhagen, Denmark following a riot protesting the closure of a Norrebro youth center. Several thousand protestors took part in the demonstration, which quickly escalated when some protestors began setting fires and climbing on police cars. After occupying the building since the 1970s, squatters were evicted from the youth center in March 2007. The contested building was later demolished.

Turkish Women Protest Constitutional Changes

October 2 — A new constitution in Turkey is drawing fire from more than 80 women's groups there, who say it will take away women's rights. The draft removes current constitutional language that calls for gender equality, replacing it with a statement that "women are a vulnerable group needing protecting." The new constitution is being written to replace the current version, which was adopted in 1980 after a military coup.

Contested Art Returns to Rome

October 2 — After years of wrangling, a small group of contested antiquities were returned to Rome today from the L.A.'s John Paul Getty Museum. These were the first of more about 40 art treasures, valued at $425 million, that the Getty has agreed to return to Rome. Most pieces will be sent to Rome this year, while a fifth-century B.C. statue of Aphrodite will be returned in 2010. No agreement has been reached on the most hotly disputed piece, a third-century B.C. bronze athlete.

Two Arrested in Suspected Embassy Plot

October 2 — Two men have been arrested on suspicion of trying to bomb the US embassy in Vienna. A 42-year-old Bosnian man was arrested Monday after his explosive-filled backpack set off metal detectors when he tried to enter the embassy. Police took a second Bosnian man into custody the following day. The backpack was said to contain nails, grenades, and Islamic literature.

Big Ben's Back

October 1 — After seven weeks of silence, Londoners can again set their watches to the familiar "bong" of Big Ben. The world-famous 13-ton bell in the Houses of Parliament clock tower tolled the noon hour today, after being out of commission for over a month due to maintenance. Big Ben turns 150 in 2009.

BBC Buys Lonely Planet

October 1 — BBC Worldwide, the commercial parent of BBC television, has bought a 75 percent stake in the prolific travel guide publisher, Lonely Planet. Lonely Planet founders Tony and Maureen Wheeler will keep a 25 percent stake in the company, which publishes more than 500 books, and also produces travel-related TV shows.

 

September 2007

Amsterdam's Red Light District to Shrink

September 21 — In an effort to cut down on crime, the city of Amsterdam has announced a sweeping move to buy 18 buildings in its red light district, and convert them to retail shops and apartments. This will effectively shut down about 1/3 of the neighborhood's brothels. A longtime tourist attraction, Amsterdam's Wallen district has become a magnet for human trafficking and money laundering. According to mayor Job Cohen, Amsterdam has no intention of outlawing prostitution, only its "underlying criminality."   

Marbles in Living Color

September 19 — Visitors to the British Museum can now enjoy seeing what the Parthenon's Elgin Marbles looked like originally — in vivid color. The museum has added a permanent video presentation beside the celebrated Marbles, which recreates the complete Greek metope (including parts not in the museum) using computer graphics. Relying on tiny bits of pigment found on the actual sculptures, archaeologists have created a work that is all the more dramatic when seen in full color. To eyes used to seeing classical sculptures in their pure paleness, these representations might border on kitch. But that's how the Greeks really made them.  

Dollar Hits Record Low

September 13 — The euro climbed in value to over $1.39 this week, setting a record against the U.S. dollar. This means that travelers this fall will be paying about 9% more for meals and hotels in Europe than last year (12% more than in fall 2005). Budget-minded travelers have three basic choices: (1) stay home and feel bad; (2) prepare to spend about 10% more in Europe than they planned; (3) use smart budget travel skills to shave 10% off of their per-day spending in Europe.

 

August 2007

Taormina Cracks Down on Tacky Tourists

August 31 — Inspired by Venice's summer-long campaign to class-up St. Mark's Square, the Sicilian town of Taormina has announced a similar crack-down on tacky tourists. People wandering through historic sites while bare-chested, snacking or littering will now be fined from 25 to 500 euros. Taormina's deputy mayor complained that the city's symbol, a fountain of a female centaur, had been turned into "an open-air dining room" for people with snacks and drinks. The maximum fine will be reserved for what the mayor termed "full-scale visual vandalism."

Wildfires in Greece

August 28 — High temperatures, strong winds and arson have combined to create deadly wildfires across Greece this past week, killing more than 60 people. The southern and western Peloponnese has been especially hard hit, including areas surrounding Olympía, Kalamáta, Spárta and the Máni Peninsula. (Rick Steves' Sept. 1 and Sept. 3 "Athens and the Heart of Greece" tour departures are being rerouted away from these areas.) Although many fires are still burning, news reports indicate that towns and villages are no longer in immediate danger.

Spanish TV Cuts Out the Bull

August 24 — In the interest of reducing kids' exposure to violence, Spain's state-run TV network will no longer broadcast live bullfights. Although the sport can still be viewed on pay TV stations, many locals (not to mention travelers sitting in hotels and bars) will miss out on a strangely riveting form of television. Love it or hate it, it's the end of an era.

More Trains Go Smokeless

August 14 — Starting September 1, Europe's railway smoking ban will extend to all trains in Germany, Austria, and Poland (although in Poland, smoking is still permitted on express, fast, and local trains). Smoking is currently banned aboard trains in Great Britain, Ireland, Benelux, France, Italy, Switzerland, Norway, and Sweden. Nostalgia-seekers can still find smoking cars on some trains in Spain (trips longer than 5 hours), Denmark, and Finland.

Big Ben Goes Silent

August 10 — Visitors to London during the next six weeks will miss that classic London moment: the chiming of Big Ben. For the first time since 1956, the towering clock will be silenced for a thorough mechanical refurbishing, in preparation for its 150th anniversary in 2009. But passers-by can still rely on Big Ben for the correct time — an electric back-up motor will keep the hands turning as always.

Monet and Other Paintings Stolen in Nice

August 6 — Masked thieves recently stole four paintings at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the fine arts museum of Nice, France. A Monet painting, two works by Flemish artist Jan Brueghel and a painting by landscape painter Alfred Sisley were taken during the daylight robbery.

Easyjet Charging for Check-in Luggage

August 3 — Budget airline Easyjet, which previously allowed travelers one checked bag at no cost, now charges £2 per bag, with a weight limit of 20 kg (44 pounds) each. Carry-on luggage is still free.

Tweaks to Carry-On Rules

August 3 — The TSA has long required travelers to remove laptop computers from carry-on bags for inspection. Now other large electronic devices — such as "home size" DVD players, consoles for Xbox and PlayStation games and larger-size video cameras — must also be removed from carry-on bags for inspection by screeners. The good news is that travelers may now carry more than three ounces of breast milk aboard flights, provided it is declared at each security checkpoint.

 

July 2007

Trains Can Sometimes Be the Better Option

July 31 — In an era of low-cost airfares, French Rail's new TGV bullet train service can be more convenient than flying, taking you quickly from town center to town center. Each year the TGV network snakes out further from Paris — now linking it with 20 French cities and 10 German cities. Zipping at up to 200 miles per hour, these trains cut the journey time by up to half compared to regular trains. And on November 14 the new Eurostar station will open at London's St. Pancras Station kicking off a new era in which the trip between London and Paris will be 20 minutes shorter — down to one hour and 51 minutes (plus 30 minutes for security check-in).

British Army Leaves Northern Ireland

July 31 — After reducing their presence in the region for the past 10 years, the British Army is ending its campaign — a strong symbol of how far Ireland has come in the peace process. Since May, Northern Ireland has been governed by a power-sharing agreement between Protestant loyalists and Catholic nationalists, rather than being ruled by London, as it was in the past.

Russians Travel in Increasing Numbers

July 31 — You'll see Russian tourists all over Europe these days — especially if you're staying in the places where filthy-rich travelers stay. Russian elites are not only buying up villas in choice parts of Europe, they're vacationing in greater numbers than ever too. While top destinations are Turkey and Finland, they're flocking to the French Riviera (where some mayors have moved to stop Russian purchases of land) and Russians actually spent more nights in Baden-Baden (the German spa town) than Americans did last year. What's with all the smarmy old men with the spiky-heeled babes? Europeans aren't asking questions...just banking the black money. Get used to seeing more Cyrillic than ever in your European travels.

Forest Fires Suffocate Greece

July 16 — More than 400 forest fires have broken out in Greece since June's record-breaking heat wave. The most recent, the Parnitha blaze outside the Greek capital of Athens, has burned more than 11,000 acres of protected forestland, closed a major highway, and caused evacuations. The forest had acted as a natural air conditioner for Athens and its burning has already caused temperatures and air pollution to rise in the city. There is some speculation the fire was set deliberately to clear land for development. The Greek government has pledged to replant the forest.

Paris Brings Bikes to the People

July 15 — This week Paris it rolled out the world's largest bike rental program, called Vélib. The name is a conjunction of the French words "vélo" (bike) and "liberté" (freedom). More than 10,000 bikes are stationed at 750 self-service locations throughout the city (doubling to 20,000 bikes by 2008). Paris' mayor, Bertrand Delanoë, has pledged to reduce car traffic in the capital city by 40 percent by 2020 and has already built 125 miles of additional bike paths.

Luxury Flight to Let You Light Up

July 12 — With nationwide smoking bans are going into effect all across Europe, Smokers' International Airways, SMINTair, www.smintair.com, is planning to launch all-smoking air service between Germany and Japan. More than 25 percent of Germans and 49 percent of Japanese men are smokers. The airline plans to charge upwards of $6000 for business-class seats on its two refurbished Boeing 747s, which will come with three lounges, a cocktail bar, and gourmet meals. It the idea takes off, the airline will start flying in December.

US Embassy Warns Travelers About Naples Garbage

July 10 — The US Embassy in Rome is warning Americans about possible health risks if they visit Naples, where a three-month-long garbage worker strike has left towering piles of waste on the city's streets. The garbage could attract disease-carrying rats. Also, desperate Naples residents have resorted to burning the garbage, with the bonfires giving off toxic fumes and smoke.

Paris Tries to Shed Rude Stereotype

July 9 — Today was the first-annual Paris Tourist Day, with officials there encouraging residents to be more polite, welcoming, and helpful to the 16 million tourists who visit every year. In a recent survey, Paris was listed third among the world's most attractive cities (Sydney was number one and London was number two). But in the friendliness category, Paris was near the bottom of the list (52nd out of 60 cities). The tourism board is trying to change that by distributing brochures to hotel staff, waiters and waitresses, taxi drivers, and other service workers, encouraging them to be kinder and more pleasant to visitors.

Colosseum Makes New List of Seven Wonders

July 7 — The Colosseum in Rome was included in a new list of the Seven Wonders of the World, named by a non-profit foundation after an international Internet voting campaign. The others are: the Great Wall of China, Peru's Machu Pichu, Brazil's Statue of Christ Redeemer, Jordan's Petra, Mexico's Chichen Itza, and India's Taj Mahal. Not making the list were England's Stonehenge and the Eiffel Tower in Paris. About 100 million people cast votes. The sole survivor from the original 2,000 year-old Greek list of world wonders, the great pyramid at Giza, was made exempt from the voting and continues to hold its classical "world wonder" status.

Bulls Run in Pamplona

July 6 — The annual bull-running festival has kicked off in Pamplona, Spain. The first bull run took place on Saturday, with additional runs set for the following six days. In the runs, people race 870 yards down narrow streets alongside six bulls. More than a dozen people have died in the running since 1924, and PETA is protesting the event as cruel to the bulls.

No Expansion at London's Luton airport

July 6 — A major expansion of Luton Airport outside London, Britain has been shelved, with airport officials saying they can handle projected air traffic within its existing facilties. About 10 million people will fly through Luton this year. It is a major hub for budget airlines like easyJet and Ryanair.

Hamburg Immigration Museum Opens

July 5 — The new BallinStadt museum in Hamburg, Germany, focuses on the 5 million people who passed through during the last century as emigrants on their way to North and South America. Computer screens display complete passenger lists from 1890 forward, allowing visitors to find their emigrant's hometown and intended destination. BallinStadt is of particular interest to those of Jewish heritage: about half of Jewish-Americans have ancestors who passed through Hamburg.

Diplomats to Negotiate Passport Crisis

July 3 — Some 300 junior diplomats have a new assignment: helping to dig the State Department out from under the backlog of US passport applications. The employees were removed moved from posts in Washington, D.C. to two-month assignments in Louisiana and New Hampshire to process passport applications. Last month, the State Department called for volunteers from US embassies and consulates to return stateside to help clear the backlog of 3 million passport applications. The wait for a new passport is now averaging three months, causing problems for thousands of US travelers.

Heightened Security in Wake of Attempted UK Attacks

July 2 — Be prepared for tougher security measures at airports worldwide in the wake of the attempted bombings in the UK. Within the UK, measures include banning private vehicles from airport terminal pick up and drop off zones, more checkpoints and searches of private vehicles, and increased scrutiny of passenger IDs. Patrols have also been stepped up on rail and subway lines. Within the US, airport security has also been ramped up, with more inspections of large vehicles, vans, and trucks, and more air marshals onboard overseas flights.

Cell Calls Get Cheaper in Europe

July 1 — Mobile phone calls between country borders in Europe will get a lot cheaper this month, with the European Union setting the maximum cost of making a call at €0.49 per minute, and the maximum cost to receive a call at €0.29 per minute. The new rules on calls between 27 EU nations went into effect July 2, and will reduce roaming charges for some mobile phone callers by as much as 75 percent. Of course text messages are already cheap.

Passport Delays Continue

Wait times for new US passports have reached gridlock levels, sending lots of travelers into a panic. It seems the new law requiring passports for Yanks traveling to Canada, Mexico, and Central and South America has flooded the State Department with new applications, overwhelming its ability to process them. Now a three-month wait is common.

 

June 2007

Worst Heatwave in Greek History

June 29 — Forest fires have killed two people in Greece, where the worst heatwave in the nation's history has resulted in at least 11 deaths and caused power outages in Athens. Over the nine-day heatwave, temperatures soared to 115 degrees in some areas. Romania also suffered 120-degree temperatures and reported 30 heat-related deaths.

Replica Viking Warship Sets Sail

June 28 — A team of 65 sailors, historians, and scientists are attempting to sail a replica Viking warship 1,000 miles across the North Sea from Roskilde, Denmark to Dublin, Ireland. They set sail on June 28 aboard the Sea Stallion, a 30-meter longship that was built using traditional Viking tools and building methods and was based on Viking ships excavated from the Roskilde fjord. The journey is being recorded by BBC television and can be followed online at www.bbc.co.uk/vikingship.

Yotel Opens at London's Gatwick Airport

June 28 — The new Japanese-style capsule Yotel at Gatwick Airport's South Terminal is now open, with a second Yotel opening at Heathrow's Terminal 4 later this year. Inspired by first-class airline cabins, each pod-like room includes a bed and bathroom, pull-down desk, foldaway chair, flat-screen TV, Wi-fi access, and 24-hour food and beverage service. Single rooms are about $50 for a four-hour stay and $100 for 10 hours.

Romans Try to Take Back the Night

June 25 — Residents of Rome, Italy are pressuring city officials to crack down on drunken, rowdy tourists and young Italians who they say are ruining that city's traditional nightlife. Residents say the passeggiata, the traditional, classy evening stroll where locals dress up and walk through the city, is turning into a loud, drunken Mardi Gras-like carnival that leaves its historic piazzas strewn with broken beer bottles. Angry residents in the Trastevere neighborhood last week hung white sheets from their windows in protest of the noise and bad behavior.

Nine EU Nations To Join Borderless Travel Zone

June 24 — Slovakia, Slovenia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland and Czech Republic are scheduled to join the so-called Schengen zone Dec. 31, doing away with border checks. Freedom of movement within the EU is one of the biggest benefits of EU membership, and has major significance for these mostly ex-Communist nations.

Versailles' Hall of Mirrors Shines Again

June 25 — The Hall of Mirrors at Versailles near Paris, France has completely reopened to the public following a three-year restoration. The gallery, with its 357 mirrors and overhead paintings by Charles Le Brun, had remained partially open during the renovation. The $16 million project polished and repaired all the mirrors — two-thirds of which date back to the 17th century, put in a new floor, and cleaned the hall's gilding, sculptures, and paintings. The Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I was signed in the Hall of Mirrors in 1919.

Visitors Can See Restoration In Progress on Donatello's "David"

June 25 — Visitors to the Bargello museum in Florence over the next year can watch as restorers work at removing centuries of dirt from Donatello's "David." The 15th-century bronze nude is being restored for the first time in its nearly 600-year history. The statue will remain on display during the work, allowing visitors a unique glimpse into the world of art restoration.

Cousin of Anne Frank Donates Family Documents

June 25 — New documents donated to the Anne Frank House museum in Amsterdam, The Netherlands give insight into Anne's background and life before the Holocaust. The letters, photographs, and other documents were donated to the museum by Ann Frank's cousin Bernhard Elias, 82, on the 60th anniversary of the first publication of The Diary of Anne Frank.

Carbon Neutral Norway by 2050

June 22 — The Norwegian government has announced a plan to reduce the country's net greenhouse emissions to zero by 2050. It will ban oil-based heat in new buildings, increased reliance on biodegradable products, and more spending on energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. The country will also buy "carbon credits" that fund projects to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in developing countries.

Zoom Airlines Offers $199 Fares to London

June 21 — Zoom Airlines, a low-cost Canadian carrier, is offering cheap seats on daily flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport to London's Gatwick Airport for a one-way fare of $199. A search of other airlines finds that the cheapest competing round-trip flight between New York and London in mid-July is $753, or about $377 each way. Zoom already offers a dozen daily flights between Ottawa, Canada and the UK.

Wild Weather: Heat in Southeast Europe, Torrential Rain in England

June 22 — More than 30 people died in southeastern Europe this week as it temperatures there soared into the 100s, topping out at 113 degrees on the island of Rhodes. The heat wave caused power outages in Greece and Albania, and 19 people died in Romania alone, where the country is also dealing with a drought. High temperatures also caused deaths and health problems in Serbia and Macedonia, and caused violent storms in Austria.

Meanwhile severe weather flooded homes and roads and disrupted rail services in England, stranding some travelers. Gale force winds and torrential rain caused power outages, delayed the opening of the Wimbledon tennis tournament, and interrupted a Glastonbury festival. Twice the average monthly rainfall has been measured in some places.

Newspaper to Be Printed In Welsh

June 20 — The first-ever daily newspaper in the Welsh language will begin printing March, with distribution throughout Wales and by mail to Welsh-speakers throughout the United Kingdom. Y Byd (The World) will cover Welsh, UK, and international news and will be based in Machnlleth. This is a concrete example of how the ethnic regions of Europe are flourishing even as the Continent continues to unify.

British Government Plans Coastal Trail

June 20 — Someday soon hikers will be able to walk the entire circumference of the island of Britain. Plans are afoot to ring the entire 9,040-mile coastline with a picturesque footpath. The coastal trail has already been started in Scotland, but the question of compensation for coastal property owners in England and Wales has delayed the trail there. The British are enthusiastic walkers with a long held belief that private property should not stop people from walking through. (Each year they celebrate a "mass trespass" when hikers go out and reclaim all their rights to ramble freely about their beautiful island.)

Small Camembert Producers Resist Change

June 20 – Once again it's a battle between perceived hygiene and gastronomic tradition. France's Camembert cheese has traditionally been made from unpasteurized milk, an ingredient that purists and small producers say is essential to the cheese's unique taste. But, citing health concerns, France's two largest dairy producers have stopped using raw milk to make Camembert, and are now petitioning the government to certify their new Camembert as "authentic." Of the more than 112,000 tons of Camembert produced in France last year, only about 12,000 tons were made with raw milk and received the coveted appellation d'origine contrôlée. Most of the Camembert exported to the United States is made with heat-treated milk.

In-Flight Phone Calls Okayed

June 19 – The last telephone-free environment on earth – the airplane – is no more. The European Aviation Safety Agency has approved new rules that will allow airline passengers to chat and text away while flying. AirFrance, BMI, and Ryanair will offer the service on AirBus planes, allowing passengers to send and receive phone calls and text and email messages. The system will also offer high-speed WiFi for laptop users. The cost is expected to be about $2.50 a minute for calls and 50 cents per text or email message.

London is World's Second-Most Expensive City

June 19 — An updated list of the world's most-expensive cities pegs Moscow, Russia at No. 1, with London, England running close behind at No. 2. London is up from No. 5 a year ago, as the British pound continues to rise against the dollar. Other European cities in the top 15: Copenhagen, Denmark (No. 5); Geneva, Switzerland (No. 6); Zurich, Switzerland (No. 9); Oslo, Norway (No. 10); Milan, Italy (No. 11); St. Petersburg, Russia (No. 12); and Paris, France (No. 13). New York City, USA is No. 15 and Dublin, Ireland is No. 16. The list by Mercer Human Resource Consulting is based on the cost of housing, transportation, food, clothing, household goods, and entertainment.

48-Hour Notice Proposed for European Visitors to US

June 17 — Congress is considering a measure that would require travelers to the US from some European countries to register their travel plans online at least 48 hours before departure. It would apply to people in 27 countries, mostly in Western Europe, who can currently travel to the US without a visa, along with people from several Central and Eastern Europe countries where the visa requirement is often waived. The proposal comes from the US Homeland Security Department.

World's Longest Land Tunnel Opens in Alps

June 15 — The 21-mile Loetschberg Tunnel under the Alps has opened in Switzerland. When the $3.5 billion tunnel becomes fully operational in December, it will cut the travel time between Germany and Italy through this mountain country by one-third. More than 40 passenger trains and 80 freight trains are expected to use the tunnel daily. A second, even-longer rail route, the Gotthard tunnel, is set to open in 2015. Both are intended to move freight from surface roads onto rail.

Paintings Roam Free in London

June 13 — London's National Gallery is taking its art to the streets, installing more than 30 full-scale reproductions of the world's greatest works outdoors in the city's West End. The masterpieces — complete with ornate frames — will be on display for the next 12 weeks. Sandro Botticelli's Venus and Mars is on the wall of a Sweaty Betty womens' wear shop in Kingly Court, Caravaggio's Head of Saint John the Baptist is outside a Soho sex shop, and George Stubb's Whistlejacket prances along a brick Covent Garden wall. The National Gallery hopes the reproductions will encourage visitors to come see the real thing. Audiotours and maps of the outdoor exhibit are available at www.thegrandtour.org.uk.

Rome Reborn in Virtual World

June 11 — Gazing at the ruined columns of a thousand-year-old Roman building, it's hard for a visitor to imagine what the city looked like in all its ancient glory. The "Rome Reborn" project has digitally recreated Rome at the peak of its power (320 A.D.). The program used laser scans and archaeological evidence to recreate nearly 7000 buildings within the city's 13-mile-long wall. The simulation's primary users will be scholars of ancient history, but plans are underway to make it available to the public on the Internet and in a theater near the Colosseum in Rome.

Venice Biennale Opens

June 10 — The 52nd annual Biennale has opened in Venice, Italy and runs through October. The world's oldest international art exhibit, first held in 1887, focuses on contemporary art with entries from 72 countries. For the first time, the Biennale includes separate pavilions devoted to African art and Roma, or gypsy, art. For exhibit details see www.labiennale.org/en/.

Vatican to Harness Solar Power

June 5 — A new solar panel roof will be built on the Paul VI auditorium at the Vatican in Rome, powering the building's heating, cooling, and lights. Pope Benedict XVI has criticized the world's "unbalanced use of energy," and solar panels are being discussed for other, non-historical buildings at the Vatican. Next up, electricity-generating treadmills for the people standing in line waiting to get in to the Vatican Museum (just kidding).

Basque Separatists Call Off Ceasefire

June 5 — The Basque separatist group ETA has called off its 15-month-old "permanent" ceasefire with the Spanish government and renewed its pledge to "defend the Basque country" by whatever means necessary. Peace talks broke down in December 2006 after a bombing at the Madrid Airport, although the ETA said it was not responsible for that attack. More than 800 people have died in ETA's 40-year-campaign to create an independent Basque country in northern Spain and southwest France.

Paper Tickets to Disappear

June 5 — The paper airline ticket is about to go extinct. Less than one-quarter of the world's airlines still issue paper tickets. An airline industry group, the International Air Transport Association, is giving the holdouts until May 31, 2008 to convert to electronic ticketing. Airlines can save up to $9 per ticket by issuing them electronically instead of on old-fashioned paper.

 

May 2007

Paris Joins Cycling Cities

May 31 — Paris is rolling out the world's largest bike rental program, joining a growing list of European cities offering bikes to its citizens in an effort to reduce car traffic. The service, called Vélib, will station 10,000 bikes at 1,000 sites throughout the city this summer, doubling to 20,000 by year end. Similar programs are finding success in Brussels, Dublin, Vienna, and Lyon — where bicycle traffic has increased 30 percent, car trips are down 4 percent, and officials say 3,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions have been saved. While the programs are enticing to tourists, in practice they don't work well for visitors (or are too complicated). This is just one of a multitude of ways Europe is creatively going green.

Cake's 175th Birthday

May 31 — Sachertorte, Austria's celebrated chocolate cake, turns 175 years old this year. The original Sachertorte was created for Prince Wensel Mettenich in 1832 by a 16-year-old chef's apprentice, Franz Sacher. The layered cake with apricot filling and dark icing is the trademark desert at Vienna's elegant Hotel Sacher café, but is available at just about any Austrian eatery.

Dutch City to Fingerprint Marijuana Buyers

May 30 — Marijuana buyers at coffee shops in the Dutch city of Maastricht this summer will be fingerprinted and will need to provide ID. The new rules are intended to prevent marijuana sales to children and to limit customers to five grams a day. After a ten-year track record of not arresting people for smoking marijuana, the consensus among drug policy makers in the Netherlands is that the crime is gone, there's been no substantial increase in consumption, and law enforcement is able to focus on problems related to hard drug abuse.

High-Speed Trains To Link Germany and Paris

May 25 — The new Alleo high-speed train line opens this month linking France, Germany, Switzerland, and Luxembourg. Running at nearly 200 miles per hour, the TGV Est will cut travel time from Frankfurt to Paris in half, to 3.5 hours from over six hours. A second-class Frankfurt-Paris ticket will cost $133. Rail officials envision the new line as the start of a European-wide high-speed train network that someday could link Barcelona to Budapest.

Dickens Theme Park Opens

May 25 — Dicken's World has opened in Chatham, Kent in England. The Dickens-themed park features a boat ride through Dickensian England, Ebenezer Scrooge's haunted house, and other scenes from Dickens' writings such as Newgate Prison and Dotheboys Hall. Park staff are dressed as Dickensian characters, including pick pockets and card sharks.

EU Considers Cuts in Mobile Phone Roaming Fees

May 23 — The cost of using a mobile phone in European Union countries could decrease later this year, as the EU considers cuts to roaming fees. Currently, for example, owners of a British mobile phone pay about €1.47 a minute for calls made while in Spain. Under the new rules, the cost of making a mobile call anywhere in the EU would be capped at €0.49, while receiving a call would cost €0.24 at most. Costs would fall even more in 2008 and 2009. If approved, the changes won't go into effect until August at the earliest — too late for many 2007 travelers — and won't cover text messages. In general, I recommend purchasing a new SIM card for your mobile phone when you cross European country borders. For details on using a mobile phone in Europe, read my tips at http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/cell-phone-europe.htm.

Fire Damages Historic Cutty Sark

May 22 — Already closed for restoration, the Cutty Sark clipper ship in Greenwich, England was heavily damaged by a fire on May 21. Police believe the fire may have been deliberately set aboard the famous 19th-century tea clipper, which was partially disassembled and in dry-dock. A temporary exhibit opened next to the ship this spring explaining the restoration work. For more information see www.cuttysark.org.uk.

Eurotunnel to Remain Open Despite Bankruptcy

May 21 — Investors in the Eurotunnel between England and France are up against a deadline to restructure the debt-ridden enterprise's finances, or see the tunnel go into bankruptcy. Regardless of the outcome, Eurotunnel operations will continue as normal and there should be no disruptions for travelers. Since opening in 1994, the tunnel has become a popular transportation alternative but has failed to meet revenue projections.

Reims: Soon 45 Minutes From Paris

May 11 — Beginning June 10, the new high-speed TGV will link Paris to Reims in 45 minutes. Rail Europe is offering a $29 special on tickets valid for travel June 10-August 26. Those traveling from London can combine the Eurostar with the TGV and be in Reims within 4.5 hours.

Look for "Decorum Patrols" in Venice This Summer

May 10 — Be on your best behavior when you visit St. Mark's Square in Venice this summer. Responding to increasing crowds and piles of litter, stewards there have been authorized to eject and even fine tourists who drop wrappers, eat outside a café, or sunbathe. Officials are trying to clean up the grand piazza that Napoleon called "the drawing room of Europe." Legal picnicking (and napping) are still allowed in a small park nearby, the Giardinetti Reali.

Il Postino Beach Shrinks

May 10 — The beach off a Sicilian island made famous by the Oscar-winning movie Il Postino is disappearing, a victim of too many visitors. What was once 30 feet of grey sand and white pebbles between the Mediterranean and a cliff is now less than 12 feet wide. While some of the erosion may have been caused by pleasure boat traffic, residents say many tourists take home bags of sand or pocketfuls of pebbles. Global warming may also be playing a role in the shrinking strip of sand.

First Woman Gondolier in Venice

May 10 — Breaking more than 1000 years of tradition, a Venetian court has allowed a woman to become a gondolier. Alexandra Hai can now paddle her gondola around Venice's canals, although she is limited to carrying guests of the Locanda Art Deco hotel. Hai's quest to become a gondolier has been bitterly opposed by the 425 all-male members of the gondoliers association, who traditionally pass on their jobs from father to son. Hai joins pioneering waitress Ljubica Gunj, who became the first female allowed to serve customers seated at tables on St. Mark's Square only eight years ago.

New Train Could Damage Barcelona Cathedral

May 9 — Concerns are being raised that the unfinished Cathedral of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain could be damaged by trains passing through a new tunnel there. The cathedral, which as been under construction for 125 years and was the culminating work of architect Antoni Gaudí. The city's plan to bore a high-speed train tunnel within feet of the Sagrada Familia's foundations is drawing criticism from cathedral officials, who say vibrations could cause cracks in the church exterior or shake loose delicate mosaics.

 

April 2007

Europe Braces For High Heat

April 26 — Following up on last summer's high heat, unseasonably warm spring weather is already being noted across many parts of Western Europe. High temperatures and dry conditions during the month of April have set records in France and Germany, where temperatures are running about 10 degrees above normal. The Netherlands, Britain, and Italy are also reporting a lack of rain. In Italy especially, talk is already turning to anticipated droughts and power shortages this summer because of lack of run-off from the Alps.

Eye Surgeon May Help Restore Scream

April 26 — An eye surgeon make be called in to remove tiny splinters of glass from the Edvard Munch paintings The Scream and Madonna, recovered last year after being stolen from the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway. Tiny pieces of glass were embedded in the paintings when they were broken from their frames. Restoration will also include repairs to multiple scrapes and tears in the paintings — the result of improper storage and rough handling. Thieves just don't know how to care for fine art.

Kids Under 11 Ride Tube For Free

April 21 — Kids under age 11 can now travel for free on London's Tube when accompanied by an adult — all day, every day. While intended to help low-income families, the price cut is a great money-saver for families traveling to Britain. Up to four children under age 11 may accompany an adult with a valid ticket or Oyster card. London's buses and trams are also free to kids under age 16.

Venice Clock Tower Keeping Time Again

April 11 — Torre dell'Orologia, the famous clock tower on Piazza San Marco in Venice, is again in full working order. Dating from 1499, the tower was closed for a decade while the 3,000-piece clock mechanism completely dismantled and restored. Now travelers can again view the clock's interior workings, and take in city views from the top of the tower. Reservations are required and can be made online at www.museiciviciveneziani.it. (With all the other charms and viewpoints in Venice, it's probably only worth the trouble for clock-makers.)

Less-Expensive Trans-Atlantic Fares Predicted

April 11 — An agreement to open more trans-Atlantic air routes to more airline companies has some industry experts predicting cheaper air fares. The "open skies" deal, which will be signed April 30 but doesn't go into effect until 2008, makes it possible for European and US airlines to fly more routes between European and US cities. It also eliminates restrictions on which airlines can serve London's Heathrow Airport. Several low-cost carriers — including Ryanair, Virgin Atlantic, and Aer Lingus — have said they will begin offering service from the US to cities in Europe. Let's heat this baby up!

Nonstop Service to Spain

April 10 — Iberia Airlines launches nonstop service from Boston and Washington to Spain this spring, marking the only nonstop service to Spain from those gateways. On May 6, the new Boston-Madrid service will begin operating five days a week with an introductory fare of $549 plus tax. The Dulles-Madrid service, also five times weekly, will kick off June 2, priced at $699 plus tax.

High-speed Rail Links Lorraine to Paris

April 10 — The French National Railways and the Lorraine region in the north of France have inaugurated the first phase of a high-speed rail link. Starting June 10, the East European TGV will cover the first 300 kilometers of the line at a record speed of about 200 mph. The travel time from 10 major Lorraine cities to Paris will be cut in half, and connections will also open up the national TGV network that spans France's north, west and southwest. The new service is expected to boost traffic to the Lorraine region by 40 percent. This is part of the European-wide network of high-speed futuristic train lines that is lacing that 400 million person free-trade zone tighter and tighter together.

Munich Opens Jewish Cultural Complex

April 10 — Throughout Germany new museums and documentation centers are opening as the grandchildren of the people who brought us WWII and the Holocaust deal now with their relatively recent history in an honest and thoughtful way. The latest of these is the opening of Munich's Jewish Museum which marked the completion of the city's new Jewish Cultural Center complex. The museum shares the site on St. Jakobsplatz with the Jewish community's new main synagogue and community center, run by the Jewish community. The complex also includes a Jewish school and daycare center. Three long-term exhibitions on the main floor, titled "Voices," "Places," and "Times," illustrate Jewish history and culture in Munich. The second and third floors of the museum house rotating exhibits. For details, visit www.juedisches-museum-muenchen.de.

 

March 2007

Sweden's Museums Empty Now That You Have to Pay

March 16 — State-owned museums in Sweden are no longer free to enter, causing museum visits to drop by more than one-third. The changes took effect Jan. 1 after Sweden's new, more-conservative government cut state funding for the museums. The country's 19 museums have started charging entrance fees to make up the difference in their budgets. New fees for museums in Stockholm are as follows: Royal Palace — 90 kr, 130 kr combo ticket includes Royal Apartments, Treasury, Gustav II's Museum of Antiquities, and Tre Kronor Museum; Royal Armory — 50 kr; Royal Coin Cabinet and Swedish Economy Museum — 50 kr; National Museum — 80 kr; Museum of Modern Art — 80 kr; Nordic Museum — 60 kr.

Spring Art Exhibit Round-up

Vienna, Austria: The Albertina to April 24 — Large-scale paintings by Georg Baselitz, to May 13 — Biedermeier visual arts, furniture and architecture. Leopold Museum to June 3 — watercolors and sketches by Hermann Hesse.

London, Britain: Barbican Art Gallery to May 13 — Models, drawings, and photographs of works by modern architect Alvar Aalto. The British Museum to Aug 5 — Chinese religious paintings. National Gallery to May 20 — Renoir Landscapes. National Portrait Gallery to May 7 — Religious portraits by photojournalist Don McCullin. Royal Academy to April 20 — Portraits from the Revolution, 1760-1830 (works by Reynolds, Ingres, Goya, and Delacroix). Tate Britain to April 29 — Paintings, drawings, and sketches by William Hogarth. Tate Modern to May 7 — Pictures by Gilbert and George.

Copenhagen, Denmark: Statens Museum for Kunst to May 13 — Paintings by André Derain. Paris, France: Louvre to May 21 — Fourth-century Armenian sacred art; Orsay to May 13 — Paintings of the forest at Fontainebleau by Cézanne, Rousseau, Corot and Seurat. Petit Palais to May 13 — U.S.-born British painter John Singer Sargent and Spanish artist Joaquín Sorolla.

Munich, Germany: Haus der Kunst to May 13 — Photographs by Andreas Gursky; Neue Pinakothek to April 29 — Greek landscapes by Carl Rottman.

Dublin, Ireland: Irish Museum of Modern Art to May 20 — New York paintings by Alex Katz.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands: De Nieuwe Kerk to April 15 —Ttreasures of Istanbul's Ottoman dynasty; Rijksmuseum to April 30 — Dutch cityscapes and fires painted by Jan van der Heyden.

Madrid, Spain: Prado to May 13 — Paintings, drawings, and sculptures by Tintoretto.

Stockholm, Sweden: Museum of Modern Art to May 6 — Abstract works by Robert Rauschenberg.

Zurich, Switzerland: Kunsthaus to May 13 — Bronze, plaster, and marble works by Rodin.

Germany Drives Away Speed Limits

March 12 — A call for Germany to impose speed limits on its free-wheeling Autobahn has run into nothing but roadblocks. The proposal is part of a European Union plan to cut carbon emissions by nearly one-fourth by 2020. As it is, more than 10 percent of the EU's carbon emissions come from passenger cars.

The 12,200-kilometer German autobahn is famous for being one of the few public roadways in the world without a required speed limit (the recommended speed limit is 82 mph). German transportation officials say the Autobahn makes up only two percent of German roads and that setting a 62-mph speed limit would result in only a 0.6 percent reduction in carbon emissions. They also argue that modern cars are engineered to get good fuel economy even at higher speeds.

Pending Financing, Gibraltunnel Construction Set For 2008

March 12 — Moroccan and Spanish officials are moving forward with plans to link their countries — and the African and European continents — with a railway tunnel beneath the Strait of Gibraltar. Swiss engineer Giovanni Lombardi, who designed the Gotthard Pass tunnel in Switzerland and the Mont Blanc tunnel between France and Italy, is calling it his toughest challenge yet: The tunnel will be 1,000 feet deep and 24 miles long. If Morocco and Spain can secure the estimated $8-13 billion price tag (expected to be funded by publicly owned companies and the European Union), construction could begin as early as 2008.

Keep the Cows Off the Grass

March 7 — Quick, Bessie, hide your stash. Switzerland's Agriculture Ministry is moo-ving against dairy farmers who feed hemp to their cows. Swiss farmers say hemp fodder is cheap, easy to grow, increases production — and has the side benefit of keeping the cows happy. But officials are worried about trace amounts of the chemical tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) ending up in dairy products. So far there's udder-ly no evidence that anyone's gotten high on Swiss cheese or chocolate. And the Swiss affinity for precision and punctuality would seem to argue against an alpine Cheech & Chong effect.

 

February 2007

Conflicting Duty-Free Rules Can Cost Travelers

Feb 22 — A mish-mash of rules on liquids and duty-free goods is resulting in many air travelers being forced to give up newly-purchased alcohol or perfume at airport security check-points when they pass through the European Union. Within the EU, duty-free airport shops are required to package liquids like whisky or perfume in sealed bags. The problem comes when airline passengers purchase duty-free goods outside the EU, then make a connection on a flight within the EU. Their duty-free liquids are subject to seizure and often end up being poured down the drain.

No-Car Zone Extended in London

Feb 18 — The £8 ($15) charge on cars and trucks entering central London this week was extended to the west to include popular neighborhoods such as Notting Hill, Belgravia, Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, and Bayswater. Royal Albert Hall and Harrods department store are also covered. The intent is to reduce traffic — and congestion — by charging a hefty fee to all vehicles entering the restricted zones. Since implementing the traffic fee in London's central financial and business district in 2003, the number of vehicles there has been cut by 20 percent. How well the congestion charge will work in a more residential area of the city is being hotly debated.

No Smoking, s'il vous plaît

Feb 1 — France's smoking ban went into effect today, making it illegal to smoke in railway stations, airports, shops, offices, hospitals, and schools. Smokers who defy the ban face a fine of €68, with businesses who allow smoking liable for a €135 fine. The same ban will be extended to restaurants and bars in December of this year. France joins Britain, Italy, Ireland, and Sweden among European nations that have banned smoking in public.

Environmental Tax on UK Flights

Feb 1 — Any thoughtful travel-related business is considering the impact its success has on global warming. And consumers who care about the environment will understand and support various carbon offset fees that will be more and more common as we come to grips with this reality.

For instance, a new tax on airline passengers flying out of the United Kingdom went into effect today and is intended to offset environmental damage caused by airplane emissions. It varies from £10 on economy class flights in Europe — including internal UK flights — to £40 for economy class long-haul flights and £80 for business and first class long-haul flights. All airlines, including those based outside the UK, are required to collect the tax for each passenger they fly out of the country. Most airlines are collecting the fee at the airport before allowing passengers to board.

Milan Bans Vehicles in City Center

Feb 1 — Often cited as one of the most polluted cities in Europe, Milan took steps today to reduce smog by banning older cars and scooters from entering its city center. The mayor has also proposed a "pollution tax" on drivers who do enter the city center — funds raised would to help improve public transit and bike lanes.

 

January 2007

Gibraltunnel? Europe to North Africa Tunnel Gathers Steam

Jan 31 — A rail tunnel linking Morocco and Spain beneath the Strait of Gibraltar has been discussed for years — the two countries, on two different continents, are separated by only nine watery miles. The idea has gathered momentum lately, with the Spain and Morocco governments hiring an engineering firm to come up with a tunnel design. The Gibraltar tunnel would be similar to the rail tunnel that links France and England beneath the English Channel, but would be much deeper — compounding the engineering difficulties involved. There's a definite market for the tunnel: Ferries between the two countries are already packed with tourists and workers.

Leaning Tower of Venice?

Jan 30 — Apparently one leaning tower is enough for Italy. A slowly-expanding crack in the 325-foot tall campanile on Venice's Piazza San Marco has authorities there worried that the tower could start leaning, or eventually fall down — so they plan to reinforce the tower's foundation. The crack was first spotted in 1939 and has been growing since then. Plans call for the tower's foundations to be wrapped in titanium, in a project that will start this summer and last about 18 months. No word yet on whether the campanile will be closed to visitors during the construction.

Luxury Hotel to Open in Venice Flour Mill

Jan 25 — Venice's biggest hotel is set to open in June — a 385-room luxury slumbermill in a renovated 19th-century factory across from the entrance to the Grand Canal. Prices at the new Hilton will start at $600 a night for a double and top out at $4,000 for the swimming-pool equipped presidential suite. It's the latest example of a 20-year trend that has priced many middle-class Venetians out of their homes, cut the population in half, and left the city with more tourists than permanent residents. Venice may be becoming too expensive even for tourists: Many are choosing to visit the fabled city as a day-trip, packing in picnics and forgoing its expensive hotel stays and upscale cafés altogether.

Uffizi to Expand

Jan 19 — The greatest collection of Italian painting anywhere — at the Uffizi Museum in Florence, Italy — has long been better known for its crowds. Tourists spend hours lining up to get in. There's good news: the collection is about to get even bigger and the capacity of the museum substantially increased. Scaffolding went up this week at the Uffizi as part of a three-phase program to double the museum's square footage (from 6,000 to 12,000 square feet), capacity (from 4,000 to 8,000 visitors a day), and paintings on display (from 1,200 to 2,000). The museum will remain open during the multi-year expansion, which includes the addition of a seven-story loggia by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki. The Uffizi was built in 1560.

Watch for "What's New"

Jan 18 — Rick Steves' annual "What's New in Europe" article will begin appearing in newspapers around the U.S. this week. The annual update on Rick's favorite destinations aims to help well-informed travelers maximize their European travels, with tips on sights that are closed for renovation, and the inside track on new sights and transportation options.

Footbridge to Cross Venice's Grand Canal

Jan 15 — A new pedestrian bridge across Venice's Grand Canal is expected to open by late spring 2007. The Piazzale Roma Footbridge will be the fourth span across the Grand Canal and will connect Venice's train station with a huge parking lot on the opposite side. The steel, glass, and stone arch was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, and has come under criticism for its futuristic look and lack of access for the disabled.

Pompeii Exhibit opens at Rome Museum

Jan 12 — Travelers to Italy this winter can check out artifacts from Pompeii at Rome's Vittoriano Museum. The wide-ranging exhibit includes a multimedia presentation of the erupting Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. and plaster casts of the bodies of some of the volcano's victims. Also on display: personal belongings of the victims, 19th-century photos of Pompeii, modern-day paintings of the blast, and current evacuation plans for the hundreds of thousands of people who live near the still-active volcano.

Watch Out for Unchangeable Tickets

Jan 11 — Read the fine print before you book that airline ticket to Europe. Some intercontinental airlines, including British Air and SAS, now offer non-refundable economy airfares that allow absolutely zero changes. In other words, if you later find you can't use the tickets, you forfeit the entire purchase price (as opposed to more flexible fares that allow you to apply the ticket's value toward a different flight — after deducting a sometimes-hefty penalty). Carefully read the fare rules section when you book an airline ticket on-line, or ask your travel agent for advice, as the restrictions and penalties vary depending on the type of ticket. Often these "no-change" fares are only $50 less than more-flexible options — it may be worth paying a few more dollars if there's any chance you'll need to adjust your plans later.

Slovenia Switches to Euros

Jan 5 — The country of Slovenia just joined 13 other Europeans countries by making the euro its official currency. It beat out its eastern European neighbors in meeting the tough euro-zone requirements for inflation and deficits. So, if you have a few Slovenian tolars in your drawer...they are now souvenirs.

London Transit is World's Most Expensive

Jan 3 — The price of a single-stop ride on the subway in London went up 33 percent on Jan 2 to a record £4 ($7.80), making London's transit system the most expensive in the world. Runner-up Tokyo doesn't even come close, offering single-stop journeys for the equivalent of £1.50. Single-zone London bus trips also went up, to £2.

The increased prices are intended to encourage passengers to use the Oyster smartcard, which offers significant savings over the cash prices. The hard, plastic transit pass costs £3 plus an initial credit payment of £10. You then reload it whenever you run out of credit. The Oyster card chops the cost of a bus ride in half and slashes the single-stop Tube fare to a reasonable £1.50.

 

December 2006