Top tips for every air traveller | Too Many Drivers Run Out Of Fuel On MotorwaysThe highways agency is calling on drivers to check their fuel levels before setting off on journeys after more than 15,000 drivers broke down on England’s motorways over a 12-month period simply because they run out of fuel. Breaking down on the motorway causes disruption to journeys and road users can put themselves as well as other drivers at risk. To reduce the inconvenience and all the hazards involved, the agency, supported by the driving standards agency, is calling on drivers to check their fuel levels before setting off on journeys. Agency figures show that 15,788 drivers ran out of fuel on England’s motorways between 1 July 2008 and 30 June 2009 – an average of 43 every day. |
Other useful travel information sites
| MyStartGuide.com | The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) | How to travel smart throughout the recession |
A new free travellers’ podcast to keep you in check with Customs
Customs expert Mark Fuchter says that “If you’re planning a trip abroad, for business or pleasure, it is important to find out what you can, and can’t, bring back with you – it could save you a lot of time, and money, in the long run.”
So, in the podcast launched by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), Mark explains what items carry restrictions when bringing them into the UK, or are banned altogether. It covers everything from food, plants and wildlife souvenirs to prescription drugs, counterfeit goods and offensive weapons.
The travellers’ podcast is completely free. You can hear it, or download it so you can listen later on your computer or iPod, by visiting the HMRC website.
| Find out about malaria by text before you go The Malaria Awareness Campaign has launched an innovative ‘text service’ for UK travellers heading abroad this summer. Very simply, this service works by enabling travellers to text their chosen destination to 07800 000 571 to receive an up to date response which will let them know whether or not they are going to a malaria-risk destination. If this is the case, the text message will also recommend the traveller to seek the correct pre-travel health advice. More and more travellers are trading in their annual trip to Europe for more exotic locations and are increasingly putting themselves at risk to health issues, like malaria. The UK is one of the biggest importers of malaria amongst all industrialised countries and every year, between 1,500 and 2,000 UK travellers contract the disease. On average, nine Brits die every year. Further information on the text service and campaign can be found here. |