The Jewish Chronicle
Travel news round-up: 19 August
The latest travel news, from the best UK highlights to Jewish holidays and events around the world.
August 19, 2016 15:08
The latest travel news, from the best UK highlights to Jewish holidays and events around the world.
August 19, 2016 15:08DiscoverEedinburgh’s darker past
If this year’s Edinburgh festival has inspired you to book a trip to the Scottish capital, there’s a new way to discover the Old Town’s history, with a free self-guided trail with audio commentary along the way.
Covering the Greater Grassmarket area, you can hear tales of Burke and Hare and Half-Hangit Maggie (otherwise known as Maggie Dickson) at 11 spots along a mile and half route. Maps are available for free in cafes, shops and pubs around the area, or you can follow it on your mobile via the website, greatergrassmarket.co.uk/history.
Four information points along the way will also guide visitors to local hotspots once you’ve had your fill of the city’s fascinating past.
Find a travel agent worldwide
However high-tech travel becomes, sometimes you need a local expert – so a new app from Evaneos Travel is combining the best of both.
The new website, which connects British travellers to 600 travel agents in 150 destinations, has an app to put you directly in touch with experts worldwide for advice and to book tailor-made trips, all while saving money.
Available on Android and iTunes, or visit evaneos-travel.com.
A cabin with a difference
For a city staycation unlike any other, the latest place to stay in London could hardly be quirkier. Newly opened, The Wheelhouse is definitely not your average hotel, with a two-storey apartment perched on the deck of a ship docked in Trinity Buoy Wharf.
Home to the iconic Lightship95 studio where artists such as Lana del Rey and Bastille have also recorded, you can sunbathe looking out across the Thames or spy the cable car crossing the river from your balcony.
Then let down the remote-controlled drawbridge and head to the 40s-style American diner on shore for malted shakes and music from the tabletop jukebox.
And if you don’t already have an excuse to check in, its east London home makes it perfect if you’re flying out of City Airport or planning a trip to the O2. Book at www.canopyandstars.co.uk/thewheelhouse from £165 per night, sleeps two.