Simon Calder urges travellers to go beyond their comfort zone and discover the world’s hidden gems on Routes with Jenni Falconer

Known to audiences across television, radio and print as one of the UK’s most trusted travel voices, Simon joins Jenni for a wide-ranging conversation about the places that have stayed with him, the destinations he believes deserve more visitors and why travel remains one of life’s greatest opportunities.

Reflecting on what makes travel so rewarding, Simon describes it as “the industry of human happiness”, explaining how discovering new places can enrich us as people and create opportunities for the communities we visit.

He also encourages travellers to take one step beyond the familiar, saying: “I always think it’s worth just pushing one step beyond.”

Episode highlights include:

Why travellers should go beyond their comfort zone
Simon shares why trying somewhere new can be so rewarding, while recognising that returning to a familiar holiday destination can be just as valuable. His advice is to take one small step beyond the usual and see where it leads.

The destinations that deserve more visitors
From Uzbekistan, where Simon says the people are warm and welcoming, to Northern Ireland and Algeria, he highlights places that are often overlooked but have so much to offer. He also shares his thoughts on Corsica and the Costa Brava, destinations he believes could be attracting renewed interest.

Why Scotland is one of his favourite places
Simon celebrates Scotland’s raw beauty, from the Northern Isles and Shetland to the Outer Hebrides. He also shares his love of city beaches, naming Aberdeen as a destination that combines coastline, culture and great food.

The travel experiences that stay with you
Simon recalls seeing the Alhambra in Granada for the first time, describing the view as one that left him spellbound. He also discusses hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, swimming with sea lions in Baja California and trekking through Patagonia.

A travel journalist’s guide to the world
Having spent 32 years as travel correspondent for The Independent before joining The Telegraph, Simon reflects on his unusual route into travel journalism, from working at Gatwick Airport and writing guidebooks to becoming one of the country’s best-known travel experts.

The joy of travelling by train
A self-confessed fan of beautiful stations, Simon shares his appreciation for the East Coast Main Line and its stops, from York and Newcastle to Edinburgh Waverley. He also reflects on the different role rail travel plays in the United States.

Why Jordan deserves a place on your travel list
Simon talks about his affection for Jordan, its welcoming people and extraordinary places, including Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. He also reflects on the impact that reduced tourism can have on destinations that rely on visitors.

The best travel advice? Ask the locals
Simon’s advice for discovering somewhere new is simple: speak to the people who live there. Rather than relying solely on your phone, ask for recommendations on where to eat and what to see and be open to the answers.

About Routes with Jenni Falconer

Routes with Jenni Falconer sees broadcaster Jenni Falconer travel across the LNER network with well-known guests, exploring their personal stories, favourite destinations and memorable journeys along the way.

The episode featuring Simon Calder is available 10th November 2026 on all major podcast platforms.