TRAVEL Dive into Europe: New European Travel Infrastructure – by Peter Symes, Publisher, X-Ray Magazine
Long-range aircraft and high-speed trains expand Europe’s dive travel map Dive travel across Europe is possible all year round, from the Arctic waters of Norway’s North Cape to Gibraltar.
quently travel with more than one piece of bulky luggage. Many airports are now directly connected to train stations, allowing travellers to roll baggage trolleys straight from ar- rivals to platforms. Modern trains feature wide doors, level boarding, ample luggage space, Wi-Fi and comfortable seating comparable to business class on planes. Intercity services such as France’s TGV, Italy’s Freccia- rossa and Germany’s ICE reach speeds of around 320km/h (200mph), which is an experience in its own right, often costing less than internal flights. Tickets can be purchased online or via apps, with boarding by QR code or contactless card. Upon arrival, taxi and ride-hailing serv-
Most dive resorts operate from spring through autumn, particularly around the Mediterranean, while a smaller number – often catering to advanced or technical divers – remain open throughout the year. The Canary Islands in the Atlantic also offer year-round diving. New Long-Range Routes
Until recently, travellers from North America typically reached European dive destinations via major hubs, adding one or more layovers. That is now changing. A new generation of fuel-efficient, long- range narrow-body aircraft, such as the
ices such as Uber operate in many re- gions, so you can hail one that is big enough for your party and luggage, and car hire from international brands is readily available – making onward travel to coastal dive resorts remarkably
Airbus A321XLR, now makes it possible to link smaller cities directly across the Atlantic on what airlines call “long- thin routes.” For example, Palma de Mallorca is now served directly from both Newark and Montréal, with more such pairings expected soon. These developments simplify travel plan- ning, reduce overall journey time, and make Europe’s coasts more accessible to divers based outside the main air- travel gateways. It is well worth keeping an eye on new con- nections and fare offers as they emerge. Seamless Onward Travel Travel within Europe has also become far smoother.The continent’s rail network is far more extensive and integrated than its North American counterparts, often offering the most convenient onward journey also for divers who fre-
straightforward. Europe’s transport infrastructure is also highly digital, making travel arrangements easier and safer. Interfaces on websites, apps and ticket machines at airports and stations generally offer English-language options. Notes on Safety While violent crime is rare across most of Europe, petty theft remains an occasional nuisance, particularly in tourist hotspots. Pickpockets and scammers tend to gravitate to- wards and operate in crowded areas such as central Lon- don, Paris and Rome. Sensible precautions – keeping
wallets in front pockets, avoiding slinging bags over the shoulders, and staying alert in busy places – will minimise risks and help ensure a safe, relaxed trip.
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