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Flip Byrnes, who specialises in adventure and off the beaten track travel, is both Sydney and Europe-based and loves unearthing unsung travel gems.

I flew 300 hours in economy class last year. Here’s how I get the best seat

I flew 300 hours in economy class last year. Here’s how I get the best seat

When faced with long-haul horror, gaining a spare seat or an entire row of seats on “full” flights demands strategy and tactics.

  • by Flip Byrnes
It’s not fast or smooth, but this European train is a holiday highlight
★★★★½
Train journeys

It’s not fast or smooth, but this European train is a holiday highlight

This historic route travels to the foot of Europe’s highest mountain, with spectacular mountain scenery en route.

  • by Flip Byrnes
Airline review: I’m in love with this European national carrier
★★★★½
Airline reviews

Airline review: I’m in love with this European national carrier

It’s my favourite airline to fly in Europe and they take special care of families. It’s a national carrier Greece can be proud of.

  • by Flip Byrnes
Stunning scenery and excellent food: This train journey is hard to beat
★★★½
Train journeys

Stunning scenery and excellent food: This train journey is hard to beat

This route is one of the backbone links of Europe and could be a star in your itinerary.

  • by Flip Byrnes
Airline review: No loud talking, please, on world’s most considerate airline
★★★★
Airline reviews

Airline review: No loud talking, please, on world’s most considerate airline

The greeting announcement requesting passengers not talk loudly or consume excess alcohol makes me feel like I am already in thoughtful, considerate Japan.

  • by Flip Byrnes
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Airline review: This economy class is ‘very economy’, but excels at it

Airline review: This economy class is ‘very economy’, but excels at it

Scoot owns being a low-cost airline and excels in this niche. If you know what to expect, you can prepare and endure.

  • by Flip Byrnes
Six of the best things to do in London with kids

Six of the best things to do in London with kids

Brimming to the rafters with family focused activities, London excels in sensory feasts for both curious minds and active legs.

  • by Flip Byrnes
Airline review: This five-star economy class sets the benchmark
★★★★★
Airline reviews

Airline review: This five-star economy class sets the benchmark

Singapore Airlines’ economy cabin is a masterclass in service, food and entertainment.

  • by Flip Byrnes
Airline review: Underwhelming flight was good, until it suddenly wasn’t

Airline review: Underwhelming flight was good, until it suddenly wasn’t

A seat covered in crumbs, an overbooked, delayed flight and an unfulfilled promise of compensation undermine this European carrier’s service.

  • by Flip Byrnes
$33 for an upgrade to first class? Europe’s trains are incredible
★★★★
Train journeys

$33 for an upgrade to first class? Europe’s trains are incredible

Far cheaper than a plane, Germany’s Deutsche Bahn first class is right on track on this Karlsruhe (Germany) to Basel (Switzerland) trip.

  • by Flip Byrnes

Original URL: https://www.theage.com.au/traveller/by/flip-byrnes-hvf56