Simon CalderAcclaimed Travel Correspondent and Specialist Broadcaster

Simon Calder is one of the United Kingdom’s most recognisable authorities on tourism and transport. His fascination with exploration began during childhood trips to the Lake District, eventually leading to a career defined by his commitment to independent, budget-conscious travel. Before becoming a household name, he gained unique industry perspectives working at Gatwick Airport as a cleaner for British Airways and later as a security guard. During these early years, he authored several guidebooks and famously held the record for the fastest hitchhike between Land’s End and John o’ Groats. Since 1994, he has served as the travel correspondent for The Independent. His extensive media career includes tenures presenting BBC Two’s Travel Show and contributing to the long-standing Holiday programme. Currently, he serves as the Global Guru for the BBC News Travel Show and is a frequent expert contributor to Rip Off Britain and LBC Radio. Maintaining a strict policy of paying his own way, he provides uncompromised advice that prioritises the interests and experiences of regular holidaymakers. Now a definitive voice for the industry, he is widely sought after for his ability to explain complex travel landscapes and consumer rights. Audiences value his unrivalled expertise, his practical approach to global transit, and his engaging delivery style that makes the world of travel accessible to everyone. On stage, Simon Calder is best known for talks on Travel, Budget Travel and Travel Journalism. Audiences leave with a clear, practical view of the subject rather than a generic overview — every keynote is shaped around the brief and the room. Their work resonates with leaders across Hospitality & Travel and Media & Broadcasting, where the themes translate directly into team decisions, customer experience and growth strategy. Simon Calder is regularly booked for Presenter & Awards Host and After Dinner Speaker, adapting tone, length and format to suit the event — from a 20-minute opener to a full conference keynote with Q&A. Based in UK, Simon Calder travels internationally for engagements. To check availability or request a tailored brief for your event, send an enquiry and we'll come back with fees, dates and a short summary of how Simon Calder would approach your audience.