The travel news in brief...
Manchester X-ray vision
Passengers at Manchester Airport’s Terminal Two no longer have to remove clothing when passing through security, as a trial of its new full-body X-ray scanner started earlier this week. The new machine will produce “naked” X-ray images of travellers.
“Most of our customers do not like the traditional pat-down search – they find it too intrusive, but they still want to be kept safe,” said an airport spokeswoman. “This scanner completely takes away the hassle of needing to undress. The images are not erotic or pornographic, and they cannot be stored or captured in any way.”
Airport authorities say travellers can opt out of the full body scan in favour of the traditional frisk.
Special rate for TDs
Budget hotel chain Travelodge has planted its tongue firmly in its cheek with its new TD room rate of €39. The company says the rate will be given to TDs who stay in any of their 11 hotels around the country.
TDs who wish to avail of the offer should call 01-8524537 and give the reference “Travelodge TD Rate”. The rate will also be extended to those travelling with TDs.
4.9 Million
The number, in millions, of foreign trips taken by Irish residents so far this year accordinf to the CSO. This is down by about 10 per cent on last year's figure.