Cutting red tape

India is being pressed to launch a visa waiver programme for tourists who are staying for only short periods, similar to that introduced by the US.

The idea comes from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), a forum for industry leaders, as part of a shopping list of improvements which, it argues, would persuade more people to visit the country and create millions of extra jobs. It also wants to see open skies, which would bring down fares by allowing more international airlines to offer flights there, faster immigration, smarter air terminals and a relaxation of trade barriers that block the import of modern, luxury coaches.

A delegation from the WTTC - whose members include the heads of major airlines, hotel groups, car-hire companies, tour operators and travel agents - met representatives of the Indian Government in Delhi this week.

British tourists pay £20 for a six-month visa if they go to the Indian High Commission, where it can be issued on the spot. Applications by post cost £21 and can take three to four weeks to process.

Flight of fancy

Go, the low-cost airline from British Airways, is adding new routes this winter. They include Stansted to Glasgow (starting in November from £48 return), Stansted to Munich (September 14, from £68), Lyon (Dec 15, from £68), Tenerife (Sept 27, from £148), Alicante (Oct 29, from £98). Call 0845 6054321 or visit www.go-fly.com

At a stretch

American Airlines (0845 7789789) is redesigning its transatlantic fleet this autumn. The company is taking out a couple of rows of economy seats, which will give everyone at the back another three to four inches of leg-room.

Quick thinking

Madame Tussaud's, the London waxwork museum famed for its long queues, is introducing a timed entry system. Fast-track tickets can be booked on 0870 4003000 or three days in advance on www.madame-tussauds.com

Young at heart

The Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board is promoting its region as a year-round destination appealing to 16- to 35-year-olds on a new website, www.wannabethere.com

Healthy option

Only 3% of travellers ranked accidents as their highest concern, even though accidents are the most common cause of death, according to Lonely Planet, which has launched a series called Healthy Travel.