Flying cab

SriLankan Airlines (020 8538 2000; www.srilankan. aero/airtaxi) has launched two-hour 'flightseeing' tours by sea plane which will give passengers an aerial view of Sri Lanka's top cultural and beach attractions from £430pp.

Russian visas

The cost of a tourist visa to Russia has almost doubled.

Travellers applying for visas three to six weeks in advance will now be charged £55-£60 - up £30 on last year. Last-minute visas (within two days of travel) remain at £200. Contact 020 7229 8027; www.russemblon.org.

Scot free

Don't get lost in the mayhem of the Edinburgh festivals: a free official map of venues is available from box offices, the tourist office and airport (www.edinburgh festivals.co.uk).

Desert doctor

Healing tours of Australia's Northern Territories which 'connect with the spiritual energy of the land' are available from a new tour operator, The Spirit Doctor (www.thespiritdoctor.com.au). Australia's Northern Territory.