Inflation rises again, while rail strikes continues to bite

Also, Qatar has unveiled some affordable World Cup accommodation and a BA crew member contracts monkeypox in Singapore.

Here are the travel news headlines on Wednesday 22 June.

Inflation rises again as consumers struggle

UK inflation has climbed to 9.1% as the cost-of-living crisis continues to squeeze household finances. The consumer prices index (CPI) measure of inflation rose in the 12 months to May to its highest since March 1982. CPI had already hit a 40-year high of 9% the previous month. The figure is almost five times higher than the Bank of England target of 2%. (Daily Mirror)

Rail disruption continues

Commuters have been advised to avoid travelling where possible until about noon following a day of strikes on Tuesday. This is because transport staff, such as signallers and control room officers, have not worked overnight shifts, delaying the restart of services. (The Independent)

Qatar World Cup ‘to be affordable’

Football fans will find a range of affordable accommodation at Qatar 2022 in November, tournament officials insist. The World Cup hosts are promising a “variety of price options”, with tariffs at the fan village from £66 a night, based on two sharing. Options will also include “house cabins” that look like luxury sheds, and self-catering apartments in hotels. (Daily Mirror)

BA crew member contracts monkeypox

A diplomatic incident was brewing today after a British Airways crew member was struck down by monkeypox in Singapore. Government officials were in talks with authorities in Asia after they demanded the steward’s entire crew quarantine alongside their infected colleague for 21 days. (The Sun)

Ennismore hotel brand attracts Qatari investment

Accor is to sell part of its stake in a joint venture with the Hoxton boutique chain to a Qatari consortium, valuing the company at more than €2 billion. Accor launched the joint venture under the name Ennismore in October through a merger of a quarter of its brands and Hoxton. Accor will sell a 10.8% stake for €185 million. (Financial Times)