Something To Declare: Dublin's new tram; September in America

The Irish capital acquired a new transport option this week, when the new Luas tram made its maiden run.

Destination of the week: Dublin's new tram

The Irish capital acquired a new transport option this week, when the new Luas tram made its maiden run. The Green Line, the first of two routes, runs from St Stephen's Green in the city centre to Ranelagh, Milltown and Sandyford. The maximum single fare is €2 (£1.40), with an all-day ticket priced at €4.50 (£3.15); until Monday, the service is free. The Red Line, which is due to open "after the summer", will be more useful to tourists: it will connect the two main railway stations, Connolly and Heuston, plus the bus terminal.

Bargain of the week: September in America

Transatlantic air fares in July and August are running at very high levels: a midweek return to New York is currently around £450, with flights to Los Angeles at £650 return or more. Traditionally, high fares continue into September. But Northwest Airlines has launched a short-term seat sale that offers cheap flights from 1 September. The lowest fare is from Gatwick to Washington (£248 return), with New York at £258 and Atlanta or Boston at £268. Los Angeles looks good value at £288, as does Seattle at £298.

The catch with all these fares is that you must change planes at Detroit or Minneapolis, but if you want to lock into a late summer bargain this could be the answer. Book between next Monday and Thursday (5-8 July), for travel in September, October or November, through Northwest¿s European partner KLM (08705 074 074, www.klm.com). The minimum stay is one Saturday night, the maximum is one month.