Talk About Travel

Portland vs. Seattle, Taiwan, travel safety...

The Flight Crew, from left: John Deiner, Carol Sottili, Steve Hendrix, Anne McDonough, Gary Lee, K.C. Summers, Cindy Loose, Andrea Sachs. (Melissa Cannarozzi - for The Post)

The Post's Travel Section Flight Crew will take your comments, questions, suspicions, warnings, gripes, sad tales and happy endings springing from the world of ... the world. Of course, the Flight Crew will be happy to answer your travel questions -- but the best thing about this forum, we insist, is that it lets travelers exchange information with other travelers who've been there, done that or otherwise have insights, ideas and information to share. Different members of the Crew will rotate through the captain's chair every week, but the one constant is you, our valued passengers.

We know you have a choice in online travel forums, and speaking for the entire Flight Crew, we want to thank you for flying with us.

The transcript follows.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

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The Flight Crew: Gary Lee here acting as your flight captain. Welcome one and all fellow travelers. We have a pretty full crew here to field your questions today. Besides yours truly, there's KC Summers, Editor of the Post Travel section; John Deiner, Assistant Editor; Cindy Loose, who edits the COGO column and pens many a fine feature; Carol Sotitti, who authors the q and a column; Steve Hendrix, fresh back from New Zealand; Andrea Sachs, copy editor and writer extraordinaire; and Anne McDonough, section researcher.
While we know many parts of the world but by no means all do we know everything. If you have thoughts or tips to add, please feel free.

In the wake of the bombings in Madrid, our mind is on security in Europe or elsewhere. Many of you are probably wondering whether to travel or not in this period. I was wondering if any of you have had any brushes with security or can offer advice to anyone mulling over how the security risks should play a role in their travel plans. The most unique and succinct answer gets a Readers Digest Discover America coffee table book.

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Alexandria, Va.: I am planning a trip to Eastern Europe for this summer. Will I need a visa for Belarus, if only to pass through the country on a night-train? Which other Soviet bloc countries require visas? Thank you.

The Flight Crew: You can get all the details for the requirements of any country at www.travel.state.gov. Just click on the alphabet to look up the country of interest, and it will give not only visa and passport details, but all sorts of helpful info. Cindy

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Arlington, Va: I am trying to decide on a two week vacation overseas. I would like to visit the Dominican Republic or Venezuela. Which one would you suggest?

The Flight Crew: Both are having some political turmoil at the moment. Although it's not so bad that I would avoid travel to either place, you should consider that before plowing ahead: go to www.travel.state.gov for details.

When you talk about the D.R., are you thinking the large resorts? They are great for relaxing with no hassle, but aren't really for seeing a country or culture---they're all inclusive and tend to be on the beaches away from regular people.

I guess I'm wondering how you came to settle on one of those two. If you don't have a special personal reason, and are looking for a cultural experience in a Spanish-speaking place, I might consider other options right now. Cindy

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for the Morocco-bound solo woman: Morocco is the 'home of my heart'. Since early retirement 4 years ago, I've lived in Rabat and Fez and travelled the country extensively. There's a certain amount of 'interest' that even 58-year-old women like me receive. It IS more difficult for younger women and even more difficult if you don't speak French or Arabic.

My advice for a first time visit: dress appropriately (no tight clothes, shorts, halter tops); read up on cultural norms and expectations; take 1st class train service or CTM buses; hook up with a few short in-country tours (some can be booked thru hotels), or hire a driver/guide; or, sign up for language/cooking etc. lessons; if you aren't a French speaker, learn at least enough get by; and keep a healthy skepticism.

That said, I love Morocco even when it drives me crazy!; The hassles are far out-weighed by the culture, the geography, the food, the music and the people.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for that input. Cindy

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Washington, DC: How smart is it to obtain a credit card from one of the airlines when people generally shop around for the cheapest airfare?

How come flights are expensive to the Gulf Coast area of FL?

The Flight Crew: You don't get an airline card to book flights with it (primarily anyway). You get one to accumulate miles from your purchases overall.

Well, you see cheap flights to some Gulf Coast cities, like Tampa and St. Pete. Not so many to lower demand cities, perhaps. That's just the market.

--Steve

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Washington, D.C.: Crew

I'm thinking about heading out for a 4-5 getaway around July 4. I am thinking about Portland Oregon but I have never been, is it worth it? (I'm a thirtysomething single male if its relevant)

My other option is to fly to Seattle and drive to vancouver (I have a free flight voucher, but it is limited to the continental 48)

Thanks

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee, who knows each of those cities, thinks you're right on in thinking of Portland. Seattle is a bit crowded in my view. Anyway, it's near enough to Seattle that you could get there easily for a day or so from Portland. Vancouver is lovely but can be dull if the weather's not right.

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Waynesboro, Va.: On Sunday March 7 there was an article about the 20 things one needs to know before going on an extended vacacion, say more than 3 weeks. I have a question about number 6. The advise seems all right up until you say "close the curtain to confine the humidity and turn off the lights".

This "might" work if your bathroom has a window for light to come in during the day, BUT what about those like me whose only bathroom with a tub is the one with no window? Wouldn't the plants turn yellow for lack of light and therefore clorophil ? I'd love to know since I am leaving soon on a month long trip and have a few plants I want to keep healthy. Love all the articles, thanks .

The Flight Crew: Hi Wayne, KC here. The idea is that you're sort of shutting down the plants' systems for a while, but I agree with you that a month is too long without a light source -- I think the writer must have had bathrooms with windows in mind. Unfortunately we can't ask him because he's on a trip. How about collecting the plants in the kitchen sink? I've made little pebble trays for my plants and watered the pebbles, which then give off humidity -- you could do a version of this in your sink.

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Anonymous: Going to Prague this weekend for four days, any suggestions on things we shouldn't miss beyond the obvious?

The Flight Crew: Hey Anon, check out the past few chats, I think we've listed a few things to see in and around Prague. Be prepared for the cold--I don't know what the current temperature is but March can be freezing. Go walking along the Vltava on the Castle side of the river. Stay in Zizkov, a fun residential neighborhood that's outside of the city center but close enough to just about everything. Check out the latest Prague Post for concerts, etc. Go hear jazz at Reduta. Clicksters, ideas?
-Anne

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Arlington, Va.: Okay, I might have to give up asking, but I'll give it one last shot.

I am headed to Gainesville FL over Memorial Day. It is not a beach destination, but flights are close to $400 out of both National and Dulles with a stop along the way.

Do you foresee the fares going down before the holiday weekend?

Thanks for all the great tips and advice! And the fun contests.

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: I wouldn't expect airfares to Gainesville to go down dramatically. It's a destination that is not served by a discount carrier, and I don't believe there is nonstop service from Washington. I did find a $277 round trip fare on Delta leaving Friday and returning Tuesday. Have you considered flying into Jacksonville - much more competitoin on that route. Fare for nonstop flight on US Air is $184 round trip to Jacksonville.

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middle east travel: why such the negative attitudes toward travel to the mid-east last week (comments by Cindy)? I have traveled extensively throughout the middle east from syria to morocco, including palestine, and never felt threatened. Once the people find out that you are an american traveling, they literally role out the red carpet. Most of the countries in the middle east are trying hard to capture the american dollar and american tourist. Why keep up the negative talk once a person asks this column for advice on traveling to the mid-east. It's so easy to give advice to your chatters on how to ILLEGALLY travel to cuba, yet once the topic of the mideast comes up, the whole chat group says that it is too dangerous. The whole Middle East is not Iraq.
Some of the best countries in the middle east to visit is Jordan, Egypt and Morocco. So much to see and experience.

The Flight Crew: I wasn't trashing the Middle East; I was answering a specific question to a young woman traveling alone. I think that's different. You'd have no qualms about sending your daugther alone, should you have a daughter? Cindy

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Allentown, Pa.: Hi Flight Crew!!!
I'm going to Russia this summer for my boyfriend's best friend's wedding (wheww!)and I'm thrilled because otherwise I'd never have a chance to visit this fascinating country.

We'd like to turn this happy occassion into an extended vacation and hit at least one other country on our way to (or back from) Moscow this August for a one-week stay. Any recommendations on what cities offer connecting service to/from Moscow for a reasonable price? We'll be flying out of New York, most likely.

Also, what's the best airline to fly to Russia. Is Aeroflot a good bet these days?

- girlfriend of the best man

The Flight Crew: Allentown: Gary Lee, who lived in Russia for several years and knows it well, says that you'd be remiss if you didn't make a trip up to St. Petersburg. It's grand, especially in summer. In terms of other destinations in that area, I would suggest taking a look at either Helsinki or Stockholm. Both are pretty easy to reach from Moscow and well worth it.


Aeroflot is fine to Moscow and it's probably the best deal, but it's not the best. Lufthansa is pretty good.

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Tainan, TW: Ms. Loose. I was wondering what you felt was the best part of your trip to Taiwan and what was the worst part of your trip?

The Flight Crew: I guess I was most taken by Takoro Gourge; I loved shopping in the night markets. I guess the worst part of the trip was being on the narrow coastal highway and seeing cars and trucks passing in tight spots. So happens I caught the 9-11 rally in Tainan---good to hear we have readers in Tainan. People there were happy to see a Westerner, and even though they didn't know I was a travel writer, dozens of people wanted to have their pictures taken with me---I have no idea what they intend to do with the pictures. Cindy

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Washington, D.C.: Good afternoon,

I'd like to get to Glasgow this July, but all the fares I see now (thru Orbitz, Expedia, and Travelocity) are around $850-900. Is this what I'll have to pay or do you have some advice on when and how to snag a lower fare?

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: That sounds about right for Glasgow in summer. Don't know yet if the Madrid situation will have any effect on fares. Probably not because Europeans are coming to the United States this summer (euro/pound is so strong compared to dollar), so flights will fill that way even if Americans travel less. Try a discounter such as www.1800flyeurope.com. And try aerlingus.com - it sometimes has good fares.

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Richmond, Va. : We are planning on renting a house for a week in Captiva Island, FL. We have looked at a number of web sites and realtor pages and are getting close to making a decision. How can we know for sure if the house is what it looks like and not just clever photography? Any tips about about renting a house over the Internet? Thanks.

The Flight Crew: Hi, Rich.

Here's the bad news: As far as I know, you can never know for certain what a house looks like until you actually get there--owners are always going to show the most flattering angle. But there are some ways to hedge your bets.

I'm always a lot more comfortable if an owner has a larger number of pictures to look at, both in and out and from different angles. That way you can see how close the house is to its nearest neighbor, what condition the exterior is in, what the view is (if they say the house has a water view and then don't show it, I'd be suspicious). Then you want a sense of how big the bedrooms are, the quality of the kitchen and overall condition of the furniture.

Ask lots of questions of either the owner or the Realtor. When was the house built? What's the nearest market? Is it on a busy road? If there's a map showing its locale, you can often get a good sense of whether it's in a real congested area or a little off the beaten path.

Captiva is a beautiful area--I'd be surprised if there are any real dumps on the island. Ideally, of course, you'd know someone in the area who could take a spin by and take a look. But failing that, ask lots of questions and cross yer fingers.

-john

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Taoyuan(Taipei), Taiwan: I'm a loyal reader of Washington Post in Taiwan. I'm writing this note to thank the Post staff Cindy Loose for writing this wonderful article: And Now, Taiwan. Her report is very accurate.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for writing. Thrilled to know we have a loyal reader in Taiwan. Thanks for mentioning accuracy---I get very nervous about all the details that could be wrong in a piece that tries to cover a whole country. Thanks again. Cindy

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montgomery village mom: I enjoyed Cindy Loose's article on Taiwan. I visited Taiwan in 1996 with my husband to attend a friend's wedding in Tainan. We spent 10 days in Taiwan (8 days in Tainan and two days in Taipei). We loved Tainan, and especially the temples both in Tainan and nearby. We found people to be extremely friendly. In fact, we stayed at a hotel in Tainan and when we checked in the hotel staff noticed that my husband is very tall. So after we returned to our room later that night the staff had placed a bench at the end of the bed to extend the bed and make it longer and more comfortable for him. We also did K-TV what an experience. But of course my favorite part was the wedding itself. Two wedding banquets one for the brides family and friends and one for the groom's family and friends. Amazing 12 course meals and three changes of clothing for the bride at each banquet. Also the houses we saw in Tainan were plain on the outside but amazing on the inside. Very beautiful with every attention to comfort. We also had a wonderful experience at a teahouse in Tainan. We also loved Taipei and the National Palace Museum was fantastic. We stayed at AsiaWorld Plaza Hotel which was a good bargain and a great hotel. By the way we flew singapore airlines to Taiwan (which I highly recommend). WWhen our flight was delayed overnight in Los Angeles to Taiwan, the airline offered each passenger a one pound box of See's chocolates and a written apology, along with paying for overnight accomodations at a local hotel and dinner and breakfast. Thanks for bringing back such great memories!;

The Flight Crew: And thanks for getting in touch. It's an unusual destination, so it's great to know that my impressions weren't so idiosyncratic, and that indeed, others see the same good things. Cindy

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Washington, DC: What has happened with the US Airways/Star Alliance membership? It was announced with great fanfare on May 31, 2003 and they said that they expected it to happen in 9-12 months, however, Star usually announces the official start date 3-4 months before the actual date and there has been nothing announced from either USAirways or Star Alliance. Any idea on this?

The Flight Crew: We don't know, but thanks for reminding me I should look into that---I'll give them a call and find out. We don't have a coming and going column this coming week, but look for it the following week. Cindy

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Washington, D.C.: My wife and I are going to spend nine days in the Czech Republic (Mar. 30 - Apr 8) - renting a car. We have no firm itinerary, but tentatively are planning 3 days each in Prague, Cesky Krimlov, and Telc. We are not spa people - more inclined toward the scenic. Any recommendations?

The Flight Crew: Hey DC-Lucky you! Prague alone could take up nine days, but Cesky Krumlov's a lovely town as well. The town itself doesn't have a whole lot going on, but that's part of its charm--besides just wandering the windy streets and checking out the selection of amber and other jewelry, one of the best things to do is rent a bike for the day and go through the Czech countryside. Some of it is industrial but there's also beautiful greenery and if you go far enough there's a lovely birds-eye view of Cesky. There are a few places in town that rent bikes, and they'll give you a map with several suggested routes (they took one look at me and made sure to point out the route that had a mid-point restaurant "to keep my spirits up."). Telc I haven't been to--anyone want to weigh in on DC's itinerary?
--Anne

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Arlington, Va.: I am trying to schedule a trip to the California Disneyland. How can I find out how many days would be enough to get the best of the place, see most of what is worth seeing, but not overdoing it? It is adults with a five year old and eight year old.

The Flight Crew:

Depending on when you go (larger summer crowds make for slower going), I'd say two day, Arl, unless you REALLY want to ride every ride and browse every shop. I was there year before last and was suprised at how small it is, especially compared to Disney World. A day, day-and-a-half for the main park, and half day for Disney California would satisfy most appetites.

--Steve

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San Francisco, Calif.: We're taking the kids (ages 6-11) to Paris this summer. We'd like to stay at the Hotel des Grandes Ecoles on the Left Bank, which is lovely but doesn't have air conditioning. Is no air conditioning a bad idea with 3 young kids in late July?

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee says: usually it's no big deal without air. But then last summer Paris was like a furnace, exactly in that time frame. Based on my experience of many summers in Paris, I would say go ahead....

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Arlington, Va.: How do bereavement fares work? Do you contact the airlines directly? I ask because I have some ill family members and may be needing these fares soon.

Thanks for your help.

The Flight Crew: You do contact the airline, but I must warn you, they aren't all that great. Last minute travel is exceedingly expensive, so once they give you a modest discount off those prices, it's still pretty steep.

If the cities you might have to visit suddenly are served by low cost carriers, prices might be alright. Sorry for your troubles, and sorry I can't be more helpful about bereavement fares. You might do just as well to shop the web last minute----someone might be dumping excess seats at the last minute to just one website, so check as many sites as you have energy to check. Cindy

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Arlington, Va.: We're heading to St. Petersburg, Russia the first week of April (joining spouse on business trip). I know they did a LOT of fixing up for the anniversary, and can't wait to go! We will be well taken care of (driver/guide while spouse is working), and plan on hitting the major sites (Hermitage, etc) but I wonder if there are any second-tier sites you or chatters think worthwhile, that may not be on our driver's A-list?

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee, who knows St. Pete pretty well, says: vistitors usually overlook the Russian Museum. Don't. It has a really stunning collection of Russian art.

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Amsterdam, The Netherlands: I will be visiting Las Vegas in about ten days. I'm very curious about the new art galleries/musuems. Is there some sort of card that gets you into all the major ones (like most municipalities have) or do I have to pay individually?

The Flight Crew: Hey Amsterdam, you win the prize for most far-flung post so far today. Unfortunately Vegas doesn't offer any museum discount passes or cards, so you'll have to pay individually, which can add up. But I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the quality of the museums -- I really liked the Bellagio and the Guggenheim, especially, when I was there a couple of months ago. Hope your trip goes well. -- KC

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Annapolis, Md.: The bombing in Madrid has definitely effected my 84 year old aunt's travel plans. She lives in MA and stays with us 6 to 8 weeks every year. After 9/11 she took Amtrak to visit us and her son in SC. There was a train wreck on her trip from SC to DC and it took her 24 hours traveling time to get back to DC. After that debacle she decided it was okay to fly again. On her flight down here she had her luggage searched and was not happy. And now with the train explosion in Madrid she's not sure she wants to travel any public transportation at all. She asked and I am taking a couple of days off and driving her home the end of this month. I have a feeling that we may not get the delight of her visiting us every year because of the security issues.

The Flight Crew: Sorry about your aunt's saga, said Gary, but much thanks for your answer.

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Arlington, Va.: Can you explain the high fares to Atlanta from IAD/DCA? I'm not seeing anything below $250 which is what it cost me to fly to San Diego a month ago. Am hoping to fly down in mid-April for my father's 60th, but am stunned at the airfare. Driving to BWI on a Friday afternoon from NoVA is not an option. Any thoughts are appreciated!

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: Cheapest I can find for a Friday departure and Sunday return is $235 round trip on Airtran. Maybe it will have a sale before then, but if you need specific times/dates, you may have to buy at that price. It's too bad you can't see yourself clear to get to BWI. Vacationexpress.com has a $119 round-trip fare from there.

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Arlington, Va.: RE: Security risk and travel. On the positive side - if your travels take you out of the Washington, DC area, it is a pretty good bet that whatever your destination, the daily risk of terrorist attacks has got to be less than it is here. Just try to be patient at the security check points and remember that the added security is in place to protect you and your fellow travelers.

The Flight Crew: Thanks Arlington, said Gary. That's very sober advice...

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Washington, DC: Someone on Tom's dining chat asked about his Paris restaurant picks from last Sunday and wanted to know if there were any vegetarian restaurants he recommends. I missed the chat (read it after the fact), and in case that person is still looking, I would recommend Le Grenier de Notre Dame, at 18 rue de la Bucherie in the 5th. It's inexpensive (for Paris) and very cosy, and completely vegetarian (not sure you can even get fish there). The patron was quite friendly, too.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, said Gary.

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Washington, DC: Someone on Tom's dining chat asked about his Paris restaurant picks from last Sunday and wanted to know if there were any vegetarian restaurants he recommends. I missed the chat (read it after the fact), and in case that person is still looking, I would recommend Le Grenier de Notre Dame, at 18 rue de la Bucherie in the 5th. It's inexpensive (for Paris) and very cosy, and completely vegetarian (not sure you can even get fish there). The patron was quite friendly, too.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, said Gary.

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Deep Valley USA: Portland vs Seattle:

I like them both, but Portland is less snooty and more manageable. Plenty of good hiking/outdoor scenery quite nearby, and just enough cultural stuff unless you HAVE to have a tiptop art museum. Guidebooks list the good stuff, and you might want to read Chuck Pahlaniuk's book on his view of his home town. Called something like A Walk in Portland.

Vancouver is a different thing, and requires more time to see the city and the scenery than either Seattle or Portland.

Any one you pick will be fun. You can do more without a car in Portland than in Seattle, BTW.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, says Gary. I would agree with those points.

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Washington, D.C.: Great article on Taiwan. I have lived there for 12 years, and love the people there. I would like to know more in details on what you mean on your article about your what your kidsaid and you agreed on that Taiwanese people want Americans to love them. It was a bit self centered as an American for my taste, but would like to hear your insight. Thanks.

The Flight Crew: My daugther was taken with how friendly people were, and how happy they were to see a Westerner at the Hands Across Taiwan event--in fact, all these people kept coming up asking to take their pictures with us, as if we were celebrities.

I told my daugther what other Taiwanese had told me---they look to the U.S. as their buffer against takeover by Mainland China. So in effect I was trying to explain our role---whether we like it or not--as a superpower. Her response---that the Taiwanese want us to care about them so we'll protect them---seemed to me amusing in it's 11-year-old cynicism, and perhaps even insightful. Cindy

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Washington, D.C.: For those of you questioning whether or not to go to Spain (or some other European destination) my only advice is -- GO. Spain is a beautiful country of warm and generous people. Living in Washington, if anyone had said after 9/11 that they were afraid to visit DC because of potential terrorist risks I would have laughed and said that DC is still one of the safest places in world...despite everything. The same is true of Spain.

Signed,
Leaving for Barcelona next month without a second thought!

The Flight Crew: Thanks for your good attitude, said Gary.

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Harrisonburg, Va.: Comment on Seattle/Vancouver. I was in both cities this summer and enjoyed them. I made the mistake (in my opinion) of renting a car to go from one to the other. Public transportation in both places is excellent (esp. Vancover) and you can easily get from one city to the other by train. I ended up renting a car and paying $15 a day to park it in Vancouver, and I never used it. Of course if you want to explore outside the cities, a car might be nice, but you really don't need one to explore the cities or travel between them.

The Flight Crew: Good point, said Gary. Thanks!

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Alexandria, Va: My family and I will be passing through Lexington, Va., this weekend. Any recommendations for a reasonably-priced, interesting restaurant?

The Flight Crew: We here great things about Lexington, Alex. Stand by for a link to a recent Escapes article that raved, particularly, about the boutique sweets scene there, led by the Cocoa Mill Chocolate Co., a chocolate shop.

that's for dessert. Can anyone recommend a place for the main course?

--Steve

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Washington, DC: I am heading to St. Petersburg with a friend next month and we are looking at B&B's/minihotels. Have any of you heard of either the Octaviana or the Nevsky Inn? Both of them are quite small. It looks like both are centrally located, near the Gostiny Dvor metro stop.

The Flight Crew: We don't know those places. Does anyone out there? Cindy

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Seattle, Wash.: My SO and I would like to go from Seattle to Paris in high season this summer (July) and internet tickets are at about $1000 presently. Should I wait to book, hoping prices will lower by the end of March, or is this as low as we can expect to see them? Thanks for your help!;

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: Always a guess when it comes to air prices. I'm not all that familiar with going rates from Seattle, but considering the fares from the East Coast to Paris are generally more than $800 round trip in summer, $1,000 from Seattle is not surprising. As I stated in an earlier e-mail, there are projections that many Europeans will be coming here this summer because their currency is so much stronger, so if the planes get filled that way, we may be out of luck.

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Old Saybrook, Conn.: Because of the weakness of the dollar vs the euro, I am looking for other interesting places to visit where the dollar is not depressed. Does Argentina seem (1) to be a good value (2) relatively safe & (3) worth spending my vacation time upon ? What about mainland China?
I love to travel, unfortunely I'M CHEAP.
ADS

The Flight Crew: Hey there--why "unfortunately?" Cheap is the way to go!! The flight may be $$$ but once you're on the ground you can see China on a very tight budget--I've done it on as little at $8 a day, but that means public buses, no places that actually have napkins and not being picky about where I stay (no shower in the hotel? no problem!). The upside is that you meet incredible people (both Chinese and travelers), have fantatic food (the night markets and regular street carts offer some of the best meals I've ever had) and realize just how few amenities you really need to be happy. Of course, it's just as easy to blow the big bucks there as it is anywhere in Europe--the range for hotels really doesn't have a middle, it's mostly places that are $1-3 for a dorm bed, or $100+ for a four-star hotel (and I find it's much harder to meet people in places like that; the cheapos are the ones who socialize!). If you take cabs and get a guide to every place you visit, it'll add up. We've had a whole bunch of Argentina articles recently--check out the (free) archives under international destinations and maybe that will get you in the mood to head there.
-Anne

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France: For the person visiting Prague I would suggest trying out some of the best restaurants in Prague. The most expensive pale by comparison to those in a major US city. The days of knedliki and cabbage are over and Prague offers great dining ( and still beer drinking value... try Grambrinus) value.

The Flight Crew: Kampa Park is one restaurant that I really liked, on Kampa Island. There's also really really good gourmet pizza all over Prague--perfect with a Pilsner.
--Anne

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Arlington, Va.: For the person trying to decide between Portland and Seattle.. I visted both last spring and loved both for different reasons but my favorite thing you could do from either destinationa. That was a visit to Mt St Helen's. They have three visitors centers with presentations and the presentation at the visitor center closest to the crater(about 1 hour from the highway)absolutely took my breath away. I highly recommend it.

The Flight Crew: Gary said: good point! I went to Mt. St Helen's last fall and found it spectacular.

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re: security risks, imho: how should security risks should play a role in travel plans?

Like anything else, we have a system of risk and reward. My risks in travel vary from terror (rare, but devastating if one is directly (or indirectly) affected) to mundane (missed a flight or am delayed); frightening (plane trouble) to annoying (kid kicking my seatback for 8 hours). My rewards are, however, limitless. I've made lifelong friends, found a resilience in myself that I never knew I had, and have seen several true wonders of the world to which pictures cannot begin to do justice.

Enjoy the travel channel safely at home (where, of course, more fatal accidents happen than anywhere else) or join me (and the rest of the true travelers) in experiencing life - good and bad - first hand.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for the sober attitude, said Gary.

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Headed to Chicago: Hi, what should 2 25 y.o. girls do in Chicago 3/27-3/31? I already know that we'll hit all the free museums on Tuesdays and try going dancing on Saturday night, but other than that our plans are not made. We are staying at Downtown hotel and need to do something absolutely fabulous on Monday for our b-day. Thanks for your help.

The Flight Crew: So many things to do: At the top of the list, arhitectural tours by boat or foot (no, it's not a snoozer); rent a bike (if not's too frigid) and cruise the trail along Lake Shore Drive and around the museums; shop for hip threads and music in Boys Town or Wicker Park (Reckless Records is excellent); check out the attractions and shopping at Navy Pier (carousel, Imax, build a bear workshop, etc); hit the blues clubs (Kingston Mines, BLUES on Halsted); go see a taping of Oprah, a late-nite improv set at Second City, the free concerts and art at the Chicago Cultural Center, or the jazz or slam poetry at the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge; hit the Gold Coast or Miracle Mile and pretend you can afford $12,000 dresses; get all gussied up at a day spa, like Salon 180. As for your afternoon . . .---andrea

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travelling safely: The easiest way to travel safely is to blend in and show your sincere interest in the culture you are visiting. Try to speak the local language, dress like everyone else, don't carry around wads of cash, and find local establishments to eat at. You may find that even in places that the state dept warns you about - you feel safer than you do walking to the metro at night.

The Flight Crew: Much thanks, says Gary.

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Cleveland Park, Washington, D.C.: Hi Flight Crew! Love the chats...it's the best part of my Monday.

My brother and I would like to send our parents on a golf vacation for a few days in late July or early August (they're teachers so we have to work w/ the school schedule). Any suggestions on where to go that isn't going to be 104 degrees or outragously expensive? Any websites I should look to in particular? Thanks!

The Flight Crew: If you're planning on their driving, and you don't want it hot, how up the Berkshire Mountains, or the Fingerlakes region? When you say golf and not too hot, I immediately think Scotland, but that might be outside your price range.
Golf resorts are so common that if it were me, I'd pick a state or region, and then go to the state's website and see what they have in terms of golf, rather than start with a list of possibilities, which are endless. Cindy

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Chincoteague in April?: We (family of 5) want to get away for a few days during the school spring break but don't want to drive too far or spend too much money. What do you think of the idea of a few days in Chincoteague? I thought it might be a chance to enjoy the beach and and nature without it being too hot, my husband worries it will be boring. Your thoughts?

The Flight Crew: Hey, there.

Spring is a great time to visit Chincoteague, though I'm not sure if it's the best time for a family of five to descend on the town. There is lots o' nature, and you can chill on the beach, but I'm thinking some of the kid-friendlier stuff will be closed, and it'll be way too cold for swimming (well, the ocean at least). Heading to Ocean City may be a better idea, and there's lots to do there--at least it's a quick drive to other stuff in the region.

What do the clicksters think?

-john

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Georgetown, Washington, D.C.: I see that the dollar's doing badly against the Euro, so most of Europe's going to be pricey to visit for the time being.

Where are the good places with bang for the buck? I thought I read something about the Adriatic, but know nothing about it.

Ah for the summer of '85, when the dollar was almost even with the pound....

The Flight Crew: The dollar is pretty strong in Mexico, Argentina and most parts of Latin America, says Gary.

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Washington, D.C.: About Cindy's aricle of travelling to Taiwan, I think generally it is a good artice, but I have to point out one thing.
When Cindy was in Hualien, she was bothered by a drunkard, and some one said that the man was a "minlander", not a Taiwanese. I think the commet was not appropriate, because after almost 60 years, the division between those who have lived in Taiwan before 199 and those who arrived after 1949 has long become blurred. The division only emerges when there is an election. This is most unfortunate. Any comment?

The Flight Crew: Perhaps because I was there during an election, I heard quite a bit of the notion that Taiwan people--and this included those of Chinese descent from way back--were more polite than recent immigrants from the mainland. I sensed quite a bit of resentment, in fact. Thus, I didn't feel it was wrong to use the quote, but in fact represented a reall feeling. Cindy

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Washington, D.C.: I plan to go to Newport, RI this May for a long week-end. Do you know of any reasonable price hotels/B&B, etc. where I can stay. I would like somthing under $100. Thanks

The Flight Crew: Wash, I really liked the Marshall Slocum Guest House when I was in Newport a couple of years ago -- Room start at $99 through March, not sure how much higher they'll be in May, but it's a cozy little place, in a neighborhood of nice old Victorian houses, and about a 10-minute walk to wharf attractions.
-- KC

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hi, everybody! I am going to San Diego for a conference. after the Easter break. So I decide to plan a trip around that conference time. I thought that we can rent a car and drive to Mexico for a one-day trip since San Diego is so close to the border. What suggestions do you have for us? I heard that you are required to buy Mexican insurance before you enter the country?

Thank you.

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: Most rental car agencies do allow you to bring a car into Baja Mexico as far as Ensenada but ask first. They'll probably make you buy insurance through them. You could also take the trolley to the border, walk across and take a Mexicoach to Rosarita Beach (619-428-9517). Or you could take a tour out of San Diego (Baja California Tours, 800-336-5454). Depends on where you want to go in Mexico. Car is probably best if you want to go to Puerto Nuevo for lobster.

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A few thoughts on Portland: Don't miss Powell's City of Books in downtown. Also, I recall Mt. St. Helens being quite a time-consuming detour, since it takes a bit of time to get up to the crater (on a winding, rather scary road, if I remember correctly). Worth doing, but keep in mind the time factor.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, says Gary. re: St. Helen's, you can o to the visitor's center and get a great view without going into the crater. It's worth it!

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Security Concerns: My advice:

1. Try to fit in within reason. The less you stand out as an American, the less likely it is that you will be targeted as one.

2. Fight fear with fact. It is easy to forget that even when traveling to a location such as Israel, Spain, etc. that chances are really that you'll be fine. You are more likely to get into a car crash back home.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, says Gary.

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Paris Traveler - Thanks for the tip!;: Hey!; I was the chatter asking Tom Sietsema about vegetarian restaurants in Paris. And now some good soul has given me some more help almost a week later.

BOY do I like these chats!;

keep up the good work...

The Flight Crew: Stick with us, says Gary. We're eager to please!

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Alexandria, Va.: I will be travelling to the Manila, Philippines in October and I was curious if I would be able to find a price cheaper than the current $875(roundtrip) and above prices? When would be the best time to watch for discounts?

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: Cathay Pacific has frequent deals to Manila. Right now I think it's $599 round trip. Go to www.cathay-usa.com.

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Sunny Great Falls, Va. - Where would you go? : Hello FC,

Just wondering here! Where would you go in late May if you had a $1200 per person budget you wanted to stick to. I've seen pretty good packages ($600-800 for air/hotel and some tours) to South America i.e. Brasil, Argentina...are they good bets in the month of May?

Muito Obrigada...

Thanks

The Flight Crew: That's a pretty broad question, Great Falls. I took a survey:

K.C. would to a week at Big Sur, Gary would do a resort in Puerto Villarta, Mexico, John would take a cruise to and Burmuda, Andrea would try to bag a cheapo fare and eat market food in French Guiana, Anne would try to do the same in Croatia and Cindy, that wag, would spend her $600 and pocket the rest. And I would go catch some spring somewhere in the Four Corners area or maybe Flagstaff.

--Steve

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Arlington, Va.: re: travelling, safety and security

I think we do need to be concerned about security when we travel these days, but the very randomness of terrorism doesn't make it more risky. After all, other horrible things can happen on your trip abroad that doesn't keep most of us from going--like the fire in the Mont Blanc tunnel.

I've travelled through Europe, Turkey, Mexico, and China and felt no less safe than anywhere else. In fact, the time I most feared for my personal safety was during the WTO protests in Seattle, WA.

Each person has to weigh the risks of travel, whatever they may be, for themselves and make the decision to stay or go for themselves.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, Arlington, said Gary.

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Washington, DC: Hello,

I'll be going to Hawaii for work for four days at the end of July (yay!;). I'm planning to spend another four or five days beforehand sightseeing. The conference is in Honolulu, but I've heard that Honolulu is pretty much the least interesting place in Hawaii, so I want to go elsewhere for the vacation part of the trip. What would you recommend for that time frame (and a relatively limited budget). Some friends have told me that Volcanoes national park on the big island is amazing, but I'm open to other suggestions. Thanks!;

The Flight Crew: My favorite island is Kauai, because it has lots of nature, but is tourist ready. Then again, if you are on a tight budget, don't discount the entire island. You can get outside of the city to see undeveloped countryside, can find great beaches and lots of things to do. Check plane fares, see how much if anything you'd save in hotel costs by leaving Honolulu, then decide.

Also, I love beaches. If you love beaches more than volcano sites, then vote for Kauai. I found volcano sites kind of barren, but it's all up to you and your interests. Cindy

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Tainan, TW: To the individual heading to Prague, my roommate and I both agree that you must try the local beer and the absinthe. Just don't cut your ear off.

The Flight Crew: Only try the absinthe--legal only in Prague and I believe one or two other places--if you're ready to down some really vile green liquid. It's truly awful, and you don't always get the hallucinatory benefits that everyone talks about! The Pilsner, on the other hand, is heavenly. And yes, stay away from sharp objects.
--Anne

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Re: Moscow Wedding: One option would be to fly Finnair to Moscow, and after the wedding to take a train to St. Petersburg (a must-see), stay there a couple of days, and then continue on (by train, bus or plane)to Helsinki for another couple of days, where you can catch a plane directly back to NYC. Open jaw tickets like this should not be any more expensive than return flights.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, said Gary. Nice idea...

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Chincoteague - roughing it: If you like camping it can be a blast. But in April you better bring some blankets. I personally like the east-coast beaches better in the spring. It is less crowded, less commercial, and gives you some time to enjoy semi-private beach walks. Of course, you may miss the swimming unless you are a member of the polar-bear club!;

The Flight Crew: Good point...I like the East Coast beaches in the fall, too--when you CAN swim! Great idea about the camping..thanks!
-john

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Silver Spring, .Md: The person in Seattle travelling to Paris may want to try flying into London and then on to Paris using one of the discount airlines (EasyJet or RyanAir). My family and I are doing that, and our London to Paris tickets, one way, are about $40 each.

The Flight Crew: That sound like a good plan, said Gary!

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washingtonpost.com: Bonbon of the Vanities, (Feb. 6, 2002)

The Flight Crew: Here's that link to a Lexington, Va., article.

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On an Island In My Dreams: Going to Disneyland, California -

As mentioned, just know that Disneyland
is nowhere near the scale of Disneyworld
in Florida. Disneyland is kind of plopped
down in the middle of Anaheim,
surounded by strip malls and
businesses...it's not secluded like it's
Florida cousin.

Just wanted you to know so you're not
unpleasantly surprised once you arrive.

Have fun!;

The Flight Crew: Thanks OIIMD

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Frederick, Md.: Hi Crew,
My wife and I are headed for Nassau (Bahamas) this Thursday for a 4-day weekend. Has anyone ever heard of USA3000? That's the charter airline we're flying on. More important - are there any "don't miss" things to see or do or should we just soak up the sun and beverages for a few days? Thanks for your input!!

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: It's a charter airline that is now offering some scheduled service. Has a clean safety record. I spent only a couple of days in Nassau and was busy doing the Atlantis thing - it's worth seeing.

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Thoughts on Seattle: Someone posted earlier about Seattle being "snootier" than Portland. I've been to Seattle several times, and always found the people there friendly and laid-back--much, much nicer than on the East Coast. And as to "crowding" in Seattle, it's amazing how uncrowded it is compared to DC, Boston or esp. NYC. And all the beauties of nature practically on your doorstep!;

The Flight Crew: Thanks for your thoughts, said Gary.

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Nashville, Tenn.: Hi Cindy: Enjoy your article on Taiwan, nice job. We are planning to go to Taiwan at the end of May and stay for around 4 weeks. We are also thinking about taking a side-trip from there to either Thailand, Indonesia, or Malaysia. Should we book the local tours in those countries from here or do it in Taiwan? Do you know about the visa requirements of Malaysia and Indonesia for US citizens? Thanks

The Flight Crew: Thanks. I'd highly second your idea for taking a side-trip: Taiwan isn't huge, and a couple weeks should take you to the major sites.

Don't know off-hand the visa requriements, but go to www.travel.state.gov. Not only will you find visa info, but lots of other info, including security concerns (Indonesia of course has had it's problems with terrorism), and lots of other good stuff. Cindy

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Security and traveling: Just a response to the person with the 84-yr-old aunt who is now spooked by both train and air travel. So the aunt now wants this person to drive her home from DC to Massachusetts, via I-95, I take it? And she considers that a SAFER way to travel? No way!; Driving gives the illusion of control, but statistically, you're much safer flying or taking the train.

The Flight Crew: That's a point, said Gary.

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Washington, D.C.: To Arlington, VA who wants to fly to Atlanta but not out of BWI. You can take the green line metro to greenbelt and get a direct bus from there, or metro to union station and get the MARC train right to BWI. So driving up there on a friday aft isn't your only option...and to save that much in airfare would certainly be worth it...
Just keep in mind the MARC trains don't run on weekend days. You might have to do the bus/greenbelt route at least on the way back if you are coming back on sunday...

The Flight Crew: Beware taking Amtrack to BWI on a Friday evening! Unless you buy a reserved seat (thereby negating at least some of the savings on the flight), get there super early and if it's a three-day weekend, get there even earlier! Also, MARC and Amtrak go to the BWI railway station, then you catch either the free shuttle (which doesn't seem to have a set schedule) or a taxi for the 5-7 minute ride to the airport itself. It ain't a straight shot.
-Anne

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Arlington, Va.: Just wanted to say "THANKS" for the heads up on the kids sail free offer on Windjammer cruises (in the Post a few weeks back). Took us about two days to decide to go for it and it was a good thing we didn't wait too much longer. There were only four cabins left for the week that we wanted to go. The offer gives us two cabins for the price of one. Everyone is very excited to end the school year with a fun trip to the British Virgin Islands.

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: I'm always glad when I hear of people taking advantage of the What's the Deal? column.

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Washington, D.C. : For the person going to Gainesville, check out Jacksonville or Orlando and then drive. You'll need a rental car anyway.

The Flight Crew: Yup. That's the ticket.

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www.travel.state.gov: I've seen this referenced several times today - and it does provide some great information. However, I have found that many times the travel warnings are a bit over-the-top. For a different take on travel warnings, check out the UK gov't site: http://www.fco.gov.uk

The Flight Crew: Thanks, says Gary. Good idea.

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Concerned daughter: Hi Flight Crew - long time lurker, first time questioner. My dad and stepmother are heading to Spain and Morocco in October for 3 weeks with a tour group. Now I know October is far off, and they won't be traveling by themselves, and like my dad says, if the terrorists are going to get him, they are going to get him, and he won't live his life being afraid, but should I be concerned, especially with what has just happened over there? They take these trips once a year (2 years ago on 9/11 they were in Ireland, and last year, same time, they were in Italy). I'm glad they get to go on these trips, but I worry about them. Not that they can't take care of themselves, but I worry about them just the same. I told my dad to keep an eye on the state dept. site for any travel warnings or anything like that. Good advice?

Concerned daughter

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: We're reporting out a story that we hope will answer your question. Look for it in Sunday's travel section.

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GloverPark, Washington, D.C.: We added pleasure days to work trip several years ago to Portland. Loved the city. Lots to see in the area. We made a huge Oregon loop (in a week?)- Columbia River Gorge Pkwy, Mt. Hood, Crater Lake, Bandon by the Sea and back to Portland. Also managed to squeeze in a visit to Mt. St. Helens, which we found VERY interesting and a wonderful drive. Would recommend any one or several o these to Portland bound. Seattle's great too of course. . Some refer to Portland as "Seattle in its earlier (better?) days" I understand.

The Flight Crew: Sounds lovely, said Gary.

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Frederick, Md.: I'm a single female, around 40, and I would love to go on a cruise, but I do not have a travel partner. I really do not want to take a single's cruise, I'm not into the "meat market" scene. Are there specific cruise lines that are better than others that will pair up single people with the same interests? Thanks!!

The Flight Crew: Most mainstream cruise lines will pair you with a roommate so you can avoid a single supplement. Most also group the singles at a table for dinner, and those people then tend to drift to the shows together in the evening, or at least some of them.

However, I don't know that they go to the trouble of matching people's interests. Maybe our readers know something I don't.

You might be best off trying to find your own travel companion: try a site like travelchums.com. Not sure if goingsolotravel.com does cruises, but it's a place to start looking. Cindy

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Arlington, Va.: I'm planning a family vacation to Atlantic City in July (15 people) and would love your recommendations for places to stay. We would like to stay on the boardwalk at an up-scale hotel or at least clean and recently renovated. Is that possible? Thanks in advance!

The Flight Crew: Hi, Arl.

I stayed at the Showboat recently and really liked the rooms--they've been renovating the older rooms, and they recently opened a new tower of rooms. It's quite nice. Can't say the same about the casino, but with AC, you pretty much know what your getting. Also, keep an eye on the Tropicana...it's in the middle of a huge expansion and there are slew of new rooms due. If you can fathom staying off the boardwalk, I recommend the Borgata--it's the most un-AC of the AC hotels, and it's a pretty quick jump to the boardwalk action. Just as an aside, if you can go midweek in July, you'll save some money, but even midweek in the summer can be really expensive at the casino hotels in AC.

-john

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Pasadena, Calif.: About Cindy loose article on Taiwan

I am deeply apalled and saddened by your article on Taiwan, this is supposed to be a travel artcle, but Ms loose has not only air her stinky distastful "superpower traveler comments", more seriously, it is deeply offesive in that it is using the ignorance of some Taiwanse to prpopagate racial hatred and bias as refletced in the "apology" from shop keeper after cindy's encounter with a drunken man. Such racial slur is not something a travel artcle should insidiously quote!!let alone at the expense of Wshington Post reputation!! Travel is a means to promote understanding and love, unfortunately Ms loose has stooped so low to use it to drive a wedge against two people and not to be sensitive to the feelings of the people invloved. Her very act to politicizing a travel artcle refletc on her vulgar taste.

The Flight Crew: Sorry you took offense. Cindy

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Washington, D.C.: Trying to find a nice B&B in VA for husband and I before 1st baby comes-- no more than 2-3 hours away for a weekend trip in the middle of April. No interest in sport activites - though walking tour would be nice. Antiques shopping and good food a plus. Nothing too pricey as we are saving for baby. Appreciate any suggestions!

The Flight Crew: Wash, antiques shopping and good food can both be found in abundance in Charlottesville -- a little over a two-hour drive from DC. The Virginia tourism office, www.virginia.org, has a list of about a dozen B&Bs there, or try bbonline.com. In addition to antiquing, there are also wineries, horse-riding, touring the beautiful U-Va. campus, and great shopping in the Downtown Mall.

The Virginia wine country is great too, if you're looking for something a little less urban. You can search the Virginia tourism site by county or town for lists of B&Bs there. -- KC

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Dangerous travel: Here's some advice for travelers to a certain dangerous international destination:

After 8 years of declines, crime is slightly increasing. ... When arriving in a city, learn which areas to avoid, and which ones become dangerous at certain hours. Most crimes are committed at night and at the end of the week. Most murders are committed on public roads and are linked to drugs. Police violence and racist actions are sometimes deplorable.

If staying in a hotel, do not leave your door open at any time.
Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and walking in run down areas.
Do not sleep in your car on the roadside or in rest areas.
Avoid leaving luggage on display in cars.
Try to stick to main highways and use well-lit parking lots.
If hit from behind while driving, indicate to the other driver to follow you to a public place and call for Police help.

The legal system can be quite different than at home, often inspired by more rigid moral principals. For example, there are strict rules about bathing immodestly, urinating publicly, and photographing partially undressed children (even at home). ... Drinking in public or even carrying alcohol without hiding it can be illegal. In general, you may not smoke in public. Drug laws, even possession of small amounts, are punishable by several years in prison (even a life sentence in cases of trafficking), and those arrested will be banned from the country.

You might have guessed, it's the good old USA. The first paragraph is from the official French travel warning, the second from the offical British warning, and the third from the official Swiss warning. The French warning adds:

Washington: Avoid the northeast and southeast quarters, as well as the bus station and the train station at night. In Georgetown and Dupont circle, it is advisable to be cautious at night. Anacostia is not recommended, even during the day.

Just a reminder to take the warnings we hear about other countries with several grains of salt.

The Flight Crew: Interesting answer, said Gary. It may well get you a prize!

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Newport, R.I.: Visitors to Newport should remember that many of the accommodations have a 2-night minimum - they are trying to dampen the day-tripper syndrome!

The Flight Crew: Thanks for that tip, Newport, you should know!

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Casper, Wyo.: My wife and I and another couple recently booked a Mt. Kilimanjaro climb and safari in early October. Now we have to book flights. From Denver and Seattle (our respective departure cities), Expedia is showing a roundtrip cost of almost $7000 per couple. I've looked into booking directly with the airlines (i.e. Denver to Amsterdam on Delta, and Amsterdam to JRO on KLM), and actually found some flights that would work for $5000 per couple. What do you think? Should I book now or wait and hope the price goes down?

Any other advice about Kili would also be appreciated (i.e. I read the article from a couple of years ago about it being a harder-than-advertised climb). Thanks.

The Flight Crew:
You might try the consolidators, Casper, those little box ads that run in our Travel section and most others. That's how I booked to Kili a couple of years ago (to write that story you mention) and paid about $900 from NYC. Spector travel (spectortravel.com) is one specializing in Africa that Carol Sottili has recommended in the past. They show Nairobi at about $1,200 right now. Most of those fares will be from NY.

My Kili-climbing advice is to take your best high-tech cold weather gear and start your aerobic conditioning now. I did't train, and I was a huffing wreck by the time I got to the top. But if you're a regular runner (as I have become since) you'll be fine. Unless you get altitude sickness, which unrelated to your physical condition.

--Steve

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Alexandria, Va.: Lexington VA Restaurants: Since it is a college town, there are lots of coffee shops / delis. Salerno's is great for subs, pizza. For fine dining, I recommend the Wilson Walker House which is right on Main Street downtown. There are several good restaurants in bed and breakfasts outside of town (Maple Hall is probably the best). There is also the Blue Heron cafe - which is vegetarian-friendly, organic too. It is also downtown.

The Flight Crew: I second the Blue Heron, also check out the Escapes for Wednesday (in the Style section) on llama trekking in that region.

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Travel tips re security: The scene: Providence airport on a Sunday am, our family of three about to depart (for BWI). Older woman (at least 60s) comes crashing through saying she needs to get in line ahead of everyone because her flight leaves in 30 minutes. We let her ahead. Next thing I noticed was her luggage was singled out for special security inspection because she was a late check-in. Don't know if she ever made her flight, but between the luggage and shoes she had a lot of trouble getting in and out of, I would be dubious.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for the vignette, said Gary.

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Herndon, Va.: A little about a lot: Portland, OR is great! (my wife's home town) PLENTY to do in a one-week stay - hit Seattle/Vancouver in another trip. If you can eat at the Chart House restaurant when the sun is setting and Mt. Hood isn't covered by clouds, nothing could be better. Taiwan - went there on an R&R over 30 years ago - still have great memories, and Taroko Gorge is one of them. A great place to visit. Finally on airport security - my wife and I came back from a week in Cancun (not the "real" Mexico, but a great place to unwind, and you can always take a day trip to such places as the fantastic Mayan ruins at Ch'cin Itxa spelling?) While in line at the Cancun airport to leave, the contract security baggage checkers got behind, so . . . our bags for the direct United flight to Dulles went through without being opened. Handy for us, not so handy if you worry about security.

The Flight Crew: Good insights, said Gary. Thanks!

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re: Disneyland: Remember, Disneyland was built first so it's on a smaller scale, though it includes almost all the same attractions as Disney World. So, it gets very crowded very quickly, and you can feel very claustrophobic if you don't do well in crowds.

Some advice: avoid spring break if you can--it's beyond miserable. Go in the middle of the week; some swear Sunday is better, but I'm not sure. If you're taking a special trip out there, get a package ticket and go to California Adventure too. It's right next door, much more spacious and has some really neat rides tied in to a California theme. You can probably do both in 3 days and see all you want to see.

And, before you go, check out MousePlanet.com, a web site by Disney devotees full of really helpful advice on how to navigate the place.

The Flight Crew: More good advice. Thanks.

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Tainan, TW: I've lived in Taiwan for the past 19 months. I've used it as a springboard to the rest of Asia. In my most recent travels I've come across more and more Americans that have sewn a Canadian flag onto their backpacks and other gear. They believe that it makes them safer. Has anyone else encountered this? Anyone do that and it have it be beneficial? With growing security concerns, especially in S.E.A., is it a good idea to "travel as a Canadian" rather than an American?

The Flight Crew: I don't think the Canadians appreciate that, and I think the zealots who want to kill innocent people don't really care if you're Canadian or American or even from their own country and ethnic group. In fact, if you've noticed, they aren't singling out individuals---they blow up things filled with all kinds of people, kids included.

I would say, however, that if there is serious trouble in a country and demonstrators or rioters or whatnot are at the American embassy, get thee to the Canadian embassy. Cindy

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Washington, D.C.: Just got back rfom Las Vegas, and I had an amazing time! I stayed at the Bellagio and took in all that it offered. I saw O, which is well worth the price. I had dinner at Picasso and it was the best meal my girlfriend or I ever had (and the most expensive!).

The best part of the trip was going out of the city and into the desert. Saw the Hoover dam and rented mountain bikes and went on some great trails(www.bikeoutpost.com) in Blue Diamond; about 10 miles west of LV. Take care!

The Flight Crew: Thanks Wash -- sounds like a great trip! Who says you have to lose your shirt to have fun in Vegas!

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Washington, DC: I'm trying to plan a long weekend trip on a budget of $300 for car rental and hotel starting from DC and preferably driving no more than 3 or 4 hours. My dream is a cute town with shopping and coffee shops and some cultural activities, most within walking distance of a nice (clean, comfortable, QUIET) hotel. Do you have any suggestions? I'd prefer to stay in VA, WV.

Thanks very much!;

The Flight Crew: Hey, D.C. How about Staunton, Va.? It's about 3 hours from the Beltway and has nice restaurants, theaters, hiking--why, you may never want to leave.
-john

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Taiwanese in Austin, Tex.: I just read the article of Cindy about traveling in Taiwan.
I'm so happy that she loves it.

It's pity that Cindy only spent one week in Taiwan.
If people have more time, I would sugguest Kenting National Park is a must for ppl who love beaches.
Green Island just outside the east coast is a very beautiful place to go.
You can also see the local islanders' heritages such as dancing, boating and fishing.
If you want to experience the mountain, don't miss the Yushan National Park, the highest mountain in Taiwan.
Besides, try to visit Tainan City.
It's the oldest city in Taiwan with lots of historical architectures and cusines.

Last, thank Cindy for this nice article.

Best

The Flight Crew: Thanks. In fact, I would have loved to see the islands in particuar.

I did get to see some things that I didn't have the space to include--Tainan was one, an also the historic winding streets of a town north of Tainan.

Guess they're no choice---I'll have to return. Cindy.

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Washington, DC: You have 8 hours in Edinburgh. What do you do?

The Flight Crew: Get sloppy drunk in a pub? No, there's lot of good clean fun. The World of Whisky is a new, interacive (wink, wink) museum about the culture, history and making of the national drink. And of course Edinburg Castle, up on it's high perch over the city, is a great stop for a first timer. That neighborhood is also good for a several hours of idle wandering, shopping and noshing.

-Steve

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Washington, D.C.: Last fall, I purchased the Brookstone version of the Transportation Security-approved luggage lock. I understand that (most) stateside TSA security have the code. How about in Europe. Am I in danger of having the locks cut off?

The Flight Crew: The TSA hasn't gotten around yet to working with any countries outside the U.S. on the lock issue, I'm afraid. In fact, we keep hearing from travelers that sometimes security officers in the U.S. say they don't have a specail key.

So in the U.S. it might work; overseas it definately won't. Cindy

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San Francisco, Calif.: A Maui question for the crew: a girlfriend of mine and I (we're both late 20s) are planning a trip to Maui this July. We're starting to look into hotels, and we were wondering about Priceline for good hotels on the island -- specifically, if we should try Priceline now, or if we would have a better chance of finding something if we waited a while. Any consensus on that, and if Priceline is good for hotels in Maui? And if not, any good suggestions for nice hotels on the beach that won't break the bank (but we don't need dirt cheap).

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Gary says: check out the website, www.biddingfortravel.com. It has some interesting reader views on bidding for rooms in Maui (and other places.)

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Alexandria, Va.: Travel gurus:

Know of any good sources for hard-to-get Broadway tix, online or by phone? Am trying to find tix to the Broderick/Lane production of The Producers in May - part of the celebration of our 25th wedding anniversary. Would appreciate any advice you can offer. Already tried broadway.com which says no availability.

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Have you considered eBay? That might be your best bet. Or pay the big bucks to a hotel concierge. If you google "Producers tickets" tons of agencies offering tickets pop up, but we can't vouch for any. -- KC

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Washington, DC: Some friends and I are planning a trip down the California coast in May. We'll be driving from San Fran to San Diego. Any must see stops along the way? We'll probably stop in Carmel or Monterrey, and also LA. Any hotel recommendations? We're looking for places that are fun and trendy, but hopefully not too expensive.

The Flight Crew: Ah, a wonderful journey is in store. I'll post a link in a minute that has details from Monterrey to about Morro Bay.

Consider the Hearst Castle. Definately do Pffieffer Beach. Do stop in Monterrey--teh aquarium is one ofthe best, and Carmel, for walking around. Big Sur is awesome; look for the elephant seals near Hearst. Cindy

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Cairo Travel Tips: I read the transcripts of the chat last week and wanted to add a few ideas for the Cairo traveller. We lived there for 4 years and have some favourite spots. Coptic Cairo is a tour often overlooked but well worth it. You can hire tour guides from all the major hotels, arrange it before you get there or you can contact the Thomas cook travel agency in Maadi (the area all the expats live in) and they will hire you a guide and vehicle. Coptic Cairo includes a hanging church (you'll see); a church where the holy family once visited; one of the oldest synagogies in the world; and you are steps away from a truly magnificent mosque where the Shah of Iran is buried. You could manage this area in the morning and head to the Egyptian museum for the afternoon. You can have lunch at the Nile Hilton which is in Tahir square where the museum is. That evening, take a falucca and sail for an hour or so on the Nile. You can bring a picnic supper on board from your hotel. A warning: the local wine will leave you blind but the beer is good. The next day, it's the pyramids. Morning will take you to Giza and sphinx, Saquara (step pyramid) and Dashur (bent pyramid). Do them in in reverse order, ending at Giza. That brings you across the street from the Mena house hotel. Churchill, Stalin and Roosevelt met there during the war. Have lunch and a tour, maybe a swim for the afternoon or you can hire horses from stables on the road by the sphinx and they will take you for a magnificent ride in the dessert. It was always a highlight for our friends who visited. Evening, go to the Khan el Khalili, the market. Lots of junk but amazing little alleyways and you never know what you'll find. Have a wonderful time. It's easy to see the dirt and the poverty but that city and that country are magnificent and the people are incredibly kind.

The Flight Crew: Thanks!

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flags on backpacks: americans have been putting canadian flags on their backpacks for years . . . people often tend to hate the idea of "AMERICA" but on a personal level often love the americans they encounter . . . however, I never wanted someone behind me that I couldn't see readily identifying me as an american. I just didn't put anything on mine.

The Flight Crew: I'm with you.

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Washington, D.C.: My wife and i are interested in visiting Prague, Brno and Sofia. Our main concern is how we'll be received as Black Americans. Are we likely to encounter intolerance in these cities? How about the countryside?

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee: As an African American who has lived in Russia and travelled extensively in eastern eutope, I can say that you shouldn't have any worries. You will most likely get stares in the countryside, but nothing that staring back won't quash. have fun!

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Pendleton, Ore.: Dear Flight Crew: Thanks for all your good work. Reading each Monday's transcript is a non-negotiable part of my week.
My father and I are contemplating doing a World War I/II swing through France and possibly Belgium this summer. At a minimum, we want to tour Verdun, the Somme and Normandy. Three questions in connection with this: Are we better off flying into London and chunneling over to France, or using Brussels or Paris as a point of origin for this trip? Second, do you or any of your readers know of a particularly good guidebook or website for historical tourism in France and/or Europe? Finally, would it be worthwhile to add Flanders to the itinerary?
Many thanks again and Happy St. Patrick's Day! We have followed your Ireland recommendations for three straight summers and find them lively and accurate.

The Flight Crew: Hi---if the airfares are all the same, I think flying into Paris or Brussels would be marginally better.

Flanders is worth a stop, but first etch out the logistics and make sure that by doing a fourth stop, you won't be ruining the other three by being too tired.

Don't know a guidebook, but start by putting in key words at google.com---I'll bet the search engine will come up wtih tons of leads. Cindy

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The Flight Crew: Gary Lee back to say thanks for all your great questions. Sorry we couldn't get to all of them; repost next week if you'd like. I appreciate all your thoughts on security. In particular, the person who quoted the warnings about Washington made from French and other foreign travel bureaus raised an interesting point. You win the prize. To claim it, e-mail me at leeg@washpost.com

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Tainan, TW: To Pasadena: The Taiwanese are extremely racist and is something that happens on a regular basis here. Ms. Loose used that quote appropriately in that she was representing Taiwanese culture. I have an African-American friend here that is constantly harrassed for the color of his skin. I don't agree with the racism and I don't believe Ms. Loose does either. However, she was writing about a culture that is very racist in some ways. Not everyone here is racist, but I get stared at everyday because I'm white.

To Nashville: If you like adventure then I suggest renting your own vehicle and doing your own tours here. Taiwan is great, but many tour groups are like marathons and don't let you appreciate sites. I've seen too many tour groups run off busses, take their pictures, then run back onto the busses. When you are here make sure you visit Wulu Da Gorge... even better than Taroko. And try to visit an Aboriginal village such as Maolin. Expats in Taiwan are filled with advice for recent arrivals and are more willing to give you directions in English to the best sites. If you have the time I suggest Green Island. Green Island is a paradise. And it has one of only three saltwater hot-springs in the world. When you get to Taiwan find some expats to point you in the right direction. As for travelling in the rest of south east asia I suggest Cambodia or Cebu Island in the Phillipines. Cambodia is gorgeous, lots of history, and plenty to do. Cebu is mostly resorts with colonial history thrown in, but is a great and cheap place to relax. Tickets to the rest of south east asia are very cheap from Taiwan and are easy to book through travel agents here. http://www.interlink.com.tw/index.html is a travel agent I've used before and they offer package deals (prices in NTD) at reasonable rates for all of asia.

The Flight Crew: Thanks. And no, I didn't intend to be racist. I sure did get lots of stares, but they seemed curious rather than nasty. Cindy

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washingtonpost.com: Dear Sur, (Oct. 28, 2001)

The Flight Crew: link on calif

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