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Deborah Kennedy, Stevensville, Md.
The Book on Newport
I ENJOYED your article about Newport, R.I. ["Where Summering Is a Sport," July 16]. For armchair travelers or those who want to do a bit of research before they go, I recommend a beautiful and informative new book, James L. Yarnall's "Newport Through Its Architecture." The photography is stunning, and the history -- both architectural and social -- is first rate.
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Tom Bower, Washington
Rail Pass Problems
THE PURCHASE and use of European rail passes entails more pitfalls than your helpful article suggested [Coming and Going, July 16]. I began planning a May/June student trip last fall and was delighted to learn from the Rail Europe Web site that economical four-day French Rail passes were available that fit our group's travel plans. I was sent a booking quote with the itineraries, dates and times clearly indicated, with a total price of $2,675 for passes and reservations for 12 passengers.
The status line showed "Requested," since I was told it was too soon to confirm seats. When I called back a month later, I was told that passes could not be used on the weekend of June 2, as this was a "blackout period." As a result, we had to abandon the rail pass strategy and book individually priced TGV itineraries. The new price, with reservations secured: $4,407.
I rechecked the Rail Europe Web site and found no indication that there were blackout periods for passes. Even worse, careful planners who try to reserve seats well in advance are told that it is not possible. Further, we were led to believe that we could use the passes for our requested dates, only to find out a month later that we couldn't. Rail Europe could clearly benefit from communicating rail pass policies better both on its Web site and through its agents.
Mark Weinberg, Washington
Arty Kent Island
THANK YOU for your article on Kent Island, Md. ["When the Going Gets Tough, Get Off Route 50," July 9], but I want to add that you missed an important part of the Kent Island and Stevensville scene. There is a lively and thriving art community on Kent Island, centered in the town of Stevensville. The Kent Island Federation of Arts (KIFA) at 405 Main St. has been a part of the scene for over 40 years and has a lovely gallery just down the road from the town center with monthly rotating exhibits. The Web site http:/
Georgette Toews, Co-President, Kent Island Federation of Arts, Grasonville, Md.
Write us: Washington Post Travel section, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071. Fax: 202-912-3609. E-mail: travel@washpost.com. Provide your full name, town of residence and daytime telephone number. Letters are subject to editing for length and clarity.