Talk About Travel

Christmas travel bargain hunting, San Diego, St. Louis, carry-on luggage sizes and more.

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 theentire Flight Crew, we want to thank you for flying with us.

You may also browse an archive of previous live travel discussions.

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Anne McDonough: We have a full crew with us today: KC Summers, John Deiner, Gary Lee, Carol Sottili, Cindy Loose, Andrea Sachs, Steve Hendrix and your truly, Anne McDonough. I went to the most glorious picnic in Rock Creek Park yesterday, which made me think of the times on the road when nothing beat an outdoor meal...nutella and fresh bread in France, cucumbers and potato chips on the Great Wall, smushed sandwiches at the Grand Canyon. How about you? The poster with the best (and succinct) traveling picnic story wins "A Year in the World" audiotape read by Frances Mayes and a shopping guide to San Francisco.

Joining us this week is Bruce Adams, co-author of yesterday's piece on St. Louis and the Cardinals' new stadium there. He's here to field any baseball travel questions you may have, so send 'em on over!

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Online confusion: Please help -- I'm sure this is my novice-ness coming through, but I'm confused. Online this weekend, I was quoted a rate at a specific airline for round-trip tickets to Europe. The site required an e-signature stating that you agreed to pay the quoted amount by credit card. I signed. This morning I called the service to pay and they said sorry, the flights were "requested" by their system but not immediately available at that rate and that they were working on getting them. I asked when they would know if they could get them and they said they didn't know. I need to make reservations for my trip, but they implied that I would have to pay if they ultimately obtained the tix at that rate. Once the retailer tells me the flights I thought I'd reserved aren't available at a quoted price, how long am I obligated to wait for them to see if they can get them at that price? (I can't imagine I'd be obligated to purchase whatever they offer on whatever airline at whatever price.) I need to make reservations, but can't end up paying for two sets of tickets and don't want to wait until flight prices are beyond reason (well, more beyond reason than they already are). Thanks.

Carol Sottili: I have never heard of this before. Where (what site) did you buy these tickets? I'm sure it's a third-party vendor, not an airline, and I can guess that it's not a major operations, such as Orbitz or Travelocity. I'd call them and get out of the deal now.

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Falls Church, Va.: I recently booked a trip to Dublin far in advance through Expedia, taking a US Air flight (operated by United) to Chicago then Aer Lingus, in January 2007. The price was pretty good: $360 r/t, including tax, and I have made that connection and terminal change before with few troubles. The only strange thing was that I was required to get paper tickets, for an extra $20 in shipping and handling. I haven't used paper tickets in a long time. Are there any advantages or disadvantages with paper tickets in case something goes wrong? If US Air or United go belly-up in the next eight months, am I hosed?

Carol Sottili: I believe Aer Lingus still does paper tickets. I can't see any disadvantage to having paper tickets. They're easier to transfer from airline to airline.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Travel Crew, I'm heading off for three weeks in

Malaysia this July. I am planning on visiting KL, the

Cameron Highlands, Penang, Melaka and Singapore. Do

you have any suggestions for additions/removals to that

list? Any special recommendations or memorable

activities? I'm very flexible on what I do while there,

though I'd like to stick to Penninsular Malaysia this trip.

Thanks!

Anne McDonough: You're in for a great trip. One place I'd not miss in Malaysia is Taman Negara National Park; you could spend several days there. Gary says you're definitely on the right track with Penang and Melaka. In Penang make sure to pay attention to the signs warning of man o'wars; I was with a friend who had quite a run-in with some big ones. There was a reason no one else was swimming that day! Anyone else with Malaysia suggestions?

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Bethesda, Md: Hi Travel Crew,

Interesting article about summer fares. I'm trying to fly to Las Vegas during the last week of July and I've noticed prices not only going up but flexibility in travel times disappearing as well. Is this indicative of all the summer travel described in the article? Should I just suck it up and buy a ticket now or are there any alternatives where I could get a cheaper ticket or more flexibility in flight times?

Thanks.

John Deiner: Hey, Beth. Not only are the fares to Vegas high this summer (like everything else), hotels are pretty pricey, too -- at least compared with previous summers. Just a popular place. Anyhow, I wouldn't expect the fares to go down too much in the next couple of months. Have you checked Southwest? If you can find anything for $275 or less, I'd go ahead and book, because the under-$200 fares don't seem to be popping up at all for Sin City in the near future.

One other option: Priceline. Maybe you can squeeze out a decent fare that way, albeit perhaps not at the times or airline you want to go on.

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Washington, DC: I have a friend who is going to be studying in St. Petersburg Russia from Aug. through May. I'd like to plan a visit there in October-- what is a good price for a flight? And how soon should I start the tourist visa process- since she isn't starting her program until late August, she suggested waiting until she has settled there for a week or so before making firm plans but I'm worried I'll end up with a pricey flight and extra fees for my visa. Thoughts and suggestions are most appreciated! Thanks.

Gary Lee: In the fall, good DC-St. Petersburg airline rates fall in the $700 to $1,000 range. I would suggest that you decide the dates, etc, that you're going before your friend leaves and start the visa process soon thereafter. Although the visa process is not as laborious as it used to be, complications can pop up in the last minute.

I would definitely not wait until she's there to apply for a visa. Please doublecheck the Russian consulate site for details about what you need for a visa but I am pretty sure that you'll need proof of travel and the place where you're going to stay.

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Washington, D.C.: My husband and I need to travel to Savannah, GA the

weekend of July 1st. Now that Independence Air is no longer,

flights seem to be outrageously high to me. Right now, I'm

getting quotes of about $565/person for a direct flight from

DC to Savannah (leaving Friday, returning Sunday). Do you

think the fares will go down or will I have to adjust to life

without Independence fares? Thanks and love the chats!

Carol Sottili: Prices to places such as Savannah have skyrocketed since Independence Air went kaput. You can get cheaper fares, but you have to be willing to connect. Try Airtran.

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Stuttgart Germany: Hi, love your chat! For the poster last week driving from Amsterdam to Munich, here is a route that will let you see some of the sights and still get there fairly directly: Go to Cologne; check out the cathedral and the chocolate museum. From there, drive along the Rhine River and maybe stop by a vineyard along the way--they're making some world-class wines. Go down to Heidelberg; massive castle ruins and a cool university town on the banks of the Neckar. From there, head east to Rothenberg ob der Tauber; most of the buildings and the entire city wall date from medieval times. From there, take the Romantic Road (many, many castles) at least to Augsburg. Either go directly to Munich or continue south to check out Neuschwantein castle and the Zugsptize, the highest mountain in Germany. From there, it is a short drive to Munich. Near Munich, be sure to stop by Dauchau for an amazing history lesson. Have fun!

Secondly, for the traveller looking for a short trip from St Petersburg: I know firsthand the major difficulties obtaining and changing Russian visas, but if you can get another exit/entry, go to Tallinn, Estonia. I was there two weeks ago, and it was wonderful. Lots to see, beautiful old town, everyone speaks English, and way cheaper than the rest of Europe. Go, go, don't miss it!

Gary Lee: Hey, thanks for these excellent tips. It's always good to get firsthand suggestions.

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vegas: I am headed to Vegas for the first time this week. I fly out Thursday afternoon and am taking the red eye back on Sat night. I have Thursday night free. Is there one thing that you must do in vegas if it is your first time. I am staying at Caesars if this helps. I have plans friday night and will be sitting by the pool and betting on the derby on saturday.

Any Thursday night suggestions would be much appreciated on either can't miss dinner places or bars.

John Deiner: Sounds like you have a busy couple of days planned there. Since you only have one night, you'd do fine just by walking around and taking in the spectacle...see the fountains, the pirate show, the blinding lights, the staggering twentysomethings. If you can get show tickets, I'd shoot for either "O" (Bellagio), "Mystere" (Treasure Island) or Blue Man Group (Venetian).

As far as bars and restaurants . . . man, you're in food and drink central. Such a rocking scene, you won't have any trouble finding some fun. But as far as specifics go, let's ask the clicksters: You guys have any favorite spots to eat or drink in the Caesars vicinity?

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Bethesda, Md: I'm looking at flights to Italy on Orbitz. Some of them connect elsewhere in Europe with a very brief (like 35-45 min.) stopover. It's been a while since I traveled to the EU--do you go through customs and immigration at your first EU stop, or only at your actual ending destination? In other words, is that way too short a stop?

Andrea Sachs: If it is only a connection, then you will not have to go through customs and immigration. You will only have to through C&I if you leave your gate area and/or the airport--or at your end destination.

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Washington, DC: I've been invited to a wedding in Mexico over the Christmas Holiday. I'd also like to see my family during that time...hence, I'm trying to book a multi destination trip (DC to Mexico to New England to DC). Will it really save me money to do the entire trip (air and hotel) through a service like Expedia...or is that just a gimick? This is definitely a time when I feel an actual travel agent would make it less confusing!!!

Cindy Loose: First brace yourself: Christmas is of course always an expensive time to travel, but it can be a particuarly expensive time to travel to Mexico cause millions of Mexicans and Mexican-Americans living in the U.S. go home to visit family, to say nothing of gringos seeking sun.

Secondly, Expedia and others like them aren't gimmicks by any means--they in effect are travel agencies, but without the level of service and personal attention you would expect in a brick and mortar company. In exchange for you doing some of the work online, Expedia, ORbitz, Travelocity etc. charge either no fee or a very small one, like $5 for a ticket.

A brick and mortar travel agent will likely charge $50 to $100 a ticket to book you. Otherwise, they should be able to find a ticket just as cheap or even cheaper than any of the online agencies. In fact, the brick and mortar companies can and should check sites like that for deals, so no reason you pay a higher price than you could get online. They probably won't charge to book hotels for you--you'll have to ask.

A good agent can always save you time and confusion, and given that multi destination trips can be tricky to book, I think you should listen to the little man in your mind saying you should get a travel agent. Just don't be shocked by the price--Christmas is the worst time to go to Mexico, airfare wise.

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Picnic story:: Eurailing after a semester abroad with a gal pal, we

initially had decided to cook in hostels whenever we could

to save money to splurge on good meals other times. We

boiled small pasta with red beans to make a pasta salad

for a picnic - then realized we had nothing to put it in. We

decided on an empty water bottle - it took an hour to put

each little piece of pasta and bean in, one by one.

When we got to the picnic site, a hill with a gorgeous view

of Brugge, Belgium, we cut the water bottle in half to

make 2 dishes, then squeezed lemon over the salad and

added salt and pepper. It was awful. We ate it anyway ...

and never cooked again.

Anne McDonough: That poor water bottle, sacrificed for the sake of some nazzogood pasta. Thanks for sharing!

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Columbia, Md.: Travel picnic ... My girlfriend, Ana, and I, both thirty-somethings, sitting Indian-style in the middle of the Sonoma Wine Country, overlooking the vineyards and pigging out on various cheeses, crackers, chocolate-dipped strawberries and Champagne... best girls' trip ever. We do it every other fall -- the third week of October.

Anne McDonough: Now that's a tradition worth keeping.

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Anonymous: I love the information you guys provide! My husband and I are traveling to San Diego with my 6 kids (ages 11- 8 months) in June. We will be there for a week. We plan on doing the Zoo and Sea World but want to let them get a taste of LA also. Do you have a couple of must see suggestions for the City or the drive up from San Diego?

Carol Sottili: I wouldn't go to Los Angeles at all. It's a two-hour-plus drive in the best of conditions. There is more than enough to do in San Diego for a week. Having lived in both cities, I think San Diego is more kid-friendly, and easier to get around. It's smaller and more tourist oriented. You could do the Disney thing in Orange County, but again, I'd stay put in San Diego, taking the kids to the beach, the zoo, Balboa Park, SeaWorld, a ball game, etc. Go to www.sandiego.org for ideas.

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St. Louis layover: I have a 3 hour layover going/coming in St. Louis on my way to Vegas for Memorial Day weekend. Do you think that's enough time for a quick jaunt anywhere outside the airport? I am not familiar with where the airport is in relation to the city. Thanks!

Bruce Adams: Three hours? That might be a bit tight for my conservative travel tastes. It's not much fun to miss a flight. But the Metro Link rail runs out to the airport (which is north west of the downtown). You could take it downtown and take a quick look at the Gateway Arch, the new ballpark and the historic Courthouse. Check it out at www.metrostlouis.org.

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Arlington, Va: Love the chats, Crew, and have an airline policy question for you. I have a very short connection on Continental in Houston coming up, and I'm scheduled to take the last flight of the evening from Houston back to DC. If I miss my connection because my first flight arrives late, does Continental owe me a hotel voucher, or am I on my own?

Cindy Loose: If you are flying some other airline and have a separate Continental ticket to fly from Houston, then forget about any help. For all they know or care, you live in Houston and just didn't leave home on time.

If you have one ticket on Continental and Continental is late, you have some hope of being put up overnight. Check their contract of carriage at their website--it should outline exactly when they will and won't put you up.

If the flight arrives on time and you just can't make your way through the airport in the time to make the gate, then plan again on paying for your own room--I think without checking the contract you can be pretty sure of that.

Good luck, and wear you running shoes.

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DC Traveler: Has anybody been to Victoria, BC? I'm going to be in Seattle for a few days and figured that a side trip to Victoria might be nice. I have to know, however: are the ferries rough traveling? I've gotten seasick once before and I know it's a 2-3 hour trip, but I don't know if I can lay on a bench on these ferries or what. I won't have a car, just me and my luggage. Thanks.

John Deiner: I've been there! I've been there! And it's beautiful, and you should go, and the views from the trip are gorgeous. As I recall, the ferries are big ol' sturdy vessels, and the day I went, I had no problems with seasickness. I imagine that if the weather is not pleasant, the trip won't be. Can anyone (please!) add to this? Good or bad experiences?

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Washington, DC: I'm an aid worker from Washington (currently in Baghdad on an assignment) and I have to say I'm constantly disappointed in the Washington Post's travel section. DC is a city filled with people like myself; ex Peace Corps volunteers, aid workers, adventure travelers, but every week all I ever see in your travel section is tips on cruise lines and the tamest of destinations. I think your section could benefit from a periodic (monthly?) column for the more adventuresome traveler. Please, consider those of us who don't think that a climbing rock on the Lido deck is the height of exotic travel.

Steve Hendrix: Well, I guess we can't get the mix right for everyone, WDC, but I don't your reading is accurate. In the last few months, we've run features on canyoneering out west, seeing gorillas in Rwanda, polar bears in the arctic, camping on the Galapagos, dog sledding in Canada, all kinds of second line destinations in Eastern Europe, Latin America and Asia. I myself have written about backcountry mountain biking (200 miles of it, dag nabbit!), climbing Kilimanjaro, working as river guide, backpacking in Montana, Burma, Guatemala. Tamest, forsooth!

As for cruising, it shows up a lot in deals and the CoGo column, but for the most part we limit features on cruising to two a year. Some people would like see more of it.

Anyone else want to chime in on the weekly mix?

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Silver Spring, Md: I would like to buy a new carry-on size piece of luggage, preferably roller bag. I know that the standard is 45 inches total; is this true for international travel also? I want to buy one I can fly anywhere with but also be able to carry-on. Thanks!

KC Summers: Hi SS. Yes, 45 linear (i.e., total of length, width and depth) inches is what's allowed domestically, but international airlines vary -- so check with your airline to be safe. There's a good ballpark guide at http://www.luggagepros.com/policies/luggage-restrictions.shtml. Basically, what's sold as a 22-inch carryon should fit those standards.

You're smart to stick to carryons -- that's my philosophy too. But let me put in my standard plea here for packing light. I've found that even a 22-incher can be too big, i.e. when packed full, it can be difficult to fit into the overheda bin, and it's definitely too heavy for me to lift that size bag up into the bin -- a personal criterion of mine. I figure if I can't handle it, I shouldn't be traveling with it. Also, most airlines have a carry-on weight limit of 40 pounds, which is another good incentive to pack light. So I tend to use 20-inch and 21-inch bags.

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Alexandria, Va: Flight Crew-

I am a single 35 year old female looking to take a long weekend vacation in July. Was thinking of NYC but the cost of hotels is more than I want to pay. Am a city person and have traveled solo to Paris and London. Any ideas that won't break my bank?

Anne McDonough: How about Montreal? It's a pretty quick flight, a great long weekend destination and definitely cheaper than New York. Check the Montreal Tourism Web site for some ideas ( www.tourisme-montreal.org). Or perhaps heading out to Chicago? Yup, it's hot in the summer, but so is NYC, and you might be able to get a better deal on hotels. Anyone else have any other ideas?

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For Las Vegas: If you've never been to Vegas before, make sure one of your meals is a casino buffet. I haven't been in a while, so others probably have better suggestions than I about which ones are the best these days, but you have to at least experience the spectacle. If you've done a casino buffet in Atlantic City, this is nothing like that. These are serious buffets.

John Deiner: Good point (and even the AC buffets are starting to learn from its bigger, better sibling). Since the previous poster is staying at Caesars, he/she has the pick of a lot of good ones (Treasure Island's is brand new, but I'm assuming it's at least decent). I'd opt for the Aladdin's or the Mirage's myself.

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Los Angeles, Calif.: Morning, 'crew! Here's my picnic story:

15 years ago I flew to meet my best friend from high

school after her semester in England for a Christmas

vacation of rail travel on the cheap. One thing she really

missed from the U.S. was peanut butter, so I brought her

a jar, which came in handy for snacking on trains all over

(just add bread).

On one overnight trip (Copenhagen to NIce, I think) we

thought we had a cabin to ourselves until an old man

stumbled in, a Norwegian sea captain (or so he said). After

a while we offered him some of our picnic of peanut

butter and bread. He squinted and growled, "What is this

Skippy? THIS is my Skippy!" and waved a bottle of aquavit.

That sure perked up the picnic.

Anne McDonough: I love the bonds (odd or otherwise) that arise when travel and food mix. And as long as you have peanut butter and a chocolate bar, you'll never go hungry.

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Arlington, Va: Recently had a negative experience with Expedia. Not sure how to handle this. I think it's a case of false advertising. I was searching for a package (air and hotel) to Montreal a couple of weeks ago. After doing some research, I plugged in my dates and the search engine told me to wait. I scanned the returned results and quickly (within less than a minute say) found a package I wanted of $700/pp. When I clicked to purchase by selecting "choose and continue" a new window came up saying "the package price has changed" with the listed price crossed out and the new price of about $300 dollars more than the search engine results. Stumped I tried again, then I checked a second choice hotel, and a third hotel and again the price in the results window changed by at least $200 the moment I clicked "choose and continue". I then decided to try my search all over again, and what do you know I got the same results page with the same advertised price of $700/pp for the same hotel and again when I clicked "choose and continue" I was shown the higher price of nearly $900/pp. So if the priced changed from the start of my search until the time I clicked choose and continue, why was each subsequent search showing the same advertised price. In the end it left a bad taste in my mouth and I purchased my tickets elsewhere. Isn't this false advertising. Oh, Expedia was kind enough to show me the great deal I was getting, noting that the package saved me about $19 versus buying the tickets separately (the original quote showed an "expedia discount for booking together" of about $300). I just tried again a fe days later a similar thing happened, I was quoted $736pp in the search results and then when I click on "choose and continue" the price changes to$880/pp. What's the deal? I generally prefer to deal with the airlines directly, but they weren't offering the hotel I wanted.

Carol Sottili: I don't think this is a problem unique to Expedia. I've seen it happen on many of the booking sites. They would argue that airfares sell out quickly, and that's where the price difference occurs. Most airlines devote only a small fraction of their seats at the lowest rates. The Web booking sites quote prices assuming these seats are available. But it's not at all uncommon for the cheap seats to be sold out. False advertising? I don't think so. Occasionally misleading? Probably. You could always book the items separately - air with airline, hotel with hotel.

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Arlington, Va: In Caesar's: if you love chocolate, you must go to Vosges in The Forum...amazing chocolate, and exotic flavors like curry, wasabi, etc.

John Deiner: Cool -- great info, Arlington. Thanks. (And man...that addition to the Forum Shops is amazing, isn't it?!)

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Fairfax, Va: Good afternoon flight crew!

This summer my family and I are going on a lovely weeklong trip to Europe. However, due to airline booking issues, we have a full day layover in London. We land at Hethrow at 8am, and have to fly out of Stansted at 7pm. My question is do we have enough time to get downtown to do some sightseeing, and if so, are there places to store luggage while we're busy being tourists?

Andrea Sachs: This is how I would approach it--to get the most of your layover, with the least bit of stress. Take a train or coach to Standsted to get rid of your luggage (if your plane allows, you can check it; if not, the airport should have locker facilities). Then, take a Standsted Express to central London, a 45-minute train ride (the stop is Liverpool Street). I worry that if you don't move your luggage to Standsted until after your London wanderings, you might miss your flight. Or, have to fly back without your bags.

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Arlington, Va: Re. EU connections & customs:

It depends on the country. We flew to Greece, connecting through Munich, and we DID have to go through customs in Munich. When we landed in Greece, we just collected our bags and left the airport.

Andrea Sachs: Wow, never heard of that happening before. Thanks for your input.

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Copenhagen, Denmark: For the Italy traveller: When you enter the first EU country, you go through the formalities of passport control etc. and will probably like to be on the safe side with a bit of time to spare. You only clear customs at your final European destination.

Andrea Sachs: Thanks for the additional information.

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Anne McDonough: Don't forget we have a man-in-the-know here in case anyone has questions about traveling to minor or major league baseball stadiums. Bruce is up on the snacks, the fields and the atmospheres at parks across the country.

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Washington, DC: Hi. Our baby will be 5-6 months old this summer, and we were thinking about traveling to Europe. Our thinking is that it's actually easier when they're babies than when they are toddlers (won't need to be running around). What do you think? However, we are a little concerned about how we would deal with transportation once we're there--do we bring a carseat? What do we do if we must take a taxi? Any insight helpful!

Steve Hendrix: Babies that age are wonderful to travel with (unless they're colicky or otherwise stretching your day-to-day sanity). Typically, they are far easier on you and fellow passengers than a squirmy two-year-old and you don't have to buy a seat for them. Do take the car seat, though. If you luck out and get an empty seat, it makes a great crib. If the row is full, just gate check it, and then you've got it for taxis or rentals on the other side.

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Ashburn, Va: Passport Question: I have heard there are some countries who will not accept a passport that has been issued within the last 6 mos or will expire within 6 mos. Is this true?

Andrea Sachs: Yes, that is true. To be safe, your passport should have a six-month cushion on both sides (date of issue and expiration date).

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Laurel, Md: Long-time lurker; first time submitting. Love the chats. They provide a wealth of information. By volunteering to give up my seat on a flight, I was lucky enough to score two free round-trip tickets to anywhere AirTran flys - a first for me. I know they are subject to black-out dates, but my question is how do I go about determining when these black-out dates are. I figure obvious dates would be around holidays.

Carol Sottili: Black-out dates will vary by destination. You're right about holidays - you may have trouble using them July 4th weekend or Christmas week. If you have a destination in mind, give them a call and ask. Go to www.airtran.com to see the route map.

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New Haven, Conn: A few summers ago, I had knee surgery in June and spent most of July recuperating in California. In August, my boyfriend and I finally got to go on a summer vacation. We began our trip by driving up I-5, through the hot and dry Central Valley, with a cooler and a bag of Trader Joe's goodies in the back. When it was time for lunch, we were in Redding--and followed our noses and some helpful signs to a lushly green park along the Sacramento River, where we picnicked in the shade and watched the water flow by. It wasn't glamourous or international--but after the dry heat of the Valley and a long summer of watching TV and physical therapy, it felt like the best picnic in the world.

Anne McDonough: We don't need glamour or foreign travel, just delish memories--which is exactly what this sounds like. Hope that knee's as good as new...

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Olney, Md: Hello, is there anything for a couple (early 50s) to do in Orlando, FL? We'll be there for a few days, but we are not too much into the whole Disney thing. Any suggestions will be welcome. Thank you!

John Deiner: Hey, Olney. I'm guessing you've already done Disney and didn't care for it? Lots to do there that isn't geared toward young'uns (shopping, eating, drinking, etc.). Likewise, if you like to go to the movies, Universal Studios and the adjacent CityWalk is great fun.

Otherwise, I'd suggest checking out nearby Winter Park and the Morse Museum of Art. It's got the world's largest collection of Tiffany artworks. Also, the town is cute and is full of shops and restaurants. And downtown Orlando (www.downtownorlando.com) has been working hard to lure the non-Disney crowd, with shops and museums.

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Madison, Wis: Maybe I'm not allowed to even ask this question, and maybe you're not allowed to answer, but here goes I want to go to Cuba. This isn't a political statement or some kind of protest, I simply want to see and experience it. And yes, there is some "forbidden fruit" appeal, but only because it won't be mobbed by loud, dumb American tourists. I think it's insane that I'm actually not allowed to go there! My Canadian friends can go just by accident of being born one hundred miles north of me. Anyway, my question is-assuming I follow the advice of other covert Cuba travelers (fly to Mexico, buy a separate flight from there, ask the customs officer to stamp a separate sheet of paper slipped in my passport), how likely is it that I'll get caught and how much will I regret it if I do? I've heard everything from a few-thousand dollar fine (which I could live with), to a $70,000 fine and being blacklisted from all other international flights (which I could not live with). Thanks!

Cindy Loose: You are allowed to ask the question. And let me say Cuba is one of my favorite destinations on the planet. A really beautiful and fascinating place, and given that the embargo hasn't worked for 42 years, I doubt that your visit will undermine an otherwise brilliant, effective plan for bringing democracy to Cuba.

So, the penalty. Penalties were very rare until the Bush Administration started a crackdown. Even then, initially you could escape penalties by simply asking for an administrative hearing, cause there were no judges or officers to conduct a hearing, so everything went into limbo. However, a couple years ago Bush created a bureaucratic system for pursuing cases against Americans who visited Cuba.

The huge fines you're hearing about are for cases brought by the Department of Justice, but the Dept. of Justice has real work to do and no one there can even remember bringing such a case last time I checked.

However, the Office of Financial Assets Control now has a means of purshing cases, with an administrative judge and stuff. Typically if they catch you they send you a letter saying I caught you and you should pay a fine, usually something of a few thousand. Then you can ask for a hearing, and now, they actually can hold one.

If you choose to go through a third country: Cuba will not stamp your passport, but if you return to hte U.S. with anything that would show you've been in Cuba or would raise questions about your having been in Cuba--a receipt, a used bus ticket, a cigar--that could be used as proof against you.

There have been rumors that Nassau tips off U.S. officials that an American has come off a flight from Cuba. I've also heard one rumor about that regarding Mexico. Then again I know people who go from third countries and Big Brother never knew.

You can still go legally for religious purposes---OFAC gives out licenses for that purpose. I happen to know a Jew who visited obstentially to tell Cubans about Jesus.

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Washington, D.C.: The poster from Germany reminded me of my favorite travel picnic story! When traveling through Munich at age 22, my friend and I decided to spend an absolutely beautiful August afternoon in the Englischer Garten. We packed a yummy picnic from a cute bakery in town and found a perfect little spot with the faint sounds of an Oompa band in the background. Apparently we hadn't read our guide book close enough, however, and didn't realize the park was "clothing-optional"... After a bit of a surprise and a fair amount of time diverting our eyes, we had delightful afternoon and a good laugh at our own immaturity!

Anne McDonough: Naked Picnic. Now THAT's an interesting lunch. Anyone headed to Munich, consider yourself warned.

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Brooklyn, NY: The best picnic ever was with friends in a sleeper compartment on a night train from Moscow to St. Petersburg. We ate pickled garlic, potato chips, oranges, chocolate, and vodka--sounds vile, but vodka makes everything more fun! It was snowing as the train pulled away from the station and it felt so romantic and exotic to be tucked into our compartment, playing cards, and drinking and venturing into Mother Russia.

Anne McDonough: That all works for me but the pickled garlic. Though I'm sure that helped keep any unwanted visitors at bay.

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Washington, D.C.: Howdy, I'm looking for a fairly cheap but not too sketchy hotel around Union Square in San Francisco. Any recommendations?

Also, I've noticed that virtually all of the hotels listed by Orbitz and Expedia require prepayment. Is this now the standard for online hotel reservations?

Cindy Loose: Check out the Bijou. Anyone else have ideas for fairly cheap but not too sketchy hotels in San Fran?

As to prepayment--yes, that is now common is booking through a third party on the internet. Sometimes, the hotel all will want prepayment if you book through their own sites online, sometimes not. That's cause the rate is usually lower than if you call, and they want to make sure that they don't both discount the room, and waste it too by waiting for a no show.

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Weekly mix: I have to agree with the Baghdad worker. Though Iraq is a bit too exotic/deadly for me, the WaPo travel section does seem to skew towards the tame. It also appears to spend more time in Europe than other continents. A dedicated adventure travel or "backpacking" column would be a welcome addition.

KC Summers: Thanks for the feedback. It's hard keeping everyone happy, but we'll think about your idea -- and in the meantime, we'll continue to put a good mix of stories out there each week. Feel free to email us (travel@washpost.com) with specific things/places you'd like to read about.

Any other thoughts on our adventure coverage? Do we need less Europe, more Asia and elsewhere?

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Delta tix: Thanks for doing these chats!

I have a booking with Delta in November. Are there any steps I can take to cover myself in case they fold?

Carol Sottili: Federal law that extends through November requires that other airlines take passengers of airlines that go out of business, but they can charge a fee of up to $50 each way. Can be problematic in summer season and around holidays when there are often no empty seats on popular routes. November, unless it's around Thanksgiving, would be one of those months you'd probably be able to get a seat.

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Alexandria, Va: My husband and I are planning to visit my sister in Amsterdam this fall. We'd leave on a Saturday and return the following Saturday. We'd like to do a sidetrip to Belgium or elsewhere in Netherlands. Any suggestions for the side-destination? And, should we do a daytrip (stay in the same Amsterdam hotel the whole time) or leave Amsterdam and make a stop at our side-desitnation on our way home? Thanks!

Gary Lee: First, if you're doing a side trip in Holland (the Hague is a good one) then stay in the same Amsterstam hotel and do a day trip.

But a trip to Belgium might be more interesting. I would suggest that you think about Brussels, Brugge or Antwerp. If you opt for one of these, then plan on staying overnight. The travel distance is long enough that getting back to Amsterdam in a day would be too much hassle.

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Hey Crew!: If you had to choose between the eastern side of Costa Rica or Belize which would you choose? I've done the whole western half of Costa Rica but I've been told the beaches on the other side are gorgeous but I've never been to Belize either. I'm just looking for a nice chill week, maybe rent a cabana or something along those lines. Do some snorkeling...

KC Summers: Okay, this is slightly unfair since I haven't been to Costa Rica, but I'm going to argue strongly for Belize. As in, you'd be crazy not to go there because it offers a lot more variety than C.R. -- Mayan ruins, jungle treks, exotic animals, incredible bird-watching, eco-adventures like cave tubing, and the most amazing snorkeling and diving. Okay, no volcano. But it's English-speaking, laid-back and friendly. Plus, San Pedro on Ambergris Caye is the cutest town ever, with sandy streets and divey bars -- like Key West in the '50s, some say. It's just a wonderful country.

Having said that, here's Steve with a vote for Costa Rica's eastern coast:

Steve Hendrix: Just to maintain balance, I'm going to vote for eastern Costa Rica even though I haven't been to Belize. I loved the remote feel of that stretch from Limon south to the great little surf town of Puerto Viejo (excellent cabana ops, there!). There's also a neat mountainside meditation center that I visited, with great views, monkees and birds everywhere, killer vegitarian food and utterly bizarre meditation rituals. I think it's called Samasati. Worth an overnight even if you're not New Agey at all.

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Annapolis, Md.: Traveling picnic. When on our honeymoon in Cabo, my husband and I went to the local tortelleria each morning for fresh tortillas, then to the grocer for fresh avocados and tomatoes. Then we would board a little ferry boat out to the little islands and beaches, where we would spend the day sleeping, snorkeling, dirnking beers and sodas bought off the boats of the industrious locals and enjoying the best avocado/tomato soft tacos in the world. I can still taste the creamy goodness of the sunwarmed avocados mixed with the flaky deliciousness of the fresh tortillas. Yum!

Anne McDonough: You just me made very hungry...and I've already had lunch. Thanks a lot.

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Washington, DC: Please help! My sister and I are trying to decide between Morocco and Turkey for our trip this summer. We've both travelled extensively in Europe, Central America, the US, and Southern Africa (plus Asia for my sister). We like a mixture of cities, culture, relaxation, and environmental activities. Basically though, we're up for anything and like to explore new places. Which country do you recommend? We'd have about 10-14 days in the beginning of July. Would we be okay travelling around either of these countries as two females who don't speak the language? We're not into the whole tour group thing. Thank you!

Cindy Loose: As to safety issues in Turkey and Morocco, I'd suggest you see what the State Department has to say at www.travel.state.gov.

If their remarks dissuade you from choices A and B--have you considered Eastern Europe? I'm thinking Slovenia, for example, with a cool little capital city and great interesting stuff in the countryside, and you could throw in a nearby country if city, caves, natural spas, rivers, world war II eastern front, lake, castles etc. aren't enough for the time you have.

As to Morocco or Turkey, if you're still deciding between the two, personally I'd pick Turkey. Any other opinions out there?

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Alexandria, Va: Best picnic my wife and I ever had on a trip was in Galway, Ireland in 2003. There was a street market going on next to a church, and we bought a loaf of bread and a couple of different kinds of cheeses from a cheesemaker. Then we strolled up to Eyre Square in the center of town and sat on a parkbench and enjoyed a sunny afternoon lunch. The Irish make wonderful cheese.

Anne McDonough: Cheese is one of the best picnic foods ever, unless you happen to be eating outdoors on a hot summer day. But it sounds like you had just the perfect atmosphere for a cheese and bread lunch.

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Derwood's Picnic Story: We were driving up the Pacific Coast Hwy back in the days before kids (late 1980s)...started the morning at the Tillamook Cheese factory, where we stocked up on French bread and cheese. Then stopped at a little fisherman's shack in Garibaldi, Oregon and picked up lobster tails for $3 EACH.

Continued up the road, pausing for a nice siesta on Hug Point Beach, and ending up on Long Beach peninsula at the Ore/Wash border in time to haul out our campstove and have lobster, French bread and cheese while admiring a gorgeous sunset. (I got pictures, too!)

We picnic regularly in our travels -- we hit the local stores and find beautiful, leisurely places to snack.

Anne McDonough: Cheese! Cheese and more cheese! I love it.

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Washington, D.C.: I've got to agree with Baghdad on this one. I appreciate the stories on Guatemala and the Galapagos, but it seems like when you cover these places its usually the luxury accomodations and staid excursions that get top billing. There are lots of people in this city who don't think twice about packing up for a 2 week vacation in places like Senegal, Suriname, or East Timor. And there's even more of us that travel to these places for work, and try to extend our trips for little mini-vacations in-country. I think we can all figure out how to get to Rome or book a cruise, after all your subscribers are smart people! But we might need some help booking a hotel in rural Laos or finding the best flights to Mauritania.

KC Summers: Another vote for more adventure -- although you're a bit off on the luxury accommodations charge (must be confusing us with the competition). We take great pride in including lodging info in all ranges, whatever the destination. And while it's true that it's easier to research some places than others, we like to provide thorough getting-there info for just about everyplace we write about. We like to make it easy for our readers, whether they're going to Rome or, say, Mauritania.

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Worst picnic: A couple of years ago in November, my boyfriend and I went on a hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We brought cheese and bread and wine. My boyfriend was paranoid about park rangers catching us with the wine, so he made us go way off the beaten path up a hill, where we huddled in the dead leaves against a tree and my boyfriend jumped every time something rustled the leaves. Soooo romantic. We're married now, and he's gotten a lot more laid back, but I still tease him about it.

Anne McDonough: Ah, the paranoid picnic. I know this one well. Glad you stuck it out, though. ;)

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Downtown Washington, DC: I've had the same thing happen to me on Expedia (price going up dramatically after you try to book the "special deal" -- in one case the tickets went up by $1,000 each) and -only- on Expedia. A couple of times that this has happened to me, I went back and checked the same tickets again several hours later, more than enough time for Expedia to have removed them from the system if seats were no longer available at that price -- and the tickets were still listed at the cheap price. Again, when I filled out all my info and clicked to purchase the tickets, I got the "sorry, the tickets are no longer available at that price" message. That's pretty clearly false advertising to me. They try to suck you in with the low price and then hope that you've invested too much time to change your mind. I don't buy through Expedia any more.

Carol Sottili: I don't know. What kind of person would say, hey I don't mind paying $2,000 more than I was quoted because I've invested a few minutes in researching this trip on Expedia? I think Expedia's software is less sophisticated.

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Arlington, Va: Greetings Travel crew:

I have travel plans this Wednesday that involve arriving in HEathrow at 6:55 am on United, then getting a flight on British Airways to CDG at 10:45 am. Does this leave me enough time to get my bag and recheck it for the second flight? Would love some reassurance or a reality check from you!

Andrea Sachs: Did you book your flights on one ticket? If so, you can check them through to your final destination. If not, there is no way to guarantee that your bag--or even you--will make your Paris flight. But that is a lot of time, and Standsted is not too large of any airport. To map out a plan of action, check out Stansted's airport on its Web site (www.stanstedairport.com)--so you can see where your gates are in relation to baggage claim, etc.

Another idea: Anyway you can go carry-on only?

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Pasadena, Calif.: Hi there,

Can you move frequent flier miles from one airline's program to another? Specifics: I have 24k miles on Northwest and 15k on Alaska, both airlines I used a lot when I lived elsewhere but have no need/desire to fly again (I'm premier on United). Can I roll these 2 accounts together somewhere, even a thirs airline like Continental or American?thanks!

Cindy Loose: Sorry, you can't. However, how about buying some miles to add to what you have to make a whole ticket. You can buy miles in increments of 1,000, and you only need 1,000 to add to the Northwest miles you have. In otherwords, get rid of the miles by taking a flight.

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Bowie, Md: To baseball man: is there ANYWHERE that hot dogs aren't outrageous?

Bruce Adams: Me, I'm not a hot dog guy. But this is America and people feel it is their patriotic duty to eat hot dogs at baseball games. Happily, most major and minor league ballparks have a wide range of food choices these days. The fancy new ballparks are built to be able to provide better and more diverse food choices The old food services facilities are the problem at RFK). Stay away from Dodger Dogs and Fenway Franks. But now even in old Fenway there is a terrific clam chowder.

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Lancaster, Pa: Travel-picnic story - when my husband and I were traveling in Italy last fall, we stayed for a week in Umbria in a lovely old farmhouse apartment in Campello Alto - the view was incredible!! Miles and miles of nothing but forests and olive groves - with Spoleto off in the distance. We sat every evening with a picnic out on the patio or in the olive groves - sometimes just some antipasti, other times a simple meal of pasta - and of course, plenty of the local wine from the wineries we'd been to that week... it was amazing! We figured the view from there was better than going to any restaurant... plus, since we were on the side of a mountain, it was much easier than maneuvering through those white-knuckle tiny Italian country roads at night!!!

Anne McDonough: And without the drive you're free to drink as much of that local wine as you like. Perfecto.

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Alexandria, Va: Hi Flight Crew. I have to attend a wedding in Baton Rouge late June. But when I ran web ticket search engine, the lowest fare I could find for a weekend departure from Washington Area airports to Baton Rouge was in mid to upper $300. Do you have any recommendation on the less expensive combination of getting there. I don't mind renting a car from a nearby city with more major hub, as long as it saves me some dollar. Thank you

Cindy Loose: Hi--Not always, but often tickets to New Orleans are cheaper, and the drive from N.O airport to Baton Rouge is between an hour and 90 min, depending on traffic.

Good thinking--and good luck. High 300s is rather high for Baton Rouge--the cheapest it gets is about high 200s, though.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm thinking about taking a weekend camping trip to the beach in mid-May, but can't decide between Assateague or Janes Island. I have never been to either one. Any advice or suggestions? Thanks! (oh, and love the chats!)

Steve Hendrix: Assateague is very easy, very popular and lovely. Pull-in campgrounds and curated nature trails. Janes is much more remote and wild (and buggier, reportedly). We'll try to link to an Escapes column we did on Janes in 2002.

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washingtonpost.com: washingtonpost.com:Plain Janes , (June 12, 2002)

Steve Hendrix: Here's a bit more about camping on Janes Island.

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Atlanta bound: Hey Crew-

Love the chats. I'm headed to Atlanta toward the end of the week. I'm definitely hitting up the new Aquarium (already have my tix!). Anything else new or exciting there to see or eat?

John Deiner: Hey, AB. Good for you on the aquarium...we hear nothing but praise. As far as other new and exciting ideas: Clicksters?

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Washington DC: How can you have someone on like Andrea who doesn't know anything about the procedures of traveling between EU countries? This is basic, basic stuff. That misinformation she handed out is very troubling.

Andrea Sachs: Okay, so to put this matter to rest: First, my information is based on my own travel experiences, plus I asked some other veteran travelers. However, I have just called the European Tourist Office and am awaiting a return call on the subject. My goal to offer accurate information, not to confuse or misinform people.

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Washington DC: Wow, I can't believe you all told someone they don't have to go through customs/immigration for just a connection between EU countries. I have traveled multiple times between Dulles and Lisbon with KLM and had to go through both at Amsterdam's Schipol Airport. In fact, that was the only place my passport was stamped even though I was not stopping in the Netherlands. Perhaps it varies, but I believe often people have to go through the formalities the moment they hit "Schengen" space, ie. enter the EU countries that are part of the Schengen Accords. So the connection time the person got could be wildly too little.

Andrea Sachs: More on EU travel.

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Adams Morgan, Washington, DC: My husband and son are going to a Cardinals game next week in the new stadium in St. Louis. Could you tell us about the stadium and what not to miss?

Bruce Adams: First, get there early and take your time walking around the ballpark before you go in. Check-out the remains of the old Busch Stadium. Look at the plaques that ring the new ballpark commemorating the 100 greatest moments of Cardinals baseball. Take your son's photo in front of the statue of Stan The Man Musial at Gate 3 along Eighth Street. Walk all the way to the top behind home plate for the best view of the Arch, the old courthouse, and the hole that was once Busch Stadium. About 15 minutes before game time head out to the bleachers and watch one of the satarting pitchers warmup. You can hang right over the bullpen. Don't miss the old scoreboards from Busch on the inside concourse.

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Marbury, Md: Best picnic - We took my stepson to the park at Niagara-on-the Lake to run off excess energy. A group was finishing up a picnic and invited us to come over and have some leftover hotdogs and give my stepson some other kids to play with. It turns out that the group of Canadians we were talking to had relatives that lived not far from us!

Anne McDonough: Have to say that leftover hotdogs wouldn't float my boat but I love the personal connection you made over them.

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Alexandria, Va: Have you ever done or would consider doing a story about travelling to meet a spouse or significant other who is deployed through the military when they get R&R overseas.

Cindy Loose: Actually, we've talked about that and think it's a cool idea, but need first to find such a couple that wouldn't mind being shadowed. If you know one, or where to find one, let us know. (If you know such a couple and they're meeting up in Hawaii, email loosec@washpost.com. If you know someone meeting up for R&R in, say, Oklahoma or Mississippi, contact one of my colleagues.)

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In need of travel help!!: I will be in London for a wedding in the end of Novemeber. We would like to leave London as soon as the wedding is over to go somewhere else in Europe. We are looking though for somewhere that will be warm and possibly have a beach. Any suggestions?

Gary Lee: At the end of November there is, in my experience no place in Europe that's going to have guaranteed beach weather. In general, I would think in terms of southern Spain or southern Italy. We have been in both these places in November and had great, sunny weather. But these days, with the climate changing so much, it's very risky to book a trip with a certain weather expectation.

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To baseball guy: So, what's the best park for food?

Bruce Adams: San Francisco in the majors. San Antonio in the minors. Eat your way across America this summer!

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Travel Section Lover: Just wanted to share my two cents on the Post Travel Section. It's the first section I reach for on Sundays and while some weeks, the main articles are not for me, I always read it all. Worst case, if I have a specific question I want addressed, I can use the chat on Mondays!

As for the comment on the cruise stories, I did remark to my friend yesterday that I'm surprised at how often cruising appears in the Travel section, since it's not something I think of doing often. But I just figured that there are readers out there who prefer to cruise and find that information very valuable.

Also, I was actually in Argentina when the story about ex-pats in Buenos Aires ran. I read it upon my return and it made me want to go back immediately! Thanks for all of the great stories and chats. You definitely have my appreciation!!

KC Summers: Thanks for the kind words, TSL. Not that I don't want to keep the backpackers happy, but as I said, it's all about balance. I am surprised that you think we do a lot of cruise stuff though, because I always feel guilty that we don't do enough for the cruisers out there! But I guess when you consider CoGo and the Deals column, we do get the word out.

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Annapolis, Md.: Hi!

Babymooner from last week. We have decided to use our Airtran vouchers to go to Grand Bahama, we think. However, I am not loving Grand Bahama - everything I read/see makes it look like Ocean City in the Caribbean. Is this true? It seems as though the only nice/non-trashy/touristy places are $600/night. If it is true, is there a way to get from Grand Bahama to the out islands? And do you recommend one out island over another?

We are looking for relaxation, low-stress, nice rooms, good beaches. Golf would be cool, not necessary. Any help you can offer would be great! Thanks! You all rock!

Carol Sottili: Hey, Ocean City isn't trashy. It's got great restaurants, night life, lovely beach, boardwalk, etc. But if you want to be one of those Kiawah Island/Outer Banks snobs (warning - no evil emails - I am kidding), the Out Islands are an option. Go to www.myoutislands.com for lots of info about the different island personalities. There are also plenty of nice resorts in Grand Bahama, including a Westin and a Sheraton.

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About Victoria BC: We are lucky enough to have a vacation home there in Victoria. Ferries are great, very little chance of seasickness. Go to Butchard gardens for fabulous flowers, eat at Tapas Bar or Black Olive or Ferris' oyster bar. Breakfast at Willie's...amazing. Lots of kayaking opportunities, sailing, good shopping in the downtown, museums. I love it!

John Deiner: GREAT stuff...thanks for the info. And Butchart Gardens really is an amazing place.

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Best travel picnic: Last trip before baby came, hubby and I went to grand canyon and we ordered a fruit tray at the hotel. The next morning, we packed up the fruit and ate it while watching the sun rise over the grand canyon.

Anne McDonough: Breakfast with a view: Delish.

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London Layover Again: Help! Thanks for your wonderful advice about getting between Hethrow and Stansted - however, I just found out that I'm actually flying out of Gatwick. Is there another train that runs from there into the city?

Andrea Sachs: Yes, there is. The National Express coach and the train travel that route, but allow yourself a lot of commute time. For the specifics, see www.stanstedairport.com, under traveling between airports.

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Bethesda, Md: Do you have any idea what would be considered a reasonable rate to rent a Jeep in Hawaii for five days? At a quick glance, I was quoted $450.00. That seems a little high. Any ideas? Thanks!

Cindy Loose: Actually, jeep rentals tend to be high, so I'm not surprised by anything less than $100 a day. You might be able to find some little local joint, but if so, the jeeps might be kind of rickety--you'd want to shop around and ask good questions, like how old is the jeep if it's cheaper than the going rate.

Are you there just five days? If so, you probably won't use the jeep much every day. Why not plan a couple days when you'll be enjoying the beach, walkable or busable activities or tours that include transportation, and rent the jeep only for the days you'll be using it for a signficant portion of the day.

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re: price not available: I was having a huge problem with this recently, also. It happened over and over again on Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity, Kayak for over a week. I'd do a search for my flight, then when I'd try to buy, get the fare not available notice. But when I repeated the search, I got the same fare I'd originally "found". As I said, this repeated for about a week; I was looking for washington to rome, I'd find flights in the $900 range, only to have the price increase to the $1600 range when I tried to buy (and I'm not talking about added taxes, etc driving up the price. I mean $900 with taxes and fees suddenly becomeing $1600 with taxes and fees). I understand sometimes a fare sells out, but the same fare shouldn't then show up on searches the next day, and the next, and the next, only to be sold out again. Like I said, it was happening on all the sites. I finally gave up and had to search airlines individually. I haven't had this happen before. While, yes, I've occasionally "lost" a fare between searching and buying, I've never lost basically the same fare over and over again. Something unusual was definitely going on, I think. Sounds like Arlington experienced the same problem (fare still coming up on a search, despite already being told not available). Whatever this problem it, these travel sites need to get it fixed, because it made it impossible to actually compare fares/schedules to pick a flight I wanted. Which is sort of the whole point of using those sites. Like I said, I also wound up purchasing direct from the airline, when I usually buy from orbitz or travelocity, so someone lost my business there.

Carol Sottili: I have had the same thing happen on many of the airline sites. I guess there could be some incredible conspiracy to suck everyone in with cheap fares, and then hit them up with higher fares, but I don't think so. I often get the fares that are advertised. And I do a lot of searching for the "What's the Deal?" column. I have told readers for a very long time now to check the major third-party vendors, but to always go to the airlines directly to make sure they are getting the cheapest fares.

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Morocco or Turkey: I've been to both places, and I would definitely say Turkey. You have many more options - Istanbul vs. coast, city vs. resorts, history vs art, nightlife vs. complete relaxation, beaches, etc. The infrastructure is much better, and the hotels we stayed at were in great condition, not to mention the friendly people. In June it is also a little bit more bearable than Morocco.

Cindy Loose: Someone seconds my vote for Turkey....

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SF Union Square hotels: The Andrews Hotel is a very clean, pleasant, civilized little hotel 2 blocks from Union Square. In March I paid $79/night (incl. free breakfast); no prepayment necessary. The Chancellor Hotel is right on Powell St. - excellent service, very high housekeeping standards. Sometimes you can get a rate as low as $100/night. You should check for the best web rates, then call the hotel and ask a manager to match or beat those rates - this approach has tended to work well for me.

Cindy Loose: A second option for San Francisco---thanks.........

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NW Washington, DC: I think you devote far too much to the snobby-esoteric traveler. I Love Vegas, Disney, Cruises, and Water Parks, and I feel like all I ever see in your section is vegan treks to antique kung-fu monasteries in the Southern Maldives.

In all seriousness, I think you over-report on pseudo-exotic Euro/Asian/foreign destinations, and not enough on the places where most people really go.

So maybe you're getting the mix right.

KC Summers: Okay, this is getting to be like that fable about the guy who was walking along with his donkey and trying to please all the commentators along the way -- actually I forget how it ended (did the guy die trying to carry the donkey?!) but I think the moral was to thine own self be true, or whatever. But we do appreciate the feedback -- keep it coming, it's seriously helpful. I gotta say, though, that we do cover Vegas and the theme parks plenty!! For example, just a few weeks ago we ran a rollicking Vegas story, about the college boys who spent their spring break carousing.

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Arlington, Va: It looks like I will be going to NYC for a few days at the end of July to attend a performance at Lincoln Center and another concert at a small club. Hotels are not cheap...most in the $200-300/night range. I know this comes up all the time, but any suggestion for finding a decent place at a price that won't break the bank?

Anne McDonough: You're asking at just the right time...our New York issue, running this coming Sunday (May 7) is all about hotels...and we'll have lists of hotels which we found for under $200 before tax. I'd say check orbitz, expedia, quikbook, hotels.com, sidestep. One hotel that consistently comes up under $200 on the West Side, perfect for shooting down to Lincoln Center, is the Hotel Newton on W. 95th. It's not a boutique hotel, not fancy at all, but it's a good deal, the folks are really nice and I think being on the Upper West Side is a great idea.

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Washington, D.C.: On side trips from Amsterdam, when I visited the Netherlands, I found the parts that were not Amsterdam to be much more enjoyable than Amsterdam itself. I especially loved Leiden (we biked there from the Hague - beautiful!), and for something completely different, visit the DeltaWorks (there's a visitor center) and see the absurd things the Dutch do to keep their country out of the ocean.

Gary Lee: Hey, neat suggestions!

Much thanks.

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Bethesda, Md.: My family and I are big fans of the Baysox stadium - it's great - great prices, great food, kids can meet the players, etc. How does it compare to other minor lague stadiums and do you have a top three if we were going to try to visit some others?

Bruce Adams: The Baysox experience is everything that is great about minor league baseball -- family fun, good food, high quality baseball, entertainment for the kids, right close to home. Our Fodor's Baseball Vacations suggests about 34 different trips. The wildest time we ever had was at the St. Paul Saints in Minnesota. Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen is fantastic. So are the ballparks in Memphis, Asheville (NC), Durham, and San Antonio. Don't forget to come visit our local ballpark in Bethesda this summer -- Shirley Povich Field. www.bigtrain.org

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Allentown, Pa: Best picnic ever: Went to an open air market in Bologna, Italy to buy buffalo milk mozzarella for a picnic lunch just as it was closing for the afternoon. The guy behind the counter spoke no English but when he saw we were trying to make a picnic, also sliced up some salami, mortadella and took off a hunk of parmesan. (We didn't ask -- he just offered.) We tried to pay him but he shook his head no and smiled. We grabbed some bread from the next stall and set off for a wonderful meal by a fountain on the campus of the University admist all the red tile roofs.

Anne McDonough: Good food, good spirits and some gratis munchies. In Italy. You're lucky.

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Annapolis, Md.: Wow - people need to chill. While this is a very informative chat, if a traveller is savvy enough to find this, they should be savvy enough to know to double check all information. Andrea - you, and everyone, usually give great information and you can only talk about what you know. We still love you even if some angry meanies don't. Thanks for all of your help.

Andrea Sachs: Thanks Annapolis for that boost. Much appreciated.

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Gordonsville, Va: Thanks for all the help! I have always heard a rumor that a you can ask to be bumped up to first class at the check in counter, and if there is space they will allow you to do it. Of course I have always been to chicken to try it, but is this for real or just an urban legend. Thanks!

Steve Hendrix: I'm ashamed to admit I try this all the time, Gordonsville. Nothing too unctious, just a cheery disposition and a casual querie about "anything free up front? Ha ha ha ha ha." It's worked exactly twice in 20 years.

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Silver Spring, Md: Many years ago, some friends and I took the Trans-Siberian Railroad from Beijing to Moscow. The beginning of the train was all canned and packaged food we had purchased in Beijing. But when we hit Russia, at each train stop, we would get out and there would be Russian women selling whatever fresh produce they had or stuff they had just made. We ate recently boiled potatoes in a paper cone, just picked berries, fresh baked bread. We even got a huge piece of salami at one stop. Whatever was purchased was shared by all. It was the best food I've ever eaten and the most fun.

Anne McDonough: Reveling in fresh food in Russia, and many years ago to boot? That's a novel idea-I'm glad you changed my perception of the food there. Thanks for the story!

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Annapolis, Md.: I didn't mean Ocean City was trashy - but I don't wnat to fly all the way to the bahamas for an experience I could have 2 hours by car. I want something different, something islandy! That said, I'll check out that website. How easy or hard is it to travel from GB to the Out Islands?

Carol Sottili: I forgive you. You will find that Grand Bahama and Ocean City are two very different places (I don't think they have a biker's weekend in Freeport, for example). But the smaller islands are more laid back, and better for those who just want to fish or chill. Transportion varies depending on island. The Web site has good transportation details.

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Speaking of Sin City: I'm a Vegas novice, but would like to go there over Christmas. Is that a slow or busy time there? Any recommendations for travel advice, specials, etc. to Las Vegas? Thansk.

John Deiner: Here's my best shot at this one: Christmas Day and Eve and the days leading up to it after Thanksgiving are deadly quiet. But if you go past Christmas toward New Year's and, uh, all bets are off. Very expensive, very crowded.

As far as specials and deals go, just book as early as possible when it comes to rooms, and check hotel Websites closer to your trip time to see if there are any special deals. For instance, Venetian often lowers the prices of suites just a month or so out, so if you booked through the hotel, you can cancel and get the cheaper rates. Likewise, lots of the bigger properties often have spa packages that surface just a month or so before the day of travel.

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Washington, DC: Hi there, Love your chats!!!

I'm traveling to Phoenix on Friday for a business trip and have all day Saturday to sightsee. I'm renting a car and was wondering what you would recommend I not miss. I wanted to go hiking but since its 100 degrees there, thought maybe not. What can I do? Any restaurant recommendations also? Thanks.

Steve Hendrix: No Phoenix experts here, WDC (My advise would be to zoom up to Flagstaff, a great little town. But that's too far for a day trip).

But let's throw this out. Pheonix experts? Act fast?

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Picnic: My favorite picnic didn't require a lot of travel. My wife and I bought a bunch of Lebanese food and spent our 1-year anniversary at the National Arboretum in NE DC. It was gorgeous there, and so quiet...

Anne McDonough: I have to get there one of these days. Next vacation, I say.

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Indecision, Va: I am having a dilemma planning my honeymoon, which will be in October for 2-2.5 weeks. We had been going back and forth between Italy and New Zealand, but decided Italy seemed more romantic. We love to follow our stomachs, drink wine, hike, that sort of thing. But on a limited budget, the exchange rate with the Euro really hurts us. So, I'm second guessing our decision. I lived in NZ a while back and I would love to go there again and that exchange rate is in our favor. Even though the airfare is more expensive, we'd still have more spending money (sure, some things might be more expensive, but that seems true in Italy too). We could certainly hike, eat good food and drink there too. Anyway, is it worth scrapping my plans to Italy because of the exchange rate. Or in the end, will the costs pretty much be the same. If it matters, my fiance has never been to NZ and neither of us has been to Italy. Thanks for any suggestions that might help me make up my mind.

Cindy Loose: That's a tough but lovely decision. I think the question might help answer itself if you actually sit down and price options. So choose a site like expedia or orbitz or travelocity and get a real and actual price for airfare, then do the same for hotels. That way you're not guessing, but have actual numbers as a guide.

Let me take a wild guess: I'm guessing the difference won't be as big as you think.

If that's true, then do another test: what would it cost in lodging and transporation in you spend one of your weeks in Italy, and then saved some money by spending one of your weeks next door in Slovenia.

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another baseball question: my husband and I are both HUGE baseball fans. While we'd

love to go to fenway, selling our souls for tickets isn't

really in the cards. Are there any other "must see" of the

old parks besides Fenway and Wrigley? He was lucky

enough to spend every summer at Tiger Stadium as a kid.

Bruce Adams: Wrigley and Fenway are the best (in that order!). There are more of the old parks left in the minor leagues. McCormick Field in Ashville is a modern upgrade on historic grounds. The old Bull Durham Park of movie fame is still in use. Rickwood Field in Birmingham has been carefully restored.

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Arlington, Va: Just an observation about choosing a carry-on -- maybe you should think about its effect on other passengers. I've hated flying the past five years or so because of the obnoxiously huge carry-ons that people lug on board and then cram into the overhead bin, meaning I have to hustle to get onto the plane as soon as I'm allowed to, or I risk not being able to fit my reasonably sized backpack in the overhead, which means it has to be checked, which it is not suited for (meanwhile, the rude people with their gigantic, sturdy, wheeled bags that could easily be checked get to keep their monstrosities in the overhead bin), or I have to sit on top of it. I recently was in Australia, and we were on a full domestic flight. I was nervous about being able to fit our carry-ons -- they had a limit for checked bags, so we had to carry-on more than we would have liked to. But everyone else on the plane had small bags (when they had carry-ons at all). And they were polite and patient and helpful with moving their bags to make room for people who needed space, and as a result, there was plenty of room for everyone's bags. It's becoming a cliche to say it, but American airlines and passengers seem to go out of their way to make the flying experience unpleasant when it doesn't have to be. I'd love to see airlines actually enforce their carry-on standards for a change (of course, they'd also have to do a better job of not losing checked bags so that people wouldn't feel the need to carry everything on). In the meantime, perhaps readers of this chat could make their own resolutions to use bags that don't take up more than their fair share of space and maybe pay a little more attention to how their bag is situated in the overhead bin and if maybe it could be moved a bit to accommodate someone else who needs space.

KC Summers: Amen, Arlington. Even though I'm a diehard carry-onner, I always make sure my bag is a true carry-on, under 20 inches, and that I can lift it into the bin, and I don't take up more than my fair space. Wish everyone thought the same -- and I agree that the system would work a whole lot better if the airlines enforced their own rules.

Did you see our CoGo item a couple of weeks ago about the poor student who was forced to check her carry-on and got her laptop stolen? I wish the flight attendants on that flight had observed the passengers when they got on and made sure they weren't over the limit. But it wouldn't have been a problem if the passengers hadn't been hogs in the first place.

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Washington, DC: European PAssport formalities--I just got back from eastern Europe, transferring in Amsterdam. No passport check on the way over; just got off the plane and had to find my gate for the connecting flight. On the way back, our passports were looked at but not stamped as we got off the plane (in AMS); again, just had to find my connecting gate. This was in March.

Andrea Sachs: Thanks for the report from the frontline.

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Washington, DC: Picnic Story: Many years ago we were traveling to South Dakota to visit family. We stopped at a rest area in Wisconsin with our 2 young boys (2,1) for lunch and to let them run around. We had just started eating and suddenly there were hundreds of motorcycles with Hell's Angel types going by. Many started to come into the rest area. I was quite nervous and wanted to leave but my hubby said don''t worry. Quickly the other families packed up and left. I was even more nervous at this point. After talking to some who sat near us we found out they were going to Madison, the capital to protest the helmet laws. My boys were so excited to see the parade of motorcycles.

Steve Hendrix: And then? And then? Did you fight your way out Kung Fu style? We'll assume you did.

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Philadelphia, Pa: Hi, FC!

Are you aware of any organizations, clubs, and/or websites which offer discount travel fares/packages for college professors?

Cindy Loose: Not sure, but have you checked the STA, the student travel association, which at least used to include teachers/professors. If they don't still do it, they probably will know who does.

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Less Europe!: Yes! More Africa, more Asia! Seriously though, some articles on Europe are good, and even useful, but in this day and age most of Europe isn't too hard to figure out. There's nothing all that different about spending a week in London, than spending a week in NYC or SanFran (except of course for the fabulous accents). I would read the section far more religiously if it covered more interesting places.

KC Summers: Okay, thanks. I can guarantee you, though, that if we start running stories about more exotic places, we'll get creamed by the "real people" folks.

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College Park, Md: Here's a baseball stadium one... I'm travelling to CT in June and will have some free time. Would love to catch a minor league game. Any suggestions?

Bruce Adams: Lots of choices in Connecticut -- you'll have the most fun in Bridgeport where the Bluefish play an independent brand of minor league baseball. Babe Ruth played at Yale Field and so did Bush I. New Britain has the Rock Cats and Norwich has the Navigators.

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Washington, D.C.: Are there travel sites that let you find the best bargins based on a date range without putting in a particular destination?

Cindy Loose: Not exactly that, but places like smarterliving.com do let you know about bargains, and in that sense perform a service similar to what you seek.

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washingtonpost.com: For Phoenix: Pizzeria Bianco, for some of the best pizza in the US. Last Chance, the Nordstrom's outlet to-die for. NOT KIDDING. Get a massage through the folks at At One Yoga.

Steve Hendrix: Here ya go, Phoenix-bound. Straight from the Mistress of All Foods herself, Kim O'donnel.

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Sicilian Picnic: Last December, on a whim, a girlfriend and I took off from Florence for three days in northwest Sicily. While visiting Marsala, we stopped at a bar, drank some espresso, and picked up two arancine (rice balls stuffed with meat ragu that have been breaded and fried) to serve as lunch later in the day. The woman at the bar insisted we go to island of Mozia to see the Phoenician settlement. We drove the short distance up the coast, caught the boat to the island, and discovered that we were the only two visitors. It was a gloriously sunny day so after treking around the island, we found ourselves sitting at the boat launch, snacking on our arancine, looking back at the salt marshes separating us from Sicily. When we signaled we were ready to go, the staff closed the museum, shut down the island, and took the boat back with us. It was amazing!

Anne McDonough: Adventure spawned from a chance lunch encounter: Lovely

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Minnesota: Hello crew,

Love the chats! My boyfriend and I are heading to Mumbai in early June for a wedding with 6 days of sightseeing around the wedding. Knowing that 6 days is not a lot of time and June is incredibly hot in the plains, would you suggest doing the Golden Triangle (Delhi - Agra - Jaipur) or heading off to the hill station in Shimla for that time (or even both)? Should we consider Goa? Thanks!

Anne McDonough: Eek. That' not a lot of time. I'd say maybe someplace in Kerala, or go to Agra and Varansi, but skip Delhi. But that's lot of travel for six days.

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Fairfax, Va: (Submitted in advance) Okay, so what if Mom LIKES brunch? We'll be in NYC on M-day. Do you have any suggestions for brunch around the southern tip of Central Park? (Not Sarabeth's please. We find it a bit uneven.)

KC Summers: Okay, we've got some good suggestions but you're going to have to forget about Central Park (which means Tavern on the Green -- not a good bet, imho). Balthazar, in SoHo, is a fabulous French bistro and has a great brunch, and Barney Greengrass on the Upper West Side is pure fun and real NY. Kitchenette, up near Columbia University, is down-home and wonderful. For more brunch ideas, go to our free travel archives at www.wshingtonpost.com/travel and look under National destinations, then NY.

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19th & K St., Washington, D.C.: For the baseball guy:

First, I'd like to do a great summer baseball roadtrip, hitting all the California parks. That said, it's almost impossible to get all of them in a week or week and a half, someone is sure to be out of town. If I have to miss one from SF or OAK, and one of LAA and LAD, which ones do I skip?

Also, any good suggestions on great books about baseball roadtrips? I'm thinking of the travel stories of following a team for a summer or something.

Bruce Adams: There are a dozen minor league teams in California. I'd recommend San Bernardino and Sacramento. You need to see San Francisco, the best of the modern parks (yes, even better than Camden Yards). New parks to see in San Diego and Seattle (if you can stretch your trip up the coast). Every ball fan needs to go to Dodger Stadium. So I'd skip the Anaheim and Oakland. Try our Fodor's Baseball Vacations for an overview of more than 100 ballparks around the country.

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Anne McDonough: Thanks, all, for chiming in today with such great questions, chides, compliments and all. The prize today goes out to the folks who happened upon the clothing-optional bunch and still managed to enjoy their picnic. Send your info to travel@washpost.com and we'll get those things out to you. Thanks all--Check us out on Sunday in print and on-line and then join us next Monday to dish all about New York hotels.

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