The Post's Flight Crew: (from left to right) John Deiner, Carol Sottili, Steve Hendrix, Anne McDonough, Gary Lee, K.C. Summers, Cindy Loose, Andrea Sachs.

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.

Joining the Flight Crew today is Jason Willett , director of communications for VolunteerMatch, who will field questions and comments on volunteer tourism.

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.

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

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Cindy Loose: On this most beautiful of summer days, perhaps you, like me, came into work thinking, "Why can't I be on vacation right now?"

Buck up, stiffen your chin. If you can't go now, make yourself feel better by planning what you will do some day. Maybe we, or other chatters, can help.

Special guest today: Jason Willett of Volunteer Match, which matches volunteers with nonprofits and businesses, and he can answer any question you may have about volunteer vacations.

We will be giving away a nice traveling CD; every cut is about California. (Mamas and Papas, Kool & the Gang, Beach Boys etc.) It will go to a helpful chatter. If I declare you a winner, send your mailing address to loosec@washpost.com.

Meanwhile, we have an issue: When we're traveling and looking for accommodations and restaurants in different price ranges to recommend, we're often perplexed about the price threshold--i.e. we never bother with the $1,200 a night hotels, but what should our cutoff be? No question, we'll always continue to seek out options in a range of prices, including budget, and we'll always look for the best options we can find in a given price range. But what's the outside limit of that range? You can help by telling us: What's the top price per day you'd consider paying for a resort vacation, and for a hotel in a major city where prices start out pretty high for anything even decent, and for a special restaurant meal?

Here with me Cindy Loose,in addition to Jason, is travel editor K.C. Summers and Andrea Sachs, Gary Lee and Carol Sottili. Let's open the floor for questions and comments.

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Waldorf, Md: Good afternoon, crew. Hope Carol is on board today, because my question is in her field of expertise. We just booked a major vacation in Cancun for February, 2007, and we're taking the whole clan--20 of us, altogether. Sometime between now and then, we have to buy the airline tickets. So the question is, when do you think the best time would be (approximately). Now? The fall? A month before departure? Any other suggestions regarding the flight tickets?

Thanks

Carol Sottili: Yes, I'm here - beach was nice this weekend, but it's Monday! You've booked a major vacation for 20 people and you're even considering waiting until a month before departure to buy tickets? Not a good idea, especially if you're all flying from the same place. Expect to pay on sale about $350 a ticket for a one-stop flight and $425 or so for nonstop (I'd pony up for the nonstop). Airlines offer group rates, but these are often like bereavement rates - they're better than the standard economy fare, but not as good as a sale fare. Right now, United has nonstop flights to Cancun in February starting at about $427. Go for it.

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Washington DC: Let's say, hypothetically, that one was flying from Shanghai to the US on Northwest, with a brief stopover in Tokyo - too brief to get off the plane. What would happen if you found yourself not in Shanghai, but in Tokyo? Could you go to the airport and get on the second leg of the flight, or would your ticket be invalid if you didn't show up for the first leg?

Carol Sottili: You'd be out of luck, and your ticket would be invalidated. You have to check in where ticket originates.

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Falls Church, Va: Weird question, but one I hope your chatters can answer. When traveling I would like to take starch with me to use when pressing my clothes at the hotel after unpacking. A full sized can is too big and heavy. Are there travel sized starches anywhere? I've looked at the grocery and Target.

KC Summers: Love these oddball questions we get sometimes. Not that you're an oddball, FC. Far from it. I mean, I'm the one who cuts old washcloths into four sections before setting foot on an airplane.

But sadly we don't know the answer to this pressing question. Anyone??

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Washington, DC: I'm trying to travel from Reagan to Newark New Jersey two weekends from now. I'm surprised by how expense the flights are. What airlines fly direct between the two airports? I try to stick with the Star Alliance, but am not having very much luck. Thanks for any tips you can provide.

Carol Sottili: The reason it's so expensive is that Continental is the only airline that offers nonstop service between these two airports. You need to expand your horizons in order to save money. You'd pay have that amount leaving from Dulles and going into JFK.

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Washington, DC: I'm trying to get to Oregon anytime next month and can't find a flight for under $400! What's up with that?!?

Steve Hendrix: What's up are fuel costs and demand. Also up is our expectation that we can fly anywhere at anytime for fares that we used pay for bus trips.

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Arlington, Va: Hi Flight Crew! There has been alot of talk on these chats about the difficulty of using frequent flier miles. Do you know if I will face the same hassle with redeeming American Express points for travel? Thanks!

Cindy Loose:

For starters---odds might be somewhat better than if your points are on just one airline and its partners, since American Express has lots of airline partners. But first off, having more partners doesn't help if the place you want to go isn't served by a lot of airlines. And even if the destination is served by many airlines, if none of them have frequent flyer tickets available for where you want to go at a given time, it really doesn't help to have lots of airlines refusing you.

Secondly, you have to know which plan you have. Under one plan, you can buy a regular ticket using your express card, but then use points to pay, or to help pay, your American Express bill. In that case, ticket availability is huge, but then again, you have to use a lot of points.

I.E. No easy answer.

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HELP!!: Please help...

I was supposed to go to Miami during Labor Day weekend, but now due to others' stupidity it looks like I have to go during July. The problem with this is that I can't take any weekdays off work during July, so I'll have to go Friday-Sunday. Am I totally screwed trying to buy a weekend only ticket on such short notice? This is my last chance to go to Miami (and see some very elderly family members) for several years... Any ideas on cheap ticket procurement would be much appreciated.

Carol Sottili: American has some good prices into Miami out of both Dulles and Reagan National. Give it a try. Fort Lauderdale is usually cheaper than Miami, but it is a bit inconvenient.

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Bowie, Md: My parents took their first trip to Europe last month, a 10-day tour of Italy, and they loved it. They wanted to thank the Flight Crew for answering a few questions before they left in previous chats, and also wanted to pass along something they learned the hard way as first-time international tourists.

They'd repeatedly heard that it isn't necessary to take much cash on the trip - just charge everything. However, they found a lot of resistance (and got laughed at once) in gift shops for trying to charge small purchases, say, under 10-15 euros. Maybe the credit card companies charge higher fees to vendors in Italy than in the US? Credit cards are great for those gorgeous glass vases from Venice, but be sure to have enough euros handy for postcards, magnets, and t-shirts.

KC Summers: You're welcome, so glad we could help. As for their charging problem, I'm sorry they misconstrued our (frequent) advice to take credit cards. What we always tell people is to skip the travellers' cheques, to charge what you can, and to use ATMS to get necessary cash. We also recommend getting a small amount ($100) of cash before you leave, for cabs from the airport and such. You definitely need cash for incidentals and small purchases.

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Philly: I would place your per night travel cap at $450 or so. The most I've paid for a pricey hotel in an expensive city was $420/night - in the summer in Stockholm. Normally we don't spend more than $200/night for the hotel when traveling. Sweden was a special trip for us...Eating is a sport, and one of the reasons we love to travel. We'd easily budget a few hundred dollars for a spectacular meal in a new city - and we normally eat cheese/crackers/fruit for breakfasts/lunches, then splurge on dinners anyway.

Cindy Loose: Thanks---the perspective is helpful

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Phoenix, Ariz: Just wanted to tell as many people as possible how amazing Victoria, BC is, especially on Canada Day weekend. Music, food, and festivals everywhere, beautiful mid-70s weather, spectacular fireworks over the inner harbor, artists' booths lining the streets, parades, etc, all in addition to the usual selection of shops, galleries, museums, and hiking/boating/whale watching expeditions... what a great long weekend trip. I had no idea Victoria was so cool.

Cindy Loose: Glad you liked it. And if you go again, try to get a couple extra days to take the ferry over to Vancouver, too.

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Central California: Thanks for having an expert in the volunteer area of traveling.

I have had much fun traveling in Mexico and Central America. I would like to volunteer in the area of education or building public works. I speak very basic spanish. I have skills in video/radio production.

Where would I begin to look for those opportunities to help and to better my spanish? thanks

Jason Willett: With basic Spanish you could certainly volunteer in Mexico and Central America (and there are of course many domestic destinations that could benefit from your expertise and interests as well). Many organizations are in need of assistance promoting their mission and programs, so any help with radio or television Public Service Announcements would be very much appreciated. There is a "Media & Broadcasting" category of interest on VolunteerMatch, which would be a great place to start. Of course, Habitat for Humanity is doing great work everywhere (including the Gulf Coast) so consider working with them, as well.

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Charlottesville,Va: Flight Crew

Have way of you been to Vienna or Bratislava? Planning a trip for Spring 07. Need reccommendations for a pension in or near center city in both cities. Reader comments appreciated. Thank you.

Gary Lee: Since you mentioned pensions, I will limit my recommendations for them.

In Bratislava (a great, under rated destination) try the Pension Zlata Noha. The rates are around $60 a night for two, cheaper for one. It's not right in the center but easily reachable by tram.

In Vienna, try the Pension Blechmann, very centrally located, neat, and around the same price as the Zlata Noha.

Anyone else have recommendations for those two central European cities?

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Bethesda, Md: Thank you very much for the article in CoGo about UA's VISA Choices program. You did clear up some of my misconceptions. But you did not mention anything about the following, which I do think leaves card holders holding the short end of the stick. There is fine print in my Choices account that states: "Any redemption activity that uses Choices will result in an equivalent reduction in your Redeemable Miles balance." That seems grossly unfair. If one has both miles and choices, they should not become one and the same. I earned the miles prior to the inception of the Choices program (and certain merchants will still provide miles for purchases made, for example, Safeway and participating restaurants). If UA unilaterally deducts from my Choices account and also deducts from my Miles account, I am in fact paying twice for the same plane ticket(or hotel room, etc.)!! Tell me if I have misunderstood this feature of the Choices program.

Love your work and the ensuing articles in the Travel Section. Even if I don't get around to reading it right away, I ALWAYS save it to read later. I have Travel Sections going back two months!!! No one dares to throw away that section of the Sunday paper.

Cindy Loose: I will be the first to admit that the instructions and press releases sent out about this ViSA program are the most confusing I've encountered in a long time.

But they don't mean what it seems like they mean, that they'll deduct from your account twice. Lets for a minute say that choices are points. (The terminology choices is just so confusing.) So then, what they mean is that if you chose to spend points, those points are equal to miles.

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Washington, D.C.: I am traveling from Washington to Budapest this October. In the past, I have always been able to book my flights myself via Orbitz. On this trip, however, I also plan a side trip,flying from Budapest to and from Bucharest Romania (a 5-day stay in Bucharest) during my 3-week stay in Hungary. Is it possible to book this through Orbitz (I don't see how if it is) or would I need to go through a travel agent? I would appreciate any advice you can offer me. Thank you.

Carol Sottili: You don't say whether you want to do what is called an open jaw ticket (fly into Budapest, from there to Bucharest, home from Bucharest). Or you may just want to do a sidetrip to Bucharest and fly into and out of Budapest. Orbitz now allows you to book flights that don't originate in the United States. But I'd also try a Web site that specializes in discount carriers, such as www.flylowcostairlines.org. Nonstop flights between those two cities are very expensive - in order to save money, you'll have to connect.

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Cathedral, Washington, D.C.: It seems as though Atlantic City is just plain expensive all around. I'm heading there this weekend for a show Sunday night, can the amazing Flight Crew give me any tips on some reasonable hotels in the city that arent super expensive or really bad?

KC Summers: Cath, our resident AC expert, John Deiner, is away this week, but I did dig up this recent lodging info from a box he did about a year ago, and you can pick up some good hints from that. Trop means Tropicana. Kim, can we post a link to John's article and sidebars?

WHERE TO STAY: Despite the hype, rooms in the Trop's new Havana Tower are nothing special, with single sinks in the bathrooms, fridges, coffeemakers and uninspiring decor; rates start at $99 double midweek. Rooms in the resort's older towers start at $58 double. For snazzier digs, consider Borgata, whose rooms include marble baths, floor-to-ceiling windows and plush linens. Rates start at $149 double midweek.

Elsewhere, casino rooms are almost always less expensive midweek (Sunday-Thursday) and can easily top $200 a night on weekends. Casinos with newer towers include the Showboat (609-343-4000, www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/sac) and Resorts (800-336-6378, www.resortsac.com). The Sheraton Atlantic City (2 Miss America Way, 609-344-3535, www.sheraton.com/atlanticcity) is one of the newer non-casino hotels in town; midweek rates in April start at about $109.

Away from the boardwalk and marina, you can find respectable, moderately priced chain hotels just across the bay. I stayed Friday and Saturday nights at the Hampton Inn Bayside (7079 Black Horse Pike, 609-484-1900, www.hamptoninnbayside.com) in a surprisingly nice room with a bay view and breakfast included; the total, including tax, was $204.

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Washington, DC: Hi,

Could you discuss the similarities and differences between volunteer tourism (voluntourism) and the Travelers' Philanthropy movement? (www.travelersphilanthropy.org)

Thanks!

Jason Willett: In my mind they are essentially the same thing. Travel to an area of need and apply skill/expertise/time on behalf of the area that needs attention.

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Arlington, Va: Hi, Flight Crew, a trip is coming and unfortunately, my return flight is landed Dulles on 11:50 in the night. I've always used "Washington Flyer shuttle" before, but I don't think they operate that late in the night. What are my other choices? I don't mind taking taxi, and if I end up taking taxi, is it run by meters? I live in Arlington, and I am afraid metro will be closed by the time I get to any metro stop, so I am talking about a fare between Dulles and Arlington. Thanks for your help.

Steve Hendrix: Does Washington Flyer operate at 11:50 p.m.? Well, yes and no. Officially they are at Dulles 24 hours a day. In reality, you can find some very long, surly lines for Wash Flyer taxis there in the middle of the night. (See some recent gnashing of teeth about this on Caroline Mayer's consumer blog: http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thecheckout/).

The monopoly that Dulles and BWI award to single taxi providers is one of the great rip-offs of Washington travel. Their signs that warn you not to get in with any "unapproved" drivers is an insult. That just means drivers who don't give the Airports Authority a cut of the fare. And it's the poor sap standing on the curb at midnight who suffers.

But yes, the taxis, when you get one, are metered.

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Silver Spring, Md: I just want to brag. Already did Sydney and Croatia for business this year. By the way, your travel section article on Croatia was spot on. Although I was further north, it's a beautiful country everywhere and the people are great. August: London, Paric and Germany with the family. God, it's nice finally having kids old enough to appreciate it. Bon-voyage, arrividerci, I'll send my favorite travel crew a post card from my travels later this summer

KC Summers: Man, you've got us drooling here. Glad you liked the Croatia piece. Just wondering, how old do you think kids need to be before they appreciate traveling? Chatters, any thoughts on this?

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Central California: I think the price cutoff question is a moot point. It really depends so much on where you are going.

In Mexico and Central America 100 bucks gets a pretty nice room. In Hawaii, well...

So heres what I do with tips from readers and you writers

I take them as a starting point. I try to go lower and sometimes add amenities that are important to me and go higher.

So don't stress. I don't think anyone is gonna hold you to your figure.

Of course, at hotel registration you could say, "... but Cindy Loose said...". Hey, it could work.

Cindy Loose: Right, but maybe I didn't explain my question very well---I'm never going to have to worry about the upper price range in an inexpensive place like Mexico. The concern arises when we're in expensive places. So if we're in Hawaii we're going to look for the most decent place we can find in a budget category, and we always do a mid range choice. But how high should we go in our recommendation for the high end places. Would you ever pay $300, $400, $500, $600,---where do we stop?

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Washington, D.C.: My husband just booked us for a September weekend at the Sandals Royal Caribbean, in Montego Bay. I've never done an all-inclusive, I've never been to the Caribbean - any tips? Also, are we going to get hit by a hurricane?

Andrea Sachs: First tip: portion control. With all-you-can-eat buffets and no bill at the end of the meal, you can easily outgrow your bathing suit by vacation's end. The main thing about all-inclusives, good or bad, is that the resort is a self-contained universe--you never have to leave it. They supply you with food, drinks, swimming, sports, social gatherings, movies, etc. So, do take advantage of every activity and offering--since, when you break down the numbers, you paid for it. However, when you've had your fill of resort life, venture out, beyond the gates. You don't want to miss out on the island culture, from the famous cliff divers to the town markets. Be smart, though, and go with an established tour company or good-sized group. Ask the resort about day trips, as well as local restaurant recommendations--you will need a break from that mound o'pasta.

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Washington, D.C.: Bed, Bath, and Beyond has the largest selection of travel-sized items I have ever seen. I know they have travel-sized Woolite packets. If they don't have starch in a small size, I bet no one does.

KC Summers: I knew someone would know! Thanks.

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washingtonpost.com: the AC , AC Casino Report Card , (March 13, 2005)

KC Summers: For the Atlantic City-bound. Thanks Kim.

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Rockville, Md: Hi, Crew. In answer to your question about price limits, I try my very hardest to keep it under US$120 a night, but if I really had to (or really wanted to, or really found the perfect-seeming place), I guess I'd go up as high as US$200. If I had to.

As to a helpful hint, I found a way to change a wonderful restaurant into a perfect one, for subsequent visits during that trip. The first time I went there, I loved the place. Enough to give an insane tip. 100%. When I left, the owner chased me, sure I had made a mistake. I assured him I hadn't. I went back there a few times during the two-week vacation, and everyone from the owner to the busboys pretty much, um, hailed me as a god, quite frankly. All my tips after then were reasonable, but they were VERY happy to see me each time I showed up, whether for lunch or dinner. They ALL knew me by sight.

Cindy Loose: Thanks for the insights.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I agree with a top price of about $400-500, both for hotel rooms or an extravangant meal. While that's far more than we usually pay for either (we try to book hotels for less than $150, yay Priceline!), it's nice to know about high-end options for planning special trips such as anniversary celebrations.

Cindy Loose: Good to know. Thanks.

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Northampton, UK: I'll be spending a week in Budapest this November. The hotel is a good 8km out of the city centre (the hills of Buda). I'm concerned about the public transportation, as I will rely heavily on it. Any tips/advise? Thank you

Gary Lee: In my experience, the public transportation around that city is pretty distance. If I were in your position, I would probably contact the hotel as soon as possible (by phone or e-mail) and ask point blank how folks usually get into the center, how frequently the bus runs and so on. You can then make plans accordingly.

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Bethesda, Md: An advert in yesterday's travel section has me thinking about a trip to Nova Scotia. Unfortunately, flights seem to cost around $600pp. Is that the typical price? Is there an off season that might be cheaper?

About volunteering in New Orleans; I'll be there for the Mardi Gras Marathon in Feb. Is there anyway to help out for a day or even a few hours? I'll only be in town for three days and don't want to commit the whole time to volunteering.

Jason Willett: There are many, many ways to help out in New Orleans regardless of how much time you have to give. Check out www.VolunteerMatch.org. Here is a link to our Gulf Coast relief page: http://www.volunteermatch.org/volunteers/resources/hurricane.jsp. You'll see that there are a number of ways to get involved that are specific to Hurricane Relief. You can also just search for general opportunities from our home page using a local New Orleans ZIP code (like 70130). Do this a few weeks or months before you head down, and you can map out exactly what you'll be doing and be all set.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Flight Crew-

I had a question about volunteer vacations. I realize I would be responsible for my own expenses for such an excursion. My question then is would this be tax deductible? Thanks.

Jason Willett: Although volunteer time is not tax-deductible (too bad, since it is valued at $18+ an hour!) sometimes volunteer related expenses are. According to IRS Publication 526,

"You may be able to deduct some amounts you pay in giving services to a qualified organization. The amounts must be:

*Unreimbursed,

*Directly connected with the services,

*Expenses you had only because of the services you gave

*Not personal, living, or family expenses."

(http://www.irs.gov/publications/p526/index.html)

The best thing to do is check with the organization that you intend to volunteer with/for, and verify with the IRS ahead of time, as well.

Sometimes nonprofit orgs may reimburse for volunteer related expenses even if they do not quality for tax-deduction.

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Vienna, Va: Re: Travel Costs -

I agree with Philly - $450 per night for a great oceanfront resort full of amenities or a luxe city hotel or a spectacular private B&B type experience would be the very upper limit. Meals I would say would top out at $200 for two for something special. I am speaking on behalf of a household with $215,000 in income with respect to travel for two. Usually, we cap hotel at $185 or so and dinners at $75 for two for "regular" family vacationing.

Cindy Loose: Thanks---You're confirming my suspicion was that while most readers can't or won't spend huge amounts on a regular basis, some are interested in high end at least occassionally.

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Philadelphia, Pa: I suppose the most I would consider paying for an all inclusive resort would be about $2,000/ per week, per person. And I would only consider that for a honeymoon, anniversary or something like that. I would really have to save for it - definitely not a trip I'd do often - but friends and family have splurged on resorts in that price range and have loved it, so I would consider it too.

Cindy Loose: Thanks--again, your opinions help us serve you better.

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Miami, Fla: Why do you cut up washcloths?

KC Summers: Because I throw them away each morning when I'm on the road and I can't bring myself to throw away an entire washcloth each day. Even if they are old ones. This is Europe I'm talking about, btw, where the hotels don't usually have washcloths. At least the kind of hotels I stay in.

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Downtown Washnington, DC: A little info, in thanks for the help you gave with my parents' trip through the Three Gorges area of China:

I loved Vienna when I was there a couple of years ago! I stayed at the Pension Christina, mainly because of the price, and was quite satisfied. It's on a side-street on the edge of the historic district, around the corner from a subway station but only about a 15-minute walk to St. Stephen's Cathedral. It's part of a small chain of pensions in Vienna, and I've heard better things about the other three members of the chain. (I had no complaints with Pension Christina, but the others seem to be a bit posher and a touch more charming, so I might try one of them next time.)You can access them all through one website: http://www.pertschy.com/

Cindy Loose: For Vienna travelers---thanks.

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Washington, DC: I am thinking of going to China next spring, flying into Shanghai and returning from Beijing and Shanghai. What airlines and/or routes do you recommend looking at when booking my tickets to China.

Carol Sottili: United and Northwest are two U.S. based carriers with most frequent service from this area. Or try Air China out of JFK. Any frequent China travelers out there have any recommendations?

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Washington, D.C. -- somewhere on the Hill: Hi guys --

I'm looking to book a plane ticket to travel to Florida August 10 - 13th (I know, a little last minute). I'm getting fairly good prices using services like Travelocity. However, I'm getting itineraries that have me flying one airline on the way there and a different one on the way back (ex: Air Tran on the way there, Delta on the way back). I've never done this before, and it makes me a little nervous. Is this a common thing? Will I face any addition security screening because of this difference? Thanks, I love y'alls advice!

Andrea Sachs: It is pretty common these days, especially with all of the code sharing and partnerships. As long as you are booking with a legit company like Travelocity, you should be fine. To be safe, confirm your flights by phone on both airlines before you depart. As for security, you should not be marked for additional security, since you booked a round-trip ticket.

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San Diego, Calif: Re: Pets--A few weeks ago you posted a response from United saying that if a passenger is carrying a pet on board, there will be no fee if the passenger doesn't exceed the carryon limit. We want to take one of our cats on a trip next week and United is telling us completely the opposite--the fee is for the pet, not for extra carryon baggage. What's more, every time we talk to them, the fee changes! What is the truth here, and how can we hold the people at the airport to the information we get from the 1-800 number?

Cindy Loose: The person who handled that issue is on vacation, so we don't really know. Fact is though that we hear quite often from folks who get conflicting info. In fact, just got one from a fellow who on the way had no trouble checking his bike in special hardcover carrier for no fee, and on the way home was told he had to pay $80, even though the carrier was no bigger than a normal suitcase. Problem is the rules are so complicated and various.

Anyone out there had experience with flying a cat on United?

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Washington, D.C.: Just wanted to tell your chatters that I was pleasantly surprised by the Metrobus service from Dulles. I took the 5A Express bus to L'Enfant Plaza, and there were padded seats and luggage rights - much nicer than your average Metrobus! - and only like 3 stops before arriving in the city. And $3 sure beats taxi fare!

Andrea Sachs: I agree. I am a big fan of the Metrobus as well. It's so nice to let someone else do the driving--and pay for the gas!

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For Late Arrival at Dulles...: Arlington may also want to check into some of the airport shuttle companies. I use one from BWI so I can leave my car at home, and they're polite, arrive on time, help with my luggage, and make getting to the airport and getting home a LOT easier. They're also cheaper than a taxi. I usually use The Airport Shuttle (www.theairportshuttle.com) to get to BWI - I'm not sure if they go to Dulles or not.

Steve Hendrix: Thanks for that. There's also SuperShuttle, of course, a good service but one that adds an hour or so to my airport runs, I find (as they pick up other passengers).

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Hunt Valley, Md: Am I the only person who likes Southwest Airlines' Open Seating policy? To me, it means that after they preboard all the families with babies and small children, I am free to seek a seat as far away from them as possible!

KC Summers: I like it too, though not for an anti-kids reason. But the free-for-all system has always worked well for me -- I just always make sure I get online 24 hours in advance to get on the "A" list. Although as my colleague John Deiner found out last Friday, it's pretty competitive: He registered at the exact moment he was allowed to for his trip to Vegas, and still ended up as No. 17!

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Adams Morgan, Washington, DC: I going to San Francisco in a few months and would like to do a day trip to Napa or Sonoma to visit a few wineries and take in the scenery. I do not, however, want to drive. Can anyone recommend a tour company that would pick us up in SF and take us on a tour of the wine country?

Gary Lee: From: a fellow Adams Morgan resident: It's been a while since I have taken it, but took a tour that I booked through travelsf.com. It was good, not too rushed, took a full day. Otherwise, check out www.napavalley.com.

Anyone have personal recommendations for Sonoma or Napa Valley wine tours?

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Arlington, Mass (Boston area): For about 10 years, I worked with teams helping countries develop emerging securities markets. Several years ago, I became aware of an organization which made use of experienced Seniors who were willing to work without salary, but with expenses paid, chiefly, although not exclusively, in former Communist countries. Do you know of this organization, or any similar organzation presently operating such a program?

Jason Willett: Good for you! That sounds like a fantastic volunteer opportunity...

Although I do not know the name of the organization that you are referring to, I encourage you to contact Experience Corps, Elder Wisdom Circle and Universal Giving. Experience Corps is domestic in scope, but offers a vast network of Senior volunteers. Elder Wisdom Circle is one of the largest online networks with a mission to promote and share elder know-how and accumulated wisdom. We also have a goal of elevating the perceived value and worth of our senior community.

Universal Giving specializes in placing qualified volunteers in areas of international need.

These organizations post their opportunities on VolunteerMatch, and can be reached at EWC: http://www.elderwisdomcircle.org/

Experience Corps: http://www.experiencecorps.org/

Universal Giving: http://www.universalgiving.org

Also check out the Federal Government's Senior Corps program: http://www.seniorcorps.gov/

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For the starcher.: While I've never taken starch (or an iron, for that matter, as I'm a dedicated drip-dryer!) on a trip, I have successfully packed other liquids that didn't originally come in small containers. Fill appropriate-sized dispensers -- maybe a small spray-nozzle bottle for the starch, or would it get gummed up? -- then stow each one in its own sturdy zip-lock bag, to prevent leaking onto anything else in your luggage. For starch, I imagine you'd need to buy liquid starch, then dilute as necessary according to bottle directions. Good luck!

KC Summers: I'm thinking the starch would get gummed up. Man, I'm not exactly a slob but I can't believe people want to starch their clothes on vacation! (Or at home, come to think of it.)

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Annandale Va: Travel sizes: try http://www.minimus.biz/

KC Summers: Oh yes, I love this site! Thanks for the reminder.

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San Francisco, Calif: This is a question for Jason: What exactly is "volunteer tourism?"

Jason Willett: Volunteering while traveling or vacationing. Essentially, choosing to spend one's free or vacation time applying skills or expertise as a volunteer to a region in need. Another current phrase I have heard for the same thing is "voluntarism."

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Travel Starches...: As a frequent traveller myself, I like to pour a little of the starch into a smaller plastic container--you can find them almost anywhere in the travel section of a convenience store for example. No need to buy the travel-size of anything! Just make your own.

KC Summers: Okay, and Steve reminds us all that REI, the outdoors store, has a good variety of small containers in his favorite brand, Nalgene, though he's not sure they have pump action.

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Public transport in Budapest: It's hard to say without knowing where exactly the poster is staying outside of Budapest, but I don't think he/she will have any problems with getting into the city. There are many long distance buses that run outside of the city - true, not as frequent as downtown, but still pretty frequent. He can also take a cab to the nearest traffic hub - there are a couple of metro stations on the outskirts of Budapest with various buses running to and from the city center. Note: Do not hail a cab on the street. Ask the hotel to call you one. It's easy to get ripped off if you just get into a cab on the street.

Gary Lee: Thanks for the feedback. Sounds like we had similar luck with the busses there.

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Washington DC:

Your interesting article 2 weeks ago about the person who missed his Delta flight to Mexico, because the check-in counter at Dulles did not open in time, and it was too late when he reached the head of the line, raised more questions than it answered.

How did the other passengers on that flight check in? Presumably they were ready in line, before he was? (Since it was so early in the morning, they could not have arrived on connecting flights) Could that person have used the ticket kiosks to check in, without waiting in the longer lines for the regular check in?

More generally, it would be good if Delta would follow the lead of other airlines, and allow for online check-in for international flights (Delta only allows this for domestic flights), so that people can check in a day in advance, and then only have to drop their bags off at the airport.

Cindy Loose: The first confusing bit is whether or not he actually did miss the check in deadline, or whether Delta, realizing they were out of seats, used that as an excuse. Certainly, if you get there with lots of time to spare, the airline wouldn't dare use that excuse. But if you're close, and then you try to dispute what happened with customer service, you'll find that they do not have an actual record of when you stepped up to the desk.

Much about the incident was unclear, cause Delta wouldn't talk to us. But the story seemed to me worth telling anyhow. If nothing else, it served as a warning to get to the airport early, and it exposed Delta's cavalier treatment of this young man.

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For KC, bathing commentary from Maryland: You again mentioned cutting the old washcloths...! I smiled when I read your original comments a few weeks back. I do a similar thing but with Handi-Wipes. Works well; they are very thin so you can pack a stack with no problem, and they are bigger than washcloths, so you get more to work with. Finally, they dry very quickly!

KC Summers: Handiwipes! That's interesting, but I think I need that abrasive terrycloth quality to feel really clean. Am I sick?

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Fairfax, Va: As a budget traveller, anything over $100 frankly is something I'd avoid -- if it's a special occasion and/or a short stay, I'd be willing to up my limit to $200 but thats tops.

Cindy Loose: Thanks--we're always on the lookout for the most decent option for the budget traveler.

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Miami, Fla.: I have 3 more weeks of vacation than my wife (nice working for a European company). Where can I get info on the volunteer vacations?

Jason Willett: Congrats on the 3 weeks (more!) of vacation time! There is lots and lots of good work you can do with that much time to devote, or even a portion of it. If you are looking for places to travel domestically and volunteer, check out VolunteerMatch. It is very easy to enter ZIP code(s) for your intended destinations and put together your own itinerary of places to go and good deeds to do. VolunteerMatch also offers an International category for organizations that are based in the US and providing global relief. Other good volunteer vacation resources include Universal Giving and Idealist.org. Have a great vacation!

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Steve Hendrix: This is to follow up on a question about flights to Nova Scotia (sorry Bethesda; we posted Jason's response to you volunteer question before we could add a note about about airfares).

Here was the question: An advert in yesterday's travel section has me thinking about a trip to Nova Scotia. Unfortunately, flights seem to cost around $600pp. Is that the typical price? Is there an off season that might be cheaper?

Answer: there's lots of seasonal variation, and it's peak time in August. But I'm seeing non-stop flight to Halifax for $380 in, brace yourself, January.

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Pittsburgh, Pa: Well, it just broke my heart when US Airways ended its frequent flier points program with American Express. Since I travel so infrequently, it was the only way I could accumulate enough miles to be able to take a "free" trip once in a while. I could sign up for US Airways Visa card, but I only want one credit card. I also have a Southwest miles account, but I think you have to take a specific number of trips within a specific time frame in order to get a free ticket. So disappointing! It seems as if the only folks who can accumulate miles are those who travel A LOT. Is this a continuing trend?

Cindy Loose: There are three trends I'd say: There are more and more ways to earn miles, and fewer and fewer ways to redeem them for a ticket, and more ways to spend them for other stuff.

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Washington, DC: We would like to travel to Portugal later this summer. We were originally considering a trip to the Greek Isles, but Portugal seemed more affordable. I found a great deal to Madeira, staying at a hotel in Funchal, but I don't know much about the city. Would Funchal be a good place to set up base and explore the island? Is Madeira a good option, or should I look for packages in the Azores? Thanks.

Cindy Loose: Love Portugal, but don't know those cities. The guy who did the Azores recently, John Deiner, is off today. Can anyone out there help?

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Dallas, Tex: Does the flight crew or anyone out in travel-chat land have any experience with European River Barge Tours? We're planning a vacation for late august, and these look like fun. A little expensive, but fun. We would love to know what the boats are like, and people's impressions about whether this is a good way to see Europe or not. Neither one of us has ever done a cruise of any kind, but these seem different than the typical cruise.

We're really at the early stages of planning a last-minute trip, so we'll take suggestions for alternative destinations too. Budget is 5-6K including airfare.

Carol Sottili: I've never been on one, but I've written about the types of trips that are offered. First, don't confuse barge tours and river cruises. Barges have far fewer passengers (no more than 50, usually more like 12). You can also do self-drives, which are cheaper. Good resource is the Barge Connection (888-550-8580, www.bargeconnection.com). Your budget should work. Any chatters have recommendations?

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Washington, D.C.: Is it really still necessary to reconfirm international flights (I'm talking the return leg)? It's easy enough when you're in London or something, but in the type of place I often end up for work (Dakar, Vientiene, Caracas) its a little more difficult to find the airline office during their operating hours and then struggle to communicate in English or otherwise what you are trying to do. I've given up on it altogether and have never missed a flight. Am I trying my luck? Can I re-confirm before I leave the US?

Steve Hendrix: I haven't been burned by this maddening rule in many, many years, but when I fly dubious local airlines (Air Mongolia and the ilk) I still ask the gate agent if it's necessary to reconfirm. I think it's only in the backwaters that it's still enough of a risk to check on.

Anyone been bumped lately for not re-confirming?

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Hyattsville, Md.: What is the best reasonable way to travel to London and Stockholm late next month?

I was told that there are inexpensive flights from London such as Ryan Air etc to anywhere in Europe and the best way to fly to Europe is to go to London and go from there....

Andrea Sachs: Europe has a great network of low-fare carriers that make ours look pricey. Some of the fares on Ryanair, for example, are about the same price as a sandwich. For London Stansted to Stockholm in late August, I found a one-way fare of 15 pounds, about $28. For a list of carriers, see www.attitudetravel.com/lowcostairlines/europe/byairline.html

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Arlington, Va: My boyfriend and I are thinking about going to Belize for a trip this winter. We're not totally sure about it, though, mainly because we don't have a good sense of how developed and safe (in a hygenic sense and a crime sense) it is. It's been a long time since I've traveled in a third-world country, and quite honestly, I've gotten spoiled enough in the meantime that I'm not crazy about roughing it anymore. If it's just a matter of only drinking bottled beverages and taking basic food-safety precautions, that's fine, but are there any major health risks to be worried about? What about crime? I remember hearing some years ago about a problem with thieves attacking people who were staying on boats around the reefs, sometimes even killing tourists. This is sort of a concern because we would probably be spending much of our trip on the reefs, not in boats, but still in the same area.

KC Summers: Arl, it may come as a disappointment to you to hear that Belize is feeling less and less third-worldy these days. Especially if you concentrate on Ambergris and San Pedro -- they're pretty touristy. It's a victim of its own success, I guess. In the interior, things are a little more dicey, even at the more luxurious lodges -- my group was very careful to leave very early on an overland trip to Tikal, for example, so we'd be sure to get back before dark. My resort was patrolled by guys with guard dogs all night, although the owners said that was more deterrent than necessity.

Anyway, there are no health risks that I'm aware of, beyond the basic precautions. Anyone have more to add?

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re travel to Newark: The person looking to fly to Newark might want to consider

Amtrak. It 's a lot less expensive. Also, United Express (now

Ted?) used to fly there for less than Continental.

Re small packets of starch -- try doing it yourself with

snack-sized zip-locks.

Carol Sottili: Amtrak is an option, but it's not usually cheap. Ted could work, but it flies out of Dulles, not Reagan National.

As for starch question, has everyone taken a wrong turn and wound up in the Heloise chat?

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Shuttle poster again...: Steve -

That's the other reason I like the Airport Shuttle - it's usually just me in the van or me and one other person who lives in the same area. The most I've ever had added on to a trip was 30 minutes.

Steve Hendrix: Thanks again.

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Boston, Mass: For flying to different cities within Europe, I like whichbudget.com. You choose a city from a list, and it tells you which lowcost airlines fly there from which cities. Then you go directly to the airlines websites. I used it to figure out how to get to Romania when I'd already be in Europe.

Andrea Sachs: Great tip, especially for the traveler looking for cheap fares to Sweden.

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Newport, R.I.: I am looking to go to Hawaii in October. Which island do you all prefer? I am looking at outdoor activities but I also would like to have access to nightlife, although I do not want to stay in a crowed area. Do you think the North Shore of Oahu would work if I had a rental car?

Also, should I book my flight now or wait a few more weeks to see if the price decreases?

Thanks!

Gary Lee: We have two votes for the Big Island, and two (including yours truly) for Kauai. We had one thumbs down for Maui (too commercial) and one half vote for Oahu.

If you want to get away from the crowds and you like rugged nature, the North Shore of Oahu is fine. But you do need a car.

As for when to book the flight, I would keep checking around until the end of July (including smartertravel.com) and jump on the best deal you find.

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Pittsburgh, Pa: Starch: My mother used to do this with my father's shirts before a trip - -

The night before departing, spray the shirts with starch and then let them dry. Pack them the next morning and then when they would arrive at their destination, she would iron them. The heat of the iron would "activate" the starch already in the shirt. She claims it worked every time.

KC Summers: Interesting! Although I still maintain that any trip that involves starch is one I don't want to take. But maybe I'm forgetting about all our business traveler readers/chatters...

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Frequent flier dilemma: Last year I got a Delta American Express card solely for racking up ff miles on Delta, as it's the main airline at airports about an hour from my small Virginia town. I've got 44,000+ miles now (a lot of that thanks to a round trip to India on partner Air France)--but I'm finding it very hard to book a Delta Skysaver miles (25,000 miles) round-trip flight from anywhere, including Washington. Delta will sell me a SkyChoice miles (50,000 miles) itinerary if I pony up $220 for the extra 6,000 miles. Of course, this option uses up most of my balance.

I'm thinking I should take that option, wipe out my Delta miles, cancel that credit card, and get an American Airlines card. The nearest airport with AA flights is 2 hours away, but I've never had a problem redeeming 25,000 miles for free flights with American. Might be worth it. I guess I could get Delta upgrades w/my miles, but for domestic flights especially, I'd rather use miles for free flights.

Any advice from you and/or the clicksters? Thanks.

Cindy Loose: It seems to us that all the major airlines are pretty short on frequent flyer tickets for the minimum number of miles. (They all have lots more tickets if you're willing to pony up about double the minimum.) Ticket availability for the minimum number of miles depends more on particular routes than particular airlines. But there's no way to tell who has how many tickets where, cause the airlines guard that info with their life.

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For the starcher: If the nozzle gets gummed up, just hold it under hot water for a minute or two to clear it out.

KC Summers: Thanks. Who knew starch would be the hot topic today?

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Alexandria, Va - Please say NO to changing SW policy!: The single biggest reason, IMHO, for Southwests success is their unbelievable turn around times when compared to the larger carriers. The reason for this is the boarding process, plain and simple. You can get people on that plane in half the time as a regular carrier - and given the hub and spoke system this means maybe one or two additional flights a week each jet can make vs its competitors. Like many I have a love/hate relationship with SW but this is the main reason I love it, they load planes up like nobodys business.

KC Summers: Yep, they're the best at that, no question. I'm with you, my heart sank when I heard they were studying changing.

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Baltimore, Md: Greetings Travel Gods! I am planning to drive from Eastern Switzerland (Davos) to Vienna this summer. 2 questions. I want to break up the trip and stay overnight along the way. Any suggestions where to stay the night? Anything I shouldn't miss (Except King Ludwig's castle - too much)? Second - can you recommend a good car rental website/company for a one-way rental in Europe? Thanks.

Cindy Loose: Don't know the answers off the top of my head and no time to research it. ANyone else happen to know.

One piece of advice on your routing---go to viamichelin.com, which will give you the kind of info you can get for the U.S. at mapquest.com, so at least you'll know driving distances and know the names of places you are passing at a convenient time during your trip.

One way rentals--anyone else know.

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Washington, DC: KC: you need a loofa--just wrap in a plastic bag and go! Be sure to take it out for air when you arrive at your next desintation though.

KC Summers: Hmm... maybe... but that's sort of TOO harsh. Hey, it's not that I'm high-maintenance but I do need the right shower equipment in the morning.

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Barbados: I have always wanted to volunteer and work on a language at the same time. I speak French, Spanish, a little German and now learning Chinese. My problem is it is usually so expensive to fly to the country where the program is. Does your organisation facilitate people who do not live in the US and also is there any special arrangement with airlines to get reduced fares?

Jason Willett: Wow - impressive language skills! Those could be very helpful for any number of organizations that serve diverse constituencies.

Although VolunteerMatch does not directly faciliate/coordinate travel arrangements for interested volunteers, you may be able to negotiate a reduced-fare arragnement with an organization that you want to help with. Who knows? Depending upon the situation and your value to the organization, perhaps the travel arrangement could be entirely absorbed by the nonprofit or NGO you want to help out.

While you are researching organizations to volunteer with and the necessary travel considerations, perhaps try volunteering "Virtually." Virtual opportunities are those that do not require a physical presnce. You can volunteer for any organization, from anywhere, whenever you want. Great way to get the ball rolling with different organizations, and test the waters of what you want to do and where you want to travel to (http://www.volunteermatch.org/opportunities/virtual.jsp).

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Washington state....: I don't know that there's a precise upper limit you should apply to hotel or trip prices. I like to look for the best/cheapest deal in expensive places... like staying in the luxury hotel that's got some rooms under renovation so I get a deal on the spa, or staying in the small rooms at the Connaught in London for $300/night (instead of $500) or going in shoulder season...

And what IS it like to stay at the Plaza in New York? or the George V in Paris? I'm never going--unless I hit the lottery--but you could tell us all about it someday.

And what are the true bargains, too? What cities are wonderful AND affordable? Who's got cheap airfare this month to where?

I read Outside Magazine for the stories of really weird trips I'll never take---I read the Washington Post for the ones I dream of AND the practical ones that I wouldn't think of.

(I don't want the prize--and I've gotten one within the year, too. But I love the chance to tell you what I want to read! Thanks.)

Cindy Loose: Helps us alot. Thanks.

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United-Cancun-Feb 2007 $400-??? : From where? Not from DC ... unless it's listed under some secret link I can't find.

Non-stops from DC tend to be $550-$750.

Carol Sottili: I'm finding it pretty easily for next February. It's on Ted out of Dulles. And if your dates don't work, try USA 3000 out of BWI.

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Arlington, Va: For the starch question: it should be noted that some airlines list spray starch as prohibited in check or carry-on luggage.

From NWA website:

Hazardous and Prohibited Items Certain items are considered hazardous and are prohibited from air transportation by federal law. You may not travel with these items as checked, cabin-seat, or carry-on luggage. Examples of these items include:

- Flammable Items: fuel, paints, lighter fluid, matches - Explosive Materials: fireworks, signal flares, sparklers, freon, helium, gunpowder - Dangerous Chemicals: bleach, adhesives, linseed oil, spray starch, insecticides, cleaners and solvents, wet-cell batteries (except those in wheelchairs) - Pressure Containers: spray cans, butane, fuel, scuba tanks, propane tanks, fire extinguishers, CO2 cartridges, self-inflating rafts

For a complete list of hazardous items that are not accepted for air transportation, visit www.tsa.gov.

KC Summers: I was afraid of that, and meant to check the TSA list before I got sidetracked about washcloths. Hope the original chatter notices this. Thank you, Arl.

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Fortaleza, Brazil: Re frequent flyer mile usage: it can pay to talk with a supervisor. When I called United Airlines about travel for which I was using United miles, to go from Brazil to the U.S. and back, asking what would happen with the legs booked on Varig Brazilian Airlines, should Varig cease operating, at least one phone rep told me I'd just be on my own for any domestic Brazilian flights, though he could switch me from Varig to United on the LAX-Sao Paulo leg. I asked if I could speak with a supervisor and the rep said, sure, but he'd tell me the same thing. In fact, the superivisor told me that United was aware of Varig's problems (e.g., cancellation of many flights, possible imminent demise), and were working on alternative arrangements so that, hopefully, they'd be able to put me on flights of another airline here for the domestic flights. Not a guarantee, but better than the original brush-off. Poor Varig. It used to be an excellent airline, fying to the U.S. at L.A., Miami and New York (currently just Miami). Many years ago I had frequent flyer mile ticket with Pan Am when they went under. Fortunately, Delta honored my ticket.

Cindy Loose: That's a great idea for when you're getting contradictory info. Thanks.

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Hawaii bungalows? : Dear Flight Crew - Is there a good resource for figuring out what Hawaiian Island is best for you? We'll be on our honeymoon and would like a place with great, quiet beaches, a variety of day trips and good snorkeling. I would like to stay in a bungalow type establishment. We do not like high rise hotels. Does Hawaii have such things? Bora Bora is our number one choice, but the cost is pretty high. Do you or anyone out there know if we are missing out on much by going to Hawaii instead of Bora Bora? Thanks!

Gary Lee: You can, of course, find bungalows and an off the beaten trek scene in Hawaii, but you have to do some shopping around to pinpoint the one that suits you. As far as I know, there is no instant or quick way to zap right into the scene you like best. In your position, I would start with a good guidebook to all of the islands (Fodors and Frommers both are good options) and read them through pretty thoroughly. If you have specific questions between a couple of options or about one island in particular, come back at us and we'll try to help.

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Washington, DC: For the person looking for the organization utilizing seniors with business skills, I think he/she is refering to the International Executive Service Corps, also known as the "Paunch" Corps.

Cindy Loose: Thanks.

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Annandale Va: What are some good ways to find a volunteer vacation, particularly for a family? I'd love to take the kids and put them to work (10 yr old twins and a 15 year old) part of the day. This could be a wonderful and meaningful vacation. Or would having kids along be too complicated (it frequently is anyway...)

Jason Willett: Check out VolunteerMatch and tick the box that says "Great for Groups" and/or "Great for Kids." There are many organziations that appreciate volunteers of all ages, and many age-appropriate volunteer opps (beach clean up, walk-a-thons, food sorting, etc.) This is a FANTASTIC way to involve the family in meaningful volunteer work, and have fun at the same time...together!

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hotel prices and rooms: I would like to see info on pricing (and the existance of)

suites in the hotels you recommend. Now that we are

traveling with a 2-year old, we find the suite for anything

over a 1 night stay to be less a luxury, and more a necessity.

Using the word necessity loosely, of course, but still. I would

go $250-300 for a room at a resort or big city, $190 for

room in hotel otherwise, and $120 dinner for two as a

"special" meal.

Cindy Loose: Thanks.

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Deaf traveler Crystal City: This August I will be traveling to Bulgaria for our wedding anniversary and ceremony in Sofia. I will spent one week there and then will fly to Crete for one week. do you have any suggest places to see in Crete besides Chania, Knososs and Via beach. We plan to take a one day trip to Santoni but is one day enough?

KC Summers: We don't know Crete, but if anyone can help we have just a few minutes left...

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Washington DC: In general, anything over $150 a night for a hotel and $75 a person for dinner would qualify as a once-a-year splurge, and I'd feel guilty paying more than $200 for a room or for dinner. But the context counts a lot: We paid $120 for a three-course meal with wine for two at a Michelin-starred restaurant, but it was in Lyon - that might only get you a nice bistro meal in Paris. And $80 in Salt Lake City got us a spectacular hotel, while $120 in New York City got only a room with 20-year old carpet.

Cindy Loose: Yeh, $120 doesn't get you much in New York. My husband hordes frequent stay points during his business trips and only when he has enough for a free night will he dare suggest to me a weekend in his hometown, New York.

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re: Azores: Very rustic, very pretty, very windy. Good golf and great seafood - not very built up. But if you don't like it, getting to another location is difficult or impossible.

Steve Hendrix: Thanks for the scoop.

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I hate camping out on the airport floor: Ok, I thought the whole point of Southwest's new system was that they'd found a way to do it efficiently. If it's speedy (and for now I'll take them at their word on that), you're no worse off. Of course, that doesn't help the person avoiding kids, but I'd much rather know in advance whether or not I can have my window...

KC Summers: I can't imagine how it would be speedier, but maybe they'll prove us wrong. They're testing it now.

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Washington, DC: I am trying to plan a vacation in december to somewhere sunny and warm. I am on a tight budget and I don't mind camping or hostels. I thought going south might be a good idea and I speak Spanish and love travel abroad. I just want a cheap fare to sunshine and warmth. Any ideas?

Jason Willett: You mention hostels, which is an excellent answer to your own question. International Youth Hostelling is a fantastic organization that offers volunteer opportunities globally, and non-traditional ones at that. In SF Bay Area, for instance, the local hostel seeks volunteers to take tourists to baseball games (expenses paid) and host pub crawls! This is volunteering? Yes, it is. Exposing tourists to a native country's culture is completely consistent with IYH's mission. Consider contacting them and finding out what and where the opportunities are. Good luck!

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Herndon, Va: Hi. I hope you can help. I'll be graduating from college this year and wanted to go abroad for a year. But I dont want to do a backpacing trip around Europe. Could you suggest something that I could do-- as in work or volunteer (something that is productive)-- and experience another culture? Thanks.

Jason Willett: Congratulation on graduating! My suggestion would be to first determine where it is you want to go and what it is you want to do as a volunteer. That will help you refine the overwhelming list of opportunities and destinations. But certainly, regardless of where you decide you want to go, there is local need that can benefit from volunteers. Check out the International category on VolunteerMatch, and perhaps also consider working with the Red Cross on international relief efforts. They need trained Disaster Response volunteers. Of course, with a year to dedicate, the Peace Corps might be a great oppportunity to explore, as well.

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nonstop to Rome: Are there any nonstop flights to Rome (or nearby airports)? It looks like Alitalia isn't offering nonstop service out of Dulles any more. I'm traveling spring '07.

Carol Sottili: No nonstop flights to Rome from here. But there is well-priced seasonal service on an airline called Eurofly out of JFK - try www.euroflyusa.com.

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Washington DC: For China (and other international) tickets, remember that going through a consolidator is usally cheaper than going directly through the airline, especially if you're a little flexible on dates. Our pair of Northwest tickets to Beijing/from Shanghai were about $700 less than listed on Northwest's website.

Carol Sottili: Consolidators can still save money on flights to China, but your best bet is to go through a travel agent. Most reputable consolidators work through travel agents only.

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re budget/luxury hotels: why not include both information in any given article. in other words, in more articles please show us readers how to see a city on a frugal-budget AND how to see a city on a luxury-budget. i am the type of traveler who likes to mix it up (roughing it at times, being pampered at times) when i'm traveling so this type of article would certainly appeal to me.

Cindy Loose: We do that already, or try to anyway. But the question is what's tops. For example, I'm going to Antiqua and Barbuda next week, and the place Princess Di usedto stay is like $1,500 a night or something. I just can't imagine too many of our readers ever spending $1,500 a night. So while I might stop by and even write about it for some reason as a hoot, I wouldn't go by there to check it out as one of the four or five places I'll recommend for staying. But again, when investigating properties to put in the details box, where should I stop?

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Annandale, Va: Absolute top hotel price for a special weekend is $200. I try to budget a vacation of a week or so for $1000 a person for hotel and airfare, and usually succeed at less than $1500. That would be between $100 to $125 a night, I think.

Unfortunately, Fairfax County property taxes come out of the same savings as my vacation budget. This year, there isn't much left.

Cindy Loose: WE could all travel in fine style except for those darn taxes.

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re: confirming international flights: I was returning to London from Lahore, Pakistan back in 2002 and did not confirm my flight with Kuwait Air within the required 72 hours (I did it within 68 hours or something close like that). My seat was given away and I had to wait an extra 5 days to get out of the country. I've always confirmed my return seat, regardless of how inconvenient/isolated the location.

Steve Hendrix: Good lord. Yes, it's worth checking with some of these local carriers.

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Springfield, Va: I don't think I could relax and enjoy any room I had paid $500/night for. I'd just lay in bed thinking I could have spent the same money and enjoyed the location for 2, 3, or 4 days in a good room. Please keep providing readers with a range of options, but any option in the 400-500 range is useless to the vast majority of readers. the most I have ever paid for a room was $200 Canadian - but that was back in 1983 when $200 Canadian was a lot of money!

KC Summers: Thanks -- I'm with you. I love nice hotels, but can usually think of lots better ways to spend my limited funds.

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Strasbourg-bound: On my way to Strasbourg next week for some genealogy research and fun - some wine trails, some good eats. Any last-minute advice?

Gary Lee: If eats and the fruit of the grape are your favor, you're headed for some big fun. If you don't already have one, pick up the Route des Vins map from the tourism office there and follow it!

Also, check out the Musee de l' Oeuvre, a great entre into the history of the region.

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Washington, DC: Jason,

I'm interested in the attention that voluntourism has gotten recently. It has been going on for so long, especially to other parts of the world (most of the new focus has been on domestic applications, like in Louisiana).

Can you share with us some good and bad examples of voluntourism? On one level, it can create lasting relationships and real tangible benefits (through manual labor, for example). But if you bring in unskilled tourists who need much supervision, or if the receiving community is promised something that visitors cannot deliver, this can create sticky situations (possibly leaving the area worse off).

Would love to hear of some examples on both sides of the spectrum.

Jason Willett: It's true. Voluntourism/tarism is a new name for something that has been going on for many years. It is very exciting to see all the renewed attention, tho, and I think that has a lot to do with 9/11, the tsunamis, the hurricanes...global response has been incredible, and we've certainly seen an terrific increase in # of volunteers.

But your points are important. In the immediate aftermath of disasters, for instance, untrained volunteers - and especially those not familiar with the local culture/customs/language or geography - can be more of a help than a hindrance.

However, with planning and advance training - as a Disaster Response Volunteer with the American Red Cross, for instance - someone who wants to respond and help out is prepared to do so ahead of time, which is a terrific help in times of crisis.

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For Budapest to Bucharest:: You might have better luck booking on an airlines' website, either Tarom or Malev. And even if you have to make a stop, they are generally brief. Another option is to take the overnight train between the two cities. Not terribly luxurious, but safe and clean and good if you're trying to save money. The trip is about 11 hours - leaves around 7pm and gets in at 7am.

Gary Lee: Okay, thanks.

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Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: On volunteer vacations: I would suggest not to forget about other places here in the US to help besides New Orleans. earlier this year, a group of friends and I travelled to Florida and worked with the Interfaith/Interagency Network of Charlotte County (IINCC) to do house repairs for victims of Hurricane Charley. IINCC is a very organized group and was able to set us up in modest lodgings (new trailers behind a local church) and get us projects that were appropriate for our skill level.

Jason Willett: Absolutely! There is need throughout the US and the world all the time. Try a ZIP code search for anywhere in the US on VolunteerMatch and you will find no shortage of ways to help out - and places to visit!

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Re: Re-confirming: I haven't had a problem recently, but I still think it's a good idea to reconfirm. I was traveling Lufthansa for a wedding in Poland in 2001, and we called to reconfirm. They informed us that Lufthansa had their first-ever strike, for that one day we were traveling. Lufthansa! We were surprised and had to scramble to change our flight to the following day. They claimed that they did not have our contact info since we signed up on the web and their customer service did not have access to web information.

While that has surely changed, it's still good practice to call to reconfirm.

Fortunately, since we called with 24 hours notice we were able to change to fly into Warsaw, where we were trying to go anyway, and not Berlin. So we actually saved some money and travel time by Lufthansa's strike.

Steve Hendrix: Well, no doubt you can find out key information if you have a policy of calling to check on your flights a day or so in advance. But you're not saying that Lufthansa had a policy in 2001 of REQUIRING flyers to reconfirm, are you? I'd be surprised to hear that.

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San Francisco, Calif: I'd like to teach my children the importance of volunteering, and incorporate volunteerism in our family vacations. Can I find children-appropriate opportunities on VolunteerMatch, something that will suit the whole family and that we can all be involved in equally?

Jason Willett: Yes! You can search for "Kid," "Teen" or "Group/Family" friendly opps on VolunteerMatch any time.

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Arlington, Va: For Jason Willet: Where can I go to find out about volunteer vacations, most especially for those on a tight budget? I have very little to spend, but would enjoy a volunteer vacation, particularly one that allows me to take in the local scenery and culture. International is a plus.

Jason Willett: Check out the International category on VolunteerMatch, as well as Universal Giving and Idealist.

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Chicago, Ill.: I really want to take a 2- or 3-month sabbatical and volunteer somewhere in South America or Central America. To take this time off, I am trying to save money to pay for expenses and not working... But the truth is, I haven't the foggiest idea what sort of prep work I need to be doing. I speak basic Spanish and have degrees in English and journalism.

Does everyone who wants to volunteer overseas get picked?

For the moment, I am alone in this mission. Is there someway to connect with others who want to do this, but not until say, next summer?

Any books you recommend?

Jason Willett: Good for you. That would be a terrific expeience.

We're short on time, but, again, check out the International category on VolunteerMatch, as well as our Virtual section. The fact that you already have advnanced degress/skills to draw on and speak basic Spanish makes you a valuable volunteer resource.

It depends upon which organization you wish to get involved with, but in our experience, nonprofits/NGOs are not in the habit of turning away skilled, enthusiastic volunteers that just want to help out. Also check out Ideaslist.org and UniversalGiving.org.

Sorry, out of time but feel free to email me at jwillett@volunteermatch.org for more info, too!

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Cindy Loose: Thanks to all who joined us today. If the person with the Budapest to Bucharest advice would like to email loosec@washpost.com, we'll send you the California trippin CD.

Until next week........

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