Talk About Travel

Holiday gifts, Isla Mujeres, Maryland B&B's, Belize 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 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: Holiday vacation time is upon us, and if you haven't already planned the nitty gritty, maybe we can help. As always, we also want your help, in fact now more than ever since are staff is hither and yon. uneed your Also, since some of our staff is hither and yon today we'll need you more than ever.

With us in house: your host Cindy Loose, and editors and writers Gary Lee, John Deiner, Andrea Sachs and Carol Sottili.

In addition to any questions you mihgt have we'd also like to hear from you about what travel gifts you'd like for Christmas, Channakah, Kwansa or whatever you might celebrate with gifts.

At the end of the chat I'll designate one respondent to receive a 2007 desk calendar, each day showing a different splendid island somewhere in the world.

Let's chat......

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Leaving from Dulles: I need to drop off family on Dec 24 for an international flight (Canada). The flight leaves at 8:30 am....I am wondering do we have to get there at 5:30 as they say for internation flights. And how crowded do you think it will actually be in the morning non Christmas eve?

John Deiner: Hey there. I say 5:30 a.m. on Christmas Eve for a flight to Canada that leaves at 8:30 is crazy early. I'd probably aim for 6:30 or so, and that may even be too early. I'm guessing (a guess, now) that there will be next to no line at security at that early hour. Christmas is a much more staggered time for travel than Thanksgiving, so a lot of folks will already be where they want to go by the time you make it to the airport. And remember: No wrapped gifts!

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BWI Bound: I have to go to BWI from Chevy Chase DC on Thursday morning -obscenely- early. Flight is at 7am, so I guess I need to get there at 5:30/6am. (ouch)

How bad is the Beltway/I-95 traffic going to be? I have no concept of whether that's "rush hour" or not -- I'm usually not even awake that early.

Advice from the masses? Much obliged.

John Deiner: Wow. That is early! My experience is that it's not bad at all at that time of day..you'll be clear of the Beltway well before rush. Anyone else out there want to chime in?

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Adams-Morgan, Washington, DC: Have any of you been to Isla Mujeres off of Cancun? I will be spending a few days there for a wedding and would apreciate any advice on things to do and possible day trips. Looking for more relaxing and less touristy ideas.

Thanks!

Cindy Loose: I have been to Isla Mujeres and remember it fondly, although it's been so long ago I'm hoping readers can give more specifics. You can pretty much see everything on the island in a couple days---I recall a nice park for snorkeling in shallow waters and a great restaurant sitting high atop a hill. For day tripping; the thing you're closest to is Cancun, a ferry ride away. I can't remember where you end up if you take the ferry and turn away from Cancun.

Can anyone help with details?

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Tysons Corner, Va: My wife, her mom, and I are planning on visiting Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, next summer to visit relatives stationed there. It's our first trip to anywhere in the Eastern hemisphere.

Can you give me some ideas as to how to get a good deal on the flights? I've heard that it's better to use a travel agent vs. the internet for international flights.

Also, how much time should we plan to stay there? Anything we should be aware of, travel and safety-wise, since we'd stick out as obvious Americans? Should we plan on traveling to Singapore or some of the Western-friendly resorts in Malaysia?

Thanks!

Gary Lee: For flights, I think you should tap an agent and do some looking around on the Internet and do a comparison. Air Malaysia often has good deals. Since it's quite a hike to get to KL, it would be good if you can do a few side trips. The city of Malaka, which is a two hour bus ride from KL, would be a good day or overnight trip. I also recommend a trip to Singapore, pretty easy to reach by bus or train from KL. Finally, the city of Panang, on the coast is wonderfully exotic and a good example of "overseas Chinese" culture.

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Bowie, Md: hi crew....asking early in case I can't make the live chat today...Trying to pool your experiences, when is driving to another city (in this case, Newark) worthwhile to snag a great airfare? This is for a trip to the Dom Rep and its priced $225 less per person compared to DC area or even Phila. For three people, we're talking $675 savings....but just the thought of schlepping up to Newark is miserable...your thoughts?

Cindy Loose: For me it would depend on when---If I had to be on the road to Newark during rush hours I'd be a lot more reluctant than if I could drive mid day. Another thought--driving there might not seem like such a big deal as you anticipate your trip, but could be a real bummer coming home.

Map it at www.mapquest.com and also consider how much it's going to cost you to park there however long you're gone. Also, have you checked out packages to Dom Rep? That's a common way to go and you might find the price difference isn't so bad with a package.

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Columbia Md: My holiday gift wish:

A stronger US dollar. Heck, the dollar has fallen lower than Michael Richards' reputation!

Cindy Loose: I want what you want----a trip to Canada this year was a big reminder of what a difference a strong dollar makes--Canada used to be an incredible bargain. And Europe, forgetaboutit.

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Washington, DC: In June, my husband and I made reservations to fly to Hawaii on US Airways/America West on January 15, 2007. The route was DCA to Phoenix to Kona. It was confirmed, paid for and we had seat assignments.

Last week I checked in at www.usairways.com and clicked on My Trip. There I found we had been rerouted to make an additional stop in San Francisco on the way out! DCA-Phoenix-San Francisco-Kona. Is this legal? How can the airline do this, and without notifying us?

After much discussion, US Airways put us back on the original schedule, although the flight numbers are different. The original flights were operated by America West and the new ones by US Airways, so maybe this is a glitch in the merger?

Carol Sottili: Here is what US Airways' contract of carriage states:

US Airways will reroute (transport to the same destination via a different routing) a customer at the

customer's request and upon presentation of the ticket held by the customer, or upon verification of

electronic purchase. Additional charges may apply.

It doesn't state anything about notifying you regarding rerouting, and there are no federal laws about this. I believe, however, that the practice is to notify you of changes in scheduling. Just goes to show that it's a good idea to check itineraries on a regular basis.

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Northern Virginia: Boy, was your travel gift guide timely! I was racking my brain for a gift for a friend of mine and when I saw those crazy, colorful luggage tags, I knew she'd love them. (She's the only person I know who travels more than I do.) I liked them so much that I got a set for myself too! There are some other items I liked and plan to put on my wish list for Santa. So thanks for all that.

Now, can you help me with accomodations in New York City in early March? I'm looking at the 5 AppleCore properties (we've stayed in the LaQuinta which was perfect for our needs), and see a rate around $165 p.n. for each. Do you have any other recommendations for similar lodgings in midtown Manhatten that would cost any less at that time of year? Thank you.

John Deiner: Hey, NoVa. Thanks for the kind words on the gift guide.

As far as NYC hotels go, that's a pretty good rate you're looking at, and remember that March 1 is when rates start to climb in the Big Apple (you can get some great deals in February around town). We did a big feature on NYC hotels last spring; we'll rustle you up a link to the hotels we could recommend that we found for under $200 a night. Also, remember that you can always stay across the river in New Jersey if you really want to save a buck. There are some nice hotels near the river in Jersey City that cost far less than the NYC options, and they're near either water taxis or trains into the city.

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washingtonpost.com: We'll Take Manhattan -- For Less Than $200 a Night

John Deiner: And here's that link.

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Single on the slopes: Are Banff and Mt Tremblant good spots for single skiers? I'm not looking for snow bunnies, just an enjoyable and laid-back place to ski in January or February. I'm thinking about Canada, because the cold doesn't bother me and I'd like the chance to practice my French.

Thanks!

Carol Sottili: I think Tremblant would be more singles friendly than Banff. Good party scene going on there, but it does get wicked cold. I'll send along link to story I wrote last year about skiing there.

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Waynesboro, Va: Howdy all,

You might be familiar with this story since you had mentioned it in the Sunday Post a few weeks ago, but...I was on the Icelandair flight of June 6 out of BWI. I was traveling with my family to Europe and the pilot aborted takeoff as we were heading down the runway. Very scary. Without going into all the gory details, we were put up for the night in a hotel and then tried to take off the next night from BWI. Same plane and same problem. Then we were taken back to the terminal. Icelandair "bumped" that evenings flights passengers (your recent article highlighted the bumped passengers of that flight getting comped tickets) and we were put on that flight. This was over 24 hours after our flight was scheduled. I have emailed, called and overnighted a letter to their customer service center. Two questions for you all...What is a reasonable amount of time for me to expect a response from an airline customer service center (or is that a joke)? And, am I entitled to some sort of compensation for lost time/miserable experience?

Thanks, Ken

Cindy Loose: The people who were bumped so you could get on board are entitled to compensation, but you, who were unable to fly at the scheduled time, are not legally owed anything, and thus you'll not likely get anything. In fact, they didn't even have to put you up for the night, so you technically already got more than they owed you legally.

Sounds wierd but it makes sense: the U.S. government wants to discourage airlines from overbooking flights, so they build in penalties for bumping so that airlines don't willy nilly overbook.

On the other hand, the government doesn't want to impose penalties on airlines that don't fly for reasons of mechanics or weather cause they don't want to do anything that could encourage airlines to do something unsafe to avoid financial setbacks.

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Arlington, Va: Any of you ever been to Surinam or either of the Guyana's? Is there anything much to do there?

Gary Lee: Suriname, 90 percent tropical rainforest, is an EXCELLENT destination for a rainforest excursion. Parimaribo, the capital, is a funky town, too, but the nature, wild and rustic is what makes this -- or any of the Guyanas worth the trip.

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When is driving worth it: When it's a LOT of money - $625 minus tolls and higher parking fees doesn't fit the bill.

When you've got someplace to crash there on the way back, if you need to in an emergency.

When you've got much more time than you do money.

Cindy Loose: Great reply----and whether you have more time than money I'd say is the best insight of all.

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Washington D.C. (when not in the air!):

Hi! I've noticed over the past year or more that one of you frequently recommends Ambien as a way to sleep on long, overnight flights.

Well, I hope that anyone taking Ambien while onboard is not sitting in an exit row as you will be unable to assist the crew or your fellow passengers in the event of an emergency. I also hope that Ambien-takers do not have the side effects -- waking up in the middle of sleep, sleep-walking and doing strange or dangerous things while sleep-walking!

Please leave the prescribing or recommending of medications to licensed health care professionals, and make sure that if you take sleep-aids, that they do not cause any side effects while on the ground, before using them airborne.

Thanks for your consideration of your fellow passengers.

Carol Sottili: We like our Ambien, but we never have recommended buying it on the black market. Of course you need a doctor's prescription!

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Central Cal: And for Christmas... those nylon Columbia pants with the zipoff pantlegs in any earth tone. Double duty and can be washed and dried easily. Or those noise cancelling headphones. Do they really work?

Cindy Loose: We've tested out the noise cancelling headphones and they really do work. Useful not just on airlines, but during family squabbles.

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Washington, D.C.: You don't have to guess at security wait times, because you can find average and maximum wait times at any airport at any given day/time on the TSA website... http://waittime.tsa.dhs.gov/index.html

John Deiner: Thanks DC ... good stuff.

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Washington, DC: I'd like as a gift some sort travel checklist software. I found some "templates" on the web but was not able to make adjustments to suit my needs, types of travel, add on a "Need to buy" section. Good for laptop, phone, pda. Cheers!

Cindy Loose: I'd like to get your name in the office grab bag cause you'd be a cheap giftee---someone should be able to hand create one of those for you.

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Washington, D.C.: For the person considering flying out of Newark, you could theoretically take Amtrak there. I know the Regional (DC-NYC) has a Newark Airport stop. It would at least cut out the traffic part of the equation...

Cindy Loose: Yeh, except I think Amtrak would eat up most of the savings, but I could be wrong---as you note it's worth a check.

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Rosslyn, Va: Does anyone have any feedback on the cell phone waiting area at Dulles? I dropped off my fiance on Sunday and am supposed to pick him up next Sunday and we agreed that I would wait at the cell phone waiting area until he called. On my way out of Dulles, I checked out the signs to the cell phone waiting area which were obvious for a while but then just disappeared. It just didn't seem very user friendly. I checked out the website which has a map so that might help but I'm just wondering if anyone has tried it and has some advice on how to get there. Also, is it easy to get back to the Arrival terminal from there? Thank you!

John Deiner: Hey, Rosslyn. None of us has tried it out yet. Anyone out there have a report on the Dulles cell phone waiting area?

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Paris France: We will be in Paris for the first time in January. Any suggestions for evening activities besides long dinners? Is Moulin Rouge worth the cost? We are mid30's and not big drinkers/club people. Thanks

Gary Lee:

If you are even only slightly inclined towards opera, try to snag a couple of tickets to the Paris Opera. If you spak French there is a lovely small neighborhood caberet in Montmartre. For my taste, the Moulin Rouge is a bit over rated. But if you like spectacular shows, go for it. Otherwise, if you don't speak French, there are always lots of dance performances on; check Pariscope, one of the best guides to what's going on, once you arrive. But the opera would be my first choice. It is spectacular; lots of folks build their Paris trips around that. Otherwise, there are evening cruises on the Seine, some with dinner, some without. They often run in winter and are comfortably heated and covered.

Anyone else have Paris evening tips?

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Kamuela, Hawaii: A friend and I wonder what the procedure is for getting bags from one flight to another at, say, LAX. I have arrived there with plenty of time to get the next flight out to San Francisco, and the airline staff tell me I have to wait for my ticketed flight because my bag will be on it. Why can't they extract my bag from the pile for the subsequent flight and put it on the earlier flight? And what should they do if I missed the ticketed flight? - which happended to me once. Believe me, they did not take my unaccompanied bag off the flight.

Carol Sottili: I believe most airlines state in their contract of carriage something along the lines of this from US Airways:

"US Airways may refuse to transport baggage on any flight other than the one carrying the customer." Some airlines, such as Air Canada, go one step beyond that: "Positive bag matching is the requirement that passengers fly on the same flight as their checked baggage. If a passenger checks a bag but does not board the aircraft at departure time, his or her checked bag must be removed from the flight, a process that may result in delays."

If you think you may be able to catch an earlier flight, not a bad idea to go the carry-on route.

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Washington DC: I'm new to the area, so I apologize for the obvious questions.

I'd love some help crafting a plan for a 6pm flight from Dulles to Zurich on December 19. I assume this will be a heavy travel day, and I've heard awful things about security lines there. Will 2.5 hours before the flight be enough?

And the actual trip to Dulles: there are two of us, so I'm thinking a taxi will be the same price as the shuttle. Right? Will traffic to the airport be nightmarish in the afternoon of the 19th? Should I build in more time?

Thanks so much!

Cindy Loose: The usual rule of thumb for international flights is closer to three hours in advance, but it varies by airline, so I'd suggest you go to your airline's website and see what they suggest.

And yes, I find that you can usually get a taxi for the price of a shuttle for two.

Traffic--I'd say mapquest your journey (www.mapquest.com), see how long they say it will take and then add 15 or 20 minutes. Sometimes I get held up getting to the Dulles toll road, esp. during rush hour, but once on the toll road I've never experienced a huge backup.

In general though, over the holidays I say better bored wandering around the airport awaiting a flight than taking a chance on missing it.

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washingtonpost.com: Warming Up To Quebec's Tremblant, (Dec. 4, 2005)

Carol Sottili: Here's the Tremblant story.

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Philadelphia, Pa: I would suggest that Bowie look into staying overnight in the general Newark area after returning from the Dom Rep - three people for one night in a hotel can be done for much less than $675. Two nights, even, if you drive up one day, rest a bit in a hotel overnight, then fly out the next day. Of course without knowing how long they'll be in Dom Rep and what time of year they're going, but with that much of a price difference I wouldn't rule out Newark just because of the drive. If the difference was only $100-200, I probably wouldn't do it (the gas and parking would probably negate any benefit from the price), but when you're looking at close to $700 it definitely makes sense to see what other options you have. For that amount, it's possible you could even hire a driver to drive you so you could sleep the whole way.

Cindy Loose: And I'd be surprised if they couldn't find a good package deal out of D.C. airports. Check Apples vacations or any of the travel sites, or a travel agent.

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Stuttgart, Del: A few weeks ago, a couple asked for suggestions for quick trips from London via RyanAir and other discount airlines: Footprint Guides has published "European City Breaks", which covers weekend trips to 40 different European cities. The book also has a comprehensive section on travel options. It is a great starting point for planning short trips to some of the better-known destinations in Europe. Love your chat, BTW, although I usually end up reading the transcripts!

John Deiner: Hey, Stuttgart. Thanks much for the suggestion: It's never too late to offer up advice here.

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Washington, DC:: Thanks for taking my question!

I was wondering about booking a trip to Paris and London over spring break (mid March), and I have found good rates on travel sites for a single destination, but didn't see an option for multiple destinations...is there a site that allows this?

Carol Sottili: All of the major sites, and most airline sites, allow this type of search. Look for the multi destination button. You may have to go to the advanced search option first.

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Annandale, Va: Hi there,

Hoping you can help. I am looking for a B&B in Easton, MD for New Years Eve maybe including the Saturday as well. A group of us are considering going to a really nice restaurant in Easton, but would love to be able to walk if possible. The restaurant is in the square area. Anything nearby? If we do have to drive, do you have other suggestions for Easton or nearby towns?

Andrea Sachs: What a great spot to bring in the New Year. Maybe one of the locals, like Cheney or Rumsfeld, will be around for a midnight toast--or kiss. The Chesapeake town of Easton has loads of B&Bs, such as the Bishop House, whose rooms have working fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, and Easton's Promise, which has a New Year's special for $225 a night (includes Talbot First Night and a three-course breakfast with champagne). Our very own Gary also recommends the Inn at Easton for its delightful rooms and wonderful dinners. Additionally, the Inn at 202 Dover was recently restored and is grabbing good reviews. You can also check out properties in nearby St. Michaels, Tilghman Island and sleepy Oxford; all have quaint inns, plus seafood restaurants, art galleries, maritime sightseeing, etc. See www.tourtalbot.org for info.

Many of the properties require two-night minimum stays for the weekend and/or holiday; others might even require three. So plan accordingly. For Easton info: 410-770-8000, www.eastonmd.org.

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Adventures in Belize: Have you guys ever been to Belize? My husband and I just booked airfare and are trying to plan where we want to stay and what we want to do. We're considering splitting our time between the jungle and the islands. Any input would be great!

Gary Lee: It's been a few years since I was there, but in my last trip to Belize I divided time between an inland resort and a caye. I think that that's an excellent way to go; you get the historic sweep, including archealogy inland and the water sports on the seas. My first days were spent in San Ignacio at Cha Creek Lodge. The second part was on Ambergis Quay. That worked perfectly for me but there are lots of other ways to break it down.

Anyone else have thoughts about Belize?

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L'Enfant Plaza, Washington, DC: My wife and I are off to Michigan for the Christmas holiday. Can you give any tips for fun/interesting things to do in the Detroit/Ann Arbor area? We aren't skiers so snow activities are out. Thanks!!!!

Cindy Loose: If you like historic stuff Deerfield Village should be looking particularly snazzy for the holidays. I'd also consider the Detroit art museum. Ann Arbor is a nice town for wandering around. I'd definately go get some Lebanese food in Dearborn--not much there besides restaurants, but they're great. And of course some Greek food in Detroit's Greektown. If you take the People Mover (elevated train) and at a stop see a bronze man reading a newspaper check out the bylines on the front page of the bronze newspaper he's holding---the lead story is by Cindy Loose.

I worked and lived there a number of years but have to admit that winter time isn't the best time to visit. The wind off the river is cold. Oh, and that reminds me of one more thing---go across the river to Windsor, Canada for a look around. We used to go there to shop, although with the dollar tanking it's not as big a bargain as it used to be.

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Washington, D.C.: Hello, Flight Crew! Thank you for all of your amazing advice.

It looks like I'll be going to The Netherlands in February. I'm finding flights a bit under $600. Is this a good fare to jump on or should I wait a bit longer?

Also, although it's a low season, what can I expect to find in February?

Thanks!

Carol Sottili: Try Scandinavian Airlines. It just started a "Christmas Calendar" sale - every day it will feature a different sale fare to a different European city. First up is $175 each way from Washington to Oslo. Fare is good Jan. 15-March 22. Go to www.scandinavian.net.

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Leaving on Christmas Eve again: Is there any list of when ticket counters open or would I be able to just call and airline's 800 number and find out when they open at a particular airport?

Andrea Sachs: To our knowledge, we don't think there is a comprehensive list of ticket counter opening times. But that'd be a great idea! Many counters might set their hours to their flight schedule, so they may be closed when they don't have any early morning flights. Best to check with the airline for your certain departure date.

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Wilmington NC : Now that we've moved from D.C. to Willmington, it's a lot harder to find reasonable airfares! We're planning a trip to Peru, and I've been looking at Kayak, SideStep, etc. Many of the less expensive flights that come up are through Airfare.com and onetravel.com. Does anyone have any experience with these companies? I've always booked directly with the airlines and am a little nervous about doing it this way.

Gary Lee: Peru is a great destination but it's costly to get to, as I am sure you're finding out. Any break in airfare you can get would be worth it. Both Airfare.com and onetravel.com are reputable companies. I have had more experience with onetravel and have never been disappointed by them.

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Paris evenings: I lived there for a year, so here goes:

Walks along the Seine - everything is lit up beautifully and looks very different from along the quayside than it does from the streets up top.

The view from Montmartre during a January evening should be spectacular.

Hit the crepe makers near the carousel opposite the Eiffel Tour.

You can go to cafes anywhere and have dessert or coffee - the best and least expensive way to enjoy the Deux Magots and other touristy cafes is to go late for a bite of lemon tart.

Gary Lee: Thanks for these tips. As I longtime Paris homeowner, I can relate to, and endorse them all.

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Washington, D.C.: Can you recommend a website that tracks the on-time history of a particular flight? Ideally with more detail than just saying that it was on time 80% of the time. Also, at what percent on-time record should I start rethinking a particular flight?

Carol Sottili: Try www.flightstats.com. As for percentages, that's a tough call. For some airports, such as New York's LaGuardia, just about every flight seems to be late.

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Paris, er, Ellicott City: Two Paris evening suggestions:

--take the Batobus (non-tourist boat) on the Seine. During summer months it runs into the evenings. http://www.batobus.com

--the Louvre is open until 9.45pm on Wednesdays and Fridays. http://www.louvre.fr

Gary Lee: Thanks for the suggestion. The Louvre at night is a particuarly good idea, probably less crowded than during the day.

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Washington, DC: HELP! I have been "volunteered" to book our extended-family cruise for this winter and I am the last person who should be in charge (I really have no desire to lounge by the pool for 5-7 days). That said, I really could use some help-any helpful ideas as to where I should start looking, any good resources? We will be a group of 8-10 ranging in age from 3-68 years old.

John Deiner: Hey, DC. I'd start off by browsing our very own archives; take a look at our home page and scroll down to Travel Archive. There's several years' worth of cruise stories on it.

I'd also check out a general cruise info Web site like CruiseCritic.com, which is full of great, updated information on cruise ships and which one is right for you and your gathering. If you're really confused by all those choices (and there are lots of 'em), contact a travel agent who can talk you through it and help book. A lot of cruising is dictated by your budget, so the agent can tell you what sort of lines you can consider and what sort you can't.

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Wynnewood, Pa: My wife and I just booked a tour of Costa Rica in early February. Unfortunately, I booked a flight that arrives in San Jose one day early. A friend told me that San Jose is a fairly dangerous place: she had been there for one day and witnessed two robberies! Is that your experience too? Do you have any recommendations for guided tours or other activities for that one day in San Jose? Or do you recommend that I bite the bullet and change my flight?

Cindy Loose: There is a crime problem in San Jose---the Department of State (www.travel.state.gov, click on consular reports) says that the embassy has its visitors stay at large hotels outside the city rather than downtown.

However, rather than incur the penalty for changing I'd consider using the extra day to just chill out and relax. Does reading by a hotel swimming pool appeal to you as much as to me, all the while knowing you don't have to worry about missing your connections the next day?

Besides, you could with a reasonable assurance of safety stay outside of the city but arrange a daytime excursion into the city. A reputable tour agency can probably arrange something interesting, and then get out of town before dark if you're feeling worried--and of course don't go into town with valuables hanging off your limbs.

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Paris, er, Ellicott City: Zut alors...they said Paris in January, so the Batobus is out

Gary Lee: Still, it's a nice thought for summertime travelers.

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Cell phone lot at Dulles: The lot worked fine when I used it last month. There were plenty of spaces. However, it is much easier to find, with more signs, on your way IN to the airport than on your way out. I believe it's one of the first airport exits off the toll road, near the rental car return. It certainly beats circling.

John Deiner: Ah. Great stuff. So basically, if you miss it on the way in, you may be outta luck. And I have to agree: The concept is great.

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Arlington, Va: A friend of mine was a sports official at the Outgames a large multi-sports event held in Montreal back in August. As part of his "pay" for working as an official the organizers provided free hotel stays. At check-in he had to provide a credit card to cover incidentals. It turned out that the organizers of the event went bankrupt and apparently failed to pay the hotel for the rooms. So the hotel turned around (reportedly at the instructions of the organizers) and charged all of the on-file credit cards for the rooms. I have seen reports that this happened to others as well. He plans to contest the charges with his credit card company, $1200. I doubt the hotel will be able to collect since he didn't agree to pay these charges, but he doesn't remember for sure what the documents he signed at check-in said. Do you think he's going to end up on the hook for this? Is there anyone else he should contact besides the credit card issuer?

Cindy Loose: The credit card company is the obvious place to start, but just in case maybe he should try to get on the creditor's list for this bankrupt firm. Sure hope he doesn't end up holding the bag.

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Cell phone waiting area: I used the cell phone waiting area at IAD twice in November. It's a pain in the tail to find; they put these huge signs on the loop in front of the terminal, but then there's absolutely nothing. No, wait, there is some small print on a sign at the point when you think you're already committed to leave the airport. I spent 30 minutes trying to find it the first time. Here's the deal:

Approaching the airport, you will see a single sign for the cell phone waiting area. Follow that sign (exit to the right), which will put you on Aviation Drive. Turn right on Autopilot Dr. and the cell phone waiting area should be up ahead maybe 1/2 mile. Look for a big vacant lot with fencing around it. The signs are attached to the fence, which means they are hard to see from the road.

After you've done it once, it's no big deal, but it's a hassle the first time, especially at night.

John Deiner: Okay, another plea from a Clickster for more signage. But thanks for the directions (there's an Autopilot Drive?!). It's odd -- or is it? -- that the airport would ask us to use the lot and then not follow through with myriad, well-lighted signs to get us there.

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Deep Valley, USA: Dulles cell phone waiting area:

It's near the orange lot, I think - that odd corner of the airport.

No trouble getting back to the airport once I got the call.

John Deiner: Thanks, Deep.

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Dulles, Va: Hey Crew, thank you for answering my question. I have a one day layover in Hong Kong on Dec. 30th-31st. Where would be a good location within HK to stay so that I can be within walking distance of most places? I'm not into sightseeing but I want to suck in the atmosphere of HK. Are there any must see while I'm there?

Gary Lee: Here are two thoughts on lodging: 1) The Holiday Inn in Kowloon and 2) the YMCA. The latter might sound a bit cheesy but it's actually quite nice and affordable in a town that can be pricey.

As for things to do, if you like dim sum, check out the restaurant on the second floor of city hall. I would also not miss the Jade Museum.

Fellow fans of Hong Kong: any other must see spots?

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Cell Phone waiting Area: It is really poorly marked but if you have ever parked in the long term parking it is off that exit and pasted the gas station. However, if you all could pass it on to the people at Dullas they really need to mark it better since people can't find it and just camp out on the side of the main road into the airport.

John Deiner: Yo, people at Dulles: MARK THE CELLPHONE LOT BETTER!

I hope that helps. They've been known to read this chat.

Thanks!

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Deale, Md: My parents were caught between a rock and a hard place last Friday. They were flying Southwest from St. Louis to Islip but the plane was diverted to BWI because Islip was fogged in. They and literally hundreds of other passengers were milling around BWI trying to get to NYC. All the northbound Amtrak trains were full by mid-afternoon and airport hotels were full not long thereafter. It was purely fortuitous that I live in Deale (40 miles from BWI) so I was able to go get them and they stayed with me overnight. Had they been diverted elsewhere -- I'm told some planes went to North Carolina -- they would have been out of luck.

My parents were never told Islip was fogged in before they boarded the plane. Some of those on other flights were told it was fogged in, but the fog was expected to clear. They were left with the difficult decision of either not flying, and losing their airfare, or flying and then having to spend big bucks on Amtrak ($100), or renting a car or staying overnight in a hotel.

From what I can tell, it was known early on that this was unlikiely to happen. In fact the airport remained closed until Sat. afternoon.

Is this one of those unfortunate situations the traveling public just has to learn to live with? If not, what would you recommend in this situation? My parents felt lucky to get out of St. Louis, but not so lucky after the fact.

Thanks!

Carol Sottili: Southwest doesn't do much for you when weather causes problems. Rules state only that they will put you on the next available flight. They don't pay for hotels, Amtrak or bus transport. And there are no laws covering this.

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Washington DC: Paris in the evenings:

The big ferris wheel in the Tuileries is open later than the Eiffel Tower, for a panoramic view of the city at night. It closes when the wind kicks up, of course. (In January, though, bundle up well!)

Go to a 6pm mass at Notre Dame (even if you're not Catholic), then wander the candlelit exhibits, then have dinner a little later than usual.

Street performers in front of Notre Dame are often great. As a plus, you can watch them get chased off by the cops, then wait to see how long til they reassemble! (Usually less than 10 minutes.)

The Winter Circus (Cirque d'Hiver) is great for people under 10 and over 25. Anyone between 10 and 25 would find it cheesy.

And yes, opera if you can get it. Most evening shows sell out months in advance, though, as do the ballet performances.

If you have an evening with no plans, just expect to snuggle down in your coat under an outdoor heater at a sidewalk cafe. Sip coffee and cognac, watch the world go by.

Enjoy!

Gary Lee: Merci pour ca. I love these ideas.

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Alexandria, Va: Please help if you can. What are the rules for disabled people on planes? My Dad was confined to a wheelchair and the times he flew he was always on the bulkhead with only family on the inside row. However over the Thanksgiving holidays my Mother and I traveled and we were stuck inside of a disabled woman. The bulkhead had able bodied passengers. Her cane was blocking the row and she couldn't move so my mother could go to the restroom and she couldn't sit up straight so she leaned on my Mom. Thank goodness my Mom is a small person and she could lean on me. I know disabled people need to fly but, as strangers, we shouldn't have had to put ourselves at risk because of it. She and particularly her cane were a hazard. What is the airline policy? Is it a federally mandated policy? Or airline to airline? I believe especially in this case as the plane was an S-80, disabled people should be on the two seat side at least. Or the crew should be required to ask if unrelated passengers would like to move. We shouldn't have to wait until we are loading to find out we are in a row with a disabled person. In our case the crew knew she was disabled. She was put on and off the plane by wheelchair.

Thank you for listening

Cindy Loose: I don't believe there is either a set federal policy or particular airline policies, aside from the fact that only people able to help in an emergency may sit by emergency doors. Since a cane can be moved I doubt it's considered a true hazard. All but the largest planes don't even have bulkhead seats these days.

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More on the cell phone lot at Dulles: Forgot to mention that the cell phone waiting area is about 1.8 miles from the terminal -- not exactly close.

John Deiner: Almost two miles? Wow. Maybe we should compare the cellphone lots at Dulles and BWI and report back in a later issue.

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Bel Air, Md: My holiday travel plans involve flying out of BWI on Saturday 12/23. The flight is at 6:15am. I am planning to park in long-term parking, will there still be spots available for me? Where can I check in the days prior to see if the lots are full so I can make alternate arrangements.

As to holiday travel gifts, my brother, sister-in-law and nephew are in Nepal for my brother's job right now. My brother was also recently in Dubai. For Christmas they sent me a black pearl necklace and earring set from Dubai, a handmade pashmina from Nepal and a lovely, handmade purse. I hit the jackpot!

Carol Sottili: There's a good chance the airline's economy lots will be filled, but there are plenty of private lots around. Go to www.bwiairport.com for up-to-date info.

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Dallas, Tex: Isla Mujeres is way cool! There is snorkeling and great beaches and a very small ruin on the south side of the island. For day trips, you can take the passenger ferry (I think it is Puerto Juarez) and a taxi to Cancun. There is also a car ferry that you can take and then drive down to the ruins at Tulum (south of Cancun). If you are there more than a few days, you will end up knowing everyone on the island. Don't miss the pizza at Pizza Rolandi!

Cindy Loose: Thanks. Love the ruins at Tulum---you're talking probably a couple hours to get over on a ferry, drive past Cancun and then on to Tulum I'd think.

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For Wilmington NC: Instead of looking for flights out of Wilmington, NC, try looking from Raleigh-Durham (RDU). It's only about a 2 hour drive between Raleigh and Wilmington, and the ticket prices are generally significantly less. I almost never look at flying out of Wilmington, unless someone else is paying for the ticket. It's just too expensive when there's a better alternative so close by.

Cindy Loose: Great advise. Thanks. If you want to islands calendar email me at loosec@washpost.com with your mailing address.

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Boston, Mass: All I want for Christmas is for those airline "taxes and fees" to go back to what they were before 9.11. I'd love to go back to France, but at close to $200 alone for "taxes and fees" it ain't happening. Christmas is about wishful thinking, right?

Cindy Loose: Yep.

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Rx for Ambien: Even if you get the Rx from your MD AND take no more than the recommended amount, you can still have weird side effects. Mine was sleepwalking, but fortunately I never left the house. Can't emphasize enough the need to check out side effects at home. Or, go the really low-tech, tried-and-true way... benadryl.

Carol Sottili: You don't want me taking benadryl - makes me all hyper. As for Ambien, always a good idea to make sure you don't have a bad reaction to any medication before you're stuck on an airplane. You don't want to be doing anything for first time when you're a captive audience.

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Washington, DC: Shipping Holiday Presents -- I found a solution to shipping

presents when you can't mail them to the address of where

you are going (in our case, rented beach house in Florida)

and you can't face lugging them on the plane unwrapped.

We are shipping a big box of gifts to the UPS store near our

destination. There is a $5 fee, and you have to send a copy

of your ID with the expected date of package arrival (can fax

from UPS store here when sending). We found the Florida

store location at the UPS website. We're so pleased to be

saved the hassle, thought I would share the idea.

Cindy Loose: Thanks much.

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Deep Valley, USA: Driving rather than flying is worth it IF the route has some virtue - say, there's a stop you want to make or the scenery is gorgeous.

OR if you have a lot of people and a big car. OR if the total trip time counting the airport security line is about the same as driving.

OR if you want to spend some extra time with a kid who's about to leave home forever to go to college. Nothing like the car to make a teenager talk.

Cindy Loose: As I recently heard from the backseat as the teens were talking about who was popular: "I don't understand why they're popular, because nobody likes them."

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Fairfax, Va: My sister has purchased a package for travel to London in Jan. She didn't get travel insurance, and now thinks that she needs it. She's getting a medical treatment a couple of days before she leaves, and while she's never had a bad reaction before, she's concerned that this might be the time. Any suggestions about travel insurance companies? Any suggestions about what she should be sure that the policy covers? Any suggestions on potential problems?

Carol Sottili: Try www.insuremytrip.com. You can compare all the details on different companies/policies. I like TravelGuard, but another company may work in this situation. Read the fine print before buying.

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Pittsburgh, Pa: A useful but not too-expensive gift I gave myself -- that would make a great holiday gift for a casual-dressing traveler -- is a windbreaker-cut jacket with zippered pockets on the outside, and top-access deep inside pockets as well. I ordered mine in blue denim with Velcro closures from the LL Bean catalog, and loved it so much I promptly bought a second one for myself as backup, lest I ever lose (or wear out) the first one! While nothing makes a tourist entirely pickpocket-proof, this certainly would slow 'em down, while making it less likely that important items might fall out on their own.

Cindy Loose: Sounds nice; thanks.

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Burr, Land: Hey, Flight Crew! I'm thinking about taking a trip in late January/early February. I'm torn between Iceland and Copehagen. I don't mind the cold, am fascinated by the thought of the Northern Lights, and lived in Germany for a few years, so Copenhagen seems like a grand "reminder" spot. Any preferences or recommendations? I'd be a solo, late 20s female traveler if that matters. Thanks!

Gary Lee: Both destinations are great but I would point you towards Copenhagen. There is a nice, festive mood there in the winter. Having lived in Germany also, I would say that you'd find the bohemian style oddly more remindful of Bavaria or other parts of southern Germany rather the the north. There is less to do in Rekyavik but there is good eating in the city and rustic sightseeing nearby.

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Needles in your carry-on: Hi Crew! I have a medication that requires me to give myself shots. The needles are separate from the medication itself. They screw onto the syringes. Can I bring these on a plane? I can't put them in my check-in luggage in case it gets lost. Or should I mail a bunch to my destination instead?

Carol Sottili: Go to this site for all the details:

www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/index.shtm

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Hyattsville, Md.: Will be in transit to London heathrow for overnight. Any suggestions of where to stay -- perhaps affordable hotel? Also, any recommendations for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia?

Thanks

Cindy Loose: There are a gazillion hotels near Heathrow; I'd search somewhere like orbitz or travelocity or expedia.com, or the heathrow website has a section on hotels.

We don't know Addis Abada (I did just read a surveyr showing that Ethiopia is a hot travel destination, very up and coming). Can anyone help?

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Please help!: I will be visiting Seattle in the next few weeks for the first time and would most appreciate any hotel recommendations. I'd like to stay down near Lake Union.

Cindy Loose: Seattle hotel help?

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S. Rockville, Md: I'm heading to an event at Hahvahd in February. Suggestions for places to stay, places to eat, things to do on a Saturday in and around Cambridge?

Andrea Sachs: All of the Brahmins stay at the Charles Hotel, which is in Harvard Square and has a great brunch. The Inn at Harvard is another Ivy-league smart choice, and the Kendall Hotel is a boutique property at MIT. For entertainment, I love the Brattle Theatre for avant-garde movies and events; the Harvard art museums (the Fogg, the Sackler, etc.); Hasty Pudding Theatrical for quirky theater; the Harvard Book Store and the Coop for literature and all of your Harvard logo needs; Algiers Cafe and Restaurant, for its bohemian culture and strong coffee; Border Cafe for a crazy-fun Mexican meal; the Middle East in Central Square for hipster-hot bands; a run around or boat ride in the Charles River; and John Harvard's Brew House for a final pint.

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Bethesda, Md: I don't expect you to address this online, but it is relevant to you and your listeners. Your column in today's paper (Last Minute Cruises) took a step in the right direction of telling your readers that when they see a cruise advertised in your column they can almost always get the same price from any reputable travel agent. I think you would be doing your readers a service by attributing the spcials to the cruise line, not a travel agency with a very visible web site or a broadcast email.

Thanks, David Epstein, All Ways Travel

Cindy Loose: Passing that along.......

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Travel Gift Idea: As a busy married couple, my husband and I would like to give each other the gift of a weekend away. Any suggestions for somewhere close by (either driveable or a short plane ride 1-2 hours) where we can relax, enjoy each other's company and eat some great food?

Thanks!

John Deiner: Hmmm. I'm afraid that question isn't broad enough. I'm thinking Philadephia myself, although there are a zillion other choices, from B&Bs on the Eastern Shore, to the Greenbrier, to NYC and Richmond and Boston. But for a two-hour (or so) drive or train trip north, in Philly you get a great city with tons of good eats, classic hotels and enough diversions to last for days. As far as food, lots of multi-starred restaurants, or you can just pig out on cheesesteaks for two days.

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rock and a hard place: The airlines do not control the weather. In their experience, at the time your parents took off, the airline believed it was most likely that the airport at Islip would be clear. Believe me, having been on the other end of things when I could NOT take off b/c of weather issues at the arrival airport, the airlines do what they feel is safest. It really is the only overriding factor. And I'm no pollyanna in thinking they are worried about the clients - though of course they are - those planes are expensive and they don't want to damage them!

If youw ere driving and the fog/storm/whatever got so bad you had to pull over in the next town, you are responsible for your own food/lodging/etc. Why should it be any different when it comes to planes? Sometimes life - and travel- throws lemons at you. It is just a fact of life. Suck it up, get over it, and move on. People need to stop expecting 100% accomodation for every inconvenience in life.

ok, vent over.

Carol Sottili: I can see both sides of this one. No one wants their elderly parents stuck in a strange town with no place to sleep. And many people who don't travel all that much don't realize that the old days of the airlines taking care of you are a thing of the past. Part of the problem is that we all got used to getting the free hotel room and the bus transport when the plane was diverted. Change hurts.

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Silver Spring, Md: Help!

Our travel agent is telling us that we can't do a mid-range (ie, some fancy nights, more low-budget nights) vacation to Europe (Paris, Rome, Florence) in February, for 7-10 days, for less than $6-7K. We have $4-5K saved. Do you agree with this assessment?

Cindy Loose: I think $4-$5 should be doable---I'd do a bit of searching on my own if my travel agent couldn't help in that price range, especially for a 7 night stay, as opposed to 10.

Check out hotel prices at somewhere like orbitz.com, just to get an idea for starters. Watch for airfare sales---they could drop as low as $500 in Feb. although $600 should be quite likely.

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San Jose, CR: I've stayed in San Jose, CR multiple times and have never had a problem there. It's a neat, city with tons of people and some good restaurants. Usually we stay Gran Hotel which is right near the National Theatre and some pretty good restaurants. I wouldn't be too worried there!

Cindy Loose: Thanks for the upfront and personal insight.....

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San Diego, Calif: I have been trying since February to receive Star Alliance mileage credit with United for a flight from San Diego to Paris on US Airways. I mailed my original tickets and boarding passes. When there was no result, I called and was told I had to mail my "ticket receipt". I printed my e-ticket and mailed it. No response. When I called, I was told I had to provide my seat number. When I told them they had all the info, they magically found my seat number electronically. No response or result. I called again, and again, and again, and was told each time they were working on it. Finally, last week, I was told they needed my ORIGINAL tickets and boarding passes because they lost them! I pointed out the ludicrisy of asking for original tickets and boarding passes when I had mailed the things months ago. They said I could submit a copy of the tickets with the explanation that the originals were lost. The fact I can't find my copies is beside the point--if I were to submit them, they'd just deny me for failing to submit originals! Is the Star Alliance program just a big fraud?

Cindy Loose: Post this message again to me at loosec@washpost.com and I'll give em a call.

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Central Cal: Happy Holidays I have been in Latin America and the Carribean prior to Thanksgiving and have noticed the holiday season is in full swing. This leads me to believe that there's a heckova Christmas spot somewhere, closer or on Christmas Eve/Day. Does anyone have any experience with a special/unusual foreign Christmas? I'd like to know, 'cuz in between the time my kids move out and have kids of their own, I'd like to try one.

Cindy Loose: I've done Christmas in Finland---frankly it's too dark. Christmas in Mexico is fun---go somewhere like Isle Mujeres and the little kids will be walking around downtown all dressed up with candles and holding out cans for small donations--a long tradition, not a begging thing.

Oaxaca used to be a magical Christmas place, but the protests there are still on last I heard.

New York City is all lighted up. Many, many choices.

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Cindy Loose: We're over and out. See you next week.

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Baltimore, Md: Hello,

Any thoughts on finding a package tour to LA that would include tickets to the Getty Museum (specifically the Icons from Sinai exhibit)?

Andrea Sachs: A number of tour operators organize Los Angeles tours that include the Getty. California Parlor Car Tours (www.calpartours.com) has a package with hotel accommodations, a Getty visit, a Hollywood stars tour and a LAX transfer. LaCityTours.com also cobbles together tours so visitors can mix and match attractions. The Getty's not too far from the airport, so you can feasibly visit it on your own.

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