Talk About Travel

The best travel memories of 2007, new year's resolutions, Vieques, travel agents, Cape Town 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. For daily dispatches, check out Travel Log, the Travel section's new blog.

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John Deiner: And here we are again.

Welcome to -- can it be?? -- the last journey with the Travel section Flight Crew for 2007. We'll be off the next two Eves (Christmas and New Year's), so let's go out with a bang, shall we?

We're slightly shorthanded today, so we'll need everyone to chime in and help out.

But first up: your task for today. Seeing as how this is it for '07, share with us the most memorable moment of travel for you in the past year. It can be good or bad or sad or heart-warming or bang-your-ahead-against-the-wall anger-inducing. It should also be short.

I'll start: My most memorable moment was climbing out of the Grand Canyon after hiking across it rim to rim. My feet still hurt, but I've never had a greater accomplishment.

See how it works? I'll pick two or three of the best and send out some top-grade promotional junque (a few calendars, some school supplies), and I'll throw in a Travel section totebag for each person to boot. The riches that await, huh?

Anyhow, let's get this chat started . . .

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Kensington, MD: Travel Crew: I've been a long time reader of your section, and especially love reading the chats... I wanted to take a minute to share a very positive experience that I had regarding obtaining first time passports for my children (ages 4 and 7). Even though their trip is not until June, I wanted to get their passports in hand well before the trip (understandable, given recent events). Anyway, on Saturday the 8th of December, I took them to the passport center up in the Aspen Hill post office (which, by the way, is now dedicated solely to passports), and got their passports submitted.

The agent said to expect them around January 26th (6 weeks)... but they came back in less than a week! They were issued on the 13th, and I had them in my mailbox on the 14th. That was a very quick turnaround! (and no, I didn't pay for expedited service.)

So, I wanted to pass this information along - the Aspen Hill PO (located at 14030 Connecticut Avenue) is open for passports only (pictures taken on-site if necessary) Monday through Saturday from 9:30 am-4 pm, with a lunch break from 1 to 1:30. No appointment is necessary.

Now I have to submit my husband's passport for renewal by mail - wonder how long THAT's going to take!

John Deiner: Hey, nice stuff, Kensington. A happy report...great way to get things started today.

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07 Most Memorable Travel Moment: has to be our family trip to Paris this past May (a first for hubby & 6 year old daughter).

Many fabulous memories were made there, but one of my faves has to be the time we were getting out of a cab at midnight coming back from a day trip to our apartment,and my daughter, who was more than half asleep at the time, waved up her arm to the driver and said "Au revoir"!

John Deiner: Once you start adopting the language, you're smitten, right? And only 6!

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Washington, D.C.: We will be on an escorted tour to the Galapagos and the Amazon right after Christmas. Do we need to get any immunition shots or take anything with us on the trip healthwise ?

Christina Talcott: I just checked the CDC website, which has a ton of updated info for travelers. Looks like you'll need to make sure your immunizations are up to date, plus get shots to protect you from yellow fever and pills to prevent malaria. You can find detailed lists of what you need to do beforehand and take with you using the pulldown country menu on the CDC website (link coming), and you can find a local travel doctor on the site, too.

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washingtonpost.com: CDC Travel Info

Christina Talcott: Here's the CDC link.

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Dreaming of Travel: Hey crew,

Love the chat. I always look to you all first when planning a trip. Which is why I'm submitting this question. Husband and I are considering going to Spain the first week of June 2008. I'm finding airfare around $800 from the DC area - is that good? Also, does anyone have experience with Vueling Air within Spain?

Carol Sottili: If that includes taxes, it's not awful for that time of year. You may do better if you track the sales, but you're not going to find a fare of $500 round trip: $700 would be great. I know nothing about Vueling Air. Anybody out there?

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HELP!: Can any chatters or flight crew members recommend a good cruise consultant? Hubby and I desperately need to get away and are suffering from internet information overload.

Andrea Sachs: We personally do not have a name to recommend, but you might want to check the specialists listed on the Cruise Lines International Assocation's Web site (www.cruising.org; look under Plan Your Cruise.)

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Washington, D.C.:

Something to keep in mind on any flight -- always keep your identification, including wallet/passport/driver's license on your body at all times.

Last weekend, a United Shanghai-Chicago flight had to do an emergency evacuation at O'Hare Airport upon landing. People who left their passport in a bag in the overhead compartment or under the seat had to wait several hours for the ground crew to retrieve the stuff left on the airplane, before they could go through customs! Those who kept their passport with them at all times were able to quickly clear customs, and continue on their connecting flights, or otherwise proceed to their final destination without any delay.

Carol Sottili: Never thought of this. But hoping I never have to go through an emergency evacuation.

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Washington DC:

Are you doing New Year's Resolutions this week? I guess you will be off the next two weeks!

Here's my resolution: If traveling in economy on a plane with limited leg room (less than 32 inches), I will not recline my seat if there is somebody sitting behind me who is more than 5 feet tall.

If this became the social norm, flying in economy would be so much better for everyone!

John Deiner: Hey, DC. That's a great resolution, and good news for everyone sitting behind you. Sometimes, if the human in front of you is not as considerate, you may be forced to nudge it back just a smidge though -- and we'll give you a pass in that case.

Anyone else want to share a resolution?

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Washington, DC: Interesting survey about singles interacting when there's a lengthy layover at IAD, DCA, BWI or PHL airports, and what happens afterwards: They end up sitting with their new-found friends on the outbound flight. Question: Do these folks ask their new friends while waiting to be called to board their planes what seat rows they're assigned, and then ask the flight attendant if they can sit with their new buddy if there's an available seat? Love is in the air!

John Deiner: Hmmmm...that's an excellent question DC. I'm still shocked that somebody would give up an open row! I'd guess they migrate next to the people they want to talk to once everyone else is on the plane, or ask the person to sit next to them.

(If anyone is wondering what the heck we're talking about, check out our blog today.)

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Washington, D.C.: My family is looking to go to the Caribbean around the end of March. In the past, we've gone to St. John and loved it, and we were looking for a different island that would still be very laid back, without big resorts or crowded beaches. Would Vieques be a good choice? Or is there another island that you would suggest? Thank you so much!

The Flight Crew: Kim O'Donnel here. I've been to Vieques twice -- and because I loved it so much the first time, went back and got married there earlier this year. My newly-man and I are going for a hat trick in February, in fact. Vieques is very much a laid back island; many have described as Key West before it got built up. As with St. John, where I spent a week nearly 20 years ago, you need a car, but there's a beach for every day of the week and every mood. Wonderful choice.

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Washington, DC: My favorite travel moment of the year - standing at the very top of the Eiffel Tower, freezing cold but knowing that I walked ALL the way up. I am not athletic in any way and hate the Stairmaster, but I climbed all the way up to avoid the lines at the elevators. It was great!

Second favorite memory - all of the pictures I took in Paris and New York of me. It was so much fun, figuring out the correct angle to hold the camera at and trying to get a tiny Statue of Liberty just right in the background. I appreciated the people who offered to take the picture for me, but part of the fun is the pictures where I'm laughing at my self doing this silly thing!

John Deiner: Great stuff, DC. I just love the sort of camaraderie picture-taking inspires.

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Flying through Philly: Any thoughts about flying through Philadelphia? My sister AND brother-in-law have both had flights cancelled that have flown through Philly in the past year. I was told "Never fly through Philadelphia". I found a cheap flight to Paris through Philly. Just wondering if the PHiladelphia airport has a bad reputation.

Andrea Sachs: Yes, unfortunately it does have a bad rep, due to weather and overall disorganization. Yet, I would never sacrifice a good fare because of a slight chance of being inconvenienced. If that were the case, I'd never fly out of JFK--and hence would never have seen Morocco, Australia, Japan, etc.

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Iowa via Scotland: I emmigrated to Iowa about 5 years ago and have not been home to Scotland since. We are planning to go back between March and May. We have been checking out prices and $800 per person seems the norm (there are 3 of us). I know it has been a while since I booked a transatlantic flight but when we were flying back and forth my wife regularly found them for $400. (Chicago to Edinburgh or Glasgow)

Are we going to be able to find them cheaper than $800 per person or do we need to just bite the bullet and book at that price? Makes it expensive when you have to save double for the spending money because the dollar is weaker than Eli and the Giants.

Carol Sottili: Poor Giants. They didn't look good last night. Hail to the Redskins, hail victory....Sorry, I got carried away.

$800 is too much for March, but about right for latter part of May. I found a $598 round-trip fare (including taxes) on American from Chicago to Glasgow for midweek travel in March. That's about right. Days of $400 flights are gone.

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Flyover, Ind: Happy Holidays crew!

I've got a question that should probably be tossed out to the audience. The spouse and I are thinking of heading to Detroit for a football game and Christmas. We're thinking of staying in Windsor, Ontario. Since we'd have to cross the border each day, is this one of the dumbest ideas we've had or is the border crossing at Detroit/Windsor not a big deal.

Best moment of the year in travel: hanging out on the back deck of a cruise ship, eating sushi and drinking the "drink of the day" with a group of folks who went on the trip for my friend's 50th birthday.

John Deiner: And happy holidays to you, too! Got your shopping done? Started? Given up on giving out gifts?

Anyhow, let's toss this one out to the Clicksters. Anyone familiar with this crossing?

And great memory, Flyover.

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Cleveland Park, DC: Hi Flight Crew,

Okay, here's the mission: I'm planning a New Year's weekend getaway for my boyfriend and me, Dec. 29-31st. Has to be within 3-4 hours driving distance. Should have mountains (for scenery, not skiing, though snowtubing would be okay). Should be a romantic setting in an area not completely overdeveloped. And I'd like to do it for less than $125 per night. Do you have any suggestions?

Christina Talcott: Lots of local ski resorts have tubing, and plenty are within a few hours' drive. Wisp (skiwisp.com), Wintergreen (wintergreenresort.com) and Seven Springs (7springs.com) all have lots to do besides skiing, or you could hop over to a West Virginia state park and get in on a New Year's special at one of their closer parks (wvstateparks.com), many of which have lodging year-round.

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Kendall Park, NJ: My most memorable vacation incident this year was when I took a cruise to Bermuda with a friend. Since there was going to be a surprise birthday party for her a week after our return, I was told that I had to get a great photo of her taken by the ship's photographer to be reproduced on top of her huge birthday cake. I managed to get her to pose for a bunch of photographs, and then I asked her which one she liked the best, and that was the one that wound up on the cake. And since everyone took loads of pictures at her surprise party, the picture of her cake with her cruise photograph is everywhere!

John Deiner: Sweet, KP. A picture of a picture of a picture...that was edible. Thanks for sharing (and I'm envious of your trip to Bermuda!).

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Bad time for a road trip: I was in Lousville during the horrible heat wave back in early August.

It was so hot that the air conditioner in my hotel room provided absolutely no relief.

Thankfully, most of the shows I was seeing were in air conditioned buildings, otherwise it would have been a thoroughly rotten trip.

John Deiner: Blech. I'm sweating just thinking about it.

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Rockville, MD: Happy Holidays! I've been invited to a time-share in St. Maarten in the middle of October. Two questions: this will still be the hurricane season. Big risk to accept the invitation? Also, was advised to make air reservations soon. What kind of fare is reasonable from an area airport to St. M? And do I really have to make the purchase sooner rather than later?

Thanks.

Carol Sottili: Best fare would be about $400 round trip. Caribbean fares do seem to go up as travel time grows closer, but there are sporadic sales. American fare is now low - $406 round trip. As for hurricanes, yes it is still the season for those in October. You could look for hurricane insurance, although that will make the airfare more expensive. And insurance companies sometimes try to get out of paying unless there is a travel ban. Go to www.insuremytrip.com to look at policies. I'd probably take my chances since the accommodations are free (at least I'm guessing that's a freebie).

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2007 Travel Moment: It wasn't a long trip. We went to the Outer Banks as a family -- 13-year-old boy, 11-year-old girl and a 2-year-old boy and dad and mom.

It was the first time the littlest one had seen or touched the ocean. As we walked over the dune (he was dragging a plastic bucket that was too big for him to carry), his face lit up. He walked as fast as he could to the water, touched it barely and ran back giggling. This went on for nearly an hour of incredible family bliss!

John Deiner: I hope you have it on video! Lovely image...thanks so much for sharing it with us.

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Eastern Shore, MD: Off to Orlando next week (yes, I know it will be a mad house). What is really the best and most economically way to get tix to Disney and Universal. Online discount sites? At one of those discount brokers off 95 on the way?

Andrea Sachs: So many options, it's hard to know exactly where to get the best deal. Check the Orlando tourism office (www.orlandoinfo.com/offers), which sometimes has specials, and John said he saw a Universal package at Costco. Disney also has deals on its site, if you buy in advance online. And depending on where you stay, your hotel might have a park package. Unfortunately, you will have to do some research. But don't get all Goofy about it (sorry, couldn't help myself); once you find a package in your price range, grab it.

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Harrisburg, PA: RE: Galapagos Island Travel

No, the travelers to the Galapagos Islands don't need yellow fever vaccine or malaria pills (there's a risk in other parts of Ecuador, but not there). They should be up to date on routine vaccinations like Tdap, MMR and flu, and should get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines and use DEET to prevent insect bites in rural areas.

Christina Talcott: Sorry, I didn't mean to imply that they'd need all that for the Galapagos; I was concentrating on the Amazon part of their trip. Thanks for the specifics on what to be up-to-date on, and I agree that DEET's the way to go to prevent insect bites. Anyone have other advice about staying safe, health-wise, in the Amazon?

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Baltimore, MD: I was so disappointed to hear that Icelandair is leaving BWI for good. I just flew on Icelandair to Paris and back, and I scheduled a 24-hour layover in Reykjavik which was pretty interesting. My experience with them was 100% positive, and I was thinking of visiting Iceland again in the summertime. Now I probably won't.

John Deiner: Yeah, Balmer. That is a bummer...and the airline offered some amazing off-season fares as well.

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Bethesda, MD: This may be one of those "duh" questions, but asking anyway! When you book a flight that ends up using another carrier, do you accrue frequent flyer miles on the carrier you booked through or the one you actually flew on? Thanks!

Carol Sottili: They usually ask you which frequent flyer account you would like your miles added to if they have an agreement.

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Washington, DC: Hey Flight Crew. I'll be driving down to South Florida with a friend right after Christmas and returning on Jan. 2. We have no firm date that we have to arrive either in FL or DC, and we're up for some fun and different places to stop, whether it's for a great meal or an interesting attraction. Any ideas (oh, and not Pedro's either)?

John Deiner: Hey, DC. Not Pedro's? Oh, poo. At least you can read the signs along the way, right?

I bet the Clicksters have some good ideas, but I'd suggest veering off the road and checking out Savannah and/or Charleston, and maybe St. Augustine in Florida. You'll find plenty to do in any of those places.

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ID in carry-on bags: While I see the benefit of being able to clear customs and make your connecting flight, are people really willing to abandon their carry-on bags like that? Even if I had my passport with me, I would wait for the bags to be pulled off the plane because I have no confidence my carry-on bag would make it to me.

Carol Sottili: I'm guessing this person didn't have a carry-on bag.

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Bologna, Italy: Re: last week's worst discussion advice ever...it's true that

it's better not to go to Italy in August. For one thing, it's

miserably hot, especially in the --think DC in August only

without air-conditioning. Things may be open, but there

will be no Italians around, and the ones you find will be

grumpy because they're not on vacation like everyone

else. Most bars and restaurants take their break around

August 15, the Ferragosto. Really, go in July or in

September; you'll be much happier and get a more

"genuine" Italian experience.

Love the chat even from afar!

Andrea Sachs: Thanks for tossing in your two lira (or now euros). The best time, I think, is anytime BUT summer.

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Maryland: how does one walk ALL the way to the top of the eiffel tower? As I recall it isn't possible. you must take an elevator on the final part of the journey. you can walk most of the way, not all of the way.

John Deiner: Gee, Md. I haven't done it in years and years. Anyone out there sprinted up the Eiffel Tower lately?

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Alexandria, VA: Do you all have any recommendations for travel agents? I'm going to be in Malaysia in February and would like to arrange some travel locally after my work project is done. Also, do you all have some recommendations for must-see things in Malaysia, either peninsular or Borneo? We'll definitely hit Singapore, and have about 10 days to try other parts of the country. I'm thinking a beach area and some outdoor/jungle tours, although colonial and cultural sights are also good.

Christina Talcott: We're running a story on Borneo on Dec. 30, which will be full of advice about what to do, where to go, etc. As for travel agents, do any chatters have any advice?

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Crossing border at Windsor: Haven't done it in while, but it's not really something I'd want to do anyway -- lines can be unpredictable (just as at an airport). Plus, if you run into the same officials, they might start getting suspicious.

John Deiner: Ah, gotcha. Lines are unpredictable everywhere, though, aren't they?

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Glen Allen, VA: Best travel for me in 2007 -- my first trip to New Orleans. I took a long weekend at the end of January and had one glorious warm day to walk around, one rainy day to really savor the warmth of Cafe du Monde, one fabulous dinner at K Paul (without an advance reservation!), and one terrific set by a local band in a dark Bohemian bar. I'm kicking myself for never having gone before, but I know I'll be going back.

John Deiner: Nice, GA. Sounds like a terrific time in a town that still needs tourists more than ever.

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Waldorf, MD: Travel moment of the year - my wife and I went to Kona, Hawaii for our honeymoon and one of the activities we did was hike to a green sand beach. Some people took their Jeeps and drove, but we were told to basically leave your car doors unlocked, windows down, and empty everything from it. You could pay someone to watch your car, but there was no one around, so we did just that. I even took the registration just in case. The hike was supposedly 3 miles but I didn't think it was. It was up and down dirt hills, and there was no clear path, but we knew if we stayed along the coast, we would find this green sand beach. Eventually, we found a sign for it, had to climb down some rocks, and had lunch. Although you aren't supposed to do this, we took some of the sand back with us, because we knew no one would believe such a thing existed. It was worth it, the water was very clear.

John Deiner: Just the sort of story we need on a cold late-autumn day. (And I'm glad I'm not the only one who takes sand home with me . . . on purpose.)

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Vero Beach, Fla: My flight from Tokyo to Taipei was diverted to Hong Kong due to fog. We arrived near midnight and were all sent by bus to the Hong Kong Gold Coast Hotel. Next morning, the view from my room was wondrous. Thanks to United Airlines and the Hotel's staff!

John Deiner: What's this?! More praise for an airline?! 'Tis the season...and thanks!

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NE Washington, DC: Cape Town strategy: Our friend will be working in Cape Town, South Africa for the next six months and we want to visit, possibly in May. Since our hodgepodge of FF miles won't seem to get us all the way there, what's your advice for cheap travel? What is the "season" on this route? What about buying a RT to Europe, and a separate ticket w/FF upgrade to CPT? Does the new service to IAD allow a stopover in Accra? Thanks for any advice you can offer.

The Flight Crew: Hi DC, Kim O'Donnel here. I've been to South Africa several times over the past 10-plus years. Because it's the southern hemisphere (and seasons are reversed), May is considered late fall, which means shoulder season and better fares for you. I've not done the IAD--Accra--CPT route on SAA, but it's my understanding that a stopover is not allowed. I would prob. not buy two separate tickets via Europe. Look at fares on Northwest/KLM (via Amsterdam) -- I've had good experience a few times going this way.

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Greenbelt, Md: My most memorable moment was flying to Omaha for my husband's family's reunion in a park. My mother in law got to see so many of her siblings, children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. She died suddenly in October, and I'm so glad we made the trip and got to see her.

John Deiner: Sorry to hear that Greenbelt, but I'm glad she was able to see her family.

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I've crossed border to Windsor...: Mind you, it was pre-9/11 so I don't know if things are all crazy now, but it was a breeze. My husband had a convention in Detroit, but I didn't want to stay there, so we stayed at a great B&B in Windsor. We crossed about 4 or six times and, again, had no problems. Windsor is the cutest little place. We always meant to go back, but alas babies and life have delayed the trip.

Thanks for bringing back a great memory!

John Deiner: Okay, so a big vote "for" corssing the border to Windsor. And I've heard nice things about the place as well, so thanks for the good words.

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Heidelberg: Regarding must see in Malaysia. Whenever I'm in Singapore on business I spend the weekend in the port town of Malacca. It was a Portuguese port, established in the 16.century, very multicultural, lots of nice old buildings, and it has a nice size, not drowned in traffic.

Christina Talcott: Great advice, thanks!

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Arlington, VA: my most memorable moment is hard to choose, but I will say climbing on the ruined and un-restored temple called Beng Melea a couple of hour drive from Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is a Khmer temple the is still largely swallowed by jungle vegetation and lots of it is covered in moss. A bunch of local kids were there telling us which way to climb along the roofs of the building. I almost fell off a couple of times. It is really beautiful and not as busy as the main Angkor temples.

John Deiner: Thanks, Arl -- glad you didn't take a spill.

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Columbia Heights, DC: Hi travel staff,

My husband received a hand-held GPS for Christmas this year (he opened a present early). We are flying from National to Boston next week, and he'd like to take it with him so he can play with it while my stepfather is monopolizing the TV. We searched the TSA's website but didn't find any information on handheld GPS units, so we thought we'd see if you or any other chatters know whether it would be a problem to take it through security in his carry-on luggage? Also, I think the answer to this one is probably no, but just to make sure - would he be able to use it on the plane during the part of the flight where personal electronic devices are allowed? Thanks!

Andrea Sachs: To avoid any issues, it is best to pack the GPS unit in your checked bag. However, TSA should allow it through security (to avoid additional scrunity, take out the device and place it in the basket). As for using it onboard: The rules are hazy. If your model transmits information, then most likely it is not approved. Best to not rock the plane; instead, spend the flight reading the printed instructions. Then, once you land, you are all ready to program your gizmo.

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Arlington, VA: Best travel memory of 2007: Lunch in a restaurant called Cumpa Cosimo in Ravello, Italy; my teenagers' first trip to Italy. My son, who is 17 and way too cool to be impressed by anything, took a couple of bites of his entree, put his fork down, and said a very heartfelt "Wow." See, kid, I -told- you Italian food in Italy is better than here!

John Deiner: Mom and Dad always know best, don't they?

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Arlington, VA: Re: Good cruise consultants: I've been using Cruise Directors, Inc. of Alexandria (phone: 703-683-6535) for the past 16 years, and their staff haven't steered me wrong.

Also, consider using Travelocity or Am Ex Travel Service to help you book a great cruise. The process should start with a good conversation w/your agent to find out your needs and what ships, destination, etc., are a good fit for you.

Andrea Sachs: Thanks for the recommendations!

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Franconia, VA: My husband & I have been wondering if there are any cruises which focus on history & art - Caribbean &/or Central America &/or Latin America. Where you get off the boat & do something, as opposed to the more usual type of cruise were you lay back, sun yourself, and eat a lot.

Carol Sottili: Go to the site www.smallshipcruises.com and scroll through the cruise lines detailed on that site. You'll probably find one that fits the bill. Also, the luxury lines, including Seabourn, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas and Crystal, are more likely to offer these type of programs.

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Most Memorable 07: A whirlwind trip to Vegas! I was there for a conference so only had 48 hours. Left the east coast and arrived Wed night around 6pm. Had a buffet dinner then walked the strip. Woke up early on Thurs morning for a bus tour to the Hoover dam (and ended up late to my first session later that day). Played a few slots. Ended the trip Friday afternoon with a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. We landed in the canyon and had a picnic lunch. Priceless!

John Deiner: Some might say "whirlwind" is the best way to see Vegas. I, of course, disagree. Always wondered what those helicopter tours were like.

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Arlington, VA: My husband did something very foolish and booked our flight on Sunday through CHICAGO (forecast is for rain/snow). It's an early-morning flight, so what are our chances of being rerouted through DFW (we're flying American)? I don't want to be stranded at O'Hare for the duration.

Carol Sottili: Oh, those pesky husbands.

Unfortunately, airports are pretty well booked with scheduled flights. American probably won't let you change your flights now to go through DFW without paying a hefty fee. I'd take a wait-and-see attitude, but I'd research alternatives now. Let's say find out that the flight is cancelled, delayed, you can then ask for them to reroute you through another city. Look at flights that leave from other area airports - American will most likely agree to fly you out of any of the three airports in case your flight is cancelled.

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Most memorable -- September 2007....:...was seeing the Palestinian side of the concrete baracade separating Israel from the West Bank. It is covered with "graffiti" -- almost every scrawl expressing either pain or the wish for peace (quoting Ghandi, the Jewish prophets, Jesus, etc.). Heartbreaking....especially in its contrast to the pristine Israeli side.

John Deiner: Heartbreaking, indeed. Thanks for the contribution.

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Vero Beach, Florida: Rockville wondered about October hurricanes. The Caribbean from Hispaniola eastward is at minimal risk that month. You'd need to be more concerned from Florida to Virginia.

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/pastprofile.shtml

Carol Sottili: Danke, oh weather-involved chatter.

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Native New Jerseyan: Travel story -- I went to a fabulous wedding in Seattle -- the daughter of my cousin. At the wedding reception, a guy came up and asked how I came to be invited -- the bride's grandmother was my aunt, to which he replied, 'Mine, too'. He was from the paternal side of the family (I'm on the maternal), and we had never met. For the next 2 hours or so, we told stories about Grandpa W., the paternal Great Grandfather to the bride, and how he, RS, the grandson, would have to get him up in the morning. Seems Grandpa W. (a famous liar) kept a bottle of Guinness under the bed, and would take a couple of swigs to get going in the morning. Among other stories, Grandpa W. claimed to be sitting across the street from the Japanese Embassy the morning of Dec 12, 1941, reading a newspaper. Grandpa W. lived in Tulelake, CA at the time. I knew Grandpa W. came to stay at my house 2 weeks after my brother was born, and my mother had to wait on him hand and foot, until my Dad took him back into NYC to stay at a Knight of Columbus home. The stories like this continued for the rest of the reception. Granpa W. - he's the gift that keeps on giving.

Andrea Sachs: No way, I am related to Grandpa W too. Just kidding!

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Arlington, VA: I would like to visit South Korea in the upcoming year but I am shocked at the cost of the tickets ($1200 - $1500). Are you aware of any cheap tickets/sales? When would be the best time to visit?

Christina Talcott: Hey Arl, I just looked at farecompare.com, and it seems like January and February are the cheapest times to go, with prices starting around $900 from Washington to Seoul. That said, it's cold there in the winter, with highs hovering around freezing these days. Spring and fall are more temperate, and you might be able to find fares around $1100, but I'm going to throw this out to the peanut gallery: Anyone know how to find cheaper fares to South Korea?

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DC via Florida: For the person on the roadtrip- As a Florida native, and recent DC-er, the food I miss the most is the best pizza place ever in Gainesville, FL (home of the 3time national champ Gators).

There's a place called Satchels where you MUST order a salad and a Calzone, followed by the cannoli. Friends and I reminisce about the food, and the fun. It's a tiny little place (closed on Sunday) but if you're driving near Gainesville, as you will be on the drive north, it's worth a stop.

John Deiner: Good point. If they're heading up I-75, they'd be going right through that area, wouldn't they?

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Washington, DC: Most head-banging travel moment of the past year: I live in

DC, and my family in Baltimore. With all of us flying to

Vancouver, I took an early-morning MARC to BWI to fly out

with them, only to have the flight cancelled and all of us

taxied to National (of course, in rush-hour traffic) to take a

re-booked flight. Of course, we missed our original

connection, and then the next connection was late, so we

eventually arrived in Vancouver with just enough time to

make the event we travelled for in the first place--we hid the

suitcases in the back of the theater.

Andrea Sachs: Now, that's drama!

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New Year Question: Where would you spend the New Year's Eve if you didn't have any limitations? I am looking for a 2-4 day getaway to a fun place where I don't have to pay a ton to have fun on New Year's but would also love to hear fantasies..

Christina Talcott: I'd go somewhere warm, like the Caribbean, Key West or maybe Southern California... Chatters, what's your NYE fantasy getaway?

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Re: Favorite travel moment in 2007: After a nice hike at Bandelier National Park out of Santa Fe, as we drive out of the canyon under rain, not one but 2 rainbows appearing right in front of us. I even have it on tape, and I am screaming "Oh My God!" the whole time!!! Close second, the same day as we climb up the ladders to see petrogliffs, rain pouring down the moment we step in a cave, and stopping as we get ready to leave...

John Deiner: Those are two really wet memories, but anything with a duo of rainbows is a definite standout.

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For Malaysia bound: When you're in Malaysia, try to get to Melaka, Penang and/or Langkawi. Melaka has colonial ties and history - if you can, take a ride in one of the decorated bikes. Penang is a big melting pot where we encountered a group of Chinese guys singing karaoke (John Denver's Country Roads) and Langkawi is a beautiful tropical island with few Americans but lots of Germans.

Christina Talcott: Thanks - now you got "Country Roads" stuck in my head. No, seriously, thanks for the suggestions!

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Doolin, Ireland: My favorite travel memory of 2007: after a bad breakup, I went to Ireland for two weeks of solo backpacking. After a few days of sightseeing in Dublin and Galway, I went to Doolin on the coast for a more rural experience. My first afternoon was spent walking up the main road to the coast, followed by a local cattle dog who "adopted" me. I heard a guitar and went into a field full of tall grass to find three Italians playing music... my new dog and I sat down with them, read a book, and listened to beautiful, if slightly inebriated, Italian men play music. It was as close to perfect as one gets!

John Deiner: Nice, Doolin. Probably cleansed you of that bad breakup, huh? Thanks for sharing.

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Best travel memory: My best travel memory from this year was going to a concert at Tipitina's in New Orleans. It was my first time visiting, and it was pretty amazing to experience the New Orleans attitude and pride, which I think have only gotten stronger since Hurricane Katrina.

John Deiner: Another visitor to New Orleans, another primo memory.

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Dallas, Tex: I don't have much wanderlust compared to the other chatters and I've never really been interested in a cruise, but I've recently become smitten with the idea of a Mediterranean cruise. I've always thought that Greece and Italy would be wonderful to visit and my sister and I even found some that might give us a chance to stop in Alexandria. What does the Flight Crew think of these? I'm not enough of an explorer to just head to Europe for two weeks and wing it. I like the idea of enjoying the cruise ship experience and seeing the new cultures that have already interested me.

Also, when would be the best time of the year to go? Would fall (October) be too chilly?

Andrea Sachs: Fall and spring are supposed to the best times to cruise the Med. Unlike high season, the crowds will be less, the prices lower and you won't fry your brain in the sun.

If you want a somewhat organized trip to the Med, a cruise is a great option. You can pick and choose your excursions and activities, and no matter where you are on deck or off, the scenery will be incredible.

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Olney, MD: Concerning Philadelphia Airport: Recently I had my connection from BWI-PHL so delayed I got a pre-flight phone call from USAirways. So instead I got approval to drive to Philadelphia and catch the connecting flight. Since flying to PHL + layover is nearly the same 2 or 2.5 hours as driving to Philadelphia from BWI, it worked out well. While the Long-Term parking is far from the terminal, the buses to it are frequent and checking in was fine. But give yourself 3 hours to drive there because of possible lines at the toll booths in Delaware.

Andrea Sachs: That's a clever route, especially on the return. You won't have to wait at all for that final leg.

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Washington DC- Shaw: Hey quick question for you all...whats the airlines policy on overweight people...I am a frequent flier and as of late i have had the displeasure of sitting next to very obese people who were spilling over into my seat!!. Im tall but skinny but didnt want to share any part of my seat...Do i have any recourse??/At what point do airlines ask these people to buy 2 seats?? I paid just as much as they did but they get an extra 1/3 of my seat??

Carol Sottili: I feel badly for people who are obese, but I also don't like sharing my seat with a stranger. Southwest caused quite a stir a few years back when it started enforcing its rule requiring obese passengers to buy two seats. American was another airline that said it would do the same. Would be interesting to revisit that to find out whether they are still enforcing. As for recourse, the government doesn't regulate. Of course, you can ask to change seats, but planes are so full, this isn't always doable.

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Washington, D.C.: My best travel moment this year was our "last hurrah before the baby comes" whirlwind weekend in NYC. Stayed at the Essex House, upgraded our room, arranged for late checkout, and just packed so much fun into those two days. I've been to New York countless times, but this trip had a particularly festive feel, knowing it would be our last trip for a while!

John Deiner: Sweet. And is there anything better in life than "late checkout?" Okay, yeah, but I'm glad you had a great last hurrah.

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Eiffel Tower: You cannot walk up to the top of the Eiffel Tower. You can walk up to the 2nd floor and then you have to take an elevator to the top...which is where my husband proposed at the end of 2006. He insisted we go up to the top when I was complaining about the lines. Unforgettable...

John Deiner: Ah. Ok, good to know! And congrats on that proposal.

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Most Memorable: My most memorable moment of 2007 was trying to paddle a rapidly sinking sea kayak back to shore while on vacation in Thailand in October. This happened about 400 yards off the island of Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand, and right next to the aptly-named "Shark Island". I've never paddled (and later swam) so fast in my life! Boyfriend and I made it back to shore safely - and without any shark encounters - but it was the most terrifying 20 minutes of my life, though it's a great story to look back and laugh at now.

John Deiner: I'm glad you CAN laugh about it now. Scary stuff -- let's not repeat that in '08, okay?

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Cubeland, Philly: My most memorable travel experience this year was walking a portion of the St Compostella trail in southern France (our trip was based on an article by Robert Camuto in the Post!). We met incredibly warm French and European hikers and inn owners, saw incredible scenery and endured more blisters and sore feet than I thought possible. I hope to return and walk another portion in a couple of years. (I'd love a calendar!)

Andrea Sachs: As soon as those blisters are healed, it's back to Compostella you go.

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Washington, DC: I have an 8:15 flight from Dulles on Saturday on United. I am currently unable to have an assigned seat. This makes me very nervous. Does this mean that the flight is overbooked? What are my legal rights if I am not allowed on the flight?

Carol Sottili: Go to www.united.com and do a search of "contract of carriage." This details bumping rules. Get to the airport early. Call a reservationist and ask if the plane is full. Happened to my daughter recently, but there were plenty of seats on the plane, so it wasn't a problem.

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Memorable travel moment: I finally got to take my dream trip to Morocco via a tour with Gate One. I got to know a fellow traveller, who brought me along when she met up with a co-worker's husband (he was visiting his family in Casablanca). We ended up at their apartment -- I got to have mint tea and pastries with a Moroccan family on my first night in Casablanca. What an amazing way to kick off my trip!

Andrea Sachs: You've got a friend . . . in Morocco.

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India travel: I am going to Mumbai in February on business. I don't have a specific question because I haven't started serious research yet, but thought I'd troll for suggestions from you and the chatters anyway on where else to go if I take a couple of weeks afterward to travel in India. Thanks!

Andrea Sachs: India is on our to-do list. So, we can't offer any tips. But we would gladly take some from chatsters who have been there.

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Silver Spring, MD: To get a better deal on my trip to S. Korea, I booked two separate flights: One from DC to San Francisco, then another from San Fran to Seoul on Singapore Air. It was pretty seemless and cheaper. Mind you, you are flying a long way, so don't expect to get there for $500. But I think I save somewhere between $200-$350 by breaking it up. But you need to factor hotel in San Fran, but is cheap if you stay near the airport.

Don't go to Seoul in the winter, unless you REALLY like cold weather. Part of the beauty of seeing Seoul is just walking around for that Time Square/Tokyo effect. Even when travelling outside of the city, it's better (in my opinion) to be able to just walk around w/o worrying about frostbite.

Christina Talcott: Thanks for the advice! You were smart to stay the night in San Francisco - booking separate flights with short layovers makes me very nervous. And I agree about not liking frostbite worries.

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St Maarten: The risk of an October tropic storm, is a risk. Earlier October is much higher than late. It is about the same risk as planning a trip to the Outer Banks or Wilmington in August/early September.

Actually there was a tropic system that came up this month that affected Peurto Rico and Hispanolia.

Carol Sottili: I'd still say yes to a trip with free lodging.

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John Deiner: Okay, gang, that wraps up things for this week -- and year -- with the Flight Crew. As always, it's been a pleasure chatting with you this year, and you are most definitely urged to return on Jan. 7, when we'll be back all fat and sassy from the holidays.

Let's throw out the calendars/assorted junque/totebags to Greenbelt, who went to Omaha; the person who had the rainy, rainbowed experience at Bandalier National Park; and the person who recovered from the bad breakup in Ireland.

If you'd send your name and address to me at deinerj@washpost.com, I'll have your stuff out to you in time for holiday gift-giving.

And for everyone else? Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good flight . . .

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