Talk About Travel

Discusses memorable (or forgettable) trips from this summer, a New England spot for a long weekend, Philadelphia, Puerto Rico, Vietnam and more

Got a travel-related question, comment, suspicion, warning, gripe, sad tale or happy ending? The Post Travel Section Flight Crew is at your service.

On the itinerary this week: getting into the back-to-school spirit with cooking classes in New Orleans, Spanish lessons in Mexico City and painting workshops in New Hampshire.

All other travel topics are open as well. If you have insights, ideas or information to add to the discussion, just press the call button above your seat and we'll get to you as soon as we can. 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.

A transcript follows.

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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Andrea Sachs: Can you believe it? Labor Day is around the corner.

Guess it is time to talk fall travel. But before we move on to another season, tell us about your summer travel highlights. What trips are you proudest of, or what do you regret? Of course, we are strong believers in the endless summer, so we are always happy to talk about beaches, surf and margaritas.

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Washington, DC: If you had your choice of flying or taking the train to New York on a weekday evening, what would your preference be? I've always flown, but I've heard the train can be more convenient.

Andrea Sachs: I am a big fan of the train, because it drops you off right in midtown. Also, no hassles with security or unforgivable delays (at least in my personal experience). Just be sure you book in advance.

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Logan Circle: Are the new fees for curb-side check-in ($2 per bag) for real or just a way to ensure the porters get their tip??? In other words, where does all that cash go?

Carol Sottili: That's not new. Some airlines are getting rid of the $2 fee now that they've started charging for checked bags. The porters fought the $2 curbside fee because passengers erroneously thought it was their tip: The porters don't see any of that money. In Boston, porters brought a lawsuit against American for charging the $2 fee. American later dropped the fee the same day it started charging for checked luggage.

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Washington, D.C.: Crew

I found a DCA-SFO fare around Veterans Day weekend for $285, which is about $60 more than a fare I got in previous years. Is that a decent deal with gas prices, or did I get hosed?

Thanks

Carol Sottili: If that includes all your taxes, you got a good price.

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Labor Day in New England: Good afternoon! Where would you recommend as a New England destination for the upcoming long weekend (given that the forecast involves rain)? We're looking for something rural and peaceful, but we would like more to do than stare at the cows from the porch of a B-and-B should the heavens open...

Thanks very much.

Andrea Sachs: I would recommend the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts. There are definitely cows, but also museums, galleries, cute cafes and more sprinkled around various towns. And if the sun does come out, it is a great place to hike or bike. See www.berkshires.org for info.

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Annapolis, Md.: Has anyone out there been to Bonaire? My husband and I are thinking of going next summer for some scuba diving and general beachy-ness. Is it just intolerable in summer?

Scott Vogel: I really don't think so. Temperatures will definitely be higher then than at other times of the year, but generally speaking they will only reach the upper 80s. Furthermore, Bonaire tends to be far less hurricane-prone than other Caribbean destinations. Has anyone out there visited during the summertime?

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Philly-bound: I'm heading to Philadelphia this weekend for the holiday, and wondering if there's any special exhibits or can't miss sights (outside of Independence Hall and the Rocky statue, of course!). Any suggestions for yummy eats would be great, too!

washingtonpost.com: Gee Whiz, Cheesesteak Isn't Philly's Best Sub (Post Travel Section, March 9)

Christina Talcott: The Philadelphia Museum of Art's wonderful, but I'd also recommend taking the Septa commuter train out to Merion, Pa., to the Barnes Foundation. It's an enormous collection of great works of art - from Renoirs and Matisses to African masks and the Picassos they inspired - all jammed into a mansion in the leafy suburbs of the city. (The collection's slated to move to a new location sometime soon.) In the city, South Street is fun for shopping and people-watching, Rittenhouse Square is a lovely oasis and the Reading Terminal and Italian markets are great for browsing. Check out gophila.com for more ideas and deals, and chatters' suggestions are more than welcome. Any great restaurants Philly-bound shouldn't miss?

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Reston: Hi!

While we are talking about travel and learning... I really want to take a photo workshop in Provence next summer (to get those lovely lavender shots). Other than Shaw Guides, any other ideas please?

thanks!

Christina Talcott: National Geographic Expeditions offers a photo workshop in Provence, but it's next month, so you should contact them to see if they're planning on having another one next year. A British company called Light and Land runs photo tours, one which goes to Provence (www.lightandland.co.uk). I found another company called Heart of Provence (www.numericworld.ch/heartofprovence/home.htm) that also does photo workshops there. Anyone have direct experience with Shaw, NatGeo or other photo workshops in Provence?

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hello,

I know this is last minute, but after a summer filled with family health problems, work problems, and a new job, my family needs a Labor Day weekend break. We are taking Friday off and need a place to go to relax. Ideally the place would be within a 2-hour drive, have a pool for my 2 year old, be near a natural area good for long walks, and near a historic area/site for a fun day. Any ideas? Cost not really a consideration, but we don't want the Ritz. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Christina Talcott: There are lots of places that would fit your requirements. Ellen McCarthy wrote about some quaint day-trips for the Weekend section a couple of weeks back (link coming up), including Ellicott City, Md., and Occoquan and Middleburg in Va. Middleburg has a bunch of places to stay; the Goodstone Inn and Briar Patch B-and-B have pools. You'll have more options, though, in bigger towns. For a quick getaway close to home, I like Annapolis: it has a long history, nice hotels with pools, nearby parks (Quiet Waters Park and Sandy Point State Park, which has a beach) and lots of restaurants/entertainment/shopping. Frederick, Md., is also a nice, short trip with lots of things to do. Towns on the Eastern Shore, like St. Michaels, Easton and Cambridge are a short hop and have lots of lodging options as well as natural areas. Fredericksburg, Luray and, if you're up for a longer drive, Charlottesville, Va., are also great options.

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washingtonpost.com: Go West (East, North or South) (Post Weekend Section, Aug. 15)

Christina Talcott: Here's that Weekend story...

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Arlington, VA: I have a 2+ hour layover right around dinner time this Thursday in Salt Lake City.

Any suggestions on what to do for dinner (e.g., head to a certain terminal for a certain place?) I've never been to this airport, so any suggestions are welcome! (is it new? is getting from one terminal to another a hassle?)

My thanks in advance!

Andrea Sachs: I don't know your taste in cuisine, but you can find a list of restaurants at http://www.slcairport.com/dining.html. Personally, I would go for Wasatch Brew Pub, followed by a yogurt at Yovana.

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Montgomery Village, MD: United is charging for meals for international flights and IMHO the other carriers are probably going to follow suit. In addition to the obvious problems this presents (how do you bring your own food onboard with all of the luggage and liquid restrictions) how is someone who keeps kosher, vegan etc., who used to receive a bad meal on board but at least did not starve, supposed to eat on a 8 hour flight to Paris? Have the airlines completely lost their mind? Do they not realize that on a 9 hour flight (the time for the return flight to DC from Paris), meals keep the passengers from becoming too unruly? Are we supposed to be kept starving in the "cattle cars????"

Carol Sottili: There aren't restrictions against bringing solid food, so my guess is that many will just bring their own. Should make for an interesting mix of smells on the plane.

See my blog on the subject for more details: I'll send the link soon.

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Charleston, SC: If you had a few hours to sightsee in Oslo, what is the one thing a traveler shouldn't miss? Thanks!

Scott Vogel: Okay, I think this is a tough one and so am throwing it out to our chatters. I'd pick the 13th-century Akershus Fortress. What about you guys?

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washingtonpost.com: No (Airline) Food For You (Travel Log blog, Aug. 22)

Carol Sottili: Here's the link to blog about United charging for food on international flights out of Dulles.

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Washington, DC: I keep hearing about problems people are having redeeming their miles for tickets as the airlines cut back. I'm an aeroplan member which is the program for Air Canada. They have been sending out e-mails since the spring about releasing more tickets to the program, but I have to admit, I wasn't sure I believed it. I called last week to redeem miles to get a round trip ticket from the DC area to London Ontario (closest airport to the Stratford theater festival) a little over a month in advance of my trip.

Guess what? No problem at all.

15000 miles, exactly the same as last year. $30 fee, same as last year. About $130 in taxes and fees, same as last year. No new fees. No fuel surcharge. Both my flights leave at about 9:30 AM and get in around 2 PM (to and from Baltimore) with enough time to walk my luggage through customs in Toronto. My alternative was to drive and I think that would have cost me more with gas and tolls, never mind the 10 to 11 hours of driving. Aeroplan takes American Express miles. Not a bad place to use them.

Sorry for the gush, (no connection to the program or Air Canada) but I just had to share when a miles redemption works this well.

Carol Sottili: That's unusual. I'm going to post a link to a story that ran in our business section about how frequent flier miles are getting more difficult and more expensive to use.

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Crofton, MD: I need to drive from the BWI area to IAD this Sunday for an international flight that leaves at 9 pm. It's a holiday weekend, but will Sunday be an okay day at the airport? I plan on leaving BWI at 5, with the hope of getting to Dulles by 6--I figure I'm leaving enough time for holiday traffic and lines at the gate. Does this sound right? Is the Sunday of a long weekend usually okay travel-wise?

Andrea Sachs: That is more than enough time. Traffic is usually bad on Monday, with only a minority heading back early from the holiday on Sunday. The one concern: The parking lots could be full, so check beforehand to see what is open.

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Arlington, VA: Austin, Texas, was my "summer trip", and it was fully worth it. Aside from wandering around UT, the state capitol, and various art museums, I saw lots of live music - one night it was a woman-only open mic night, a bluesman who knew his way around a guitar, and a high school-aged band with a KILLER lead singer, another night I sat next to a couple visiting from Switzerland and watched a honkytonk lead singer who looked like a cross between Billy Bob Thornton and Elvis (while everyone around me two-stepped), and the final night I watched the opening act flame out spectacularly, only to be rescued by an up-and-coming piano rocker whose visage was so adorable that it brought baby seals back to life. Even the 103 degree heat was bearable. AND my hotel had a waffle-iron that made Texas-shaped waffles. Oh, and there was one place that made amazing spaghetti carbonara, and I could go on....

Andrea Sachs: I would go just for that waffle iron!

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Wash DC : I regret missing my 20 year high school reunion because I work for Verizon and was under the threat of a strike during that time and could not travel to my home town over the weekend.

Andrea Sachs: So unfortunate. Make sure you make your 25th (hear that Verizon, no strikes!)

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Washington, DC: What does the travel crew recommend when it comes to complaining about a trip? (For example, delayed flight, bad hotel room, etc.) Recently took a trip that involved flight delays, a horrible room, and other things we weren't happy with. We got $40 credited off our bill, and are wondering if it's worth writing to the tour company directly to complain - do you know if they usually listen to complaints or just send a "sorry you weren't happy" form letter? Thanks!

Carol Sottili: Of course you should complain to the tour operator! If it's a reputable outfit, they'll want to know about the problems. I don't know which company you used, but if it is a member of the U.S. Tour Operators Association (www.ustoa.com), you can also complain there.

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washingtonpost.com: Frequent Fliers' Wings Are Clipped (Post Business Section, Aug. 23)

Carol Sottili: Here's the story on frequent flier miles.

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Lots and Lots of Travel: Do to some fortunate coincidences our family spent most of the summer traveling. I was not working this summer and my husband ended up needing to do several weeks of business travel. So we loaded the kiddos into the minivan and we trekked around the East Coast with Dad. It was terrific. We were in 13 states (From Georgia to Maine), 12 hotels, saw lots of interesting things, swam in many hotel pools, ate at lots of fun local places. Overall, a terrific experience and much better than only seeing Dad on weekends.

We never would have planned this but it was great. There are always fun and interesting things to see no matter where one ends up.

Andrea Sachs: How amazing that you had such quality family time. How many times did you play the license plate game?

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Meals: I am kind of glad about airlines cutting meals -- it means more sleep for me, without the constant interruptions. Of course there will be some inconvenience, mostly due to security limitations, but I'd rather have my own trail mix and snacks, etc., than any of the inedible slop the airlines serve. I fear the aromas of course, but I'll deal.

Carol Sottili: From the comments I've received on my blog, I think you're in the minority.

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United to Paris: Wait - is United really charging for food on international flights now? I flew United to Paris less than two months ago and we were served meals (a full meal and a snack, I think) on the flights. When did this charging thing kick in?

Carol Sottili: It's only going to be tried on flights to Europe out of Dulles beginning in October.

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Arlington, VA: Hi Flight Crew - The trip I'm proudest of this summer would have to be seeing the full moon over Victoria Falls in Zambia. We actually saw a lunar rainbow. Question for you - If some friends and I want to visit Namibia next year (probably July), is there any group you suggest booking through or parts of the country that would make a good itinerary? Thanks!

washingtonpost.com: Brangelina: Namibia's Biggest Game (Post Travel Section, May 28, 2006)

Andrea Sachs: Sorry, wish we could help, but we have never taken a group tour of Namibia. Any chatsters have a name to share with Arlington?

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Reston, VA: Two minor summer regrets: not taking another day or two off (although I did that so I could take time at Christmas), and not wearing a hat enough! I have a line of sunburnt, peeling skin on my SCALP. Not fun.

But in exchange, I got a nice long weekend at the beach with family, puppies, and a ton of sunshine. Can't really complain.

Andrea Sachs: Yikes. You need more time off just to let your head heal.

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what to do in Oslo: We liked the Vigeland Sculpture Park best of the Oslo sights. Holmenkollen ski jump is also amazing.

Scott Vogel: More suggestions for the one thing to do in Oslo. Thanks!

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Herndon, Va: Summer travel highlight? Our trip to Oregon - Portland, the coast, and "out east" to Bend and vicinity, was great. The best part - sitting on our rental condo balcony just north of Depoe Bay, drinking wine and not only seeing, but hearing, the gray whales spout just offshore. I also am the proud owner of a new "Cultus Lake Resort" baseball cap, but that's secondary.

Andrea Sachs: Oh, the whales. That would make my summer, too.

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Fighting the Unfriendly Skies: My wife and I recently flew a long way, involving many countries. We were struck by how much better service was on an in-Europe Lufthansa flight (Frankfurt to St. Petersburg, 2.5 hours) and from Vladivostok to Seoul (2 hours) on Korean Air than it is within the United States, even on 5-hour flights. Now UAL says it will start charging for meals on some trans-Atlantic flights. Two questions. 1. Why is service so much better on non-US airlines? Don't they have the same fuel prices as US airlines, or even more? 2. Where does it end? As prices rise and service drops, fewer people will fly, so prices will rise more, service will fall more, until there won't be airplanes. Well, obviously that's crazy, but what DOES the future look like (other than grim)?

Carol Sottili: I'd love to hear from an economics prof who may give us some insight as to why some foreign carriers can do a much better job of providing service. But it's not true of all foreign carriers: I've flown several over the years that were truly awful, and I've heard many horror stories from readers about their experiences. As for where it ends, we can only guess. Maybe a have and have-not world, where you pay big bucks for good service, or you pay much less and receive no service?

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fall getaway - driving distance: What would you suggest for 2 families with 4 kids under 4 (2 infants)? We enjoy hiking and just hanging out, enjoying nature.

Christina Talcott: My first instinct: Shenandoah National Park. There are all kinds of different lodging options, from rooms at one of the lodges and cabins to campsites, and IMHO nothing's more relaxing than reading by the fire in the lodge after a long hike. It can, however, get a little zoo-y at leaf-peeping time, so you might want to consider staying in a state park instead, like Cacapon or Lost River in WV or Patapsco Valley State Park in Md. If you don't need mountains, though, the beach in the fall can be very relaxing. Any other ideas out there?

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Washington, DC to Puerto Rico: My husband, 14 yr old son and 72 yr old mother will be going to Puerto Rico for Thanksgiving this year. My mother wants to do the usual touring and beaching as do I. My husband and son are avid skateboarders and want to hit as many skate parks or areas they can find. I am wondering, where is the best place to go to get the best of these two worlds? My husband and son are game for doing touring as also but just want to get in lots of skating time as well. When we went to Vegas last spring they hit 12 parks because they were so close while mom and I did a spa day. Is one area better than another for us to get what we all want? Also, is there any "have to see places" while there? Thank you and I love the chats!!

washingtonpost.com: Puerto Rico Punch (Post Travel Section, Feb. 26, 2006)

Andrea Sachs: I would think San Juan would be your best place to stay, and take side trips from there. (But be sure skateboarding is allowed in certain parts of the city.) Beside touring the capital, hike around El Yunque National Forest, kayak the bioluminescent bay, snorkel or surf on the west coast, and if time permits, spend a few days on the island of Vieques. For skateparks in PR: http://www.concretedisciples.com/skateparksdb/display_country.php?country=PR

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Educational weekends: Interested in the New England art workshops. Could a complete novice participate?

Christina Talcott: A novice could definitely participate! Just make sure you bring whatever's on the supply list and an open mind. If you're worried, like I was, about needing a lot of help, you could talk to your instructor beforehand to let him or her know that you're a newbie. Otherwise, I think if you have the desire and the patience to paint, you'll get a lot out of a painting workshop, whatever your level.

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Washington, DC: For the Philadelphia vacationer, it's not cheap but if you are a fan of the old Japanese Iron Chef and the New Iron Chef on the Food Network, Chef Morimoto has a Sushi restaurant in Philadelphia that is wonderful. It was pretty amazing for both sushi and other Japanese foods. Also, he was there when we went and was really nice to all the diners. I don't remember the name but I am sure you can find it.

washingtonpost.com: It's called, oddly enough, Morimoto Restaurant.

Christina Talcott: Haha, there you go!

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Washington, DC: Get thee to the Franklin Museum. Best. Museum. Ever. When I was 12, 23 and now 33. It's more geared towards kids and the plane is gone, but it is great!

Christina Talcott: Great suggestion. Thanks!

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Heathrow rendez-vous: I have an upcoming trip to London where I'm flying separately from some other members of my party; my flight arrives about 1 hour after theirs. They've said they'd wait for me coming out of customs, but that sounds like a recipe for disaster, especially if our cell phones don't work. Do any of you have any tips for a good/easy meeting place (e.g. a nearby coffee shop) where they could sit/relax until I arrive? If it helps, we'll both be flying British Airways from different cities in the US. Thanks so much for your help!

Carol Sottili: On Sept. 16, flights from Dulles to Heathrow are scheduled to start arriving in the newly constructed Terminal 5. So you first have to figure out which terminal you'll all be coming into. Go to www.ba.com for that info. Amato at Terminal 5 is a coffee shop where you could meet. For a complete list of restaurants, go to www.heathrowairport.com.

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Vero Beach, Florida: Not much of a summer trip, but I hadn't visited Winter Park (an old, affluent suburb of Orlando) for a long time. The downtown is more urbane than ever and a world away from the theme parks. The Morse Museum will be expanding, allowing more of its Tiffany glass to go on display.

Nearby Leu Gardens (owned by the City of Orlando) is thriving. It lacks the theme parks' showmanship, but its lake shore site provides a bit of cold protection for the palm and cycad collections, which have plenty of spectacularly big specimens.

Andrea Sachs: Sounds like a nice trip through Old and New Florida.

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Pittsburgh: My big summer trip this year (actually late spring but, hey, close enough, right?) was three weeks in the Azores -- to attend a couple conferences on one island, do research on my family genealogy on two other islands, and see distant cousins and attend a festa on yet a fourth island. So imagine my delight when this morning the "Today" Show had a segment on Meredith Vieira discovering her own Azorean roots on the island Faial, where I spent a week in mid-May. It really made me want to got back soon! If you missed it, the link for the video segment is here.

Andrea Sachs: What an amazing trip. Thanks Pittsburgh, and Meredith.

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Central Cal: Proud... It started as a great deal. I had no burning desire to travel to Ireland. I'm that beach and Margarita type. I like local color and will take some chances. But in Ireland, I found out it was more about people, engaging with a genuinely interested populace. And I'm proud I didn't kill us driving on the wrong side of narrow roads, with no shoulder and sometimes rock fences. I'll drive almost anywhere now.

Andrea Sachs: I'll drink a pint to that!

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paying for meals: I don't mind paying for meals, as long as I can bring food aboard, which I do anyway. I don't even mind paying for drinks as long as I can bring LOTS of water on board. I don't think charging for checked luggage makes the best business sense since it's just going to encourage a lot more people to carry on and overcrowd the bins and cause more delays loading passengers, but in theory I have no problem with the basic concept; those who want to bring more stuff can pay more for it. I just want the airline to get me where I paid to go when I paid to go there. I will happily pack my own breakfast lunch and supper to fly any airline who can pull that off.

Carol Sottili: Back to the old debate on user fees. Some people think it's only fair and others see it as a nickel-and-dime approach to doing business.

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Washington: While I'm not thrilled about United charging for food on shorter international trips (Dulles to much of Europe ends up being not too long, compared to flights to Asia), I'm not that upset personally about the full meals going away - I usually bring some sort of snack along, and considering how much the rest of the flight costs, $6 for a snack box really isn't that out of line. I assume that meals must produce a huge amount of waste for airlines.

But, I'm not happy because of the increased likelihood of sitting near someone who picked up a greaseburger along the way, or a family who didn't bring enough for their children, or someone who wasn't told that s/he'd have to buy a meal, etc.

I'd much prefer it if we had the option of declining a meal (and thereby earn a token discount or some benefit like first pick on the cattle-car seats) - it can be marked on the ticket stubs, to prevent people trying to claim otherwise.

But long trips - I'd say anything over, say, 8 hours - should definitely have some sort of food provided. Yes, people should be able to be responsible and, if told in advance no free food, have some sort of plan in place, but from experience we know that a lot of people won't really have thought about it.

Carol Sottili: Another point of view.

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Crossing the pond: Charging for a box of cold snacks and no hot meal - what moron came up with that idea? Why not have the suits at United try several trips in coach and see how much they like it?

I will NEVER fly an American carrier to Europe - SAS, BA or KLM all the way!

Carol Sottili: Based on these type of comments, I'm guessing that this is one experiment that may not be successful.

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Why European Carriers have better service.: I'm not an economist, but I remember talking about this with flight attendants from a few European carriers. They the big thing is probably the fact that their health care is not an issue as their countries pick up a lot of those tabs. Maybe if Congress passed a health care package we would be all flying cheaper with better service.

Carol Sottili: Maybe, but I don't think that would explain it entirely.

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Washington, DC: I am already looking ahead to Christmas airline tickets (and blanching at the prices). I am planning travel to NM and have some flexibility around my dates.

Currently, the cheapest fare out of DCA (my preferred airport) has me flying Frontier through Denver with a 27 minutes layover on Thurs, Dec 18. I know that short a layover in December IN DENVER sounds crazy, and I wouldn't consider it except that it would be before the real Christmas "rush" begins, and it is at 11:30 am. I checked, and it looks like Frontier has at least 3 more flights to ABQ later that same day.

So do you think I should chance it, banking on the fact that if I miss the 11 am flight I'll get on a later one? Or should I suck it up and pay $50+ more to take a flight with a longer layover?

Thanks!

Carol Sottili: I'd pay the $50+. There is a good chance those later flights will be packed, and you'll get stuck.

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Logan Circle: These no-food and charge-for-luggage policies are getting complicated. It that info readily disclosed when you shop online for tickets? I'd be pissed off if I bought a slightly less convenient ticket because of a lower price and then discovered that my luggage was going to cost an extra $100 and I had to bring my own mystery chicken.

Christina Talcott: Unfortunately, you have to seek out that information, whether you're buying from an online company like Orbitz or directly from the airline. We had a chart not long ago with baggage fees listed, but it's always smart to check the airline's Web site (and our Travel blog!) for updates.

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washingtonpost.com: Baggage Rules! (Post Travel Section)

Christina Talcott: Here's that chart listing airline's baggage fees...

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Glen Allen, VA: about the Barnes Foundation, from their FAQ list - "To be admitted onto the Foundation property you must have a prepaid advance reservation"

Christina Talcott: That's good to know. Thanks!

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To the parent looking for labor day quick break: What about taking the little one to Ocean City, I've been looking for last minute deals and it seems OC is hurting for business so there are definitely rooms aplenty. Or Williamsburg -- not a beach, but there is plenty to do and all of the nicer hotels have good pools, you may be able to snag a deal at one of the condo/timeshare properties which have good pool areas and room to expand. Just some random thoughts.

Christina Talcott: Terrific suggestions. Thanks!

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Morimoto Restaurant: I also highly recommend this place. The food is wonderful. I have been there twice (both for special occasions since it is pricey).

Christina Talcott: Another nod for Philly's Morimoto.

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Franconia, VA: Most foreign carriers get very direct subsidies from foreign governments, which reduces some cost pressure and allows for other perks. In addition, Ryanair in Europe has forced a drop in fares (and they have very little in the terms of extras).

Carol Sottili: I may be wrong, but I don't that's true of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, which both offer very civilized economy service to London. And I was referring to overseas service only in my early posting.

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Washington, DC: I enjoyed your article on language immersion in Mexico. I did a two-week course in Costa Rica a few years ago. In your article, you mentioned that you used a consolidator that charged an additional fee. I'd encourage people interested in doing this to do their research and consider making their arrangements directly with the school to avoid this (very high) fee. I didn't see any benefit from going through the consolidator since there are schools in Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, elsewhere with long established records. With the internet, it is easy to make arrangements directly with the school of your choice.

Andrea Sachs: So glad you enjoyed the piece. The company I booked with was not a consolidator, and it was nice to save time and not have to shop around for school and to feel confidant that my homestay would be legit. But I agree with you: If you have the time and research at your fingertips, go ahead and book directly with the language school.

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Re: Airlines: For many years, I have NEVER flown an American carrier to overseas due to service issues. Unless you are business class (which I am not) you don't get anything from them. On the other hand, in economy of pretty much every carrier out of the US, you get a decent meal, smiling and helpful staff, and you get a good experience overall, at least that is me, the flights include Air France, Swiss, Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific, Malaysian Air, Thai Air, Air New Zealand... As for United charging for food, it is a good enough reason for me not to fly them compared with any others. I have a tight budget, but I am not going to give my money to any company who doesn't appreciate my business and cannot treat me as a human being. End of story. Also, I want to know which hotel has the TX waffle iron?

Carol Sottili: Austin chatter, can you help?

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While in Philadelphia..: Philly has a bizarre museum called the Mutter Museum. It's full of medical anomalies like deformed skeletons and a giant colon. If you like watching Discovery Health channel, you'll like this.

Andrea Sachs: Ick but cool. Thanks!

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Best Summer Trip: Aruba. Beautiful. We flew on United from Dulles. Paid $5 for snack boxes - they were much nicer than the "free" snacks we used to get. Actually, we found Dulles a difficult place to get a breakfast snack while changing planes - or dinner on the way home. We will go to Aruba again. Beautiful, nice people, unbelievable water breeze, sunsets.....

Carol Sottili: So Aruba again on a different carrier?

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Alexandria, VA: Bonaire's a scuba paradise, but its beaches are small and coral. It's all shore diving, so make sure you rent a jeep. It's down near Venezuela, so the weather will be hot. You'll be underwater, though.

Scott Vogel: Bonaire in the summer info...

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For few hours in Oslo...: If it's summer and/or warm, hit one of the many beer gardens on the water. Or if you want something more cultural, visit the Folk Museum (Norsk Folkemuseum).

Enjoy!

Scott Vogel: Oslo's beer gardens -- great suggestion for a short visit.

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Friendly foreign skies: I agree with the person who praised non-US carriers...Lufthansa is fantastic, but so is Georgian Airlines (formerly AirZena). Flew them from Paris to Tbilisi last summer and it was 100% better than my flight from PHL to CDG on US Airways. Kind of reminds me of the old Avis commercials...they try harder -- and it works!

Carol Sottili: Another vote for foreign carriers.

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Best Summer Trip Ever: The Galapagos were beyond words. Plus, Ecuador uses the US dollar as currency, so you don't get hit in the pocket due to the weak dollar. Opt for a smaller boat and see the more remote islands. It is the trip of a lifetime.

Andrea Sachs: Indeed it is.

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Takoma Park, MD: I'm not really sure this is the right forum for this but I have a question on how to handle a situation. I recently booked a flight on AirTran through their web site. I knew there would be a $75 cancellation fee. It so turns out the next day that I had to cancel the flight. When I tried to so so I was informed that I could only cancel by telephone and that doing so would cost me an additional $15. I was of course quite livid and refused to cancel with them but dealt with my credit card company. Is this a normal thing now where airlines make you pay to get help from them? Because of this experience I will never use their services again nor will I ever recommend them to anyone I know. Thanks....

Andrea Sachs: We have never heard of that before. You should not be charged for canceling, but perhaps they were charging you for re-booking?

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Washington, DC: Another Philly question - do any of the lowcost buses (like MegaBus, Vamoose or Bolt) travel between Philly and DC? They all seem to go between NY and Philly, but I can't find any that go between DC and Philly - and I'd really rather not do Greyhound.

Christina Talcott: Today's Bus goes there, from 6th and I in DC to 11th and Race in Philly; you can get tickets at ivymedia.com. But I wouldn't rule out Greyhound because, unlike Greyhound stations in most cities, the one in Philly is right in the heart of the city, at Market East.

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Washington, D.C.: Flying United out of IAD in November to Europe. Can you guys do an article about good food to bring on planes?

Carol Sottili: I'll make you some ziti, but it's going to have to be light on the sauce to get through the liquids ban. Seriously, maybe a good topic for a story would be the restaurants that offer carryout at the various airports, and which ones are best.

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L' Enfant Plaza, DC: I've been up to Philadelphia quite often and I have never been disappointed with the food. Reading Terminal, when it's open, has a bunch of terrific counters inside. Otherwise, just wander and see what strikes your fancy. I was up there for Live 8 a few years ago and I just wandered into a random restaurant, an Italian place, and had a wonderful meal. Go nuts!

South Street and Chinatown are great too. Prepare to drown in food if you go to Chinatown.

Christina Talcott: More Philly suggestions...

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Edmonton: My big summer trip was to Norway. The first two weeks were spent circumnavigating Spitsbergen in a small ship. We saw the solar eclipse (partial, couldn't get far enough north for the total eclipse because of pack ice), polar bears, walrus, glaciers, and other 'close to North Pole' wonders. Then two weeks were spent in Norway. Several days in Reine, Lofoten - we'd wanted to take a rib into the Malestrum and visit the caves with 3000 year-old drawings, but that didn't happen. The Hurtigruten (ferry) down the coast to Geiranger to see the UNESCO designated fjord, bus to Andalsnes (spectacular scenery) and train to Oslo. Three days there (could have used four), then home. The weather cooperated, people friendly. Next year - the beach!

Andrea Sachs: Wow, that is the end-all summer vacation! After that, the beach will be so boring.

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Chantilly, VA: To the person wanting to drive from BWI to IAD--definitely give yourself more than an hour (unless you meant 5 am). I've driven between Chantilly and BWI in the wee sma's, and it still takes an hour with NO traffic. While Sunday's probably the best day of the weekend to drive, I'd still give at least an hour and a half.

Andrea Sachs: Thanks for the extra advice. Maybe you should allow yourself more driving time.

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Falls Church, VA: I'd much rather not have a meal on a Europe-bound overnight flight. Why? I plan to arrive at the terminal with enough time to eat a big meal just before boarding. Just as I board, I take a Tylenol PM, which helps me sleep for most of the flight across the Atlantic. 9 times out of 10, the meal they serve is terrible, and I never feel like eating at 11:00 at night, which is when it usually gets served....

A nice breakfast would be nice before landing, but again, when did anyone last have anything decent for breakfast in coach on a plane? Usually it consists of doughy, super-sweet underbaked muffins and barely ripe pieces of fruit. The yogurt just explodes all over you if you try to open it anyhow!

I'd much rather wait till I land, and get a hot, large coffee and bagel in the terminal while waiting for my bags.....

Carol Sottili: But what about the way home, which is a much longer flight during daylight?

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Summer trip report: Not sure "proud" is the right adjective, but this 3-week trip was pretty good. Flew to St. Petersburg, Russia, toured for 3 days; then to Moscow by train, 2 days; then onto a private luxurious train to do the whole Trans-Siberian "Express" route with stops in Kazan, Yekatarineburg, Novosibirsk (where we saw a total solar eclipse), Irkutsk, day-trip to Lake Baikal (I guess I'm proud that I swam in the cold lake!), Ulan Ude, and Vladivostok. Then flew home via Seoul and Tokyo, so crossed every time zone in the world.

Andrea Sachs: Yes, be proud with a capital P. That is quite a journey.

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Washington, DC: I want to travel to Vietnam in the spring, visiting Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and other sites. (I wouldn't mind a stop in Ankgor Wat as well, but it's not necessary.) I'd like to do this as a tour, since I don't speak Vietnamese, and would like the insights that a tour guide can provide. Does the Flight Crew or your awesome chatters have recommendations for tour companies in Vietnam? (I'm not worried about getting there, I'm really only interested in tours once I'm there.) Thanks!

washingtonpost.com: Vietnam Travel Stories (Post Travel Section archives)

Andrea Sachs: When I traveled to Vietnam, we went with a medical group and visited hospitals in addition to the attractions. However, if any chatsters have recommendations, please speak up.

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Silver Spring, MD: My husband and I are thinking of spending 2 weeks in China this winter. We have never been and do not speak the language at all. Would it be realistic for us to get around without tour groups? We have managed pretty well in Japan and Europe despite language barriers, but I worry that China may be far too difficult. We would like to see the sites and the big cities - no need for anything too exotic or off the beaten path...Any insight or advice is appreciated!!

washingtonpost.com: China Travel Stories (Post Travel Section archives)

Carol Sottili: None of us have been to China, but please read the story linked here. Chatters have any ideas?

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Bethesda, MD: Hey Guys!

Thinking about going to Nicaragua in November for a pre-Thanksgiving vacation since we all know Thanksgiving isn't really a vacation. Anyway, all we know is that we want to be on a beach. Any recommendations?

Andrea Sachs: Sorry, never beached there.

Any Nicaragua beachers out there?

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DC: Namibia suggestions - we were there in January, and did half the trip planning ourselves, and the other half through bookings with a company called ATI Holidays based in Windhoek, who were very professional, and tailored a fantastic self-drive camping safari despite our low budget. It was the first time I've ever used a tour company for a holiday planning, and I would definitely recommend them. You can find them on the web. The other place to get good info on specific locations and companies is on the Thorn Tree at Lonely Planet's website.

You must go - Namibia is FANTASTIC, one of the most beautiful places I've ever been to. Just make sure you take the locals' advice about driving times. It really does take that long to cross huge expanses of desert on dirt roads. Don't try to cram too much in!

Andrea Sachs: Thanks so much for helping out.

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Toronto: My summer highlight was managing to buy tickets and get on (and off!) the correct train from Moscow to Sergey Posad, site of one of the most sacred monasteries in Russia, with a knowledge of Russian and the Cyrillic alphabet from my guidebook. My boyfriend and I misnavigated through the Moscow metro and missed our day tour so we decided to venture out on our own and do it ourselves. The most amusing part was the train ride on the elektrichka where salesmen and women wander through the cars, make a short spiel demonstrating a product's uses (e.g. a Panama hat with a mosquito net), and then offer it for sale.

Andrea Sachs: Lucky you didn't end up in Siberia.

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Washington, DC: I and two 30 something girlfriends will be traveling to Miami, South Beach for the first time next week! I know it can get really crazy down there. And while we are not really the club, disco type, we would love some suggestions on fun things to do while we are out there, both sights and restaurants (esp. Cuban!).

washingtonpost.com: Miami Vice-Less (Post Travel Section, Dec. 11, 2005)

Scott Vogel: It CAN get crazy. It can also be hot, especially -- oh -- next week. BUT -- you don't have to be a club type to enjoy the scene. I really recommend investigating (via self-guided tours or the other kind) the wealth of Art Deco architecture, which was really key to the Miami renaissance. Also consider rollerblading or bicycling your way around to enhance your people-watching experience (which is not like people-watching anywhere else). All of the restaurants on Ocean Drive are worth a look, although the quality varies. I've spent many a happy breakfast morning at the News Cafe

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Overseas carriers: I have to smile when I read these grandiose generalizations about how much better overseas carriers are than US carriers. My brother and his family (based near Geneva) have had horrid experiences with KLM, Air France, and any Italian air carrier you can name (the last time they flew KLM, there was no A/V service in the entire cabin and three toilets weren't working). BA's recent mismanagement of Heathrow's Terminal 5 made paying for your meals seem like bargain. Believe me, overseas carriers are no panacea, except in the minds of those who think anything from Europe is superior to anything from the US!

Carol Sottili: Like I said earlier, I've seen both sides, good and bad. I flew Alitalia a couple of years ago and the seat cushion was missing: I had to sit on the metal with only a slipcover over it because the flight was booked. Plus the entertainment system was broken, and the flight attendants told me to get my own water when I interrupted their game of cards. But my flight back was fine. Go figure.

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DCA to DPS: Hi Crew,

I'm headed to Bali in Nov! I transfer through Taipei, and I have less than 2 hours to change terminals and flights. My travel agent says this is plenty of time. Should I believe her?

Also, what do you know about China Air, the Taiwanese carrier?

Thank you!

Andrea Sachs: It should be enough time, unless your plane is delayed. But the airport in Taipei in manageable.

China Air is respectable. Not high end, but safe enough.

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DC: Best summer trip -- ALASKA! Magnificent scenery, amazing wildlife, interesting people.

Andrea Sachs: Bet the bears thought the same thing, too.

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DC: Hey, travel gurus. I have 2 weeks in Japan -- what should I do there, where should I go/not go?

Thanks.

washingtonpost.com: Japan Travel Stories (Post Travel Section archives)

Carol Sottili: Go to the link for a collection of our stories on Japan.

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Alexandria VA: We're planning a trip to Provence next year. What's the best time to go - May or September? And what's the prettiest place to stay in? We don't want a big city; looking for a place where we can walk down the street and find a bistro for lunch/dinner. Also, my Dad will be 88 years old so it should be a place that's not too hilly.

washingtonpost.com: France Travel Stories (Post Travel Section archives)

Carol Sottili: Go to the link for our collection of France stories.

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meeting at Heathrow: There are designated meeting places in the lobby outside customs. Look for the big sign.

Carol Sottili: Yes, but do they serve coffee?

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Alexandria, VA: Did a driving vacation to Nova Scotia this year. Drove to Portland and took the Cat Ferry to Yarmouth, then drove around the southeast coast (Lighthouse Route) up to Halifax, then up to Cape Breton Island. Three nights at the Keltic Lodge and a visit to the Glenora Distillery were quite nice. Came back down the west side of the mainland through Digby, then took the ferry back to Maine. Played golf at the Highlands Links on Cape Breton Island (simply STUNNING) and at the Digby Pines. My only regret is that it rained more than I might have preferred, but it was nice for the rounds of golf and for the drive around the north end of the Cabot Trail, so I can't complain.

Gas came to about $463 for around 2,500 miles driving. Getting to take your own golf clubs, drive your own car, not have to worry about the TSA stealing your liquor, etc., makes it well worth it in my view.

Andrea Sachs: What a great trip. Fits you to a --no, I won't say it.

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When in Oslo: Regarding the previous question, don't miss the Vigeland Sculpture Park.

Scott Vogel: Thanks...

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London: For the Heathrow-bound, which terminal are you flighting into? I've never flown into 5 on an international flight, but from the other terminals, after Immigration, you pick up your luggage, and then go through one doorway if you have something to declare and another if you don't, and are then dumped out into the big greeting hall. And since there's only an hour between flights, depending on when you're arriving, it's possible you could even meet up with the others in your party in luggage collection.

I would recommend arranging to meet somewhere that isn't a coffee shop or other typical meeting place. You're probably better off arranging a set time and place such as the entrance to the Tube, regardless of the transportation you'll be taking away from the airport. Or, you could ask someone from your party to stand near the entrance with your name on a sign...

Carol Sottili: If they figure out the name of the coffee shop beforehand, they should be fine.

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Herndon, Va: I mentioned my trip to Oregon earlier - forgot to note that Southwest did a good job of improvising - our Saturday morning flight out of Dulles was delayed enough by thunderstorms farther west so we missed our Chicago (Midway) non-stop to Portland. So . . . the Southwest agent at Midway had us back on the plane we just left, and we went Chicago - Denver - Salt Lake City - Portland. It wasn't fun, but we arrived the same day (5 hours later than planned) and all baggage was at the Portland Airport by that night. Coming back, SW held the Chicago-Dulles flight for half an hour to allow passengers from another delayed flight to get on the plane. My kudos to Southwest, BUT, I'll probably pay more the next time for United's non-stop from Dulles to Portland.

Andrea Sachs: Go Southwest! (I am a big fan, too).

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Music, AL: Hi, loved the article on cultural trips. Most of the ideas were for visual or culinary experiences, though. Any ideas for someone who's musically inclined? Thanks!

Christina Talcott: There are lots of places you can go and study music. Off the top of my head: Interlochen College in Michigan has lots of programs in the summertime; the Augusta Heritage Center at Davis and Elkins College in West Virginia has music lessons as part of its Old-Time Week in October(www.augustaheritage.com); and a few years back, my dad spent a week at Jazz Vermont, which calls itself "Band Camp for Grownups" (www.jazzcamp.com). If you like jazz, Down Beat Magazine lists other summer camps for musicians of all ages (www.downbeat.com/campguide.asp).

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DC: Hi Flight Crew! A friend and I are visiting Thailand for the first time this November for 12 days (including flight time). Do you have suggestions on where to go? We want to end the trip in Bangkok and aren't that interested in hanging out on the beach. And would we have time to fly over to Angkor Wat in Cambodia or is that just too much?

Thank you!

washingtonpost.com: Thailand Like a Local (Post Travel Section, Sept, 29, 2002)

Carol Sottili: No Thailand experts here today, but read this story.

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great eats in Philly: Philly is such a great food town! The #1 don't-miss is Capogiro Gelato, which has 2 locations in Center City. Other than that, dig the BYOB scene, bringing your own wine to great places like Mercato for Italian, Matyson for New American (weekday tasting menu for $45 is a great deal), or Kanella for Greek Cypriot -- oh, the possibilities are endless. Skip the cheesesteaks and get a roast pork at DiNic's in the Reading Terminal Market. Enjoy the trip!

Christina Talcott: Yum!

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Anonymous: Does anyone have any experience with kvstool.com? Is it useful for an individual looking for the best rates for business class airline tickets to Asia? How about firstclassflyer.com? These both require fees for membership. I'm wondering if they give good returns for the fees.

Andrea Sachs: Never used them.

Anyone have any experience with these sites?

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Philadelphia, PA: Leaving for Colombia tomorrow. Any last-minute advice? We'll be in Bogota and Cartagena for about 4 days each.

washingtonpost.com: In the New Cartagena, Night Life Trumps Strife (Post Travel Section, Dec. 9, 2007)

Scott Vogel: Running out of time here, but by all means check out this Cartagena article of ours from last December...

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Re; Philadelphia: There is a nightly walking tour which is designed by lasers and lights projected on historic monuments. It is very informative and interesting, you can find about it at the visitor center and the Independence Hall - the office is practically across from the Independence Hall for this tour. Also, there is a ship called Moshulu on the harbor, it has great meals and brunch, but I particularly enjoy having drinks on the outside deck watching the sunset. In the evenings there is a free trolley you can take to the ship, otherwise it is in the harbor, definitely a must in my experience

Christina Talcott: Terrific!

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For Philadelphia visitor: A very cool site is the Tiffany Dream Garden Mosaic, close to Independence Hall. See http://www.gophila.com/C/Things_to_Do/211/U/Dream_Garden/18.html for more info. I grew up near Philadelphia and never knew about this until I went back for a visit a couple years ago.

Christina Talcott: Sounds amazing. Thanks!

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Labor Day Parents: I would like to suggest Williamsburg. My in-laws love this place so I have been many times since I married my husband. There really is something for everyone. There is the Colonial area which is interesting and fun to amble around, Busch Gardens and Water Country for those who like amusement and water parks, golf courses, a new Spa in Colonial Williamsburg. You can also go to Jamestown and Yorktown. And there is an outlet mall in Williamsburg. I have been before kids, with infants and this year a 4 and 7 year old. And the trip was always good. Of course, watching my in-laws enjoy themselves so much is a pleasure and they are built in tour guides.

Christina Talcott: Thanks!

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Expat now repatriated: We went to Shetland and Orkney this summer. We had 2 days in each (it was a UK based tour) and ferry rides between. What we loved: Neolithic ruins and standing stones, birds, quiet, seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney at the same time as one of the Italian POW builders was there (he's 92). This was something we'd long wanted to do, but it's so remote (12 hour overnight ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick, 6 hours from Lerwick to Kirkwall, 6 hours from Kirkwall to Aberdeen) that we'd not done it before.

Andrea Sachs: How lovely. Thanks for sharing.

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DC: I'm going on a last minute short trip to Venice and was thinking about a side day trip to Verona.

It's a quick train ride there, but was wondering if it is worth it to spend the whole day and overnight in the city? I'm not into the whole fake Romeo and Juliet tours, but it seems to be an interesting city anyway. Or is there another city anyone would suggest?

The hitch is that my day trip will be the last full day of my vacation. I'll have to get to Marco Polo airport in the morning, so longer distances are out of the question.

washingtonpost.com: My Verona (Post Travel Section, May 4)

Carol Sottili: I think you'll find plenty to do in Venice, but take a look at this story to help make your decision.

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Waffle Iron: The La Quinta Inn Capitol, on San Jacinto and 10th East.

Andrea Sachs: Thanks! Worth going to Texas just for the waffles!

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proudest summer travel moments: I'm proudest that I walked into a slightly sketchy-looking restaurant on a deserted street in Paris. I would have normally passed it by, but one in our party encouraged going in. It turned out to be one of the most pleasant and memorable meals we had on the whole trip - great service and food! Sometimes going outside your comfort zone is the most rewarding.

I'm also proud to have snagged a late-season plane ticket to visit a close friend having a rough year in Florida for only $150!

Andrea Sachs: A tasty surprise, indeed.

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Cook Islands: For the poster who asked about the Cook Islands last week... you will love it. It's one of the most beautiful places in the world. Make sure you take a day trip to Aitutaki (easily bookable once you're there), and go snorkeling. Horseback riding around the island is an nice way to see it, and be sure to go on one of the local island tours - hiking if you're up for it, by jeep if for a more leisurely ride. Do keep in mind that most of the island does not have A/C, and it can get pretty hot and humid. Also make sure to bring bug repellent, the mosquitoes there can be nasty! There's a weekend market which is great for fresh fish and local souvenirs. Plan to bring back some black pearls - they are much cheaper than in the US, and the color variations are amazing.

Andrea Sachs: Thanks so much for coming back to tell us about Cook Islands. Much appreciated.

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Andrea Sachs: Well, like the summer, that chat also flew by. Thanks so much for your questions and for sharing My Summer Vacation with us. We love to hear your stories. It lets us dream, and plan for next year.

We are off next Monday for the holiday, so we will see you in September.

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