Talk About Travel

Favorite warm-weather getaways in the wintertime, Cancun, Iceland, Warm Springs, Va. 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: get ready to hit the slopes! The Flight Crew looks for deals on ski packages, tries on the latest high-tech gear, and heads west to check out the skiing in Ogden, Utah.

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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Christina Talcott: Hello, chatters, and thanks for joining us today for our weekly Travel Chat. I hope you all had nice Thanksgivings, despite the travel snags some of you have reported (which we're happy to post). We'll also try to answer any of your questions about the travel-related effects of the recent tragedy in Mumbai and the airport seizures in Bangkok.

With the cold weather looking like it's here to stay, we're getting a lot of questions about quick getaways to warmer climes in the coming months, so I wanted to ask you: Where is your favorite warm-weather getaway in the wintertime? Bonus points for accessibility and budget-friendliness, and the most helpful suggestion wins a tote bag.

Ok, let's go!

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Washington, D.C.: Are we reporting on Thanksgiving travel? It took us 4 and a half hours to drive to way uptown NYC leaving at 1 Tuesday (fastest time ever), and took us 6 and a half hours to get home from way downtown leaving same time on Saturday. Argh. Biggest slowdowns when the turnpike merged, and, gosh, Delaware.

Scott Vogel: Yeah, Delaware: perennial fly in the ointment of all travelers in the corridor. But wow, that 4 1/2 hours -- not bad at all.

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20782: we are planning an early February 09 trip to Mexico via Cancun. A quick check shows a number of airlines service Cancun so I assume we should wait for a sale -- when will there be airfare sales?

Carol Sottili: No crystal ball, but there is plenty of competition on this route: United, Delta, JetBlue and USA 3000 fly nonstop from either Dulles or BWI. I'd keep checking directly with those airlines, and then sign up on several Web sites for sale notifications (www.farecast.com, www.orbitz.com, www.kayak.com and www.priceline.com are a few).

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Washington, D.C.: Please help with a timely ski related question. I would like to go away for the weekend for some skiing. Somewhere that is within driving distance, however, I am a bit of a ski snob being used to Colorado mountains - what is the best place to go within driving distance without being too disappointed?

Thanks!

Nancy McKeon: It's a bit of a poke (4 hours driving time, or maybe more), but Snowshoe in West Virginia reported 40 inches of snow in the 10 days preceding Thanksgiving. It has a vertical drop of 1,500 feet, and it's high up in the Monogahela Forest. Speaking of vertical drops, did you see our ski chart on Sunday? It was in our Winter Ski Issue, and there are almost 20 ski areas, some here, some out West, listed with the best deals our reporter could find.

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Arlington, Va. (currently Bangkok): Hello. I am among the tens or hundreds of thousands of people being held hostage in Bangkok at the moment by the short-sighted political protesters. I was due to fly home last Thursday night. The nice ladies at the United city ticket office rebooked me for Monday morning, but the chances of that flight happening look very bleak as I write this on Saturday afternoon local time. I am supposed to be at work Monday morning. The situation in the city itself seems to be more or less normal. But there are lots of dazed Westerners like me wandering around looking sad. If anyone out there has plans to come here, I would say don't do it. I have been here three times now. But I will not be back for a very long time if ever. It is a shame because most Thais are wonderful people. And tourism is vitally important. But no one here seems to have any will to lock up the lawless mob that is holding us here against our will. There does not appear to be any rule of law. There are plenty of beautiful, nice countries to be enjoyed where you don't have to worry about whether or not you will ever get back home. I also visited Laos on this trip and enjoyed Lunag Prabang very much. And southern Cambodia which was a little crazy but very nice. Lots of French and German tourists in those places.

Scott Vogel: Thanks for this timely update. As you can imagine, we are getting several questions regarding Thailand today. The situation is very fluid. We'll try to report on the latest information throughout the chat.

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Bangkok Transit: Hi Crew!

Submitting a little early. Travel plans will take me to Bangkok at the end of January. This is a vacation within Indochina; all the tickets have been bought.

I don't think the protest is going to last till then, but what are my options, other than coughing up some $$ for another ticket to some other exotic places, in case it does?

I don't imagine the airline (in this case Bangkok Air) will refund because the airports are closed (I am actually going to fly into and out of both airports)?

Thanks!

Scott Vogel: As of this moment, the ongoing protests have "shut down the city's two main airports and stranded 300,000 foreigners." I don't think anyone can predict how long the current situation will last and whether it will improve (or deteriorate) in the near future.

According to the Bangkok Air Web site, the airline will indeed fully refund passengers scheduled to travel on days when the airport is closed. They will also rebook flights without imposing a change fee. When and if the airports reopen, normal change/cancellation fees will apply.

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Washington, D.C.: My elderly parents are about to give up on their great love -- travel -- because my father is not very stable on his feet anymore, and falls down on occasion, has a hard time getting in and out of low-slung cars, etc. I would like to help them find ways they could keep on seeing the world. They are very independent and intellectual, and frown on most packaged tours. Are there any local travel agencies that specialize in arrangements for semi-disabled travelers? Or any tour companies that might work? Do you have any other thoughts?

Christina Talcott: While they may have to change their travel style a bit, there's no reason to give up traveling entirely, and the tour packages of yesteryear are no longer the only option. Accessible Journeys (www.disabilitytravel.com), Flying Wheels Travel (www.flyingwheelstravel.com), Accessible Europe (www.accessibleeurope.com) and the Guided Tour (www.guidedtour.com) all specialize in travel for people with limited mobility and other disabilities; Accessible Journeys and Flying Wheels can help arrange independent trips all over the world if your parents would rather travel on their own. As for method of travel, a couple I know have started taking cruise vacations due to his recent heart trouble. They can visit lots of different places (Europe, Asia, Alaska) without ever having to change hotels. Smaller ships are better for more independent-minded travelers, and any of the above companies can offer suggestions. Anyone else have advice for travelers with limited mobility?

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Philadelphia, Pa.: Hi Travel Crew! Submitting this early: My husband and I are thinking of going on vacation to Sicily in January/February, and are trying to figure out if we're crazy. We're not really worried about the weather, but more about the island being shut down. I realize beach towns won't have much going on, but in general are hotels, restaurants, shops, and sites open at this time of year?

Carol Sottili: I went in November, and it was great. I think Sicily is probably easier to deal with during the off season when it's not as crowded. Some of the smaller beachfront resorts may be a bit slow, but urban venues and historical sites will be open. Average day temp in January is about 50 degrees. There will probably be snow in the mountains. Two books to read before you go: The Leopard by Giuseppe di Lampedusa and The Stone Boudoir by Theresa Maggio.

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Cherry Hill: Please help! We're flying British Air this Wednesday with our 3-month old daughter. We plan to bring our Graco snugride car seat and stroller. Can we bring these to the gate and gate check them? Or will we have to check them when we check in with the agent? If so, do I have to box them?! I have scoured the BA website and only found something about fully-collapsible strollers being allowed on. I don't know if this qualifies. Should I just call the airline? Many thanks - I'm nursing her - no bottles, so any tips for traveling with an infant are appreciated.

Carol Sottili: I believe you'll have to check the car seat, unless you've purchased a seat for your baby. But you won't have to box it. I haven't traveled with a baby for a long time. Anyone have any tips?

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Washington, DC: What's up with Delaware? On Thursday, tolls in MD and NJ each had between 7 and 9 booths open. Delaware: 3 (non-EZ Pass). We waited close to 40 minutes to pay the toll. You'd think they'd want to get people through quickly... what gives?

Scott Vogel: Someone needs to investigate this Delaware impasse.

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McLean, Virginia: Dear Flight Crew,

My wife and I want to book a travel package for our family of five for next summer. The travel agent is National Geographic Expeditions. The cost for the five of us is listed in their catalog as $7,195 per person, or $35,975 for all of us.

Are travel companies in National Geographic's Expeditions' league offering people that book now any assurance that price cuts will be passed along, if they occur, between now and next summer?

The 800 operator at NGE today responded, "No."

I have no confidence in that response. I imagine the behavior of NGE's competitors, in the face of a difficult market, will determine whether NGE's policy changes between now and next summer. Am I wrong, based on your experience during previous (less serious) economic downturns?

Thank you.

Carol Sottili: I doubt they'll rebate you. Sometimes tour operators will offer last-minute price cuts to fill trips, but the fine print almost always says that the reduction does not apply to previously booked slots. And upscale tour operators with good reputations, such as National Geographic Expeditions, don't usually offer any price cuts. If you're concerned that prices will drop, you're probably better off waiting to book.

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Arlington, VA: To Cherry Hill, at USAirways in DCA we allow gate check for strollers and car seats. Children 3 and under are considered lap children and don't count in the seat count.

Carol Sottili: What's the benefit of checking a car seat at the gate? I can understand a stroller, but may be missing something re: car seat, unless it's part of the stroller?

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Reykjavik: I'm considering a trip to Iceland in March or so on Icelandair. Problem is, they don't fly out of the DC area, and I'm trying to fiddle with connecting flights in JFK or Boston.

First, is it a bad idea for me to book a RT flight to one of those other airports separately from the Iceland flight?

Second, if I do book two separate itineraries, how much time should I allow for customs/depositing bags/retrieving bags, etc.?

Third, is it insane to even consider going to Iceland in March to begin with?

Christina Talcott: I went to Iceland a couple of weeks ago (read all about it this Sunday!) and faced the same conundrum. I booked a flight from BOS to KEF and decided to take the train to Boston from DC for the trip out, then fly AirTran from Boston to BWI to get home. The train was a mistake - it took 10 hours instead of 8, so I was a little stir-crazy when I finally got to Logan. For my flight from BOS to BWI on the way back, I gave myself 3.5 hours, which was plenty of time, especially since I only had a carry-on. Also, I was flying AirTran, whose security line at Logan is only for a couple of gates and is pretty quick. That said, three hours is about the shortest connection time I'd recommend, especially if you're checking bags. As for weather, Iceland in March will be cold (around freezing during the day) but still totally worth it. Pack your long underwear, fleece, hat and gloves, warm socks and sturdy shoes and you'll have a great time.

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Low Budget option for warm weather destinations: I have relatives in South Florida and Southeastern Texas so I could, if I choose, go and "visit" with my relatives.

Christina Talcott: Good point - staying with friends and family really helps save money. Thanks!

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Getaway: I think Key West is a great option for a getaway. You can fly direct or fly into Miami and drive. Once you are there, there are many lodging, dining and shopping options at all price points. There is an active nightlife and great atmosphere for families and singles alike.

Christina Talcott: Nice suggestion. Even though it's long, I love the drive down the Keys, as the weather gets warmer and warmer...

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New York, N.Y.: Thanks for your ski article today. I'm looking for ski packages for January and was wondering if you know of anywhere out west that does air, hotel and ski packages all together? I'm finding that airfare to Utah, Reno, and Colorado is super expensive even if I find a good ski and stay deal. Any tips?

Nancy McKeon: Our Ski Deals author, Paul McHugh, pointed the way to the Whistler Blackcomb resort area near Vancouver (though maybe that's too far for you). Anyway, the resort buys blocks of airline seats from Seattle and Vancouver and then sells them at a discount as part of its ski-stay packages. That's one thought (but you're still on your own getting out to Seattle or Vancouver). In most of the deals we looked at last week, the ski areas limited themselves to hotel and skiing. But maybe others know of deals???

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Warm spring break!: My mom wants to go someplace warm over my spring break-- which will be much needed since I go to school in Chicago. Any suggestions for someplace warm (preferably not Florida), reasonably priced and with easy flight access? We are thinking 5 days. Thanks! I love your chats!

Carol Sottili: The Riviera Maya area south of Cancun may be a good choice. Nonstop flights are offered from both Washington and Chicago, so you could even meet there. There are plenty of all-inclusives at all price points. We stayed at an Iberostar, which was reasonably priced.

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Arlington, Va.: Favorite winter getaway: Cabarete, Dominican Republic. Fly into Puerto Plata (POP), which is only about 25 minutes from Cabarete. It loses points for accessibility because you have to either change planes or drive to NYC to catch a nonstop, but it's not terribly expensive (yet), has great restaurants and a nice beach, and the people are really friendly. It helps if you speak some Spanish, but it's not an absolute requirement. We're leaving on Dec 20 for our third trip there since 2006.

Christina Talcott: Sounds like a gem. Thanks for the tip!

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Washington, D.C.: While we're talking about Bangkok traveling, what about going to India? What would you do if you had tickets to depart in less than 3 weeks?

Scott Vogel: Here again, the situation remains fluid. A statement on the its Web site reads, in part, "The Department of State advises Americans planning to travel to Mumbai in the aftermath of the November 26 terrorist attacks to recognize that it may be some time before all public infrastructure and services return to normal. Emotions are running high and there are possibilities of demonstrations which could turn violent." There are several more important tips to keep in mind (see link below).

If the trip is optional, my advice would be to forego it, but maybe that's just me. At the very least, check with your airline to see whether there are special change or cancellation fees that might apply.

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Cherry Hill again: Thanks for the responses - I'd prefer to gate check the car seat/stroller, so we can use them for her until we have to board the plane. If we have to check them when we arrive at the airport, we're stuck holding her for 2/3 hours until we get on the plane.

Carol Sottili: I'd call British Airways just to make sure.

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washingtonpost.com: India Travel Alert (U.S. Department of State)

Scott Vogel: Here you go.

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Washington, DC: I had a similar Thanksgiving trip -- about 4 hours to get just north of NYC last Monday... then 6.5 hours to get home on Saturday. I was very sad. I have to say, though, I love my EZ Pass and can't understand people who don't have one. I only need it about 4-6 times a year, but it is so worth it! It would also be nice if there were high speed EZ Pass lanes down here like that have up North. Guess things just move slower in the South.

Scott Vogel: More reports from the Thanksgiving front. Thanks.

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NoVa; for BA Cherry Hill: Hi,

Flying to London tomorrow, and BA sent me this re: baggage:

for infants under 2: One bag Maximum dimensions per bag (H+W+L): 158cm (62in) Maximum weight per bag: 23kg (51lbs)- Plus one fully collapsible pushchair (stroller) and one car seat

You don't have to box them. I fly this route monthly, and see car seats and collapsible strollers on the baggage carousel each time.

Carol Sottili: Yes, I saw that on the Web site, but it doesn't say anything about whether you can check these at the gate or need to check them with luggage.

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re McLean: This person is ready to drop $36k (what some people make in an entire year) on a family trip, and s/he is concerned about the price dropping a few hundred dollars?!

Carol Sottili: Or maybe a few thousand dollars?

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Atlanta: Car seat and stroller: get to the gate, and gate check it. You drop it off while you're walking onto the plane, right by the stairs. You shouldn't have any problems at all, you can then keep them until you get on the plane.

Carol Sottili: Final word.

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Arlington, Va.: Regarding a weekend ski getaway, any place that is close enough to drive to from D.C. for a weekend is going to be chancy in terms of snow availability and quality. As far as I'm concerned, Snowshoe is more trouble than it's worth, particularly since it may have slush or glare ice. Seven Springs, which is just this side of Pittsburgh, is about 4 to 4.5 hours away and may have decent snow. Likewise Canaan Valley, W.V., which is about the same drive time, but the roads aren't as good.

The best skiing I've ever had on the East Coast was at Sugarloaf, in Maine. Obviously not driving distance for a weekend, unfortunately.

Carol Sottili: If you have a long weekend and can nab an airfare sale or have frequent flier miles, I say just fly out West. You can get an early nonstop flight out to Salt Lake City, for example, and be skiing by the afternoon in Park City.

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For Cherry Hill: Here in the US, you should be able to gate check the stroller and car seat, assuming it's one of those integrated strollers, but that said, call the airline. If you've purchased a seat, don't forget the seat base for installing the infant seat. Lap babies are usually 2 and under. As for in Britain, call BA. The reason I say this is that we got a nasty surprise in Australia when we had to check the stroller at the check-in desk and convince the agent that we had purchased a ticket for our 1 year old son, so she would let us take the car seat through. Actually, flying in Australia with an infant was a comedy of errors (flight engineer required, not required, no-show of said engineer, infants with car seat in certain rows only, then that was muffed up -- argh!). Thank goodness my kids are now 6 and 8 years old!! Good luck!

Carol Sottili: Never a dull moment traveling with kids.

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re: Delaware Tolls - Avoiding them: Instead of waiting in line to pay toll, get off at the last exit in Maryland, circle through Newark DE and get back on I-95 at the first exit in Delaware - about 5 miles in total. You have saved both a 40 minute wait at the toll booth and a $5.00 toll.

Scott Vogel: Delaware: the update continues.

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Arlington, Va.: I traveled between Reagan and Detroit last week on Northwest. The flights were fine but because of the fifteen dollar fee to check one bag each way (which I did), there were quite a few people dragging their bags on to the plane and stuffing them into the overhead bins which was not the joy that it could have been. It might be better for the airlines to charge the fee for people bringing their luggage on to the plane.

Christina Talcott: Ooh, I would hate that! I'd rather they enforce the carry-on size or make it easy for people to gate-check oversize bags.

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Eastern Market, D.C.: I had an unexpectedly pleasant surprise when recently booking my Christmas holiday plane ticket through American's website. I selected an itinerary that would cost just over $400 -- pretty much what average cost for a non-stop from DCA to St. Louis during peak holiday travel times. I then placed the reservation on 24-hour hold while verifying dates with family members. When I returned to purchase the ticket about 10 hours later, I got a message saying that the ticket price had changed since I made my reservation, and that the price was now $338 -- i.e., at least $60 CHEAPER.

On the one hand, this illustrates the frustrating volatility in ticket prices, which the airlines seem to change at whim every 15 minutes. On the other hand, I was extremely impressed that American gave me the credit, with no extra work on my part. I was already at the point of completing the purchase for the $400+ price when I got the message about the price change, so it didn't appear to be a marketing ploy per se. (Unless the ploy is to create an artificial price drop to leave me with some lingering warm and fuzzy feelings for American). Was this a fluke, or a new trend?

Carol Sottili: I think it's American's policy, as this has happened to me on several occasions while planning trips on the airline.

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Brunswick, Md.: The Grand Illumination at Antietam discussed in yesterday's Travel section is indeed a memorable experience, but the article should have stressed more that you sometimes have to wait hours and hours to get in. It does note that 2,000 cars are expected, so it probably goes without saying that you should anticipate massive tie-ups, but if you're not prepared with reading material, food, water, blankets if it's cold, or are not a very patient person, this may not be your thing.

washingtonpost.com: An Illuminating Drive Through Antietam (Post Sunday Source Section, Nov. 30)

Scott Vogel: Hi there -- the article you're referring to actually appeared in yesterday's Sunday Source section, not Travel, but your point is well-taken anyway!

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Washington D.C.: Hi Crew,

Heading to London tomorrow for a pre-Christmas break. Lots of venues have ice skating (Tower of London, Kew Gardens), but I was wondering if you all know whether a person must bring his/her own ice skates, or can they be rented once there? The websites don't say.

Thanks!

Scott Vogel: A little Internet searching turns up several travelers who have reported being able to rent skates, certainly at the Tower of London rink. Hopefully that's possible at Kew Gardens as well.

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Dead Week Getaway: Dear Crew,

I want to go to a local-ish (i.e., no farther than 2 hours) B&B or similar snug place for a few days between Christmas and New Year's Eve. If price were no object, where would you go? I don't need lots of activities, just a warm and quiet place with good food.

Thanks!

Christina Talcott: I'd vote for Warm Springs, Va., right near the Homestead, where there are lots of luxurious but inexpensive places to stay, good restaurants, the Jefferson Pools and wild places to hike. The Inn at Gristmill Square has fireplaces in some of their rooms (starting around $90/night) and delicious food at the on-site Waterwheel Restaurant. I still dream about that place, it was so relaxing - but it's 4 hours away. Inn at Little Washington's more expensive but also closer and more luxurious, and Inn at Perry Cabin's a favorite in St. Michael's. Anyone else have suggestions?

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Heathrow connection: We have a choice of a 2 hour layover at Heathrow (on American Airlines), or 6 hours. I know that a while back Heathrow was a nightmare and conventional wisdom was to allow a minimum of two hours. Any idea whether it's better now? If it matters, this would be for a trip in October. Thanks!

Christina Talcott: I vote for six hours, since you can always fill spare time but you can't do anything about missing a connection. Better safe than sorry.

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Bowie, Md.: When I went to Mexico for the first time 2 years ago (to the Riviera Maya), the dollar was worth about 10 pesos, making transactions there in dollars easy.

I'll be going back soon, and see that it's now about 13 pesos to the dollar. How do travelers handle it now? I'm not looking forward to doing a lot of math in my head (even if it is simple math) while on vacation.

Nancy McKeon: When the math gets anywhere above basic, I create little "milestones" in my head, just for a ballpark figure. So you know that 13 pesos is $1, then 26 is $2, and 130 pesos is $10 and 260 pesos is $20 (if I've done the math right!). I don't know to know about every last penny. And if you just want to calculate based on 10 pesos = $1, you'll just get a discount that will become a pleasant surprise at the end of your trip, when you have money left over. (Also, I confess -- my phone has a calculator...)

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Germantown, Md. working in D.C.: My favorite cold-weather getaway is the only one I've been able to take, but I really enjoyed Miami. I went with my partner over the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. long weekend a few years ago and, unknown to us, booked a hotel on Ocean Drive that was in the middle of the Art Deco festival. We enjoyed spending a day or so walking and perusing the vendors' wares and enjoying the street shows. Plus, there's something to be said for being able to lay out on the beach and (sarcastically) say, "Ah, skin cancer!"

Christina Talcott: Wow, sounds terrific. Thanks!

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Falls Church, Va.: I will be going to Costa Rica on business at the end of January. I'll be traveling without my husband so I don't want to do anything too elaborate for fear of making him jealous about being stuck in DC in January, but do you have any suggestions for a couple of days of activities at the beginning or end of my week there? I was thinking of a couple of nights in a nature preserve so that I could do a bit of bird-watching and hiking. Can you recommend anything that is fairly convenient to San Jose?

Carol Sottili: Just got back from Costa Rica - story is scheduled for publication on Dec. 14. The Selva Verde Lodge is very nice (www.selvaverde.com): It's about two hours from San Jose, and they will arrange transport. Closer to San Jose is Hotel Bougainvillea (www.hb.co.cr), with amazing gardens. Or get in touch with Rachel Gomez at the new Costa Rican Birding Route to see if she can arrange a short trip for you: www.costaricanbirdroute.com.

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Bronx, N.Y.: For the poster with the mobility-impaired parent - I've been there, at least domestically. My father took several vacations while wheelchair-bound. If your father uses a cane or walker, travel should be relatively easy to arrange. The key will probably be phone calls: to airlines to confirm front-row seats and wheelchair assistance in the terminal, to hotels to inquire if a room has a shower stall or a tub that you have to step into, to specific car rental offices to find out exactly what kind of car is an "intermediate" in Peoria, to the theater box office to clarify the ease of getting to the "accessible" seats and bathroom, etc. If low-slung cars are a problem, rent something larger or higher from the ground, such as a minivan or a vehicle with all-wheel drive. If necessary, book the accessible hotel room (but ask if it's close to the elevators - some hotels put their "accessible" rooms at the far end of the corridor, which is fine if you're in a power chair but painful if you're not). If your father needs more help than a walker, it is possible to fly with a wheelchair and rent an accessible vehicle at the destination; many hotels also offer things like shower chairs or tub benches. And people in the travel service industry are typically very good about lending a hand when somebody has a visible disability. But your parents shouldn't stop traveling just because it's a little harder for your father to walk. The key is to identify what works at home, then plan aggressively to transfer those strategies to the road. Good luck to your parents!

Christina Talcott: Terrific tips. Thanks for writing in.

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Washington, D.C.: Flying to Hawaii this June. Airfare currently $900ish. Buy now or wait?

Carol Sottili: Wait. Sales sometimes drop that fare by a couple of hundred dollars.

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washingtonpost.com: 2008 Ski Guide (Post Travel Section, Nov. 30)

Christina Talcott: Here's some ski info...

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Baltimore Md.: A happy Thanksgiving travel story: My girlfriend and I go to Chicago every Thanksgiving to stay with friends. Usually we fly United, but we bought tickets early this year because of the stories about the reduced number of flights and soaring fuel costs. American gave us the best price from BWI. What we did not realize was that we were booked on American Eagle, the commuter arm that flies small jets handling about 50 passengers. We were apprehensive when we found out at the airport last Tuesday, but the entire experience was smooth. The overhead bins are small, so sizable carryons had to be checked at the gate, meaning there was no delay in boarding as people tried to jam their bags up above. With two seats on one side of the aisle and a single seat on the other, there was no dreaded middle seat to contend with. And deplaning on both ends was quick, as there were so few people on board, even on a full plane. Finally, when we returned to Baltimore, our checked luggage was on the carousel by the time we walked to baggage claim. It was a smooth, on time trip out and back -- the least hassle I have had flying in many years, let alone on Thanksgiving.

Scott Vogel: I recently flew one of those American Embraer jets myself, and I couldn't agree with you more regarding their efficiency and convenience. I found myself enjoying the experience far more than when traveling on larger jets.

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Bethesda, Md.: Hello,

I'm looking for places to go for New Year's. Criteria: affordable flights, preferably warm temperature, casual events on New Year's, and other things to do for the next couple days. We prefer not to pay big bucks for a NYE party, but good food, music, fun people etc. We don't mind paying for a good restaurant, great band.. How is New Orleans? Any place in Calif. that would be fun? How is Asheville? We can drive or fly, no issues with that. Couple in mid 40s, well-traveled, love fun, food, and music.

Christina Talcott: I haven't been to any of them for New Year's, but they sound like good options, especially low-key Asheville. Anyone have tips?

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London Ice Skating: If you go to Somerset House for skating, which is my favorite of the special rinks, you can rent skates once you get there. It really is a great experience to skate in that courtyard!

Scott Vogel: Here's more encouraging news re London skate rentals.

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skates: Kew - you can rent: http://realtravel.com/kew_gardens- journals-j3098232.html Don't forget Somerset House - where you apparently rent hockey skates: http://realtravel.com/london-reviews- a3136774.html

Scott Vogel: and still more good news....

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DE tolls: There are three ways you can bypass the Delaware line....get off the last exit take 279 going north which becomes route 2. Make a left onto Delaware highway 4 (there is a shopping plaza on your left at this light where you make a right -- I think it's a Food Lion) -- then a few lights down is state route 896 where you make a right (to the left in the University of Delaware football stadium) then you hit I-95.

The other way is getting off and take US 40 into Delaware and make a left on Hwy 896 and hit I-95. The other way is via Hwy 301. That will bypass much of the I-95 mess.

Scott Vogel: Delaware -- the state that just keeps on giving.

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Stormville, N.Y.: To "Eastern Market" -- It may seem that fares change every 15 minutes. In reality, they are updated four times a day. And yes, I, too, had a fare drop with AA after a hold (as a matter of fact, I am on the trip right now).

Carol Sottili: I don't think airline pricing is that simple, but no, it doesn't change every 15 minutes.

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Philadelphia, Pa.: Every holiday I hear the same complaints about I-95 in Delaware from people traveling back to DC from Boston, NYC, or North Jersey. Easy solution: add 30 minutes to your trip and go through eastern Pennsylvania. From Boston, take I-84 W into Scranton, then I-81 S to Harrisburg, then I-83 S (or Rt 15 if going to NoVa). From NYC/Jersey, either I-80 E to I-81 S and follow above directions, or I-78 W to I-81 S to Harrisburg, and follow above directions. Not hard, is it?

Scott Vogel: And giving.

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Costa Rica help please!!!: My travel buddy backed out on our New Year's trip to Costa Rica. But I had been really looking forward to it and now see this as the chance to do that solo-international-travel thing I've been saying I wanted to try. I'm a single 33-yr old woman who doesn't speak Spanish (but getting my Rosetta stone on HARD between now and the trip ... and I'm good with languages). I'll be there Dec 31- Jan 5 and wanted to stay on the Caribbean coast. Is that "safe"/well advised for me? Should I plan to stay on Pacific coast or San Jose instead? Thanks!

Carol Sottili: I felt very safe in Costa Rica. People were gracious and welcoming. San Jose is a big city, and I wouldn't recommend staying there for the week. I don't know much about the coasts, as I stayed in land at ecolodges. Anyone out there have an idea?

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Arlington, Va.: I am going on a long-planned vacation in Thailand on December 27th. As you can imagine, I am terribly concerned that the situation at the airport in Bangkok will cancel my trip. What do you recommend as ways to either get around going directly into Bangkok but still salvaging my Thailand vacation?

Christina Talcott: Look into rerouting your flight into Chiang Mai, which is a train ride away from Bangkok but also worth a stay, from what I hear. I'd call your airline now to discuss it.

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Skisn, OB: Don't forget Timberline in Canaan Valley. Very laid back and good long runs. If you are not looking for the nightlife - this is the place to go. Rent a house.

Christina Talcott: Thanks for the tip!

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Alexandria, Va.: I know that I'm just speaking to the peanut gallery here, but if you're going to fly and carry on your bag PLEASE make sure that it's not too large and that it actually fits in the bins. I was on a completely full flight yesterday and all the bin space was full. Fine -- my husband and I had to give up our roller bags, along with several other passengers, to be put under the plane with the checked baggage. A minor pain, because we had to wait for them at DCA, but whatever, it was a holiday travel day, crowded planes are to be expected, roll with the punches, right? Unfortunately, other passengers wouldn't part with their luggage, which resulted in an argument between a passenger and a flight attendant when his huge, overstuffed rolling duffel bag wouldn't fit in the overhead bin. As he tried to jam the bin door closed, the whole door broke off, resulting in several bins having to be emptied (and the luggage checked) and a 45 minute delay while we all sat on the plane and waited for maintenance to come and decide that they couldn't fix the bin (they ended up taping it shut). If this @$-! passenger had just checked his bag in the first place (or learned how to pack lighter), I wouldn't have walked in my front door an hour late after an exhausting day of travel yesterday.... Thanks for allowing me to vent and pass on my PSA :)

Christina Talcott: That sounds awful. I'm sorry it was such a hassle. I'm passing it along.

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5A: Just wanted to post a message about the 5A Metro Bus service to Dulles. I optimistically used this service on Saturday afternoon. With no traffic and no bad weather, the trip took an hour and thirty minutes. The boarding time at Rosslyn took 15 minutes. No passengers boarded at the two bus stops in N. Virginia. However, the bus driver did get off at Tysons. Perhaps to use the bathroom. In addition, there was inadequate space for luggage and not enough seats. People were standing in the aisles.

Christina Talcott: Sounds unpleasant. Thanks for the report. Anyone have a similar experience on the 5A bus this weekend?

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Kendall Park, N.J.: Hi! My favorite warm-weather getaway in not-so-warm weather is a Caribbean cruise! Cruise ships depart from so many cities so that you don't even need to endure the hassle of flying -- you can just drive or take a bus or train to your ship! And the cost is surprisingly low compared to the cost of airfare plus a resort. Go cruises!

Christina Talcott: One vote for cruises!

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hello Flight Crew -

I'm flying out to San Francisco in March however noticed tickets range in from $400-600. I recently went to Paso Robles and bought tickets two months before my trip for $600 (1 stop) and then noticed that they went down to $250 (non-stop) 6 weeks before the flight.

When is the optimum time to book a flight and take advantage of the best price? Is there a recommended timeframe?

Thank you

Carol Sottili: You just have to hit the sales. It's like that 52-inch TV that was $500 cheaper on Black Friday than on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Also, contact the airline when the price changes by that much. Even if you have to pay a penalty, it'll still be worth it to reticket. And some airlines will give you vouchers that can be used on a future trip.

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gate checking: Even more importantly - if there is a spare seat (a rarity, I know), they will give you the seat for your baby and move you. It is a godsend to have a spare seat when traveling with an infant. In the years we traveled with our infants, we were probably given a seat about half the time (we always arrived early and immediately asked if the flight was full).

Carol Sottili: Good point.

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Falls Church: Thanks for your great discussions! I'm looking to spend a year teaching English abroad. Because I don't know the exact date that I will visit or return, is the cheapest option to buy a round-trip ticket now, with a penalty if changing the return date? Or are there better options that exist for someone spending a longer than normal period abroad?

Christina Talcott: I'd buy a round-trip ticket closest to the time you think you'll be going home, then pay the penalty if you decide to change it. The other option is buying a return ticket once you're there, but i'm guessing you want to buy the whole thing upfront, right?

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Warm weather destinations: Well, my suggestions won't get any bonus points but they are great for getting away from the cold weather. Three times I've gone to Rio de Janeiro at the end of Jan/beginning of February and its really helped break up the cold months. This past year I went and we also took a little trip to Buenos Aires, which is now one of my top three international cities in the world. Such a beautiful place, I would go back in a heartbeat.

Another good option is Costa Rica which I just got back from before Thanksgiving. The country is beautiful and has something for everyone: beach, rain forest, outdoor activities, etc. And it's warm but not humid.

Christina Talcott: Sounds lovely. Thanks.

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re elderly travelers: I agree with your posting on recommending cruises for the elderly. I have taken my recently departed aunt of 85 and my mother aged 75 on cruises several times. There are day trips that can be arranged but what I usually do is when we get to port, I hire a taxi for the day. The cruises also offer all kinds of entertainment and activities that are perfect for all ages. When my two companions do something on board then I can go snorkeling or other day trips that they would not be interested in.

For warm getaways, I recommend the Outer Banks during the winter months. The temperatures are usually warmer than here and I can usually find rental houses with access to swimming pools for 1/4 the in-season rate. We get a group together and have a blast.

Christina Talcott: Great. Thanks!

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Travel for those with limited mobility: In response to the previous poster, my husband and I faced a similar problem when he developed a disability in his leg due to cancer surgery. It took a bit of research and creative thinking, but we were able to continue traveling independently. We had to change our travel habits quite a bit, but we still wound up having some great trips, and seeing places that we might not have otherwise seen had we both been more mobile.

Ways in which our travel plans changed: Hotel accommodations became the priority. We picked hotels -- and splurged on rooms -- with a great view, and nice public spaces. E.g., the Fairmont Hotel overlooking Lake Louise. We stayed in one place for the entire trip, rather than dashing between cities. We always used skycaps, porters, and private drivers/guides. Eventually, this just became a routine part of our travel planning, rather than a limitation.

That said, I am glad to see that there are also agencies that will organize such trips for you.

Christina Talcott: More on traveling with mobility issues.

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Allentown, Pa.: What's the best way to see Alaska? I was thinking about taking a 2-week cruise and although the itinerary interests me, I've never been cruising before and the $5,000 price tag seems like a lot.

Carol Sottili: We went on a cruise on a big line, and I regret going that way. Try a smaller cruise line, such as Cruise West (www.cruisewest.com), or, if you're a little adventurous, the Alaskan Ferry (www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/index.shtml) is an alternative.

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Christina Talcott: Well, that's it for us today. Thanks for joining us!

For the person with the two-fer answer on cruises for those with limited mobility and hitting the Outer Banks in the wintertime, please send your name and address to talcottc@washpost.com. I hope you all can join us again next Monday. Have a good week!

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