Talk About Travel: Travel Staffers Help You Plan Great Escapes

Midlife crisis-inspired trips, layovers in San Francisco, Croatia, cruise tips 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. They were online Monday, June 1 at 2 p.m.

Browse an archive of previous live travel Q&As.

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Scott Vogel: And how are all of you this fine June afternoon? Yup, we're stuck inside too, but they can't stop us from dreaming, can they? Fellow dreamers Nancy McKeon, Carol Sottili, Andrea Sachs and Christina Talcott and yours truly are all here, ready as usual to talk Travel with you.

Anyone read the new book "Halfway to Heaven" by Mark Obmascik? This enjoyable memoir, by a Pulitzer-winning writer, chronicles the efforts of a 44-year-old, flabby Pulitzer type to climb, in a single year, all of Colorado's 14,000-foot mountains, of which there are ... 54.

The theme of today's contest, not surprisingly, is midlife madness (your own or someone else's). We want to hear about a travel experience that you think was directly inspired by a midlife crisis. Bonus points for telling us whether traveling helped alleviate said crisis. Best story wins a copy of Obmascik's book. Let the games (and, oh yeah, the questions) begin.

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South Riding, Va.: My prayers are with the families and friends of the passengers of the Air France flight that disappeared. I hope that as the day continues that there will be some good news.

Scott Vogel: Yes, our hearts go out to the passengers' families and friends as well. Sadly, as of now -- according to the Air France Web site and several media outlets -- it does not appear that the news will be good.

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Bethesda, Md.: Afternoon, Flight Crew!

Is a four hour layover in San Francisco enough time to have dinner? I will be on my way to Hawaii stopping in SF. If it is can you recommend someplace close to the airport?

Thanks and Aloha

Christina Talcott: Unfortunately, I wouldn't count on being able to make it into the city for dinner and back in such a short time. On the BART, it takes at least 40 minutes to get to the 24th St. stop in the Mission (mm, tacos). However, the nice thing about SFO (which is where you'll be, right?) is that there are a bunch of local restaurants that have branches in the airport, so you're not just stuck with Sbarro and McDonalds. Here's a list of dining spots in Terminal 1. Anyone out there have a recommendation?

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Bowie, Md.: I recently realized that I could save half by renting a car at an off-airport location rather than at the airport of my vacation destination.

Other than the minor hassle of taking a taxi from the airport to the off-site rental car location, are there any drawbacks I should be aware of? Do any rental car companies somehow prohibit this (e.g. won't rent to out-of-staters except at airports)?

Christina Talcott: Renting a car from a non-airport location can be a great way to save some money, in part since you won't have to pay those airport concession fees. The only drawbacks to renting off-site are the one you mentioned - the hassle of getting from the airport to the other location - and that off-site locations' hours tend to be shorter. Make sure you check the hours, since oftentimes airport locations are open 24-hours, or at least 7 days a week, whereas many city locations are closed Sundays, have shorter Saturday hours, etc. So just pay attention to your timing and you should be just fine.

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Washington, D.C.: Hello!

I am looking for some assistance in creating an itinerary for a trip to Croatia this summer - have Plitvice National Park, Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar island, and Zagreb. Any other can't miss destinations?

Nancy McKeon: Those sound to me like the high spots. Our itinerary last year also included Korcula and Trogir, but that's cuz we were cruising up the coast and it was easy to stop at islands. If possible, try to hit Plitvice on a weekday, when there may be fewer crowds--you walk to the various waterfalls on wooden walkways that get rather jammed up with people. And when you head inland to Zagreb, you can see ruined houses and virtually abandoned villages left over from the war. Sad, in a very beautiful country.

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London tips: I just got back from several days in London, my sixth visit. I recommend the Courtauld Gallery for a small yet choice collection of fine art that is blessedly free of the huge crowds that you can get at other museums there AND free on Mondays until 2 p.m.; the West End production of "A Little Night Music"; the Henry VIII exhibition at the British Library; and Gordon Ramsay Plane Food at Heathrow Terminal 5. I treated myself to a delicious lunch for the flight home. It was a bit of a splurge but way better than the British Airways food, and I got to keep the insulated, zippered container the meal came in.

Scott Vogel: Thanks for the report! I too have heard great things about the new production of "Night Music."

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Conyers, Ga.: I have a connection to make in Madrid and am a little concerned I won't have enough time. I'll be flying on Iberia Airways from Tenerife to Madrid landing at 10:00 a.m. My next flight, on Delta, departs Madrid for the U.S. at 11:30 a.m. I will not have any checked bags, just have to get from the Iberia terminal to the one Delta departs from. Your thoughts? Thanks.

Nancy McKeon: Maybe I'm just a nervous traveler, but that's too tight for me. And given that it involves two airlines, you could be left in the lurch if things go awry. Chances are, of course, that your Tenerife flight will land on time and that you'll zip right over to the Delta gate, but I don't know about going through security again and such (I don't know about Madrid, but I've had to do it when transferring in Paris). Any chatters have thoughts?

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Makawao, Hawaii: After a week in Salzburg, we have an unplanned week on the road in Austria. Any suggestions? Anyone familiar with Zell am See or the Hohe Taurn area? Aloha, John

Carol Sottili: My mother comes from Austria, so we still visit relatives there in the Wels area, which is a small city surrounded by rolling farmland. For a more scenic area in Upper Austria, several incredibly scenic lakes - Traunsee, Attersee and Mondsee - are ringed with villages that offer lodging, restaurants, etc. The town of Gmunden on Lake Traunsee is one of my favorites. If you like spa towns, consider Bad Schallerbach, which offers outdoor music festivals and a fine spa.

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Dallas, Texas: Do you have any tips for how to get the best deal on round-trip airline tickets to a major European city? We really want to go to Europe this summer, preferably either London or Paris, or both, but if there is a city that tends to be less expensive to fly to, we could also consider that. Are there any Web sites, particular airlines or any other means of booking flights that you could recommend?

Carol Sottili: There have been lots of good sales to Europe for summer travel. Read What's the Deal? each week in the travel section, and you'll probably find one. I believe that Aer Lingus, Delta and Finnair are all offering sales right now, although some may only be out of New York. You can sometimes save money by flying out of JFK or Newark. London is often cheaper than other cities. Try Kayak or Bing (formerly Farecast.com) for an overview. Vayama sometimes offers lower fares.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey there, F Crew. I leave on my first cruise ever in two weeks. Can't wait! Do you have any tips for a cruise newbie?

Andrea Sachs: The cruise lines are great at walking newbies through the drill. When you arrive, you will get a card on which you can charge items throughout your trip (the expenses are charged to your credit card); that way you won't have to drag cash around. If there are formal nights, bring along some nicer attire (some people get decked out a la prom; others deign to wear shoes). Also, research your ports and have an idea beforehand what you might want to do, see, explore. The ship offers on-shore excursions, but prices are higher than if purchased through an island outfitter. However, since this is your first time, you might want the ease and comfort of signing up with the ship.

When going aboard, be aware of alcohol rules (in case you buy some rum or other island spirits). The boat has restrictions amount of liquor you can bring onboard.

Gratuities can be headache: who you tip and how much. For guidelines, read this before you go.

Finally, if you are traveling to the Caribbean, don't forget your passport. Oh wait, finally-finally: Have fun!

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Paris-in-a -day report: Several weeks ago I asked chatters for ideas about spending a day in Paris, and got some very helpful advice. I've returned from the trip and offer a brief report.

I had originally planned to more or less follow Rick Steves' suggested one-day itinerary for a trip from London on the Eurostar (Notre-Dame, Sainte Chappelle, the Louvre, the Tuileries Gardens, the Champs-Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower). However, I decided to follow a more leisurely route and am glad I did. That's just more my style. I taxied right to the Louvre from the train station. Thank goodness I had printed out the "Masterpieces of the Louvre" self tour from the Louvre website. (Thank you, Christina Talcott.) It was perfect, giving me a rich sampling of the vast collections and saving me time by sending me on elevators and through hidden doors. I ate lunch at one of the Louvre cafes, enjoyed a rich hot chocolate to go from one of the cafes in the Tuileries, and walked around the gardens. I decided I just couldn't pass up the Impressionist paintings at the Musee d'Orangerie, at the other end of the Tuileries. Lovely. And then I strolled down the Champs d'Elysees to Laduree, a gorgeous old cafe where I enjoyed a fabulous pastry and had fun watching the tourists and the Parisians, both of whom patronize the place. And then it was time to taxi back to the train station and head to London. (I skipped the Metro this time because I wanted to see as much of the city as possible.)

And now I can't stop thinking about Paris and plan to return within the year, for a week's visit.

Thanks again for everyone's suggestions.

Christina Talcott: Wow, what a great report! I'm so glad it worked out, and I'm thrilled to hear that the Louvre self-tour guide is so helpful. Hitting the Orangerie for Impressionist art instead of crossing the river to Musee d'Orsay was an inspired move, and I love that you made time for that classic Parisian pastime, cafe-sitting. Thanks so much for writing back!

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Austin, Texas: Planning a family Christmas which includes a White House staffer who can't get away for long, or even too far (in case she gets called in). Any advice on a resort within 90 minutes of D.C. that will suit 3 generations of foodies and have an indoor pool for 4 year-olds? Thanks a lot!

Scott Vogel: We're having trouble meeting your 90-minute requirement, but if you could stretch it to two hours, maybe consider the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay. Other thoughts: King's Mill resort in Williamsburg, and the Inn at Perry Cabin. More thoughts out there?

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Long Island, N.Y.: We recently made an online reservation with the Doubletree Hotel Portland in Portland, Oregon. We subsequently found a $50 charge on our credit card statement for the Doubletree Hotel. Are hotels now charging for making reservations and if so, why aren't customers informed in advance?

Carol Sottili: That charge wasn't for making the reservation. Resort fees? Minibar? I'd call and ask.

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Making Madrid Connection: I would make sure there is a flight later that day for peace of mind, but no reason you shouldn't be able to make that connection. Look at the online map of the airport so you'll be prepared for the terminal transfer. Do not dawdle, make a beeline for your terminal, and keep an eye open for new passport gates opening if the line is long.

Nancy McKeon: Good advice . . .

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Reston, Va.: I'm looking for a family-friendly, but not over-run by kids, resort in the Caribbean for late July. Any recommendations? We've got a 3-year-old and a 10-month-old so all they need is a beach or pool to be happy.

Andrea Sachs: If you don't want a kiddie circus, stay away from big all-inclusives like Beaches or massive resorts like Atlantis in the Bahamas. If all you need is a pool and beach, you can really choose any resort. Hilton or Wyndham, for example. For an alternative, my sister, bro-in-law and little niece recently rented a villa (with pool) in Belize and had a wonderful time, without the crazy commotion of a resort. However, keep in mind with such small ones, you may want a nonstop flight. If that's the case, look for resorts in Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Bahamas or Jamaica.

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San Diego, Ca.: I purchased flights on Expedia about two weeks ago for a family trip for four in early July. It now looks like my wife may have a job interview which would conflict with the trip. Expedia's travel insurance covers losing a job but not apparently getting one. Can you recommend any travel insurance which may be more flexible? Any experience in dealing with either Expedia or the airlines (American out/United back)? Unfortunately, the $150 per ticket airline change fees plus the $30 per ticket Expedia change fees cover over 75 percent of the total airfare. Thanks.

Carol Sottili: Expedia just stopped charging fees, so that $30 may be waived. Airlines are not going to waive the fee. As for travel insurance, there are policies that cover cancellations for any reason, but they are expensive, they don't reimburse 100 percent and you typically have to buy within two weeks of booking your travel.

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Washington: For the first time cruiser, bring something like a surge protector or something with multiple plugs because ships are notorious for having few and inconveniently placed electrical outlets.

Andrea Sachs: Good advice. Thanks!

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Springfield, Va.: Hi Crew! I'm leaving on a crazy month long cross country road trip on Wednesday (YAY!) mainly focused on visiting as many major league ballparks as possible (16) in the time we've got. Since this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I want to make sure to remember it as best I can, and think it would be fun to pick up some sort of souvenir in each place we go. Obviously driving to California and back that makes for a lot of souvenirs, so I'm hoping you guys or the chatters will have suggestions of something cheap I can bring back from each place... I'm thinking something like bumper stickers, but then I wonder what I would do with them when I return. Any ideas? If you could only bring back one thing from each trip to you take(besides photos of course) what would you go for?

Nancy McKeon: Why do you think God invented postcards!? I have shoeboxes filled with postcards from 40 years (gulp!) of travel. I hate carrying a camera, but I still have lots of views (and my favorite works of art). And what about those pressed pennies--there's often a machine nearby. I think this is people in Europe started collecting demitasse spoons with the city's coat of arms on them--they're tiny. What about picking up rock and shells and a gambling chip or two and then drilling holes in them and making them into a keepsake bracelet or just something to hang on the back doorknob (the clanking will remind you of your trip!). I sure there are more-practical suggestions out there!

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Slovenia: Scott,

Thank you for the article on Ljubljana! I missed the chat last week because of the holiday. Did you see a lot of the beekeeping stuff there? And are the stag parties starting to subside? It looks like such a lovely city, and one in which you could easily combine a trip to Venice, no?

Scott Vogel: Thank YOU! You know, the beekeeping lead was one that I didn't follow up, although I the subject did come up a few times while I was there. Seems to be a very popular pastime there. I actually didn't see any of the stag parties, just some raucous British business types ...

YES -- Venice and Ljubljana are a great combo. Just a couple of not-exhausting train rides and you're there.

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Washington, D.C. Sunday's Travel section highlighted an AirTran sale "through October" but their website will take reservations only through August. What gives?

Carol Sottili: I have no trouble getting reservations on AirTran through October. Try it at www.airtran.com.

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New York , N.Y.: We just returned from two weeks in Spain. Most of it was spent visiting various paradors in the Costa Brava region and the Basque region, after four days in the gorgeous city of Barcelona. If your readers, who are aged 55 or older, want to consider a relatively inexpensive vacation, Spain should be considered. The Spanish Government has been buying up old castles, monasteries, mansions, fortresses and ski lodges since the 1920s a restoring them into three and four star hotels. With the senior discount they offer to any couple where one of the parties is at least 55, this becomes a bargain as the rooms include a full breakfast buffet for both that is beyond any buffet we ever see in the USA. You may end up not having bell hop service but that is a small price to pay for luxury living at a very affordable price. The parador we stayed in in Hondaribba (a 45 minute drive from the Guggenheim in Bilboa) was a 10th century fortress that became the summer home of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella and was used by Spanish royalty until the 1920s. It sits right on the harbor with a full deck outside of overstuffed chairs and umbrellas so you can relax any time of the day. Check the parador website - note that some paradors can be had for $90 a night (60 E) if you do not have the breakfast (another 32 E pp). Paradores Spain - Spanish Paradors - Parador hotels

Carol Sottili: Thanks for the travel report. My favorite part of Spain is the Costa Blanca coast, although I've not stayed in paradors there.

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Croatia: For DC's trip to Croatia, think abut adding Pula, if you will have enough time. Otherwise, I think you have hit the highlights. And I second the recommendation for Krka National Park on a weekday. However, even on a weekend the crowds aren't awful (although it will depend on the tine of year you are there).

Nancy McKeon: More on Croatia. Note: the Plitvice lakes are in Krka National Park. I have to disagree about the crowds, though: last June, on a Sunday, they were close to unbearable: You couldn't really stop along the walkways for a breather without having an entire Japanese tour group crash into your back. Also, those wooden walkways require alertness, which takes away somewhat from just strolling and drinking in the beauty! There are wider areas, though, in front of the major cascades, where you can linger without being in someone else's path.

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for xmas trip near D.C.. with pool: Drive 120 miles to Sea Colony in Bethany Beach - a massive complex of beachfront condos and bayside condos, townhouses and even some stand-alone homes. there are five indoor pools, a huge indoor tennis center with lessons and matches and holiday tournaments. some of the pools have hot tubs. Bethany is the site of a polar bear dip - I think New Years morning. Shop the outlets, bowl, visit boutiques and brew pubs and ice skate indoors all within 25 miles of Sea Colony. Be sure to book in a condo with a pool you don't have to go outside to get to.

Scott Vogel: Help regarding previous question re a good driving destination at Christmastime. Thanks.

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Nashville, Tenn.: Driving to Atlanta for five days for an anniversary get away, where should we spend our time? Hotel/restaurant advice? Neighborhoods to wander through? We're 29 and 31, not into the club scene, more wander an aquarium/picnic in the park types. Thanks!!

Andrea Sachs: Many people like to stay in Buckhead, because of the number of restaurants and high-end shopping. However, having recently stayed there, I would instead opt for the Virginia-Highland neighborhood, which has much more character. (Check out the Highland Inn; it's not glam, but has a great location and entertaining ballroom in the basement.) After exploring the downtown sites, explore these worthwhile neighborhoods.

For dining, options include: Fat Matt's Rib Shack, Floataway Cafe, the Varsity, Canoe, Watershed.

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San Francisco, Ca.: I'm on the west coast, and my cousin in the Midwest wants to go with me to London, since I know it so well. The only time we can both go is the week between Christmas and New Years. Airfares seem crazy - almost $1,000 (incl. taxes) from anywhere in the middle of the country, but oddly cheaper from the west coast. The fares don't even drop much in mid-January, which should be way off-peak. Oil isn't expensive and the dollar is still strong against the pound. What's up with these fares? Should we book now or wait?

Carol Sottili: It's all about competition. More airlines from to London from the East and West coasts (just found a $680 round trip fare from Dulles to Heathrow on Virgin Atlantic leaving Dec. 26 and returning Jan. 2, for example). That's a good price. Chicago will probably have the cheapest prices - try from there.

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Vienna, Va.: Just a quick question for you and the chatters... I wanted to get my parents a nice luggage set for their anniversary. Any suggestions? What is usually a good brand to buy? I feel like they need a better quality set than the one they have.

Christina Talcott: What a nice present! I like Samsonite because they're well-designed and are super-hardy. The 3-bag set I got 12 years ago is still in great shape, and one of their newer, carry-on spinner bags (with 4 wheels on the bottom) is a delight to use. I'd recommend buying them each a carry-on size spinner bag (no more than 45" when you add height+width+depth), plus any of the following: A larger bag (maybe 24"-29" tall), a shoulder bag, a garment bag and/or a backpack or backpack-size rolling bag, taking into account your parents' usual destinations and methods of travel. Halliburton and Tumi are other well-regarded brands, and I like Eagle Creek's sporty and tough bags. Anyone have other suggestions?

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Ballpark: They can check this website to see if the baseball stadiums have their own pressed penny machine.

I know the Nationals have one.

Nancy McKeon: Good advice for the small souvenir hunter! Thanks.

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Ballpark tourist: How about picking up a mini-bat at each of the ballparks? There are good bat-holders you can buy which hang on the wall to display them.

Nancy McKeon: Very cool! Thank you.

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Re: Souvenirs : I do a fair amount of traveling and the one thing that I like to pick up is magnets. Of course, not everyone loves a fridge covered in magnets :)

Nancy McKeon: More portable souvenirs! Thanks.

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Baseball Stadium trip: I took a similar, though smaller trip a couple years ago. My keepsake from each game is a picture of the front of the stadium and the ticket from the game which I then get framed together. Its a great way to remember the games. I continue to do it whenever I go to a new ballpark.

Nancy McKeon: I guess this stuff beats demitasse spoons and plain-vanilla postcards. Thanks.

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New Zealand saved my midlife crisis: My most fabulous travel experience was directly related to my midlife crisis. I turned 40 in 2005 and felt "stuck". Didn't know what to do until I read the life-changing article in your section on New Zealand, the one that starts with, "If you've not gone to New Zealand don't spend any more time thinking about it, just go", or something like that.

So I did -- I took a 3-month sabbatical in Dec 2006 through Feb 2007 and spent the time being a 41-year-old "backpacker" and hiking and figuring stuff out. It worked and I came out the other side of the "midlife crisis" and am a different person in some ways.

New Zealand is really the most beautiful place on Earth and more than once, I was standing somewhere stupendous and thought, "Now how can I figure out how to move here and get a job (legally)."

I see New Zealand in my dreams. I can't wait to go back. It all started with you guys!

(no need for book, just sharing)

Scott Vogel: Wow, thanks for sharing!

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Seattle, love SFO: I find the place with the crab sign in Terminal 1 is wonderful - excellent food, good drinks, and not too expensive.

Plus great lemonade and iced tea, and good atmosphere - it's the one across from the bookstore and my favorite place to hang out when en route thru SFO.

Christina Talcott: Hmm, anyone know what this place is called?

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re: Renting a car off-airport to save $$: Watch out- a few years ago my now-husband and I rented a car at a rental facility outside of the Denver airport to avoid those same fees but the guy at the counter said that even though we'd flown in the night before and were at an off-airport location, he had to charge us the airport fees anyway!

Nancy McKeon: Denver may be a special case--there were a lot of special fees assessed for the no-longer-new airport. But this is a word to the wise: It wouldn't hurt to check rather than assume. Thanks.

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San Francisco, SF: For Bethesda, MD: I would definitely try to make it out to the mission and grab a burrito (La Taqueria is awesome). If you feel that is too tight of a timeline, I would suggest: La Boudin and Yankee Pier for seafood, Andale for okay Mexican, and Perry's for American food (burgers, etc.). And don't forget to have a cup of Pete's coffee.

Christina Talcott: Awesome, thanks for the suggestions!

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Washington, D.C.: Hi, Crew - Is Southwest the only airline with a no-fee ticket change/cancellation policy? Thanks.

Carol Sottili: Probably not - world has many airlines. But it's the only major domestic airline that lets you put the cost of the ticket toward another as long as you use within one year.

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SoMar: Hello, I am a recent graduate and since I can't find a job, I've decided to travel. I have looked into group things like Contiki, EF College Break and ISV. Are there any others?

South Africa is my destination. I saw I can fly to Barcelona for about $500 but it's three times that to South Africa. Any thoughts?

Carol Sottili: Try Studentuniverse.com and Statravel.com. South African Airways also has frequent deals. Try Flysaa.com or Flysaavacations.com for packages.

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Vienna, Va.: My fiance and I will be traveling Air France in November for our honeymoon. My question concerns seat upgrades. Do you think that upgrades to a higher class are worth it for 11+ hour flights? My fiance has a very difficult time sleeping on planes so we're considering it - maybe he'll have an easier time sleeping if he has more room to stretch out? I've never flown Air France so I have no idea what their economy vs. business class vs. first class are like. Also, how much are upgrades, typically? Any suggestions would be welcome. Thanks!

P.S. my prayers go out to the victims and families of the Air France plane tragedy.

Nancy McKeon: In my book, the better classes are simply better! It sounds as if you already have your tickets, if you already know you're going to be flying Air France, but I just did a quick check, and AF is offering business-class seats next November starting at $1531 (flying business on Fridays costs $4480). Maybe the airline would let you pay the extra and get the better seats. (I'm no expert on upgrades--I either pay for business [Air France has these biz-class sales, which are amazing] or turn in a whole passel of miles for biz class. Maybe someone else can comment on how upgrades work.)

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New York, N.Y.: comment on Connection in Madrid from Tenerife-

You will be arriving on Iberia Airlines to Terminal 4. Look for signs for connecting bus service to Terminals 1,2,3. You must go through passport control and security again. My experience over the years in Madrid has been that Passport and Security controls are pretty fast. If there is not a delay in arrival you'll make it. When making a connection with a domestic flight in Spain the best bet is to use Iberia.

Nancy McKeon: Ouch . . . connecting terminals for the Madrid traveler. I dunno . . .

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Columbia, Md.: My husband and I have a trip to Ireland and Norway booked, leaving in three weeks. Last week, my husband lost his job. We're still planning on taking the trip, but now we've got three weeks to learn everything we can about frugal travel in Ireland (not too worried about Norway as we'll be visiting relatives there). Our flights, car rental, and B&Bs are already paid for, so we're mostly interested in saving money on food and entrance fees/entertainment. Do you know of any good websites or books that can help? Thanks!

Andrea Sachs: Here are some free attraction ideas from About.com. And free attractions in Dublin.

For entertainment, many pubs have bands with no cover charge. For food, make lunch your big meal and stock up on picnic fixings at the market for snacks and other casual meals. Diningtreats.com also lists restaurant deals.

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San Francisco, Ca.: To the poster wanting to have dinner - Although a chain, the Elephant Bar is pretty fast and good menu, next exit from the airport (Millbrae). There is also a Mexican joint right next to it (forgot the name). If you want to venture farther, downtown Burlingame is nice. Both are pretty inexpensive cab rides. Otherwise find the best restaurant in the terminal.

To the souvenir collector - SHOT GLASSES!!

Nancy McKeon: Yes!!

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Atlanta Anniversary: Another nice place for an anniversary weekend is the Georgian Terrace hotel, on Peachtree St. directly across from the Fox Theater. (check online to see if there are any shows while you're there.) The Highland Inn is wonderful and w/in walking distance of a great neighborhood tavern, Manuels, and some fine restaurants. Congrats and enjoy our city!

Andrea Sachs: Thanks for the local advice! Much appreciated.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi. I'm submitting early since I'll be in a meeting during the chat.

I'm going to Wimbledon later this month (I was fortunate to get tickets). I've been to London a number of times so I know what to do in the city, but was wondering if you or any other chatters have been to the tournament and have any suggestions about Wimbledon itself. Thanks so much and love the chats.

Scott Vogel: Can anybody help a fellow chatter? Have always wanted to do this myself, but sadly never have...

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Xmas 90 minutes away: What about one of the nicer hotels around the harbor in Baltimore? Lots of kid friendly and adult friendly things to do if you want them.

Nancy McKeon: Good stuff. Also, the Inn at Perry Cabin doesn't seem to have an indoor pool. But I thought of the Hershey Hotel, which does (and has plenty of kid activities) and Nemacolin, both about 2 hours away. Too bad the Homestead and Greenbrier are about 4 hours away -- but maybe the WH could send a helicopter for their colleague in a pinch!

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For Atlanta-Bound: For the poster going to Atlanta, do NOT stay in Buckhead if the point of going to Atlanta is to see something different. I stayed at a hotel in Buckhead for a few days recently while in town on business and kept thinking that I was in Tyson's Corner.

Nancy McKeon: Yeah, it's the view of Saks and Macy's that'll do that to ya!

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Washington, D.C.: Madrid Airport is huge. Especially the new Terminal 4. Don't do it.

Nancy McKeon: Sounding more ominous, Madrid!

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Warrenville, Ill.: Travel gurus: My partner and I are off to the UK in two weeks. Much of the trip will be spent in Scotland, about a week in places hard to reach by public transportation. And impossible to explore without a car. (At least, that's what the guidebooks indicate.)

Thus we plan to rent a car for that part of the trip. Any advice for learning to drive on the other side of the road? Any ideas about how best to ease into keeping left/passing right? (FYI: In London, I always have problems remembering to look right before crossing streets. So, I'm not driving.)

Nancy McKeon: Getting used to driving on the "wrong" side isn't the hard part. The challenge is after you have to make your first three-point turn! Also, remind yourself, out loud if you have to, every time you come to a roundabout (about every 15 seconds, it sometimes seemed). But even there, you either follow the guy ahead of you, or there's no one and you have the road to yourself! Good luck.

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Oak Hill, Va.: As a graduation present for my son from high school, I'm looking to give him and an friend a 2-3 day golf outing and theme park trip. I want it be reasonably close (2-3 hour drive). I have Williamsburg, Hershey and maybe Baltimore as possible choices. Are there other areas I should consider?

Andrea Sachs: I think you have it covered, Generous Mom. I would lean toward Williamsburg, which is ranked as one of the top 25 golf destinations in the world.

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Harrisburg, Pa.: To the cruise newbie, I would highly recommend David Foster Wallace's "A Supposedly Fun Thing That I'll Never Do Again"; it's an exceptionally well-written, funny, and smart-alec-y account of his time on the SS Nadir (his term), and truth be told, cruise ships don't come off all that bad in his narrative.

Andrea Sachs: Great literary suggestion! Thanks.

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My mom's mid-life crisis: My mom didn't start traveling until she was 50. My dad was always too busy with work to take the sort of multi-week European tours she'd dreamed about, so she put them off. When she turned 50, she decided she didn't have time to wait around any longer and started taking me along in place of my dad. As a young and broke twenty-something, I was thrilled to go on these lavish trips: castles in Ireland, a culinary tour of the south of Spain, diving in the Galapagos. In 2006 weeks after my husband left me for another woman, my mom took me on a cruise of the eastern Mediterranean. The trip was just what my broken heart needed. We toured Rome, and the Greek Isles, and the stunning Croatian coast. It was beautiful and I was drunk on sunshine and Italian wines. After almost three weeks, I came home a new woman. It may have all started because of my mom's midlife crisis, but it ended up healing my broken heart.

Scott Vogel: My gosh -- thanks.

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For college student: Another great travel company is Intrepid (intrepidtravel.com). They have different styles of trips from basic (staying in hostel) to comfort (nice hotels). The trips I've been on have been fantastic and were very diverse groups. Also, they don't do groups of more than 12 which is nice.

Carol Sottili: Has a good rep.

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Ellicott City, Md.: For any readers who are planning to travel to Argentina, you can find some very reasonable fares on Aerolineas Argentinas. I grow grapes and olives near Mendoza and a round trip ticket from Miami to Mendoza for next February was $666. Even after you add in the fare from BWI to Miami, it is still a great deal. Just passing this along.

Nancy McKeon: Hey, Ellicott! Any chance we can get in on some of the olive oil?!? I assume you bring some home?

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Oakland, Ca.: Hi, Crew,

I'm tagging along on my husband's conference trip to Paris France at the end of June. However, the conference site is Novotel Saclay and I can't figure out how to get there from the airport or take day trips to Paris by train. The hotel website only gives direction by car and states that the nearest train station is about 3 miles away. Is that walkable (i.e. have sidewalks instead of on the edge of highway)? Any escape route for me to get out of the suburb?

Christina Talcott: I'd imagine that the hotel would either have a courtesy shuttle to the nearest RER station or could call you a taxi. Otherwise, it looks like you'd have to walk along the side of the main road from Saclay to Le Guichet station to pick up the RER B4 to Paris. But if you're up for it, do it! It should be a pretty walk - just watch out for crazy drivers. Find more info on the Paris commuter train schedules here. The RER B also goes into Paris from Charles de Gaulle airport.

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Arlington, VA: re: luggage. I love my Eagle Creek bags too. I have their 28" bag for my really long trips and some smaller pieces as well. I also like all of their little modular bags that go inside your luggage that everyone has a knock-off of these days including Samsonite and LL Bean.

Christina Talcott: Great, thanks!

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Cleveland Park, D.C.: Hope I'm not too late to get in a mid-life story:

My mom, who turned 60 last year, grew up in the South and was a stay-at-home mom for my siblings and I. She's always been supportive of anything we wanted to do and encouraged us to go off on our own adventures, but never ventured out on her own much. Three years ago, she announced she was going to hike the Camino de Santiago across northern Spain. She and a friend set off, but after a week the friend developed health problems and returned to the US, leaving Mom alone in Spain. She walked for the next five weeks, covering a little more than half of the 500 miles on foot. She learned some rudimentary Spanish, met people from around the world, slept on cots, walked over the Pyrenees, and had what she says was the most spiritually fulfilling experience of her life. She came back a more peace-filled, self-confident person. I am so incredibly proud of her for pushing her boundaries and seeking out radically new experiences at an age when many people are retreating into the comforts of familiarity.

Scott Vogel: Great story -- I always find it so fascinating how people can change directions like that mid-stream.

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Eating at SFO: I would recommend Boudin Bakery (Terminal 3) and Max's (Terminal 1). Haven't eaten at their airport locations, but their in City locations are fab!

Definitely agree that four hours is SO not enough time to get from the airport to the City, eat and back through security.

Christina Talcott: Thanks for the recommendation, and here's a "no" vote on getting into SF and back in 4 hours.

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Hiking in New Zealand: Posting early. I liked the article on New Zealand, and have some questions. The authors hikes with a guide... Is that necessary? Are trails well-marked so people can hike on their own? For those who can't afford a private guide, are there groups you can join?

And the article mentions the mail boats can porter luggage from one location to another so you can hike without having to lug everything yourselves. How is that arranged? I didn't see contact information in the details section. Thank you.

Nancy McKeon: Go to the Web sites mentioned and you can see all the possibilities of hiking with and without a guide. As for the mail boat, that was the Beachcomber Fun Cruises mentioned in the box, which, as it explained. "offers scenic cruises . . . but more relevant to hikers, it will carry your pack (or you) to your next overnight stop. The Great Track & Pack Pass is about $60" (we said "about" because we were translating from NZ dollars, and currencies fluctuate).

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Washington, D.C.: I have friends visiting from overseas later this year. Their list of places to visit is diverse -- New York, Raleigh, N.C., Yellowstone, Denver, Phoenix and San Diego. NYC and NC are drivable/busable from D.C., but can you suggest an airline which has passes for overseas visitors that includes Denver and point west and D.C. Thanks

Carol Sottili: I'm not sure which ones would work best for your group. Investigate American Airline's One World Air Pass, the Star Alliance Air Passa and the Skyteam America Pass.

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Shoe Recommendations, Please: My July birthday trip to France is all set (even tickets to see U2!), now all I need is a comfortable pair of walking shoes. I'm packing mostly capris, casual dresses and skirts. Any particular brands I should focus on? Your recommendations are welcome! Thanks!

Andrea Sachs: I am assuming you are female, so .. .

loads of people recommend Finn, ECCO, Aerosoles, Mephisto, Naturlizer and Born. Before you go, though, take your shoes out for a few test walks. And bring back-up sneakers.

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Scott Vogel: Okay, folks, another hour has come and gone. Thanks so much for joining us, and as for the chatter whose mom walked the Pyrenees alone --- please e-mail vogelsi@washpost.com and claim your prize. See you all next week.

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