The Flight Crew: Standing, from left: Andrea Sachs, Cindy Loose, Carol Sottili, Steve Hendrix. Seated in front: K.C. Summers, John Deiner. (Craig Cola/WPNI)

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The Flight Crew:

Good day, Travel-ites. And what a glorious one it is, here in Washington at least. Positively fall-like in the mornings, and summery in the afternoon. Andrea Sachs says it feels like “Portland, Maine summer,” and she means that in a good way. Me, this is a time of year I’m happy to stay at home and bask in the impending autumn. Alas, duty calls and I (Steve Hendrix) am off tomorrow for Scotland—where I hear they have very nice whiskey.

Also here is Cindy Loose, soon to be scouting out good places to watch the fall color in Pennsylvania. Gary Lee is up to several hundred push-up a day in training for his upcoming kayaking trip in British Columbia (or so he says). Andrea Sachs—still mooning about Portland, Maine—plans a little biking around the Civil War fields of Antietam this weekend if anyone has any advise. John Deiner is just back from personal trip to Sundance, Utah (thus he won’t be writing about it. If you want benefit of his sharp travel-writers eye, ask him know). Carol Sottili never goes anywhere, but knows a hell of a lot about air fares and the Byzantine word of same. Finally, K.C. Summers is here to bask in your applause over her wonderful piece on Santa Barbara this Sunday. Way to go, Boss!

Okay. Now you tell us what your own travel plans are and we’ll chime in whether we know anything or not.

Arlington, Va.: Once you've booked a Web fare, why do they not let us cancel and reuse with another Web fare? Invariably, you have to pay a penalty to book a non-Web, usually higher fare.

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: For discount tickets, you can't cancel regardless of whether you purchase over the Web or the phone. Discount tickets are not refundable and they're becoming increasingly difficult to change. Airlines don't want you to rebook once the purchase has been made. US Airways upped the stakes recently when it said it would no longer allow travelers to re-use nonrefundable tickets, even if they were willing to pay a change fee (the old policy stands, however, if you let them know that you're not going to make the flight). Several other airlines, including American, Continental, Delta and Northwest, have followed suit.

Silver Spring, Md.: Hi Crew --

I just wanted to say how delighted I was with your Santa Barbara article. I attended the university there and cannot say enough about what a wonderful city it is. It's small enough to not be overwhelming, but large enough to have great art, culture, delicious food, and great (non-chain) shopping along with the beautful beaches, mountains and vinyards. I would suggest visitors go during the Summer Solstice festival or the Fiesta in August -- both of which are unique, fun and truly represent the laid-back spirit of Santa Barbara.

The Flight Crew: Thanks SS -- it's an easy place to fall in love with, isn't it? Lucky you to go to school there. I toured the UCSB campus and couldn't believe the views those kids have. Good tips on when to visit, though I think anytime is good, really. Thanks for the feedback. -- KC

Bloomsbury girl: Any fun, funky, reasonably-priced hotels you can recommend in or around the Bloomsbury section of London?

The Flight Crew: I love that area myself, Bloom, and will be there for a night or two next week. I'm exited about a place called Le Meridien Russell. It's a grand old Victorian pile right on Russell Square. I've walked past it before, thought it looked neat but a little neglected. Now I hear it's gotten a makeover, so I'm giving it try. (Found a good deal, too, on a site Gary Lee told me about: all-hotels.com).

Anyone else with favorite hotels in this wonderful part of London? I'm listening, too.

Washington, D.C.: I need to go up to NYC for a memorial this Wednesday. Does anyone know of online sources where I can find a place to park and then take the train into the city? I know this question has been asked and answered in previous discussions, but I can't find the story. Thank you!

The Flight Crew: Hi, D.C.

We do get this question often, but it's always helpful to a bunch of folks. Here are the two ways that we tell most folks to do this:

You can take the train in from various spots in New Jersey, but the easiest spot is Metropark, off the Garden State Parkway. Take Exit 11 off the Jersey Turnpike to the parkway north. Take Exit 131 off the parkway and follow the signs. At last look, it was $2.50 a day to park. Check out www.njtransit.com for train times into the city.

Or you can park at Hoboken or Weekhawken and catch a NY Waterway ferry across the river to various points in Manhattan. Check out www.nywaterway.com for prices and directions.

--john

Dreaming of vacation: When buying tickets to Europe these days, what is the optimal time to purchase? It seems that if you buy too far in advance, you may miss out on sales, but if you wait too late, you pay a premium. Any advice? I'm heading to London in early November, if that is pertinent. Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: There's no perfect time. Follow the fares by checking every few days on the airline Web sites and some booking sites, such as orbitz.com and travelocity.com. Anything around $400 to London (including taxes) is good for that time of year.

Alexandria, Va.: Hello Travel Gurus,

I've decided to go to Finland for Christmas this year, so everyone on my list will be getting dried, salted fish as gifts. I want to see the northern lights and also set foot in the Arctic Circle and Lappland, and, of course, see Santa and his reindeer.

Any other ideas of what to do? Maybe a day-trip to Estonia? How "cold" is cold in Finland -- will I want to spend the entire trip shivering in my hostel bunkbed? Is it unreasonable to think I can get to the Arctic Circle in winter? Are there one- or two-day trips from Helsinki to the northern Christmas-y sights?

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Gary, who spent several years in Russia, including many winter weekends in Helsinki, with some thoughts: first, Helsinki is a wonderful destination in and of itself, with great restaurants and good (though pricey) shopping so you should count on spending some time there. That part of the world is about as cold as it gets: you can expect temperatures well below freezing. But Finns compensate well by spending a lot of time in saunas or skiiing or other winter activities. A one or two day trip to Estonia is a good idea and so is a trip to northern part of the country. Or why not salley over to St. Petersburg, which looks heavenly that time of year. All these can be arranged on the spot after you've arrived over there. Mary Lou Foley at a company called Tour Designs has a lot of experience booking or advising folks on trips in that part of the world. You might try her at the DC no. 202-554-5820.

Washington, D.C.: So here's the deal: A friend and I are flying into BWI from overseas. Washington is my home base so that's my final stop. My friend, however, has a five-hour layover before her flight out to the Midwest. Does that give us enough time to pop into D.C. or Baltimore for dinner or touring or something?

The Flight Crew: Hi, DC.

It absolutely does. Baltimore's light-rail system goes right to the airport. It's fast, cheap and a nice ride to Baltimore's harbor, where you can eat at a restaurant there--or walk over to Little Italy. Go to www.bwiairport.com and check out ground transportation for info on times and prices. Seems to me that if your friend is already checked thru to the Midwest, she won't need to be back at BWI more than an hour before flight time.

--john

Washington, D.C.: I have a tipping question I haven't seen before. Recently I stayed at the Sheraton in Mexico City, and was put in the towers section, which included Butler service. I got a couple shirts pressed for free, wake-up coffee instead of a call, and a welcoming drink. It wasn't the same butler each time. What should I have done about tipping? Was it expected? I hate to say it, but I didn't. Thanks!

The Flight Crew: So, the butler really did it, huh? (sorry, couldn't resist). I hate to play Miss Manners, but: Shame, shame, shame on you, you, you. Yes, you most definitely should have tipped, and most likely after each service, so that the butler who did do it (it worked that time!) would be tipped accordingly. If, however, a whole cadre of butlers was at your beck and call, then you could always leave a tip envelope at the front desk with a lump sum that the butlers could split. About one to three dollars per service (or per day, if that is equally fitting) would have been much appreciated. If nothing else, you could always write the hotel a letter commending the fine employees, so that if nothing else, you will raise their esteem--and maybe they will even get a pay raise.--andrea

Washington, D.C.: Planning a trip to Fallingwater. Have you guys taken the in-depth trip vs. the regular one? Is it worth $50 instead of $15? Do you recommend any B&Bs or hotels in that area? And what would you call that area, anyway, besides "western Pennsylvania"? I can't even start searching for good hotel deals without knowing where I'm going.

The Flight Crew: That area is called the Laurel Highlands by Pa. tourism officials, and the area has its own tourism office. Number is 724 238 5661. They can give you a website address too, Im sure. Can't compare the $15 to the $50 visit, and thought the $50 was given by special arrangement during the renovations Fallingwater underwent. Anyone else know?

Meanwhile, when you go, consider seeing another Wright house, Kentuck Nob. Both houses are near the town of Farmington, Pa., whre you'll find the Nemocolin spa and resort and the Historic Summit Inn(nice common areas at the inn; some of the rooms are small and dark, but nicer rooms overlook the town. so ask for a room with a view if you choose the inn.) Cindy

Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Do you know of any cool old roadside motels within a few hours of DC that have been remodeled to be hip, or are just great for another reason?

I have seen lots of old motels that look rundown, but I think staying in a nice one could be a lot of fun!

The Flight Crew: I have one, Adams M. (Steve here). It's called the Inn at Afton, far too grand a name for what really is vintage old roadside motel. It's near tiny Waynesboro, Va., in the Blue Ridge foothills, near Sharando Lake. Unless someone's done something terrible to it in the last two years, it's got a great cocktail lounge/resaurant with grits in the morning, steaks and martinis at night. Plus swell views of the Blue Ridge. And a really big parking lot. Try: www.theinnatafton.com.

That's a great question. Anybody else have favorites to nominate? This sounds like a story.

Bethesda, Md.: KC, thanks for the article about Sue Grafton's Santa Barbara. Would you say that SB is a suitable honeymoon destination, and if so, which of the locales mentioned would you not miss? (I have managed to not yet begin planning a honeymoon that will happen in 2 months! yikes!) Thanks!!

The Flight Crew: Oh God, yes. It's one of the most beautiful cities I've ever visited in the U.S. You know, JFK and Jackie honeymooned at the San Ysidro Ranch -- that's one of the fanciest resorts out there -- so you'd be in good company. Need I say these places don't come cheap? As for places not to miss, one place I didn't have time to check out and that sounds amazing is Lotusland -- a private garden w/ lots of beautiful exotic trees and flowers. Also wished I'd done more outdoorsey things like horse-riding and biking along the beach.

But back to honeymoons. In addition to the visitors' center web site, out www.santabarbaraweddingguide.com -- looks like it has lots of tips on locations and services. -- KC

Silver Spring, Md.: My wife will use frequent flyer miles on Varig Airlines to fly here from Brazil in December. While normally their code share agreement with United would get her all the way to D.C., many flights are apparently filled or unavailable, so at this point she'd have to buy her own one-way ticket from JFK to Washington (her return will be on another ticket). Best price I've found is $226. Taking a bus from JFK to Manhattan and then taking Amtrak would be cheaper, but a hassle. Any suggestions? Interestingly, the one-way fares from Miami to Washington are less than JFK-Washington, so we'll see if that's an option for her.

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: While the airlines frown upon this, many travelers in your position would buy a round-trip ticket and use only half of it (it's often cheaper to fly round trip than one way).

Washington, D.C.: Can you send me the e-mail you recently ran in CoGo for discount New York theater tickets?

The Flight Crew: You test my memory. However, I find CoGo did mention in passing a new website, www.broadwaybox.com, in July. Thanks for being such a careful reader! (Cindy)

Arlington, Va.: Loved the Santa Barbara piece -- right next door to "home" for me and it was so accurate I really wanted to be sitting in one of the "paseos"! But my question is about Albuquerque: Any must-do suggestions?

The Flight Crew: Hi, Arl.

I'm not K.C. (I can't wear heels), but she's sitting nearby and says "thanks." I think she's blushing, too.

Anyhow, Albuquerque is great...I love the tram to the top of Sandia Peak. It's gorgeous, and the hiking at the top is top-notch. It's not cheap, though--about $15 round trip.

We just did a little piece on the city on the annual balloon festival there, and the author also suggested that folks check out the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center for the history displays; the New Mexico Museum of Natural History; and Old Town, for the knickknack shopping and the restaurants.

Of course, if you must, only an hour or so away is Santa Fe.

--john

Washington, D.C.: I'm heading to Budapest and Prague next week for a little r&r. Any recommendations for off-the-beaten track things to do, restaurants, etc. We already have hotels arranged, and know about the touristy areas (especially in Prague. Just hoping they're above the water line by next week). Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

The Flight Crew: Gary, with a tip: If you're in Budapest for long enough, you might take a day trip outside the city to Lake Balaton. With good food and shopping, it's a favorite outing for many locals. Any one else with thoughts on novel things to do in or around Prague?

Shenandoah Valley, Va.: Hi and thanks in advance.
My brother's girlfriend is a freshman at Longwood in Farmville and is feeling a bit down and homesick. My sister and I were planning a road trip to visit her tomorrow and have a girls' night out. Can anyone suggest anything fun for us to do in or near Farmville? A place for dinner, etc.? Thanks so much!

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: Well, you could tip some cows (just kidding). Farmville isn't really near any kind of city (Richmond is about 75 minutes away), so I'm going to throw this one out there. Anyone out there know the Longwood area?

Sterling, Va.: We enjoyed K.C. Summers' article about Santa Barbara, which sounds like an American paradise. How do living costs there compare with those in the D.C. area? Although it's apparent that many of the residences are posh; is there any decent housing available in the $200-$300K range?

Thanks.

The Flight Crew: Hi Sterling, thanks for the kind words. It is paradise for sure. I don't know about specific housing costs, but once you get out of the posh Montecito and Horton Ravine neighborhoods (or is that what Grafton calls it -- I keep mixing up her neighborhood names in the books with the real ones) you do see some more affordable-looking houses. I bet the visitors' center could help you out. Of course, as Grafton points out, you can always rent. -- KC

Arlington, Va.: Any idea of how badly the drought has affected fall colors in the Shenandoahs? Will color, if any, come earlier than in normal rain years, or should we just pray for rain (for many reasons, not just red leaves) and wait until next year?

The Flight Crew: Okay, so some people read CoGo and remember every detail months later. They make me feel so happy and important. Then you come along with this question, a week after I addressed it so well. I'm hurt, but will tell you anyway that the Shenandoahs are among the national parks that are being tracked and reported on daily by the national parks service. Go to www.fs.fed.us/news/fallcolors or call 800-354-4595. (Cindy)

Vienna, Va.: Hey Guys! You have the BEST jobs! Want to go hot air ballooning this fall to take in the fall foliage. Never been. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: How funny, we had the same idea as you a couple years back for our fall foliage special on different ways to leaf-peep without traffic (or neck) strain. I was in charge of air and I looked into ballooning with Blue Ridge Hot Air Balloons, the main floater in the area. However, after repeated false starts--as in, Okay, come on down, the balloon's ready to fly, no wait, weather's bad, oh, oh the wind's pickin' up, but here comes a tornado, whooooshhhhh--we finally had to scratch the idea and instead I took a lovely foliage tour in a Piper. (Same views but a bit noisier and no champagne). However, if you are flexible with your schedule and can be as whimsical as the winds, then definitely do it. It is a rare treat to see the red-orange glow of leaves--and of cars snarled on Skyline Drive.--andrea

Camping: Hi All,

I want to go camping this weekend, somewhere in Virginia, that's only a few hours drive away. Hiking a plenty, doesn't have to be "car camping." Any Web sites you can steer me to, or other tips? TIA.

The Flight Crew: Ooooh, great idea. THIS is the time for that around here. Let me share my favorite secret place with you: Ramsey's Draft Wilderness Area, in the GW national forest, just west of Staunton, VA. ('bout three hours from here). I've been there a dozen times in the last dozen years (and that works out to, uhmmmmm, five or six times a year). It's lovely, remote and easy.

And it's no great secret. I wrote about a long time ago for Escapes. If it wasn't too long ago, Kim will dig it up a link.

College Park, Md.: Hi Guys: In light of the growing political situation in the world especially the Middle East what's you alls' opinion of "training" through some parts of Europe? Starting in the U.K. I found an excellent Web site www.raileurope.com, which I can say does it's best to get you started as far as fares and schedules go. Going from one country to the next. Have any of you ever run into this wonderful site?

The Flight Crew: Training is an excellent way to get around Europe these days particularly if you have the time, says Gary and www.raileurope.com is an excellent resource for planning your trip. One tip is to do as much prior planning, booking of trains, etc as possible.

Leesburg, Va.: My wife and I will be in Akron, Ohio, for her brother's wedding in a couple of weekends. It's an afternoon wedding, but Saturday morning is free for us. Any suggestions on how to spend that morning?

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Oh dear. There is something to do everywhere if you look hard enough. But can someone help us with Akron?

Richmond, Va.: Just had to brag. Went on my annual Labor Day trip to New York and was able to bag a nice hotel downtown on Hotwire.com for $56! It ended up being the Club Quarters one block from the NYSE and across the street from the Wall Street subway station. Tres convenient. TKTS booth is now near South Street Seaport, Century 21 is open and it was easy to score day of tickets to most shows including Hairspray. Too bad is rained so I didn't get to the U.S. Open. Glad to see the city is still there and kicking.

The Flight Crew: Hey Richmond, great deal! There are some incredible deals out there now. I was in NYC over Labor Day and also found a good deal -- a really neat new boutique hotel right in Times Square for $99 through Quikbook, called Hotel 41. Belgian linens, free wine on check-in, free cappuccino and muffins in the morning, Aveda toiletries -- it was an amazing deal for $99.

How'd you like Hairspray? -- KC

Queenstown, Md.: Hello travelers! My wife and I (early 30s) are off for a week in Vegas in October for our 10th anniversary. It's her first time to Vegas, and I've lined up a bunch of shows including Danny Gans, Jubilee, and Cirque du Soleil. We're staying in Bellagio (lakeview), but we're not big gamblers. So, other than the shows, what are some of the must-see things to do? Also, any recommendations on restaurants, including a nice place for our anniversary dinner? Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Hi, Queenstown.

Wow, sounds like quite a week! There's really a great deal to do there, so it depends on what your interests are. Don't miss Hoover Dam--it's worth the traffic and crowds. Red Rocks, just outside Vegas, has lots of, er, red rocks, and it's quite beautiful. Death Valley is kind of far for a day trip, but it's really neat. There's ton of shopping, from malls to antiques shops.

Also consider museum-hopping. You can go high-brow (like the Las Vegas Art Museum, the first-class art museum at the Bellagio or the Guggenheim at the Venetian) or reallly low-brow (Elvis musuem, Liberace, etc.). Or mix 'em up. Keep your eyes out for a story in our section on things to do in Vegas besides gambling in the next couple of months.

As for restaurants, I understand Picasso at Bellagio is among the best in town, but, natch, I've never been there. Clicksters, where's a good spot to dine for a 10th anniversary?

--john

Castle Shannon, Pa.: Call me hokey, but I'm seriously considering a trip to Branson. How much are the shows there? And will I be surrounded by the over-65 crowd or are there folks of all ages there? Is there even an airport in Branson? Thanks.

The Flight Crew: Okay, Hokey. No one here has been to Branson (yet) but our understanding is yes, you will be surrounded by the over-65 crowd. Yes, there is an airport, shared w/ Springfield (it's probably not as big as the tour bus depot). For ticket links, try www.bransonchamber.com/planning.

Arlington, Va.: Hi. Do you happen to know the best sites/travel agents/consolidators to purchase deeply discounted business class seats from?

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: There are consolidators that specialize in business-class and first-class seats, but the tickets are still expensive. Try www.1st-air.net, www.clubtripmakers.com, www.travelpeople.org and www.flyfirstclass.com.

Arlington, Va.: Hi there -- hope you can help me. My boyfriend and I are heading to New Hope, Pa., soon for an overnight trip. Do you have any suggestions for things to do besides the shopping area? Are there any wineries nearby? Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Try looking at a Pa. tourism regional site for the New Hope area, www.gophila.com. (Cindy)

Arlington, Va.: Planning trip to Chile next spring. Have heard that Santiago is just a large,congested city (people and polution wise). Any suggestions for other parts of the country that are scenic?

The Flight Crew: I was in Chile two years ago and liked Santiago. Don't worry, it is no Mexico City, but it's no Geneva either. Yes, it is bustling and populated, but it also very stately and cosmopolitan and rich in culture and parks that would make any gardner's green thumb wag. However, if you want to escape urban life, then head to Patagonia. I don't know your time frame or budget, but there is no traffic, no pollution, no sound but the creaking of glaciers there. Pure bliss!
As for specific towns, you'll have to ask the chatsters as I was lost in wild during my visit.--andrea

Re: Silver Spring's Wife: (Oy, that sounded bad.)

Anyhoo, about that bus from JFK to Manhattan (to catch the train). Spring for the extra bucks for a cab. My husband and I did this both ways in March. We took Amtrak from D.C. to New York, then a bus to JFK. Turned out to be two buses -- we had to transfer at Grand Central -- and the drivers (while entertaining in a Seinfeldesque sort of way) were none too helpful. It was stressful. So on the return trip we took a cab and it was quicker and easier and, for the two of us, not much more expensive.

The Flight Crew: I'm with you.

Maryland: I am FREAKED OUT about my first trip to Paris. I am getting mixed messages ranging from "oh it's wonderful" to "nasty, rude Frenchmen." I don't speak any French and hope to get by in English, armed with one American Express credit card. How bad will it be??

The Flight Crew: Francophile Gary Lee with a couple of thoughts. With the advent of Europe, Parisians are much better than they used to be in speaking English, particularly those of a younger generation. Still, you should not expect waiters or others to understand you with only English. ANY little effort you make to speak guide book French will be appreciated, even if it's just a few words here and there. In restaurants, in particular, you would be well advised to take a guidebook that includes the basic names of things (like cuts of meat and fish) in French. Otherwise, just keep your eyes open and don't be nervous. You'd be surprise at how much you understand without any language, such as entrance fees to musuems, etc. Finally, you are likely to see lots of other folks walking around with guidebooks, maps, etc. Chances are they will speak English and would be glad to help you out in a clutch.
Bon Voyage!

Scots wa hae!: Have a great time in Scotland, guys! I am currently starting to plan a trip there myself for next April. Plane tickets to Glasgow are holding around $700 right now; any hope they'll drop to a more reasonable level before then?

The Flight Crew: I've been in training for this whiskey country story for years (hendrix here). I go as a highly trained Scotch drinking athelete. As for Glascow for $700 in April, that sounds about right. If you can go earlier, you might bag a cheaper flight to London, then fly EasyJet or BA up to Glascow.

Silver Spring, Md.: Hi! Husband and I are planning a two-week vacation in Thailand (first time) end of December. Interested in ecotourism -- particularly snorkeling and birding. Anyone with experience with birding guides, ecotourism lodges, live-aboard or other longer snorkeling adventures? Prefer less crowded beaches. Thanks in advance!

The Flight Crew: Hi SS, KC here. Okay, it's not snorkeling or birding, but one ecotourism destination I can highly recommend is the Thai Elephant Conservation Center up near Chiang Mai. It's a government-run spot that takes in sick, abused or homeless elephants (actually a big problem in Thailand since logging was banned). You can stay in the village with the mahouts and learn to feed, bathe and care for the elephants -- it's really a wonderful experience.

But there are tons of other eco adventures to be found in Thailand. Can anybody else recommend a good one firsthand?

re:Branson: I haven't been, but my inlaws mention the horrible traffic. They say it can take 15 minutes to go a block. They park the car and walk as much as possible.

The Flight Crew: Wow. Sounds lovely.

Boston, Mass: Hi! I'm getting married next year in Germany, and was wondering if you have any tips on finding/negotiating group fares from airlines for our guests. Would they have to all travel on the same day/itenary? Are some airlines more inclined to do something like this? Thanks for any help!

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: Most airlines offer group fares for 10 or more, but they're not always that much cheaper, and, yes, the guests would have to all travel on the same itinerary. Contact Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, United, and ask about group rates. Another idea is to do a package deal - go through a travel agent and book the hotel and air together.

Washington, D.C.: In the last year I've been going to Toronto a lot. Flights used to be about $120 and direct flights were the cheapest. Now they're almost double that and connecting flights are cheaper. What's up with that? Is there any way I can still get up there for what I used to spend? Will prices go back down?

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Who knows if prices will go back down; that's what all the experts are wondering about. New security taxes have added quite a bit to ticket prices, but no clue as to why it would double. About all you can do now is to nab cheap seats to Buffalo and drive to Toronto, although that's not a cheap option if you are traveling alone since you have to rent a car. So get some friends to share the rental car cost and go Toronto via Buffalo. Unless the airlines can't sell those tickets for what they are asking, I'm afraid you're stuck with the current price. (Cindy)

Columbia, S.C.: Re: Akron -- the Pro Football Hall of Fame is about 25 minutes away in Canton. Stan Hewitt Hall is a restored house museum, lived in by some rich person who helped to start the tire industry -- it's worth visiting, especially on a nice day.

The Flight Crew: Thanks.

Hotel 41: How small were the rooms at the Hotel 41?

The Flight Crew: Mine was microscopic -- just room for a double bed and a desk, basically. But it was a heck of a bed! In their defense, they warned me the room would be really small. For $30 more I could have gotten a "superior" room, but my inner cheapskate won out. -- KC

Re: Akron: A scant 20 miles away is the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton (opens at 9:00 am)

The Flight Crew: Traveler alert: something good near Akron:

Washington, D.C.: My friends and I are in our mid-to-late 20s and are trying to plan a cruise. Can you talk about the pros and cons of going in February or April vs. June? Is the weather still good in the Caribbean if we go in the off-season? I've been on two cruises, but only in the summer. What differences will we see? We're planning to go on the Carnival Triumph or the Royal Caribbean Explorer -- thoughts on either of those? I went on RCI before and the nightlife was awful (bars closed at 1 or something) but the Explorer looks pretty neat.

Many thanks!

The Flight Crew: Hi, D.C. I don't think you'll find many weather problems at any time of year (yeah, yeah, unless you run into a hurricane), except that it gets extremely hot down there in the summer. You'll probably find the deck a lot cooler if you go in winter or spring.

I've been on a Carnival cruise and an RCL cruise, and I think you got it just right. Nightlife was much more bouncy on the Carnival cruise, which, of course, is what Carnival prides itself in. Food and general quality of the RCL ship was much better--though people who wanted to have a good time could certainly find it. Personally, I'd check out the RCL cruise.

--jd

Washington (the state): Hi --

Going to Fiji (live-aboard dive boat, two weeks) and New Zealand (Auckland, four days) in two weeks. Fiji is all planned, but we're wondering how much we need to reserve in advance for Auckland (we have hotel and airfare, but nothing else). Do we need a rental car or are alternative methods (walking, biking, taxis, trains, buses) adequate? Any must-do/must-see day trips from Auckland? (I understand it's the America's Cup trials while we're there -- does anyone know how crowded that will make the city?)

Thanks very much.

The Flight Crew: Oh my God, the cup is going to be huge in NZ. Seriously, this is like the Olympics down there. If you are really going to be there right at the trails, you should make sure you have a resrvation in hand. They have a very good visitors info team here, with a lot of America's Cup schedules and stuff. www.purenz.com

Alexandria, Va.: In Akron, try Quaker Square, which used to be the Quaker Oats factory but now has boutiques and restaurants. Also, not too far out of Akron is Stan Hywett Hall (not sure about the spelling), a mansion that is open for tours. I think it was built by one of the Firestones.

The Flight Crew: Thanks. Who knew so many people knew about Akron.

Dining in Las Vegas: Most of the newer hotels (Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, Venetian) have lots of very chi chi restaurants. There's East Coast outfits such as Aurole, Olives, Le Cirque, and for those with West Coast tastes, branches of Spago, and Aqua. Decide what type of meal you want and talk to the hotel concierge. They will steer you in the right direction and more importantly, get you a reservation. (Especially necessary if a major trade show is in town.)

The Flight Crew: Great suggestions, thanks. Mandalay Bay has a great selection.

University Park, Md.: Santa Barbara real estate is indeed very pricy, though you can shave off considerable $$ by looking in Goleta or Carpinteria. Sort of like settling for, well, University Park instead of Chevy Chase. (BTW, I spent 6 months living in a Carpinteria apartment on, no joke, Santa Clause Lane. I could never say that address with a straight face!)

The Flight Crew: Thanks for that insider tip, U.P. And it's hard to top that address!

Sterling, Va.: Is there a way I can buy in advance a roundtrip fare to be used anytime/anyday on the spur of the moment? Is the cost usually double the cost? Are there any special conditions airliners have for a spouse returning home ASAP for the birth of a child? The flight is about a 3 hour flight. thanks..

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: You can always walk up to a ticket counter and buy an airline ticket, but it'll usually cost much, much more than an advance purchase deal. But if you're traveling to a city that's served by Southwest or Airtran or one of the other discount carriers, it won't be all that much more expensive. Airlines do not have special fares for people in your situation, although you may be able to convince a sympathetic supervisor to cut you a deal. P.S. I hope your wife hangs on long enough for you to get back. Mazeltov!

Arlington, Va.: Oooo, kayaking in BC? My boyfriend and I went sea kayaking in Vancouver last month and it was fantastic! (and we didn't do -any- training ahead of time!!!)

It was actually a perfect trip. For $90/person US they pick you up at your hotel, drive you in a van about an hour away to a beautiful glacial inlet, and you get a guide....usually small groups, no more than 6 people I think. We were lucky in that no one else signed up for that day, so we had the guide to ourselves. Then he made us lunch with mulled wine and grilled salmon! It was the best day trip I ever took! I think the company was called Lotus Land Tours.

The Flight Crew: You've got Gary all hot and bothered. Thanks for the report.

Washington, D.C.: for person going to Albuquerque: A good friend of mine and long time Albuquerque resident made New Mexico fans of us!

If you can, also drive down toward Las Vegas (N.M., that is) and go to Bosque del Apache reserve. If you're going in fall it will be beautiful and you may see sandhill cranes, coyotes, snow geese, other wildlife. And stop at the funkily famous Owl Bar in Las Vegas.

And have breakfast in Albuquerque at the Frontier.

The little "ghost towns" between Albuquerque and Santa Fe are fun. And the area around Chimayo is pretty (with a lovely restaurant as I recall).

The Flight Crew: Great suggestions, D.C. Thanks much! I love the Turquoise Trail, the back road from Albuequerque to Sante Fe.

Dumb guy: What's a piper?

The Flight Crew: As Mr. Tweet once said to our kindergarten class: Put your crayons away, it's nap time. Oh wait, wrong saying. He also said: There are no stupid questions. Sorry for being so vague and throwing around airplane terms as if I were Capt. Cloud (I made him up, there is no Capt. Cloud). A Piper is a spunky little plane that buzzes around carrying big CEOs and retired Air Force pilots and anyone else who made model airplanes while all the other kids were trying to explode by mixing Pop Rocks and Pepsi. --andrea

Leon Valley, Tex.: Re: Akron attractions. Here is a website with various Akron attractions.
http://www.ci.akron.oh.us/attract.html

Also Cleveland (with its fabulous Art Museum, and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum) is only an hour (or less) away from Akron.

The Flight Crew: Akron visitors: that should keep you busy.

New York City-Bound: My family's going up to New York for a weekend trip, and we're thinking about taking one of those Harlem Gospel Tours, including a soul food lunch, on the Sunday morning. Any recommendations for companies to try? Any Travel clicksters out there who have done this?

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee, who has spent quite a lot of time in Harlem, with a couple of thoughts. NYC24.com is a company that has been recommended to us. But maybe you should think about doing it yourself. The major churches there, starting with Abyssinian Baptist, all welcome visitors, and so do the major restaurants. If you do design it yourself, I would recommend going to one church and staying there for the whole service rather than bopping between churches. I would also recommend again brunch at Sylvia's. Although it's the most famous soul food restaurant up there, the food is not great. A place called Christian's is much better.

checking in: Wrote in about a month ago, whining about the priceline.com reservation I got at the Radisson Lexington in New York. I'd still never use Priceline again, but the hotel was great! Huge room, boutique feeling -- and for $85, a steal.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for the check in, Checking In.

Downtown Washington, D.C.: Enjoyed the piece on Santa Barbara, and I realize it was the "Sue Grafton" tour, but I think you left something out -- especially in the what to do section. There are some lovely wineries just over the mountain in the Santa Ynez Valley, especially centered around the town of Los Olivos. I've been going to S.B. for vacations for over 20 years, and visiting the valley and doing a little wine-tasting in always the highlight of the trip...that and dinners at some of the great resturaunts your piece did mention, where you can sample the local wine all over again. Can't wait to go back!

The Flight Crew: Hey, I mentioned the wineries! Okay, just cursorily, but still. We went to Gainey Vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley and it was great, both the tour and the wine -- brought a couple bottles of wonderful chardonnay back. But it was soooo hot across the valley, I just couldn't wait to get back to S.B. The temp literally dropped 30 degrees in less than half an hour as we drove back over the mountains. -- KC

For Paris-bound: Every time I have been in Paris I have not have a problem at all. It definitely helps to at least make an effort (Excuse moi -- parlez vous Englaise will get you far).

I have to respectfully disagree with the advice given to seek out other tour-book and map-toting folks for advice. I have many friends who have had bad experiences with people posing as tourists who are really scam artists (the worst story took place in Rome where, let's say it this way, it was "highly suggested" by big men in a black car that my friends pay them $500 after guiding them to a shady bar). Use your best judgment.

The Flight Crew: Good point, says Gary, thanks.

Santa Barbara housing: I can't believe that you would get anything larger than a small condo for $200K or $300K. California has an extremely expensive housing market. You'd probably have to live very far outside Santa Barbara to find a house in that price range.

The Flight Crew: There you go. Another expert weighs in.

Washington, D.C.: Hey Travel Crew, I know it's too early to be thinking about this, but what concerns should flyers have about booking holiday (mainly Thanksgiving) flights given the bankruptcy situations of so many airlines, including our beloved USAirways?

The Flight Crew: I wouldn't worry about US Airways going out of business. They have to many assets to disappear by Thanksgiving. However, they are cutting back flights 13 percent, and most airlines in fact are cutting. Flights that may be posted today may not fly. Make sure any airline has your phone number. Leave plenty of time to get where you are going since you might be rebooked several hours later even after you buy your ticket. You could wait around to let the airlines get their cuts decided and into their schedules, but you stand a chance of not having much to choose from the longer you delay. Their load factors are such that they have to have pretty full planes these days just to break even. (Cindy)

Bethesda, Md.: I'm in need of some wise travel advice. What is the quickest, most direct way to get to Florence, Italy? I will be going there in November for a wedding and would like to find the easiest way to get there. Please help!

The Flight Crew: Fly nonstop in Air France to Paris and then nonstop to Florence. Or fly nonstop on Lufthansa to Munich and then nonstop to Florence. Or fly nonstop on United to Milan and then nonstop to Florence. (Sottili)

Re group fares: A number of airlines are now offering "wedding" rates. We are using American, United or USair, and Southwest. They offer 5 - 10% and the people don't have to fly together.

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: I've seen these advertised, but when you do the math, they're not often a great deal because it's not five or 10 percent off the cheapest discount fares. But it's worth asking about.

Re: Akron: Don't forget the National Inventor's Hall of Fame. And south of there, in Dover, is the Warther Carvings Museum, which features intricately carved trains and more that have to be seen to be believed. Also features a collection of 73,000 varieties of buttons.

Who sez Ohio doesn't rock?

The Flight Crew: Holy cow! We thought Congressman Trafficante was the biggest entertainment going in the area. How wrong we were. (cindy)

Washington, D.C.: Crew:

I'm heading to Vancouver, BC in October. Have you or your audience ever stayed at the Sylvia Hotel near Stanley Park? I saw that it is kind of well known and sort of trendy. Note, I booked the cheapest room -- so I've heard that they are small and don't have water views. The previous place I stayed was the Greenbrier, a little more expensive, but will have much more space and is in the middle of Robson street.

Thanks. Any suggestions?

The Flight Crew: Gary says: in spite of the glamour aspect of the Sylvia, I would probably stay elsewhere, like the Greenbrier. The small rooms are really small and in the end you feel kind of squeezed...

Arlington, Va.: I visited Maine for the week before Labor Day and commend the Flight Crew recommendation of the Sea Squall restaurant in South Portland. People visiting that area should note that various lobster and crab shacks probably serve far better food that you’d expect. I liked Bayley’s on Pine Point Road on the way to Old Orchard Beach and suggest eschewing the assembly line Clambake further up the street.

I went with a 3-and-a-half-year-old who had a magnificent time doing interactive things at the Portland Children’s Museum, enjoyed the rides and the food at Old Orchard Beach, and building sand castles at Higgins Beach.

The Flight Crew: Glad it worked out, Arlington. Thanks for letting us know.

Finland Bound: Don't forget you need a visa (in advance) to get into Russia!

The Flight Crew: Gary says, thanks for the reminder!

Baltimore, Md.: For the clickster who fears the French: When I went to Paris three years ago, I found that the French are not rude, but perhaps reserved. French waiters view themselves as professionals, and offer no-nonsense but excellent service. Don't expect a French waiter to chirpily tell you this name. Try reading the book "French or Foe" for more insights into the French. I found it to be a fast read and very insightful. And, anyway, even if the French were the monsters people make them out to be -- it would be worthwhile for that glorious food, art and architecture.

The Flight Crew: Good thoughts, says Gary. Thanks!

Leesburg, Va.: Thanks for all the help with Akron attractions! Now who out there can tell me how to convince my wife that she will just adore the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

The Flight Crew: If it makes you happy, Leesburg, we're sure she'd be happy to spend seven or eight hours there.

Zurich?: Hey, chatters may want to know about a deal being offered by Swiss, the airline. They've got a two-for-one deal from the U.S. to any of their destinations in Europe. The only catch is you have to pay with a Master Card. It's the cheapest flight to Europe I can find. I feel comfortable telling the world now because my wife and I just bought our tickets.

The Flight Crew: Sounds like a deal - you have to finish traveling by Dec. 31 and travel on the same itinerary and buy 21 days in advance. Seats are limited. Go to www.swiss.com or call 877-FLY-SWISS.

Annapolis, Md.: My fiance and I are going to Los Cabos for our honeymoon. A family member gave us a week at their RCI timeshare, which is part of the Fiesta Americana resorts. We have never visited Mexico and are looking forward to great food, relaxation, and beautiful scenery. Is this what we should expect or do you have any inside information that might help to make this honeymoon fantastic. We will be there early-mid October. Any thoughts, ideas, suggestions from the Crew or the chatters, would be much appreciated!

The Flight Crew: Gulp. I hate to tell you this but Cabo is more hook-up than all-ready-hitched. Downtown is, like, totally MTV Spring Break. There are lots of bars where people drink tequila like Gatorade and clubs that host Dirty Dancing contests (i kid you not, I saw it with my own eyes, and thought Candie so did not deserve to win). However, there are lots of good restaurants a bit off the main strip if you just wander a bit (but not too far, to be safe). There are some cute places along the marina, and some of the eateries along the beach are great fun, with tart margaritas that you sip from lawn chairs. However, for romance, you might want to get out of town and rent a Jeep for the day. Then, you can hike around the more remote areas (Cabo is more desert than lush), or kayak around quiet coves, or deep-sea fish. Hence, my advice: Get away from the crowds and explore the underdeveloped areas, before Sammy Hagar (he owns a bar in town) and Spring Break Inc. get there.--andrea

re:chile: I lived there for a year and taught English. It's awesome. You'll love it. Desert to the north, fjords and glaciers to the south, beaches to the west and the spectacular Andes mountains to the east. I would go south-- make sure to hit Pucon, a popular vacation town with the Chileans. While you're there you can climb to the top of an active volcano, go sailing or fishing or what have you. And then farther south you'll find Torres del Paine- voted the most beautiful national park in the world by the folks at National Geographic. One must do- hit Valparaiso-- a beach town about an hour west of Santiago. Totally gorgeous with tango bars, fresh seafood and cunning hotels built into the mountainside. have so much fun, i'm so jealous!!!!

The Flight Crew: hey, can't argue with the expert. Thanks.

What's so wrong with travel agents?: As a former teacher who used travel agents to book group travel all over the world, I don't understand everyone's disinclination to use them, especially in group situations like the would-be Germany traveler mentions. One example I'll throw out -- 22 kids, Paris and Chamonix (one week EACH), $1,600 per person and I went for free. The travel agent specialized in France and he did an amazing job for us. This included airfare, hotel, transfers and some meals. Granted, this was '94, but have had some great group deals since then, too -- that one was the best, though!

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: I must be losing my mind because I could swear I told the reader to check with a travel agent.....

Deep Valley, USA: Want to go to Santa Fe over Thanksgiving. Flights to Albuquerque are cheaper and more convenient. Is the drive between the two nice enough to count as part of the vacation?

Also, do we need to stay in town or are the outskirts good enough? We want sights and food more than shopping.

Thanks.

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee, who was just in Santa Fe a few weeks ago, says: yes, the drive between Santa Fe and Albuquerque is wonderful and can definitely be considered part of the trip. I personally would recommend staying in town. Although the surrounding area is great, there is much that you will want to do in the city, such as the Georgia O'Keefe museum and other galleries, some restaurants, etc. And parking in town can be tougher than in Georgetown or Adams Morgan.

Washington, D.C.: Re: Trip to Helsinki. I think that is a fabulous idea to go to Finland for Christmas. Althoug it's cold it's the best place to enjoy the Christmas spirit. I really recommend taking the trip Estonia because it has very unique medeival old town. There is a lot of cozy coffee houses and bars and the prices are much cheaper than in Helsinki.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, says Gary.

Born in Maine, Living in Exile: Glad you like Portland, Maine, so much. If Andrea is still missing "that town on the sea," a replica of the Henry Wadsworth Longfellow statue on display in Longfellow Square in Portland can be found right here in good ol' Washington on Connecticut Avenue downtown.

The Flight Crew: I love Portland, and miss the clean air. Where can I get some of that down here?--andrea

Re: Helsinki Christmas: If you want to see Santa, you can either fly or take the train to Rovaniemi. Train is of course a lot cheaper. It takes about 12 hours - I recommend taking the overnight train and booking a sleeper car. it is only about 30 bucks for the bed. Santa's workshop is right on the Arctic Circle - it is a bit cheesy, but not as bad as Disney World. If you decide to make it to Lapland, try to spend some time in the wilderness. It is like no other place I have ever visited.

Day trips to Tallinn and/or St. Petersburg are definitely worth doing. Finally, the youth hostel in Helsinki is quite unique - it is located inside the Olympic Stadium.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for the tips, says Gary.

Warrenton, Va.: We're going to Thailand next March for a wedding. We fly into Bangkok, but the wedding is in Cha-Am. What's the best way to get there from Bangkok and what should we expect to pay? Also, what's the best way to get from Cha-Am to Chiang Mai and its cost? And finally, how practical is it to get to Vietnam from Thailand? Thanks in advance.

The Flight Crew: KC here. I checked Thai Air's site and they don't seem to fly to Cha-Am, but the town looks close enough to Bangkok that you might consider taking a bus. I was really impressed with the bus system in Thailand -- tickets are dirt cheap and include snacks, movies, hostesses who take their job real seriously, etc. But it's also cheap to fly within the country. Also, it's very common to visit Vietnam (and Cambodia) from Thailand so there are lots of flight/tour options.

Re: US Airways: Can you please direct me to the right path about US Airways new policy about missing flights? I saw only a little bit of a news story that seems to contradict the earlier posting. I have a flight for work in Nov on US Airways and they tell me that if I miss my flight I am responsible for purchasing a new ticket! (cheap jerks but that's another story) I just want to have all the info that's available. I went to the US Airways's website and couldn't find the right info.... Thanks and love the chats!!

The Flight Crew: As a matter of fact, US Airways just today announced it is backpedaling on a couple of its nonrefundable ticket policies. To whit, it has reversed itself by saying it will in fact continue to allow standby after Jan 1, but will charge a $100 fee. It has also backpedal;ed by saying miles earned on nonrefundable tickets will indeed count towards preferred status.

However, they have not changed the basic change made two weeks ago. To whit, if you aren't going to make the flight on which you were scheduled, you must inform them by the time the plane leaves the ground. Then you can rebook and use the value of your ticket, minus the longstanding $100 change fee. I don't think that's a big a deal as some have made it sound. In fairness, if someone can't make a given flight, they should give the airline the change to sell the ticket to someone else. They need all the money they can get. (cindy)

washingtonpost.com: The Magnificent 11:Puerto Rico Coast to Coast

The Flight Crew: Here you go, to the Puerto Rico questioner -- a link to our special section on P.R. Good luck!

A Finn: For the person going to Finland-

Finland's lovely in the winter, if a bit cold. If you're going to be in Helsinki for a bit, check out the following:

Eat at Fazer, a central european style restaurant/cafe on Kluuvikatu. Excellent food and candy (try the Fazer "blue" chocolate, it's a classic).

For art, go to the Ateneum, opposite the train station- great art, great cafe. The new Kiasma (building by stephen holl) contemporary museum is also a sight to see.

Swing by Artek on the Etelaesplanadi for classic Aalto furniture, and Marimekko (all over town, but the one in the Kamp center is best) for clothes and textiles beyond what Crate and Barrel is offering.

The north is fabulous; use Rovaniemi as a base and explore from there. You'll love it!

The Flight Crew: Well you should know, Finn. Thanks for the expert perspective.


And on that appropriate note, we come to the end of our chat. (Get it? He's a Finn; A Finn? As in Fin, French for The End? Geeze, haven't you people ever watched a foreign movie!?).

Have a great trip, if you're going anywhere, and we'll do the same.

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