The Flight Crew: Back row, from left: Gary Lee, Andrea Sachs, Steve Hendrix, John Deiner; Front row: Danielle Seiss, Cindy Loose, K.C. Summers. (Melissa Cannarozzi for The Post)

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The Post's Travel Section Flight Crew – pictured at right – will take your comments, questions, suspicions, warnings, gripes, sad tales and happy endings springing from the world of . . . the world. Of course, the Flight Crew will be happy to answer your travel questions – but the best thing about this forum, we insist, is that it lets travelers exchange information with other travelers who've been there, done that or otherwise have insights, ideas and information to share. Different members of the Crew will rotate through the captain's chair every week, but the one constant is you, our valued passengers.

We know you have a choice in online travel forums, and speaking for the entire Flight Crew, we want to thank you for flying with us.

Submit questions in advance for the Flight Crew. You may also browse an archive of previous live travel discussions and a list of frequently asked questions.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

The Flight Crew: Neither snipers in the DC area, bomb attacks in Bali nor the threat of war in Iraq has kept the flight crew away from keeping tabs on travel in various parts of the globe. While many of you may be taking a breather to honor Columbus, we have a full team on hand today. We include: Editor KC Summers, Assistant Editor John Deiner (fresh back from a sojourn in the Napa Valley and other parts of the California Coast) staff writers Cindy Loose (author of the lovely lead about the Caymans in yesterday's travel section), Escapes Editor Steve Hendrix, Q&A guru Carol Sotilli and Copy Editor Andrea Sachs. Not to forgot, yours truly, Gary Lee, fresh back from an invigorating ferry hopping through the Cyclades islands off the coast of Athens. Ask anything you want and we'll do our best with it. Feel free to add your own two cents worth, too. With the economy still on shaky ground, we'll all looking for ways to cut costs of trips. Anyone with any bright original thoughts on that? The most succinct novel answer gets a prize of a snow globe of Lake Tahoe.

And off we go!

Dunwoody, Ga.: Comment on this morning's article on the Caymans by Cindy Loose.

We enjoyed our stay at the Sunshine Suites Resort Hotel (by Summerfield Suites) on Grand Cayman in January of this year. Right now (Oct. 14) the rates run from around $130-155 U.S. They have a very good Continental breakfast included each morning at poolside (very nice). Grounds are well kept. It's across the street from the Westin you mentioned on Seven Mile Beach. Although not on the beach itself, you can walk across the street and gain access to the beach beside the Westin, or drive down to the public beach area by the Governor's residence (beach chairs can be borrowed from the Sunshine Suites office) about half a mile from the hotel.

We can highly recommend Chicken! Chicken! The two of us ate there for around $20 Cayman. Great Rotisserie Chicken! We can also vouch for the Cracked Conch. We were seated in the early evening and got to see a great sunset from the outdoor (but covered) dining area. Meal for two ended up being around $60 Cayman with tip (would have been higher with alcohol). Very pleasant ambience, very relaxing.

We felt very safe on Grand Cayman the whole time. No evidence of any crime. We highly recommend the island!

The Flight Crew: Hey Dunwoody,
Glad you mention Sunshine Suites. I thought about including them in the list of recommendations, then decided that I would stay focused on properties right on the beach. Now you make me sorry I left it out, cause it really is a good option.
If you loved Chicken!Chicken! you must have missed Lorna's Jerk Shop, really a shack along the road. Now that was Chicken!!!!
Thanks for the input. (Cindy)

Washington, DC: Love your chats! My husband and I are considering trying a Sandals resort in the Caribbean this winter. I've heard both good and bad reviews. Should we give Sandals a try or should we look for some other all-inclusive resort? Thanks.

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee, here. Actually none of the crew here has stayed at a Sandals. Has anyone out there in chatland? If so, what's your report?

Not lucky enough to have the day off: Don't know if these qualify as cost cutting tips but here goes:

1. Use frequent flier miles. On top of accumulating miles for flights, I use the Visa card to get bonus miles on all my purchases.
2. Use coupons. I always seem to have a coupon for rental car companies. The key there for weekend travel is to pick up the car on a Thursday - I always seem to get great rates.
3. Use AAA discount. I joined this program a few years ago and have really put it to work for me. Not to mention all the free tour guides and maps you can get.
4. Shop around. I watch flights like some people do the stock market. To me it's like a game - I have to know I got the lowest price for my itinerary.

The Flight Crew: Sorry you're not off today but thanks for the tips, says Gary. They put in the running for the prize!

Oakton, Va.: Just wanted to point out that the use of US Air clubs by persons with Red Carpet Club memberships can only occur when flying on a US Air flight. I don't believe that was clear in Coming And Going yesterdayThe Flight Crew: The details of the code-sharing deal are incredibly--well, detailed. I did the best I could in a very small space. (CoGo)

washingtonpost.com: Sorry for the linked text, folks. Should be fixed now.

Dunwoody, Ga.: To save money on a trip, stay at an airport area hotel (assuming you can get a comparable rate to another hotel you were considering). Sometimes you can utilize the hotel's shuttle and save a day's rental on a car by not renting until the day after your flight arrives.

The Flight Crew: Dunwoody: I like that idea and it puts you squarely in the running for the prize, says Gary.

Honeymoon help!: I am getting married in March, and need suggestions on a great honeymoon locale. We are thinking in the Carribean, as it is relatively close, and we only have about six days to vacation. (Ideally, we would like to go to Tahiti, but that isn't an option on such a short time).

Our budget is about $3,000 and we are looking for a place that has gorgeous beaches, a quiet setting, good food and great snorkeling. Any suggestions on places to check out?

We went to St. John in June, and would like something along those lines!

The Flight Crew: If you like St. John's, I'm guessing you'd like Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. I'm only guessing not only cause I don't know you, but because I didn't actually make it to those islands during my trip to Grand Cayman. But the water and reefs around Grand Cayman are fantastic, and you could have those features without the high-rises too if you flew on to the smaller islands.

Barbados is no St. John's, but I do like the fact that there is both calm Caribbean and big ocean surf on the other side, and you can find hotels that are away from the main touristed section cause it's a big island. If you go there budget a least a day or two for an open air jeep to tour the island.

One other suggestion: check Jamaica. Again, more developed, but since things are generally cheaper you might be able to afford higher class accommodations. I adore a place that was called the Poincietta--the name has changed with new ownership, but if you ask the tourism bureau they'll know the one. (P.S. I might have spelled it wrong; look up the name of the flower, and that's it.)

The islands vary alot, but truth be told, they all have something to offer and it's hard to be utterly miserable at any of them.

Cindy

Alexandria, Va.: One way to save on accommodations
while travelling is to seriously look into
taking overnight trains/buses if you will be
going to multiple destinations on a trip.
While they may not always be as
comfortable as a plush king bed, they're
probably not much worse than a cheap-o
hotel or crowded, noisy hostel.

You may save a modest amount of
money (depending on how much the
sleeper berth costs) but more importantly
you will save a lot of time -- and don't ever
forget that your time is worth a lot.

The Flight Crew: Thanks Alexandria, says Gary, good tip!

Arlington, Va.: What I do to keep cost low......
Well, first, I think of anyone I know living someplace that might be a fun place to visit--that way I can save on hotel costs. Barring that, I usually keep myself VERY flexible, and keep an open mind. Sometimes Europe is cheap, and sometimes it is much less expensive to go to south america or whereever. Or places you never dreamed of vacationing--I once went to Brussels because I was itching for a trip and it was super cheap to go ($600 for hotel and air for 5 days). I had never dreamed of going there before, but I had a great time doing it!

When I am there (wherever there is) and I need to save $$ I do one BIG thing that saves a good bit of money. And that is that I limit myself to one well-researched meal out. The rest is sandwiches, etc. that I make from items bought from the local grocery. You'd be suprised how much you can learn about a country from it's grocery stores, and how much fun you can have. That way you don't feel like you missed something...and you save a good bit of $$ on food!

The Flight Crew: Thanks for all your thoughts, says Gary. They're useful and put you in the running for the prize!

Silver Spring, Md.: I am in the beginning stages of planning a trip to Europe and then from Europe to Africa and then back to the U.S. next summer. Can you suggest some websites that I can visit or some travel agencies that specialize in packaged tours to Africa. I don't want to overspend and want to stick to a $5,000 to $6,000 budget (this includes airfare and acomodations for two). Is my budget realistic? Thank you.

The Flight Crew: You should not have a problem with that budget but airfare for the two of you is going to take a chunk out of your budget. You didn't say where in Africa you were to go, or what you wanted to do or see, or whether Europe was just a layover or an extension of your trip. But for general info, try www.africa-safari.net; for a list of tour agencies, www.tourism-africa.co.za/travel-agents.html--we have also listed the packages of 2Afrika Inc. All the big guns in the adventure travel world offer packages too, like Butterfield and Robinson, et al. Another comprehensive source is www.linx.co.za. Also, check each countries' tourism office, they often list tour agent affiliates. You might also want to check with some European agents, if you are departing from Europe--since the air might be cheaper. And finally, do check with the State Dept. on safety issues; it has not been as peaceful as Eden over there, recently.--andrea

Del Ray, Va.: Hi. My Wife The Teacher and I are planning on going to Paris in April for a week. She's been there, I haven't. Should we spend the whole week in Paris (with daytrips) or spend a few days in London/Rome? Also, the fares are now about $900. That seems awful high. Should we wait? Will they go down?
Thanks muchly!

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee, untiring Francophile, with a few thoughts. First, the fares for April are sure to go well below $900 so yes, wait a bit. Second, I think there is more than enough to do in the city and daytrips to places like Versailles to keep you busy for a week. Save yourself a lot of hassle and do London another time!

Cutting Cost: Given that the audience should have a large percentage of folks who are federal employees or have spouses (like me) who are federal employees, OR are contractors with the Federal/State government, I think that the best travel tip I can give is to ask for the government rate at any major hotel chain that you will be staying at. Most of the chains extend this rate to you even when you are NOT traveling on official government business as a professional courtesy. More often than not, that will be the cheapest rate that you can get.

The Flight Crew: That sounds like a good idea, says Gary, a least for government employees. You're in the running for the prize, too!

Washington, D.C.: Hey ab-fab Crew! I have to go to Lancaster, Pa., for a wedding in November. Got any suggestions on where to stay? There seem to be an endless number of options, but I would like to avoid spending more than $120 on a room, with two beds. Should I just go with one of the chain hotels that is there?

The Flight Crew: You might try the Strasbourg Inn, WDC. I've heard that's a neat place, out in the country but not too far from Lancaster. Unless you're going close to Thanksgiving, I think you get a room there in your range. Have you looked at www.padutchcountry.com?

Anyone else have first-hand Lancaster recs? --Steve

Falls Church: Hi Crew -

Heading up to NYC on Thursday. I appreciated your info on the Washington Deluxe bus, but alas, their schedule is far too limited. Rather than ride the dog, I will use unreserved coach on Amtrak, though I think $145 is a bit outrageous.

THat said, could you provide the link to the latest restaurant postcard from Mr. Siestma, and any thoughts on what to do in Midtown or the Upper West Side on Thursday and Friday. Have tix to Beauty and the Beast, but otherwise open to museums, shopping, etc. Something different? How much is a carriage ride around Central Park?

Thanks for your help.

washingtonpost.com: Postcard from Tom: New York (Post, Oct. 6, 2002)

The Flight Crew: Hi FC, KC here. First of all $145 is too high for an unreserved Amtrak seat -- don't you have a discount you can plug in, like AAA, veteran, student, senior, etc.? That should bring it down to about $130.

Here's the link to Tom's restaurant picks. As for what to do, I'm a big fan of NYC's smaller museums, such as the Tenement Museum (Lower East Side) and the Frick (E.70th St.) The Tenement Museum is just wonderful -- you get a good sense of how ordinary people lived in these tiny apartment buildings during different time periods. And the Frick has the most amazing European art collection housed in a millionaire's mansion on Fifth Ave., with a beautiful inner courtyard where you can ponder it all.

Haven't done the carriage-ride-around-Central-Park thing but it generally costs about $60 for 20 minutes.

Dunn Loring, Va.: The way I cut costs is to have picnics for lunch when I am driving between destinations. There are a lot of good reasons besides being a lot cheaper than eating in a restaurant. One is that you get to interact with the locals. Buying cheese, bread and fruit in Italy or France is lots of fun and makes good memories. Plus you get to decide when you will eat rather than have the noon to two brackets they have in France.

The Flight Crew: Hey, Dunn Loring, much thanks, says Gary. I sometimes do the same thing and found it helps a lot to cut costs.

Ashburn, Va.: Hi, Had a fabulous time in New York yesterday thanks in part to your advice. We went to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island leaving from the New Jersey side as you have advised and using exit 14B from the Jersey Turnpike. Diretions to Liberty State Park were very clear and parking was only $5. We got on the first ferry with no wait. After visiting the Statue, we asked if we could take the New York ferry to New York and they said yes, we would just have to buy a ticket over there to return to Jersey and if that didn't work there were the water taxi's you had written about we could take. When we landed in Battery Park we saw that there was a huge line for the New York side ferry and knew that wasn't going to work for our return home.

After touring New York for a few hours, we decided it was time to go home and went in search of the water taxi. Just fyi to anyone who wants to use this service in the future -- the water taxi no longer leaves from Battery Park by the Statue of Liberty Ferry, but there is a stop near the old World Trade Center site. For $5 a person and a discount for my little one, we were ferried quickly back to Jersey City. Overall, I was very pleased with being able to visit New York without the hassle of driving into and parking in the city and wanted to thank you for the tip.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for the feedback, Ashburn. We aim to please.

Also working today: Re eating in Outer Banks: This was a couple of Septembers ago, but there was a great tiny restaurant and bar called Tortuga on the ocean highway in the stretch between Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills. I think a lot of locals hung there, so it may still be open in October. (Lots of places are closed by now.) We also, unexpectedly, were there during the Monarch butterfly migration. THAT was spectacular!

Re the honeymooners and Europe: If they've never been and have limited time, they would do well to pick just one of those countries. There's SO much to see everywhere. I started my European travels by going to England so I wouldn't be insecure about language differences. I've branched out since, but it was a good way to begin.

The Flight Crew: Thanks for the great tips, AWT.

Washington, D.C.: I am flying into Rome next week loaded with a reasonable number of bags (I hope). I have heard conflicting reports about cabs into the city -- from cost (50 to 100 euros) to availability (random strikes). How do you recommend getting downtown, by rail or cab? I'm getting lazier as I age and would prefer the cab, but not if it will cost me an arm and a leg. Any tips?

The Flight Crew: I don't think a taxi will cost much more than $50 each way. It's about 15 miles into the city from Fiumicino airport. You can also take the Stazione Termini train from the airport into the city, which leaves hourly and costs about $10. Anyone out there know how far you have to walk to get to the train from the airport?

Vienna, Va.: Hi: Any suggestions for finding the best fares flying to the Caymans? My family (me, my wife, and two kids) is traveling there from Nov. 23-30, but I haven't been able to find anything for less than about $650 a seat, which strikes as pretty pricey ... or is that about the best I can expect?

Thanks!

The Flight Crew: O dear, that is pricey, esp multiplied by five. But I'm afraid that the holiday sitting smack in the middle of the table is the problem.I'm not surprised at the price you quote for that particular period, and don't expect you'll find a whole lot better on regular flights. I just went to Orbitz to search what would happen if I could convince you to leave Thanksgiving Day, when no one wants to travel, and return one day later than you had planned. Even then, the price dropped to just $569. That's about $500 when you add up all the tickets, but that might not be enough to make it worth the change. That's the only good idea I have, except checking for packages. After that I'm out of ideas for dealing with airlines that are counting on lots of passengers desperate for a flight over a holiday. (Cindy)

West Hartford, Conn.: I plan on taking advantage of the December holidays by visiting DC. Can you tell me which are the top five hotels in the district that go all out with holiday ambience? I'm looking for the most fabulous holiday lobby as well as restaurants that will be open on Christmas day. Any other special holiday sights that you might recommend...I'm already looking forward to Union Station all decked out with holiday cheer. thanks

The Flight Crew: Gary Lee here with some thoughts about DC hotels that deck themselves out in style at Christmas. Not necessarily in this order, but still: The Hay Adams, the Williard, the Mayflower, the Watergate and for something a bit more intimate the Henley Park. I know that the Watergate always does fabulous holiday dinners...

on the cheap: When traveling, I tend to duck into public libraries to check my email instead of using Internet cafes. I use a calling card for 3.4 cents/minute (no I don't have a cellphone).

Libraries also usually have listings of fun local cultural events (cheap or free!).

And, if I'm traveling abroad on the cheap - I find that local markets are the best places to amuse myself (as long as I don't buy anything) and to find some authentic cheap eats.

The Flight Crew: Thanks says, Gary. I actually just did this on a trip to Canada and thought it worked nicely. Thanks!

Laurel, Md.: Re: Government rates

Make sure they are LOWER than other rates. Some of the basic-type chains have higher prices (equal to the government per diem) than their regular rates. I've seen $99 for a $52 room at an Econo-Lodge.

The Flight Crew: thanks. Laurel!

Austin, Tex.: My husband and I are hoping to spend a week at a beach resort in the Caymans but need to ask if nudity or topless fashion is out of question for the area. We've had some experience with this while on board a small barefoot charter in the region but wonder if land-based resorts are restrictive.

Thank you.

The Flight Crew: I didn't see any nudity, but maybe I just missed it. Try asking the Caribbean Tourism Organization at 212,635-9530 or better yet call the Cayman tourism bureau at 800-346-3313. My wild guess, given the American-style sensibility I sensed there, is that you'd be expected to keep your clothes on except in the privacy of your hotel room, thank you very much. (Cindy)

Maybe London-bound: Hi Crew and Readers. Airfare to London from my city, Houston is priced very nice ($366rt) so I'm thinking about going, and I would be going alone. How is London as far as traveling solo? Weird or no big deal? Also, is Gatwick a decent airport? Where would be the best part of town for a single female traveler to stay?

The Flight Crew: Go! London has reclaimed the top spot on my own list of favorite cities. The E.U. connection, the vibrant econonmy and cheap intra-Europe airfares have enlivened the city amazingly--every weekend, young people from around the continent flood in. Fun! And, while a single traveler in a city should always be aware of her or his surroundings, London's tourist precincts are not particularly dangerous. You will see many solo females.

Part of town? I'd recommend Bloomsbury. Try all-hotels.com for the cheap rate sometimes available at the Le Meridien Russell (used to be the Russell Hotel). Quiet, on the lovely park and close to West End, Oxford, Covent Garden, etc. For Gatwick, take the Gatwick Express, an express the departs about half hour for Victoria Station, about 11 pounds one-way. --Steve

Bethesda, Md.: I am 23 and am headed to Montreal with my boyfriend from October 24-28. We have flights and a place to stay in Old Montreal but were looking for suggestions as what to do, where to eat, what to see, where to shop (to get good deals of course) and where to go out. Any suggestions would be great. I have asked several other travel sites but no reponses we are getting desperate. Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Hi Beth, KC here. Don't panic, we're here for you. You're smart to stay in Old Montreal, from there you'll be able to walk to just about everywhere. Our staff twentysomething, Anne McDonough, highly recommends Fonduementale on Rue St. Denis (just above the Latin Quarter) as a great date place. If you want a place frequented by stars (it's decorated w/ plates designed by Bono, hockey stars, movie stars etc), try Buno Notte, right above St. Catherine on St. Laurent. There's a deejay at night -- a very happening place.

As for what to do, don't miss Notre Dame Cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts -- both amazing. And of course climb to the top of the hill for a view of the city. I really regretted not doing a raft trip on the St. Lawrence while I was there. Shopping -- I wish I could remember the name of the cool housewares store where I bought my Psycho shower curtain, but alas, it's gone.

Damascus, Md.: Just wanted to give some comments on JetBlue. Flew it this past weekend out to Oakland from Dulles. GREAT! Much cheaper than other airlines, got to fly direct, so didn't kill an entire day traveling out there, comfy seats, TV, no cattle call boarding like some other discounted airlines. They even gave more food than I was expecting. We brought sandwichs and snacks along, expecting to get only drinks, but there were a couple of rounds of snacks, that were not bad at all.

Highly recommend!!

The Flight Crew: Hey, Damascus. Thanks for the good word on JetBlue...it rocks. I guess they snack better from coast to coast--I only got a single bag of blue chips in route to Fort Lauderdale. Oh, who cares? You get TV and assigned seats!

-john

Baltimore, Md.: I am going to Savage River Lodge (outside Frostburg, MD), later this month. Any body been there? Specifically, I am hoping for insight into the restuarant in the lodge, and other ideas for dining in the Frostburg area. Thanks!

The Flight Crew: Hey, Baltimore, that's a new one on us! Have any of the clicksters been there?

Tysons Corner, Va.: Hey flight crew. I have a great way for saving money, though it's not for everyone: HOSTELS. They're not just for the youth- people of any age can stay there. Many of the HI ones cater to families. They average about $15 per night, extra for singles or doubles, but still a good deal. Plus, most of them have kitchens for the guests to use so you can cook your own meals. It's a really big way to save money. And it's a great way to meet different people. It's my favorite way of travelling for now, since I'm on a very strict budget.

The Flight Crew: I did a recent hostel night, and would agree. People should go aware that quality ranges widely, though. My impression is that European hostels tend to be of more reliable quality--meaning fewer surprises at either end of the spectrum. If If you know I'm wrong about that, I'd like to know. I've been keeping string on the topic--in case that's journalese, it means picking up tidbits here and there with the goal of eventually doing a story some day when I get enough "string." (cindy)

Oak Hill, Va.: I'll try again from last week. Any ideas of places to stay on the North Oregon coast for the Christmas holidays? For us and our two generation X sons. Thanks.

The Flight Crew: Oak Hill: We wish we did know that area, says Gary, but we don't. Wonder if anyone else out there has any thoughts on Oregon?

Alexandria, Va.: Do I need to buy a ticket/pass to explore Colonial Williamsburg? I have made reservations to stay at one of their Colonial Homes within COlonial Williamsburg the first weekend in Nov. The Williamsburg tourism website says to buy tickets but doesn't explain what the tickets will get me - do I need them to just get inside the Colonial section or are they needed for specific exhibits? I haven't been to Colonial Williamsburg in ages but I don't remember buying tickets to walk around.

The Flight Crew: You don't need tickets to do the main Williamsburg thing, Alex, i.e., walk about the historic quarter and hobnob with folks in colonial garb. You don't need a ticket for most shops or gardens or any restaurants. What they give you is deeper access to some of the interior displays and museums. My suggestion is to go out for your first exploration first without the tickets, then go back and buy them if you think you're missing something you want to see. I didn't buy them on my first visit and never missed them. (I did get them on my second).

--Steve

Loudoun, Va.: Dear Flight Crew,

Money saving tips..Pick a destination you can drive to and rent a cottage if you are going to the country or beach. We just came back from New York finger lakes. We grilled out every night and ate at the cottage so the only thing we spent money on was the actual rental and that included a hot tub and row boat right on Seneca Lake for $700.00 for the week. We did this a year ago in the outer banks and the place was right on the beach and cost about the same.

If your destination is in a city stay at a place like Marriott's Residence Inn which has free "social hour..food and drinks" on weekday nights plus breakfast every morning.

What we spend on groceries, we would've spent at home anyway and what we spent on driving we would've spent on commuting at home.

The Flight Crew: I like those ideas, says Gary, and they put you, too, in the running for the prize!

Christmas in Tucson, Ariz.: I love tucson and have never been in December. Was wondering what you think? What are we looking at in terms of cost at that time of year? I was also hoping to go camping around in the desert and knowing that this is near an impossible feat in July (when I was there) I am hoping December would be awesome. My wife is going, too, by the way. i am also tinkering with the idea of driving 5 or 6 hours north to Flagstaff if we have time -- anything going on there for New Years?

Last question: what is that name of that incredible historic and charming hotel in downtown Tucson? I was there in July 1995 after spending six weeks on an archaeological excavation and was a welcome sight. I can't remember the name. Thanks.

The Flight Crew: I don't know about camping around Tucson in December. It's not all that warm - the average temp is in the low 60s and it can get down to freezing at night. And it may be rainy. As for airfares, depends when you go in December - holidays are usually high. But Southwest flies to Tucson, which means it's never very expensive. Don't know about Flagstaff on New Years. As for the nice hotel in Tuscon, I think you're talking about the Arizona Inn, www.arizonainn.com. -Sottili

Washington, D.C.: In planning for a gift for my mother's 50th birthday, we thought about sending her and my father to a bed and breakfast for the weekend - they could enjoy a nice dinner, hike, sightsee. Any suggestions? Preferably within a 3 hour drive of Northern VA. THANKS!

The Flight Crew: Hi Wash, KC here. If money's no object, there's always the luxe, five-star Inn at Little Washington, but I'm assuming you don't want to spend $1,000 for dinner and a bed, even if it is your mom's 50th. But there are lots of other wonderful, more affordable choices in the foothills of the Blue Ridge.

L'Auberge Provencale in White Post is well-regarded, as is Killahevlin (Irish) in Front Royal. I love the Ashby Inn in Paris, just an hour west of D.C., with a terrific restaurant and the most incredible views of the mountains. On a more modest scale, I also like Buckskin Manor in Loudoun County, near lots of wineries, horse-riding, hiking, etc. Buckskin is also near Harpers Ferry and the cute town of Shepherdstown, W.Va.

Money Saving Tip: Get very drunk new years eve in Vienna Austria. Instead of getting into a taxi, get into a white car people are exiting THINKING it is a taxi (they are all white Mercedes there). Get yelled at in German (which you don't understand) Proceed to stumble home on the nightline (just an extra $1 or so with purchase of bus pass).

The Flight Crew: That's original, says Gary, but when I last checked drinks in Vienna were pretty pricey so I'm not sure how much money you'd save in the end....

i'm working too!: we've been to Cayman many times & love it!! -- topless/nudity is against the law.....(unless you sneak to an undeveloped part of the island -- be careful where you park, so your rental car doesn't get stuck)

The Flight Crew: So my wild guess was not so wild. But really, if you have to hid out to go naked, it really kind of kills the point of public nudity, doesn't it? You might as well just take your clothes off in the shower if you don't want anyone to see you. But thanks for the confirmation on Cayman laws.(Cindy)

Gaithersburg, Md.: I'm going to Austin, Tex., on Wednesday and will be there through Sunday. I already know about the bats, the state house and the University. I would rather have had this trip be to South by Southwest music festival in May, so I know to check out music opportunities while there. Is there anything else that I have to do? I should add, I've never been to Texas before.

The Flight Crew: Definitely check out the music scene--but during daylight hours you can explore the Mayfield Estate and Nature Preserve and National Wildflower Research Center. There's lots of hiking, biking, water sports and more, especially out in the Hill Country. For urban fare, explore the Strip. The Austin Chronicle Web site has some great ideas, and looking at their calender, you can plot your days and nights (and maybe even get tickets ahead of time). Some ideas: The Beard at Gallery Lombardi the Texas music exhibit at Bob Bullock Tex. State History Museum, bellydancing at Marakesh, Ruben Blades show, and more. But perhaps some chatsters have some recommendations to add???-andrea

Memphis, Tenn.: Hello Crew,

My fiance and I are not nuts (well at least not on this subject) and we are going to France and England for our honeymoon in April (must be a popular month).

We got our tickets out of Memphis -- then to Paris then we fly home out of London for 771 a piece by booking through Northwest World Vacations. All you have to do is stay three nights in a NWWV approved hotel booked through their network -- we selected the Royal Saint Honore in Paris.

Any comments on that hotel and a recommendation for a place to stay in London? We are looking to stay near $250 a night.

Thanks in advance!

The Flight Crew: Oh, lots to chose from in London at that price range, Memphis. My favorite is the small and teddibly English Hotel Basil (in Knightsbridge, right round the corner from Harrods). Also look at the Jenkins Hotel in Bloomsbury, and Le Meridien in Russell Square (be sure to get a rooom in the part that has been resored).

On the Royal Saint Honore, no here knows it directly, but Paris expert Gary Lee says the neighborhood is nice.

--Steve

washingtonpost.com: Girls on A Roll in Atlantic City, (Post, Jan. 6, 2002)

The Flight Crew: For the person looking for recommendations on where to eat in A.C., here's a story from earlier this year.

Washington, D.C.: To the solo female London traveler -- Yes, I think you will feel great as a solo traveler (as another female!), and Bloomsbury is PERFECT. You can walk to tons of great areas (Soho, Covent Garden, theater district), the Tube is right there, and it feels safe and quiet. Was just there in August and I wish I was still there!!

The Flight Crew: Told ya.

Reston, Va.: i will be at Schipol airport in transit for about 5 hr layover. Is there any chance i can do any sightseeing of places in amsterdam or nearby? How far is the airport from the city? Modes o transport to city?
Thanks for your help!

The Flight Crew: Some of us have been through there, says Gary, but don't know it well enough to offer you sound advice. Anybody else out there familiar enough with Amsterdam and the airport to offer recommendations?

Del Ray, Va.: The Savage River Lodge got a very nice write up in Southern Living last winter. Sounds as if the restaurant is good, you could probably look it up in back issues....

The Flight Crew: Thanks, says Gary. Maybe we should check it out!

Culpeper, Va.: Love your discussion! I cut my costs for rental cars by picking them up at downtown locations instead of the airport location and all the taxes and fees that go along with it. Works great for any city that has an airport close by (Las Vegas, D.C., etc).

The Flight Crew: Thanks Culpepper, says Gary, good tip!

Ashburn, Va.: Africa is a very big continent with many countries and to dismiss the entirety as unsafe is like saying the entire U.S. is unsafe because of the situation in D.C. and New York. We went to Botswana last year and it is still a safe country. We used African Portfolio up in New York and they have an online site onsafari.com. We liked them because they had both a Zimbabwe office and New York office. Our only knock against them was they seemed much more attentive before all the money was paid, but I would still recommend them

The Flight Crew: I did not dismiss the whole country as being unsafe. The Africa-bound traveler did not specify his destination, so to play it safe, I recommended taking a quick look at the State Department's Web site before he plans his adventure. Better to be well informed than not, right? As for Botswana, thanks for the suggestion.

honeymooners: In addition to NOT going with a group, I'd suggest sticking to an English speaking country. Traveling someplace where English is not the primary language can be stressful - especially the first time.

The Flight Crew: You're right in general, reader. But it's my experience that English is so ubiquitous as a second language in the tourist parts of Europe (and most of the globe, for that matter) that it's not an issue.

B&B, in Virginia: I recently stayed at the river'd Inn (www.riverdinn.com or org). It was at the bast of the Shen. Mountains, so so relaxing and quiet. And beautiful. It has a 4 star restaurant and the friendliest staff.. Each room has a jacuzzi. It might be good for the parents because the town is quite small and not bustling with night life. And it's So Romantic.

The Flight Crew: Sounds lovely... thanks, BBIV.

London Bound: Yes, definitely go. I've been to London alone many times and love it. I tended to make lunch the largest meal of my day b/c I felt more comfortable eating lunch alone in restaurants.

For dinner (if I wasn't going to see a play/concert/film) I'd go to Sainsburys/Tescos and explore the particularly English food stuffs, go back to my hotel room and picnic while watching particularly English TV programmes.

The Flight Crew: Thanks, L.B.

Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: I am lucky enough to have two free tickets to anywhere BA flys - but I have time constraints on using. I must go in Feb of next year and can only be gone a week. I am thinking of egypt - exotic not a full day of fly time (unlike new zealand, which was my first thought) but would be interested to hear other suggestions. Also is Feb a good time to go? Is Egypt safe for two women to travel to alone? Is there enough to do for five full days or is one pyrimid just like another?

Thanks for any suggestions

The Flight Crew: Sottili here: I don't think you'd get bored in Egypt for five days. As far as safe, well, there haven't been any attacks against tourists there in five years, but if we're at war with Iraq by then, who knows what the situation will be like. AS for two women traveling alone, you may get some unwelcome attention - dress conservatively. British Airways flies to many destinations in Europe - take a look at it's miiniguides to the cities it flies to at www.britishairways.com to see if anything else sounds interesting.

Alexandria, Va: We're headed to the Grand Hyatt on Grand Cayman in December for our honeymoon. SHould we change it to the resort you profiled instead?

The Flight Crew: It depends partly on your taste, but for a honeymoon, I can see the advantages of staying on Seven Mile Beach. (I'm assuming you mean changing from the Hyatt to Cobalt Coast) One of the advantages off Seven Mile beach is that you can be barefoot and casual. On a honeymoon you probably want to look your best, won't mind dressing up for dinner and to walk through the lobby. The Seven Mile resorts allow you to laze around, find good restaurants without much effort or distance, ditto for boat trips etc. Very relaxing and easy, which is what you might need after planning a wedding. Cobalt I loved and would chose for my next trip there, but maybe not for a honeymoon. All the reasons I outlined above, but also, it's rather small. That's one of the reasons I loved it, and would recommend small for most trips. But honeymoons cry out for the anonimity of a bigger place, so it's just the two of you--the other people who necessarily will be at any hotel can be tuned out easier at a bigger place. In the final analysis, I don't know why I make an exception for honeymooners, but it just feels right. Just make sure that the Hyatt actually has a sandy beach that stretches all the way to the water. Not all of the hotels on Seven Mile beach have that. The Westin definately has a great beach; I just can't remember the Hyatt's beach off hand. (Cindy)

New York, N.Y.: I would like to plan a week-long trip to Paris but slightly fear being caught out of the country when Bush starts bombing Iraq. Were any of out outside the U.S. on Sept. 11? What did you do? What would your advice to me be if I am in Paris next month on the day of an attack on Iraq?

The Flight Crew: My parents were in Croatia on Sept. 11--in fact I know a gazillion people who were out of the country. And yes, it was scary to be so far from home and yes it was a bear trying to get back to the States. However, if war does break out (and at this rate, it should not happen till at least the next millenium--and that's a good thing), it will be a much different scenario, since it will occur on the home team's turf. (Plus, France is so anti-war, maybe it's a good think to be in Paris). Before you do anything, call the airline and find out what their policy is in case war does occur (though again, it might not affect the Western world in the least). Same goes for hotel accommodations. For this occasion, you might want to work with a travel agent, since it will be easier to alter plans with a stateside contact. Also, before you go, make sure you have the US Embassy number/address for Paris. But as my final word of advice: Don't let war curb your freedom to travel. We must still enjoy the world--and the stinky cheeses of France.--andrea

Texas Bound: For the traveler to Austin - you definitely have to eat at Chuy's or the Salt Lick. Chuy's is the best Tex-Mex my husband and I have ever had. When we lived in Austin we'd go at least once a month. You can also check out the Hula Hut which is also owned by Chuy's and is on the town lake. The Salt Lick is a bit south of town in Driftwood. If you're a vegetarian this is not the place for you. Get the family feast - they bring you mounds of brisket, sausage, ribs, and all the fixins. It's making me hungry already!!

For daytime adventures - climb Mount Bonnell. You get a great view of the city, lake, and expensive houses in West Austin. It's my favorite spot in the city - by husband proposed to me there!

Have fun and enjoy Texas!

The Flight Crew: thanks for ideas. yee-haw.

Pricey Drinks in Vienna, Austria: Actually, drinking is cheaper than Washington DC or Vienna VA there as long as you stick with Bier. Okay, a real tip is to get your beer or other drinks at the grocery store where you can get a 1/2 liter for .40 cents! Then, since there are no drinking in public go find yourself a nice park bench - wino style!

The Flight Crew: Thanks for the added thought, says Gary. And much thanks to you all for your fine questions and thoughts. I particularly appreciate your suggestions on saving costs. There were lots of good ideas there. In the end, I liked the one suggesting checking your e-mail in public libraries rather than Internet Cafes. Whoever it was that suggested that, you win the prize! E-Mail me at leeg@washpost.com and send your address and I'll send it right over. And tune in next week, everybody!

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