Byline: The Flight Crew
The Post's Travel Section Flight Crew 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.
The transcript follows.
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Cindy Loose: Welcome to our online chat. We're down a few people today, so will be needing your help even more than usual, so get ready.
We do have onboard your captain, Cindy Loose, plus crew Gary Lee, Carol Sottili, Anne McDonough and Andrea Sachs.
Last week we got a few responses on our question about good guests and bad guests--this if fodder for a future story--and this week want to get a little more specific. How long is the maximum stay before guests wear out their welcome? Should overnight visits be limited only to those who really can't afford a hotel, or are there other reasons that you welcome guests, or feel you should be welcomed as a guest? Let's roll.
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Arlington, Va.: What would FC do? For a 5pm (Friday) overseas flight out of Dulles, take 5A express bus to arrive at 2:30 or at 3:34? (We won't be checking bags, using appropriately sized backpacks). Thanks!
Cindy Loose: For overseas flights, you usually have to check in at least two hours in advance, so I'd be on the bus that arrives at 2:30. Then again, advise can vary a bit by airport and by airline, so the best thing is to check with the airline on your given flight.
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Alexandria, Va: I am planning a trip to Boston for the 4th of July weekend. I have priced airfare through US Airways (I have two vouchers to use) and it seems a little steep ($250 pp). Think they will drop between now and then? Thanks, Jennifer
Carol Sottili: I just tried www.flyi.com and got a round-trip fare of $117 with taxes leaving Friday, returning Tuesday July 4 weekend. Also, it's sometimes cheaper to fly into Providence, RI or Manchester, NH.
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Expedia Issues....: Anyone that books a vacation via Expedia...be sure to follow up with the resort to ensure the reservation was booked properly. Just got back from a week's vacation, where the reservation was booked in my wife's maiden name (they asked for the name as it appeared on the passport) and hypenated it to the first 5 letters of our last name. They booked the airline tickets fine, but it took 2 hours to sort out at the resort...and then only because the guy delivering the luggage to the room noticed the hyphenated portion and put 2 and 2 together. Expedia never apologized for the stress and headaches. On the other hand, the next 6 days were perfect!;!;
Cindy Loose: The online travel agencies have also occassionally had problems because the hotel doesn't get their fax reserving the room. Travelocity announced a couple weeks ago that it was going to seek confirmation after making a booking. But if you want to be sure, making a call before arrival isn't a bad idea.
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Arlington, Va.: I'm a little confused about tipping in Europe. I'm going to Germany next week, and the guides I've read mention that a service charge is included in the check at restaurants, but I should still tip 10%. Huh? Also, do I still tip the maid at the hotel? 2 Euros a day?
Gary Lee: There are no hard rules on tipping in Europe. In general, service charges are included in restaurant bills in Germany (and other places in Europe.) I usually add a bit more "trinkgeld" for the waiter. I might add UP TO ten percent if I am really pleased with the service but it would be fine to add less or even nothing. Again, how much you leave for the maid depends on how pricey the place is, how good a job they do, etc. The lowest I'd leave would be the equilavent of $1 a day.
Anybody have any other thoughts on that?
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Washington, DC: Hey Flight Crew-
So I had plans to spend two weeks abroad with a friend after graduation. However, my friend just got ill, may need emergency surgery and probably won't be recovered in time for travel. Now I'm kicking myself for not getting travel insurance for the non-refundable flight ticket that I scraped by to afford. Do you have any ideas what I should do? Just bite the bullet and take the financial hit? Not only was she my travel companion, I would be staying with her in her parents appt. that they have there, so now I have no place to stay as well.
Also, while reading the fine print of the ticket, I couldn't help but wonder if tickets are EVER refundable - and why that is? How come you can cancel some services (doctor's appt., hair appt.) but not others, even when you've paid up front?
Anne McDonough: I'm sorry to hear about your friend, and hope she feels better. I hope this doesn't sound callous, but why don't you go anyway? If it's a post-graduation trip, sounds like hosteling might be right up your alley, or perhaps a program like Servas. There's a built in social network so you don't have to worry about always being alone, it's cheap, and especially since it's a two week trip even if you get lonely it won't be for long. And if your friend's anything like me, she probably won't want the guilt of you NOT going on top of her not being able to go. If that made any sense.
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Suburban Maryland: Good Afternoon,
I have a 4 hour layover in Phoenix this week and have never been to the area. Is there anything close to the airport that I could take in during that time frame? Thanks very much for any ideas.
Cindy Loose: Remember you have to get back to the airport early for security etc., so your four hours is more like 2 or so. Sorry, but no one here remembers how far, or expensive, it is to get from the airport to something worth seeing. Can anyone out there help?
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Alexandria, Va.: Any suggestions on a health spa exclusively for men? I want all the pampering my wife gets when she goes with her friends, but with my friends... I think I could convince some of the guys to get away for a week, if there's enough to do. We're not looking for a golf retreat or roughing it in the wild... Keyword: Pamper.
Gary Lee: Don't know of men only spas but if you're looking for manicures, pedicures, etc., one local day spa is The Grooming Lounge (www.groominglounge.com) on L. St. I'm pretty sure they would have some tips about overnight places to go with the guys.
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Washington, D.C.: Crew:
First, let me give a shout out to Gary Lee-- who told me of a cool place to go in Montreal (Go Go Lounge). You could write a book-- "Playa hangouts by Gary Lee" or "Pimpin with Gary Lee"
Gary (and the rest of the crew)-- I am heading to my favorite city (San Francisco) in a few weeks-- do you have any night life suggestions (I know the place well, but am looking for new places to try out).
thanks
Gary Lee: Yo, thanks for the compliment and the book idea. Sounds like something we could team up together to do!
I do know a new place in San Francisco but hestitate to mention it on this oh so family friendly chat. Anybody have any night life spots to offer our good clickster?
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USAirways merger: Hi there -- any insight on the possible USAirways-America West merge? Would USAirways still be part of the Star Alliance for frequent flyer miles? Thanks!;
Carol Sottili: The prevailing opinion is that the merged airline would remain a part of the Star Alliance, but that's not carved in stone.
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Washington, D.C.: I have what I hope is a fun question: where should we go on our honeymoon? It will be the week before Christmas, and we were planning on Malta but can't find affordable plane tickets anywhere. Right now we're toying with the idea of Turkey. Wouldn't mind somewhere warmer, but we're not parasailing, scuba-diving kind of people - more museum and walking tour. We're willing to go anywhere, just trying to keep the costs reasonably low and have a fun, relaxing time.
Cindy Loose: The week before Christmas is the worst of times to be looking for something affordable. If it were me, I'd delay the honeymoon and open up a whole new vista of possibilities. Come Jan. 2, prices of tickets, hotels and everything will drop a lot. Plus, you'd have time to rest up from the pre-wedding and wedding activities.
If you're intent on traveling immediately after the wedding, so be it. For walking tours and museums and still keeping price down over Christmas holiday period, how about the U.S.? If you haven't been to San Francisco, I think you'd love it. If you really want to go overseas: A. search the web for good fares for any place you can think of that you'd like to go, including Spain and Portugal, which should be plenty warm for walking around and/or B. see a travel agent and see what they can put together.
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Vienna, Va.: Hi FC - we'll be travelling in Europe with our 18-month old this summer, and we have a question about Monaco. I know that nobody under 18 (years, that is) is allowed into the Grand Casino, but does that apply to OBVIOUSLY under 18 guests? That is, will we have to stroll thru and play in the Grand Casino one at a time, or will they allow him in for a little while (during the afternoon - wouldn't do that to the other patrons at night).
Any other chatters have any suggestions for an day in Monaco/Monte Carlo with a Rugrat?
Thanks
Cindy Loose: Sorry, but plan or taking turns.
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Maryland: It is almost ALWAYS easier to fly into Providence to get to Boston.
FYI - great opportunity to point out a common travel mistake - don't be so eager to use vouchers/hotel points, etc. that you overlook good deals. Sometimes a little cash outlay now is a better deal.
Carol Sottili: I don't think it's always easier - depends on where you're staying. But Logan is a giant pain. Good point on deals.
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Bethesda, Md.: Has anyone travelled in China during November or March? How was the weather? I'm trying to balance lower fare with decent shot at okay weather. Any red hot recommendations on a tour company? Most I've looked into spend several days cruissing in 3 Gorges area, which strikes me as awfully long. I want to see the "standard" tourist places, plus make a short side trip to Xiamen, in Fujian Province. Advice?
Anne McDonough: I've been there during both those months and while there are more optimal months (my best bet is September and May) you really can't go wrong with November and March (and you're right, fares drop dramatically). Also, it depends on where you are. Travel in the south in February and you'll get sunburned; in the north you'll be frozen. In Beijing in November, the days are lovely, the nights cold. In March, the days have a bit more of a chill to them. You didn't mention how long you have to spend in China, but if it's at least 3 weeks, then 3 days on Yangze are well worth it, starting at Chongqing and heading eastwards. I wasn't so sure about all the Three Gorges hype, but ended up loving that part of the trip. It's incredible to what soon no longer will exist. It sounds like a Beijing-Xian-Chongqing-Shanghai trip may be up your alley. If you're also planning on Xiamen, I hope you have at least a month. Any tour company recs out there?
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Overnight Guests: We hosted some guests from France for 2 weeks at our house because they were parents of a good friend, and she couldn't fit them in her studio apt. It worked out really well because they had the entire basement, including a full bath to themselves. They didn't speak much English, but we got by well enough with our high school French. We also put sticker labels in French on the cupboards in the kitchen so they could find the glasses/plates/etc without us. They had their own key and came and went as they pleased. They were lovely houseguests who took care of themselves and made us wonderful French meals too. (one particular night I found myself coming home late and found a plate of dinner made up in the fridge, with a note in French describing the dish and urging me to eat something - it felt like they were my own parents looking out for me)
Cindy Loose: Nice guests. Send them to my house any time.
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Ole Ole, DC to Mexico: Am heading to Los Cabos mid-September. Right now, the air fares are holding steady at about $500. Do you see these going down if I hold off buying tickets? Thanks so much!;
Carol Sottili: Los Cabos is very far away, and there aren't often sale fares. I'd probably go with the $500 fare.
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re: Phoenix: I just returned from Phoenix. Our hotel, the Arizona Biltmore, was just a short drive from the airport. It's on the list of "1000 Places to See Before You Die."
Cindy Loose: That's a Frank Lloyd Wright design, or am I thinking of another Phoenix hotel?
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tipping: Can you go into more detail on tipping maids?
If the minimum is $1, what is the max? Do you tip daily or at the end of your stay? Where do you leave the tip?
Thanks.
Gary Lee: Again, the amount you leave kind of depends on the level of service and the price of the place. If you're staying in a $400 a night place, it would not seem out of line to leave as much as $10 a day.
I either leave the tip on the desk/table in an envelope saying "tip for maid," or give it to him or her directly.
I usually leave these tips at the beginning of the day just in case the maid changes..
But like I said, I know of no hard and fast rules: these are mine.
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MD: Ben Franklin put it best: fish and guests smell after three days.
My rules for houseguests (being one, and having them):
1. bring something for the hosts that you don't expet them to use during your stay (wine/candies/passes for an exhibit in their hometown)
2. make your bed and tidy your room every day, even if they don't do it themselves and even if you don't do it at home
3. aks them the night before what their morning routine is, so you don't feel awkward about sleeping in and/or getting up at the crack of dawn. OR worse, setting off the alarm when you head out for a morning stroll.
4. Unless they offer, don't assume you won't need a rental car
5. Guests who take the initiative for their own entertainment are highly prized, and those that offer to bring the hosts along but don't get offended if hosts decline are priceless. I LOVE the Smithsoniam museums, but every guest I ahve wants to see them and I've been there, done that. I'll happily see you off to the metro with my local travel guide and pick you up when you get back later in the evening.
6. Pay for at least one meal for the host while you are in town - they are saving you the cost of a hotel, at the least. Plus it is just the right thing to do.
7. That said, you are NOT staying in a hotel. Respet the rules of the house (no smoking/swearing/late night TV for kiddies/etc.)
that's just a few of them - I could go on. In the end, when I have people over, I want them to feel at home, but I also want them to respect that they are in MY home. And to want to come visit again, and to be aske back.
Cindy Loose: Three cheers for the three-day rule.
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Washington DC:
Hi -- that was a fine article on Fort Lauderdale!; Comprehensive and open minded. Although I'm too much of a workaholic to take even a 1-day beach vacation, so am unlikely to go there, it's good to see this coverage in the mainstream media.
Gary Lee: Thanks. We try our best to be open minded. We have a diverse readership and would like to think there is something for everyone in the section.
But hey, give yourself a break...You can take your laptop and work by the pool...
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Washington, DC: I may be going to Nairobi in September. Has anyone been there? What can I expect? I've never been to Africa before and am not a very experienced traveller.
Thanks for any guidance!;
Cindy Loose: We've never been---who can help with Nairobi? In general, I'd start by visting www.travel.state.gov, which includes info about crime, safety, roads, etc. Then get a good guidebook, and do what you're doing now---ask around. Since you live in Washington, you probably know someone who knows someone who knows Nairobi.
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Washington, DC: I think Ben Franklin got it right--more than 3 days (or maybe 4) and guests can get to be a bit much. Of course, I only have a couch, and not a separate guest room, but I also have the convenience of being right on the metro, so I can hand guests a map and a key and say "Go see the sights!;". But for many close friends, I'd so much rather they stay with me than a hotel--much easier if we've gone out to only find one taxi home, and the next morning, to plan when and where to have brunch!;
Cindy Loose: Separate guest room is helpful--wish I had one.
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Washington, D.C. : I saw inexepensive tickets on USA 3000 to Ft Laurderdale from BWI. Is this a reputable airline and is it easy to get to Miami from the Ft Laurderdale airport.
Carol Sottili: USA 3000 is a charter airline that now offers some scheduled service. It has a satisfactory rating with the Better Business Bureau. As for getting to Miami from Fort Lauderdale, I think it's pretty easy. Try www.floridalimo.com.
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Washington, D.C.: I asked this question last week and got no anwswer, so I went ahead and bought the ticket, but just wanted to get your take on if I paid too much -- Istanbul in August, $1K on Air France. Also, what things should I do when I'm there (going because a friend has a work thingy and invited me to tag along, so haven't really mapped out a plan for activities). Also, going to Paris over Thanksgiving and taking mom. Can you recommend cheap, but clean and safe centrally-located hotels?
Anne McDonough: Man, packing in the questions, aren't we--I don't second guess flights once they're booked, what's the point! As for Istanbul, first off, it's going to be HOT in August, so pack accordingly, don't know if you're a guy or girl but either way long flowy clothes are the way to go. Just wandering around the old part of the city, through the bazaar, the winding streets surrounding it, the Hagia Sofia; on the other side of the city, the newer part, explore the area around Taksim Square. Take a ferry ride ont the Bosphorus and pop over to Asia for a day. Wander through Topkapi Palace. Order pizza that comes with a fried egg on top. Stop for apple tea, no need to look for it, it will come to you. Have a Turkish bath.
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travel insurance: don'ot kick yourself too hard. odds are you wouldn't have been able to use it. your friend, maybe, but not you, unless (and even then, iffy) you were booked together.
however, I jsut got back from a trip where nothing went wrong and was a little annoyed for having bought the insurance. That's the little game we play - you only want it when you need it, and when you don't you hate that you paid for it. But then I've also been paying for car insurance and home insurance for the past 15 years with nary a single claim. and am happy about THAT every day.
Anne McDonough: The insurance catch-22. Gotta love it.
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loss of travel companion: go!; go!; go!; you won't reret solo travel. but if you really can't do it on your own, call the airline. odds are you can just pay a change fee and rebook the time of the ticket (for international it is likely at least $200, plus any additional increase in the fare).
Anne McDonough: I agree, and just hope that whatever the poster does, she doesn't just bit the bullet and forgo the ticket.
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Fairfax, Va.: Hi,
I was able to snag tickets to two 2006 world cup Germany tickets on June 2006. I'm trying to find decent lodging around Munich or Nuremberg(site of the games), do you have any recommendations for a family of four? Are youth hostels or bed-and-breakfasts fine? Before the Cup, we want to go to the Czech Republic. How can we get there from Munich or Nuremberg? Will this country be using the Euro by then?
Thanks,
Gary Lee: Last things first: your best bet in getting to Prague is to take the train. I don't think that the Czech Republic is due to move to the euro until a couple of years after 2006. But don't fret, you can manage fine in korunas, the local currency.
As for places to stay, I can't name any in particular, but in general, I would say bed and breakfasts are fine around southern germany; a youth hostel may be less comfortablle for a family unless you can find one with rooms that have muliple beds.
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Mclean, Va.: My fiancee and I are planning our honeymoon for the end of August. We will be traveling to Aruba. I wanted to know what the benefits are to using a travel agent? Since we are only traveling to a carribean island and I am finding great deals on Orbitz ($1500 pp airfare and an 8 night stay in a 4 star resort), is it better to just book the trip on my own? Also do you all have any tips or suggestions for honeymooners in Aruba????
Cindy Loose: The benefits of a travel agent include help if something goes wrong. Also, they should know the vacation providers--how important that is depends on how famous or obscure the company you are using is. A travel agent might not charge for a package--they do charge a fee for booking air only, since they don't get a commission. But whether it's free or for a fee, what you're buying--or getting free--is expertise.
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Washington DC: I had my sister-in-law from London stay with us for two weeks a couple of years ago. I think any longer would have worn on our nerves - but we kept it interesting. My husband and I took turns taking off days to tour DC - then we sent her to NY on her own, to a concert at Wolftrap on her own (where she befriended some folks, and ended up seeing them again during her stay in the States), and we all took the last couple days of her trip and went the beach together. She was lovely - cleaned up after herself and our apartment in general, cooked, and was pleasant to be around. A nice parting gift of wine and a card and she is welcome back anytime!;
Anne McDonough: That's the best way to do it, for everyone to be flexible, for the guest to be independent, and for the hosts to also get a little something of a vacation with the visitor as well.
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re: Phoenix: Yes, the Arizona Biltmore is a Frank Lloyd Wright design.
Cindy Loose: Thought so, and remember staying there long ago, in August, cause it's really cheap then.
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Richmond, Va.: I was able to book a flight using FF miles to Kuala Lumpur in November and will be over in that neck of the woods for 2 weeks. We're thinking of 3 days in KL visiting an old roommate and then heading up to Thailand for the remainder. I'm thinking 3 days in Bangkok and who knows where for the rest. Any suggestions from you "who know where"?
Gary Lee: Sounds like you're short of time, but if you get as far as KL, you'd be remiss not to go to the colonial city of Malacca, Malaysia. It's only a couple of hours by bus from KL; you can make a day trip of it.
For ancient "overseas Chinese culture," Penang is a bit further afield but also well worth the trip...
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Bethesda, Md.: Hi, Travel Gurus. My 85 year old mother wants to, "See Venice one last time," so my sisters and I are going to take her and my 87-year-old father next fall. An apartment for a week seemed like it would be the way to go, but the rental agency I contacted said they won't rent to the elderly; it sounded like they think they are too much trouble. And they do have a point-if we needed help for an emergency, a hotel-type desk person would be invaluable considering our weak Italian skills. I have browsed the web for hotels that might have big suites where we could all be together, but haven't been able to find anything. I am now trying to find a travel agent that specializes in Venice. Can you think of any other options I might explore?
Carol Sottili: I'd try another villa rental company. You should be able to find a villa where the owners are on site or nearby and speak English. Try www.villasitalia.com, www.rentvillas.com, www.interhome.com and www.holidaysinitaly.com. Any chatters have a specific villa in mind?
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Silver Spring, Md.: Travel to Boston - Southwest frequently offers good email deals to Providence. I've seen $34 one-way flights. They just had a system-wide sale.
Carol Sottili: Yup.
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Arlington, Va.: About a month ago, I bought tickets to Cancun (for the week after Thanksgiving) on American Airlines for about $360 roundtrip (!). This morning, I got an email saying that my itinerary has changed, and now instead of flying out on a Saturday morning, I'll be flying out on Friday night and will have an overnight layover in Chicago. Of course I called AA and explained that I can't do that, and the assistant was very helpful and booked us on another Saturday morning flight. My question is this - are airlines allowed to change itineraries so dramatically? If the assistant hadn't been so nice, could she have just told me that I "have to" fly on Friday night and pay for a hotel room at O'Hare? Thanks!
Cindy Loose: The rule is that they must return your money if there is a "substantial change." Substantial has never been quantified, but FAA has told me that a few hours difference is acceptable. I'd say a change involving overnight is very substantial. On the other hand, if you didn't like what they were offering, the most they owed you was your money back, and you might have found yourself unable to buy another ticket for anything close to hte original price.
But glad it worked out in the end.
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Talk to me of Massachusetts: Hi Crew!;
Continued from page 3.
I'll be spending my summer in beautiful western Massachusetts. What are the don't-miss things to do and see? I'll be poor, but will have a car. I like cultah, the great outdoors, but not clubs etc. Tanglewood's beautiful but not cheap. Other thoughts??
thanks!;
Andrea Sachs: Since you'll have wheels, go explore the Berkshires from top to bottom. Travel around Great Barrington, Pittsfield, North Adams and Williamsburg, and visit farms (like Whitney's Farm Market and Garden Center), art centers and galleries (Eclipse Mill Artist Lofts and Galleries has free events), museums (check out the wonderful and free Williams College Museum of Art), historic sites (Bryant Homestead's grounds are free) and more. Even nicer is to roam these areas by bike (saves on gas!). As for music, while Tanglewood can be pricey, if you don't mind grass stains on your shorts, you can get lawn seats for less than $20.
Check the Berkshires tourism office's Web site at www.berkshires.org for other ideas.
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Washington, D.C.: how far is the drive from west palm beach airport to miami? thanks!
Carol Sottili: Depends upon where you're going in Miami, but it's about 75 to 90 minutes each way.
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Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C.: Travel Crew-
Going to London over the Labor day weekend courtesy of United FF. I've been to London many times and I would like to take the train to York. Can this be done in a day or should I stay overnite(traveling solo)? Thanks
Anne McDonough: York is doable as a day trip, yes (it's a two hour trip from London by rail), but it's a lovely little place so if you could stay overnight, I'd try to. I mentioned this last week, too, but Betty's of York is the perfect place for tea, if you happen upon a concert at the minster it's heavenly, and there's also lots of (touristy but fun) shopping there, too, lots of kilts and wool sweaters and an amazing fudge shop, too.
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Arlington, Va.: Im curious what the Crew thinks about this situation with Independence Air...
Last month I tried to check on a price for a flight to Boston for Labor Day weekend. Their site responded that they can only book 5 months in advance, thru August. I checked back again last week, and now their site says they can only book 4 months in advance, thru August!
Might this represent a certain lack of confidence in their being around after the summer? Or is that not so unusual? I feel OK about my June flight with them, but now I'd even have to wonder about August...
Carol Sottili: Independence Air has financial problems and your discovery has me intrigued. It's not unusual for discount airlines to allow booking for only a certain time period into the future, but four months is a very short period. I'll look into it.
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Washington, D.C.: More low fares to Boston: check Air Tran out of BWI. I've gotten round trip tickets from them for under $100.
Carol Sottili: Yup, yup.
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Norfolk, Va.: Is there a passenger train that runs regularly between Charles DeGaulle airport and Gare de Lyon train station in Paris? We are trying to avoid the high taxi fare for four people
Gary Lee: You can take the RER train from Charles de Gaulle to Gare du Nord and (using the same ticket you bought for the RER) transfer there on the metro to Gare du Lyon. The RER tickets run around 11 euros.
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Travel cancellation: I don't think the poster with the sick travel mate should be kicking him/herself for not buying travel insurance. I kinda doubt the illness of an unrelated person whose care you are not responsible for would trigger liability on the part of the insurance company (unlike perhaps a child, a spouse, or a parent). Let me add my next two cents--just go.
Anne McDonough: Another push to get on the road--ya hear that, poster? Go!
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Washington, D.C.: Could you recommend a good "all inclusive" hotel in Cartagena, Colombia? We are planning a family reunion over there and I think that an "all inclusive" resort would it be the cheapest way. FYI, we are 10 adults and 2 children.
Thanks
Cindy Loose: Can't help with all inclusives in Columbia. I just did a quick search at expedia.com, and the first two hotels that came up were all-inclusive. also search hotels.com, travelocity.com and orbitz.com, and that's also something a travel agency could arrange.
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Washington, D.C.: Does anyone have experience with Intrepid Tours? I'm considering a 10-day tour through Vietnam.
Cindy Loose: We don't know them. Anyone else heard of them?
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Long Island, NY: Hi Travel Crew:
Going to Ireland for 11 days on May 27th. Everyone has a suggestion about how I should convert my dollars to euros - US bank, Irish Bank, Travel Checks, ATM etc. I can change some at the bank at a nominal charge through my company. Relying on my ATM concerns me in the case my card might be lost or stolen. What would the flight crew suggest?
Andrea Sachs: We usually rely on the ole ATM. Just be sure that you inform your bank that you will be taking out money abroad and also write down all pertinent information in case of theft (number to call to cancel, etc.). However, if you are nervous about traveling with your ATM card, you could get travelers' cheques through your bank or AAA and change them abroad. Just remember to avoid the airport and sometimes hotels, which have bad exchange rates and high surcharges. Currency change offices are often the best.
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Re: Berkshires: Don't forget the amazing MASS MoCA in North Adams and stay at The Porches if it is in your budget.
Andrea Sachs: Thanks. Good suggestions!
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Re: Monaco: I seem to remember that it was actually 21 and not 18. I was 20 at the time and was not allowed in. The area around the casino was nice to walk around though.
Cindy Loose: Thanks.
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Washington, DC: Hi all - I have a work trip to the UK in December and was thinking of making a Europe trip out of it, flying in&out of London. Any suggestions for a region that might be even a little bit warm? (Have done BeNeLux in Dec&it's fantastic, but freezing). Thanks!;
Gary Lee: I was in Asturias, in northern Spain last December and during the day it was warm enough to walk around in my shirt sleeves. I am sure that if you went further south, to Sevilla or the coast, you'd fare even better in terms of weather.
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Reston, Va. - What is the DEAL with Ohare security?: I flew to Chicago this weekend and was told on the way home that I would have to check my bag. Well, I have flown with this bag literally all over the world and this was the first I heard of it. But the TSA guy at the security line wasnt hearing me, even though I had flown from Reagan with this bag TO Chicago last week. He says to me "We take security more seriously here." Really? More than National? Anyway, so I find a United manager and plead my case, she tells me to go to the next Terminal over and I would have no problem getting through security, they get that complaint all the time. I looked at her dumbfounded and ask her if shes telling me that this one TSA terminal is worse than the rest of the country. She said yes. Long story short, I had to check my bag, but have you ever heard of something this absurd?
Cindy Loose: It's news to us. But for absurdities-- I think giving the 9th degree to a blind and physically handicapped American man whose dog's collar set off the bells might equal the "one secure gate" absurdity. Or how about the fact you can carry matches, but not lighters?
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Arlington, Va.: I am going to Sweden this summer staying at a hotel I made a reservation with and prepaid thru hotels.com or a similar service (I have to go back and look at the paperwork). Is it generally advisable to contact the hotel directly in advance to make sure they have my booking and that everything is OK? I'd hate to arrive after a long flight and have to wrestle with the hotel over my booking.
Gary Lee: In our experience, you would be well advised to contact the hotel a couple of day before your arrival to make sure that everything is set.
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Arlington, Va.: Actually, I LOVE having guests, and have found that, since we moved to the DC area, we have seen more people than when we lived in Indiana (did I mention we are near Metro?).
Reasons why I love it: It forces me to get the house clean. It reminds me why we have a dining room. It reminds me of what a cool area we live in. It helps that we have a guest room in the basement with its own bath - that really makes all the difference.
Anne McDonough: One thing I love about having guests is that you end up exploring areas that you've forgotten about or never really knew in the first place. That extra bathroom can certainly be a livesaver, though I grew up in a tiny, one bathroom NY apartment that was always--still is!--filled with visitors. A testament to Mom and Dad, certainly, but also to felxible guests.
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Washington, DC: I know many people travel to Lake Tahoe, Nevada, but what about the California side? Is it the same, except for the gambling?
Carol Sottili: I always divide Lake Tahoe into north and south more than California and Nevada. The north end is more rustic and less developed, while the far south end is more built up. My favorite places are in California - the D.L. Bliss/Emerald Bay State Park areas.
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Arlington, Va.: I'm heading to Charleston, SC for the first time, to visit a friend, in a couple weeks. From the bits and pieces I've seen on the net, it looks like a beautiful city. Anything I should be sure not to miss? I'd love to find a big old plantation to wander around, as well as a trip to the beach and maybe some bars at night. Thoughts?
Cindy Loose: Our Charleston expert is in Guatemala---who out there can help with Charleston??
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Venice villas: for Venice apartment rentals try Vacanza Bella:
http://www.vbella.com/
Carol Sottili: Grazie.
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Maryland: Thanks to Air France's sale (ending yesterday, I think), I'm heading to Paris for less than $335 in November. I'm hoping to do a daytrip (long, I realize) to see the beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetary. While there are coach trips, can you give me any advice re: taking a train and renting a car on the other end (or simply renting a car at CDG). I can only do this as a day trip. What would YOU do?
Gary Lee: If you do take a train, I would suggest taking it to the town of Caen and renting a car there. But there is so much to see, I would recommend taking the Paris Visions day trip to Normandy instead. They do a great job of narration, hit all the high points and have you back in Paris in time for dinner.
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For Boston Bound:
Southwest flies to Hartford (not too bad of a drive) and Providence.
Carol Sottili: And Manchester.
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Rockville, Md.: Perhaps I'm out of the loop...but I wanted to warn others. Last week I made reservations in NYC on hostels.com. They took my credit card for the deposit and efficiently gave me a confirmation. When I arrived at the hostel, I was informed that credit cards are NOT accepted! I had neither enough cash nor an ATM card. After some discussion the clerk called his manager and received permission to charge my credit card (he had a swipe machine there). What's the deal? Is this normal in NYC? I would have paid the extra 3% (that credit card companies charge) if they are doing it to save costs--I even offered this before he called for permission.
Cindy Loose: Unheard of for hotels, but hostels are different---and it doesn't surprise me they didn't take credit cards.
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Baltimore, Md.: A message for the the clickster whose friend can't go on their post-grad trip abroad: please go, go, go. I can't imagine that your friend would want you to miss this on her behalf. If you feel that guilty, buy her a present, send a postcard, etc. but do take the trip. Solo travel is not as difficult as some people think, though it is a challenge, but a self-affirming one. I assume you are talking about a college graduation, but even if it's a high school graduation, I don't think even a very young female solo traveller need steer clear of western Europe (the destination wasn't specified). Several years ago, when travelling on my own in Italy, I met two 18 year-old women who were making their way through Italy on their own, and were doing fine! And they were from Montana -- and probably hadn't done a lot of travel before or spent a lot of time in urban areas. Take sensible precautions, but don't let this adventure pass you by!
Anne McDonough: Thanks for the imput, Balto!
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Bethesda Mom: For the poster who's travel companion is sick, and the others who wrote in about travel insurance, I'd like to give a plug to the Crew for telling me about insuremytrip.com We were able to compare a number of policies and find one that had the features we wanted (no exclusions for United tix because they were in bankruptcy, for example). I believe if you check a number of policies, you could find one that would cover illness of a travel companion, especially if that companion also bought insurance from the same company.
Anne McDonough: Glad to hear that worked out for you--thanks for the follow up.
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Arlington, Va.: I continue to be infuriated by the TSA "policy" that violates their actual policy. Technically, we are NOT required to remove shoes to screen through metal detectors. However, once again, this time at National, I commented, "oh, these shoes don't set off the detectors," and was instructed to remove them or be selected for additional screening, codeword for pull apart a carry-on bag and a laptop bag with work documents in it.
It makes me nuts that this "voluntary" policy is not really voluntary, and that if you don't "volunteer," you are sentencing yourself to being searched. It's not that I get that annoyed at removing my shoes, it's the principle of the matter!;
Cindy Loose: Me too! I don't mind being hassled as much as I mind be lied to by my government. I mean they had a person assigned to do nothing at National but tell people to take off their shoes or else, it's mandatory, but call the TSA and they insist it's voluntary. Of course, there are worse lies, and big fat liars who tell them.
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changing flight intineraries: I had something similar happen to me lastyear with a flight to Hawaii on ATA. They sent an email saying they were changing my intinerary pretty significantly (can't remember exactly, but I think it was many hours later and an additional stop, when the original itin was already 3 legs). I called to complain and suggested they put me on a flight a day later with the same itinerary as my original flight. The Friday flight was about $100 more than my original Thurs flight, but they didn't charge me the difference, since they had cancelled my flight in the first place. Point is, it pays to ask.
Cindy Loose: And it helps to be flexible, as you were.
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Charleston traveler: You can't miss the market in downtown Charleston. It is fun and unique. It is covered, but the doors are open (similar layout to F Hall in Boston). I also think that going to the Ciatdel is interesting. They do tours there.
Cindy Loose: Thanks.
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Washington, DC: Hi Travel Crew,
Any suggestions for someplace approximately equidistant between DC&NYC, where one could rent a lake cabin for a summer weekend? Thanks!;
Carol Sottili: We've never found the ideal place (all my relatives live in New York), but we have settled on the Poconos. We go to a resort, rather than a cabin, but you could find choices at www.800poconos.com.
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nonstop Delta flights from IAD or DCA - help!;?: I have an interesting dilemma.
I won two buddy passes on Delta, wherever they go.
BUT, I found out that to go to Paris for instance it will cost me 300 bucks - they are no longer free. I can almost do that myself - but it MIGHT be first class (or I might get bumped). I also have to go through Atlanta or NYC which increases the bumping odds.
now with Delta's bankruptcy woes - should I take a chance and cash them in? I have to decide by August and then I have a year to use them but if they do go under... bye bye cash.
I was then thinking of just taking a short trip - weekend - domestic flights. use em fast.
where would you go? nonstop increases my chances of actually getting there and back in 2-3 days.
thank you!;!;
Cindy Loose: I didn't know buddy passes had a monetary value. You sure about that? Anyway, Delta's financial troubles aren't as critical as some, and what major airline isn't in the red? Big airlines take some time to fail, so I wouldn't be in a huge rush.
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Annapolis, Md.: Plantation near Charleston - go to Draycott Hall (I think that's the name); it's been preserved, but not restored, so you can see how people lived, and see how the house was constructed. Lovely grounds. It's a fairly short drive from Charleston. A little further down the road is a more commercial plantation (middleton? middledorf? something like that) which has been restored; we didn't go in there because of time constraints, but it looked interested.
Cindy Loose: Charleston--thanks.
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Bethesda, Md.: I am debating whether to book United during the July 4th weekend. They are the cheapest carrier on the route I am interested in. Yet I am concerned about the labor unrest that is going on. Would you still book United? Would other carriers honor my ticket if United is affected by a strike?
Carol Sottili: They might, but the problem is that planes for all carriers during the July 4 weekend are usually fully booked, especially to popular tourism destinations. So even if the other airlines help, there won't be enough seats to go around.
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Washington, DC: I'm intrigued by the whole guest issue, because Ifeel like I can never say "sorry, no" when a family member asks if it's okay to stay with us. What IS the protocol?
Cindy Loose: You tell me. With friends you can lie, but family knows that your grandmother isn't dying, or has already died, or whatever.
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for charleston bound: For plantations it doesn't get much better than the ones on the Ashley River. Drive out to see the unrestored Drayton Hall and the beautifully restored Middleton Inn. You can also dine at Middleton. It's a nasty drive at night though, so head back to town before dark. Spend some time at the old Market and walking around the Battery. Take photos of Rainbow Row and eat lots of seafood. Ah, I wish I were there.
Cindy Loose: Sounds nice--I want to go, too.
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Re: Western Mass: As I recall (from too long ago) some of the colleges have summer theater, so I would llok at the websites for Mount Holyoke, Smith, Amherst, Williams and even UMass to see what might be available in South Hadley, Northampton, Amherst and Williamstown.
Andrea Sachs: Excellent, hit the college towns.
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Bethesda, Md.: For the person visiting Monaco, not much to do with an 18 month old. We went up to the casino, but not in it, as it was a $10 cover charge. You can always visit the Aquairum, and you can also see where Princess Grace is buried. Shopping is very expensive. Not much else to do in Monoco.
Cindy Loose: Maybe Monaco isn't where they really want to be with an 18-month old. Unless they've already bought the tickets, in which case, it's a great choice.
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Fairfax, Va.: Re: Intrepid. I took their Vietnam gourmet traveler tour last December and it was excellent. However, you stay at local accomodations (more 2 star types of places), use a lot of local transit, and have much of your time free. So they tend to be best for independent travelers, rather than people who need a lot of hand holding. For me, that was part of the appeal - avoiding the hassles of having to find hotels and activities, while still having a lot of freedom.
Cindy Loose: First person feedback--the best. Thanks.
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western mass: for the WMass traveler - Gould's Sugarhouse on Rte 2 (best pancakes ever)&the Town of Shelburne Falls with its Bridge of Flowers. And of course, the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield.
Andrea Sachs: You guys rock! Thanks!
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buddy pass: Hi
yes, the buddy checked into it and to go to Paris is 110 one way, plus taxes. ditto coming back. 300 bucks is hardly a deal.
what do you think of Salt Lake City? they go there nonstop from IAD.
Cindy Loose: The $300 is a great deal if you're talking peak travel time.
Salt Lake--well, it's a clean city. You can hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for free. If it were me and I had three or four days there, I'd want to be looking for things to do outside the city. What are your other choices?
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Overnight Guests: I don't think that not being able to afford a hotel is the only reason someone should stay with friends or family. We rarely see our family b/c we live far away, so I try to treasure all the time that we have and make the most of it. I am lucky though, we have family that is easy to get along with!;
Also, I know that when my sister had her 2nd child (her husband is a pilot and not at home or near home all the time), my parents stayed with her for 2 months!; They were a huge help to her after the baby was born and added piece of mind for my BIL when he was flying in the weeks before the birth. If you are helping out, you can always stay for free!;
Cindy Loose: Great deal.
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Washington, D.C. : Crew:
I stayed at a hotel in Montreal where their machine had trouble swiping my credit card. Thus, they entered the number manually on their machine. It was approved and I signed the slip. When I got my latest bill-- there was no charge from the hotel. I dug out my receipt and it appears that they entered the wrong number.
I don't want to hose the hotel; but if I call the hotel or my credit card company-- I fear being double billed (since I am sure the hotel is probably trying to collect somehow). Am I legally liable for their screwup? Or did I find $250 on the street?
What would you do?
Cindy Loose: I'd wait for my next bill, and if it still wasn't on there, I'd call the hotel.
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Guest question: What if my studio apartment is too small to host guests, requiring my friend to stay at a hotel. Is it expected that I buy her a meal or tickets to a show (outside my budget, but I feel bad, especially because she is coming up to see me, as opposed to sightseeing)
Anne McDonough: Hosting/visiting shouldn't be quid pro quo, everyone has different budgets and opportunities. So buying tickets to a show certainly isn't necessary. But what is is making your friend, who after all if traveling to see you, feel welcome. So if you can't put her up for the night, how about hosting a small dinner party for her instead? If she's coming to see you, introducing your friend to your local friends is a great way to make her feel welcome. Or taking care of putting together an awesome picnic to have while you're exploring the city, or arranging for a small welcome basket to be in the hotel when she arrives, filled with local stuff like a map and a metrocard or a card for drinks at a local place like Teaism. Certainly doing something that shows how much you appreciate her effort, without having anyone feel like you're only doing it to make up for the fact that she has to stay at a hotel.
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Washington, D.C.: My girlfriend and I are at a loss - we have tried for weeks to come up with an affordable week-long beach vacation ($2000-$2500 including airfare and hotel) abroad the first week of August. This has proven to be very difficult, given that it is rainy season in much of the Carribean and we do not want to risk a wet vacation. In addition, we really would like to be somewhere that we could afford (that is not one of those all-inclusive resorts) to havea balcony overlooking the ocean (and palm trees). Please help us!; This vacation will much needed, as I will have just finished taking the bar.
Thank you in advance,
Matt Crosby
Cindy Loose: Sorry, we're running out of time, but have you tried Puerto Rico? Flight costs are relatively low..
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Charleston tip: I'd also recommend taking one of the day tours focused on the city's history and the beautiful old homes. They drive you around, mostly, which is lovely since Charleston is very hot during the summer, and the tour guides provide really great little tidbits of info. I could have spent days just learning about all the old homes and their former owners.
Andrea Sachs: Great suggestions. Thanks.
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Washington, D.C.: If you had 10 days in Vietnam this summer, what kind of itinerary would you plan? I'd like to see a couple of different places, but I don't want to feel too rushed. Any advice about modes of transportation for within Vietnam?
Anne McDonough: I'd choose north or south, and then start planning from there. I went from Hanoi down to Saigon in 14 days and that was waaay too rushed; if I had the chance to do it over, I'd spend the entire time in the north. Between Hanoi, Cat Ba Island, Sapa and the like, you'll get a good feel for very different types of places without having to travel very far, and you'll spend more time exploring and less time on transportation.
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Kensington, Md.: I am thinking of taking a trip this spring and wonder if the Crew had any suggestions for a single gay man traveling alone?
Places like South Beach, New York and San Francisco are fine, but a bit too trendy and hip for a middle-aged man! Going overseas seems okay, but traveling alone you always get hit with the single fee.
Any suggestions?
