Results tagged “Ask IT” from Intelligent Travel Blog

Want to know more about something in the magazine? Have a burning travel question that needs an answer? Just Ask IT! Today's question comes from a reader wanting to replicate our columnist's African safari -- on horseback.

Q: I read the article "Africa From the Saddle" by Boyd Matson, in the July/August issue of Traveler. How do I learn more about this trip?  -- Ramona

A: Micato Safaris arranged the trip for me. They are one of the best for custom Africa trips or package tours in east and southern Africa. Their main U.S. office is in New York City, and the couple who started the company and are still very active in the operation live in Kenya. Their son, Dan Pinto, is the main guy in New York who can arrange for the trips. Happy travels! -- Boyd Matson

Want more Africa advice? Check out our Africa Travel Planner for more resources on arranging your own safari.

Photo: Demetrio Carrasco/Jon Arnold Images Ltd/Alamy

A recent IT post on the June 1st implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative that ups the ante on what documents U.S. citizens returning from travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean are now required to show prompted the following question from a reader:

Q: I am planning on going on a cruise this August with my husband. My passport is in my maiden name. Would that be sufficient documentation or do I have to change it? Where would I change it and how long will it take?

A: First off, congratulations on your recent marriage! I'm assuming you're heading off on a cruise this August to Mexico or perhaps one of the 17 nations categorized as the Caribbean by Customs and Border Protection. If you're returning to the U.S. by air, you'll need a valid passport. If you're heading back by sea or land, you'll need a valid passport or passport card.

Also, you should change the name listed on your passport to your married name. Also, be sure your tickets for travel (the cruise, any flights involved) are reserved under your married name (to match your new passport). I'd work with your airline and cruise company to be sure your tickets match your new passport and list your married name.

Now, the nitty gritty of changing your name on your passport: If your old passport, the one that lists your maiden name, was issued less than one year ago, you need to send your valid passport, form DS-5504, a complete copy of your marriage certificate, and two recent photos to the National Passport Processing Center in Philadelphia whose address is listed on form DS-5504. There is no fee to change your name on a passport issued less than a year ago unless you need to expedite it.

Q: I am a faithful subscriber to Traveler and need some direction. We will be attending some performances in Tanglewood in July 2009. We're looking for accommodation "with heart" at $200-300 per night, near sights and restaurants. Sincere thanks. -- Joy

A: Thanks for your support. Hoping that Traveler has steered you to some world-class experiences. Lucky you: The Berkshires is one of my favorite places on Earth! Gorgeous scenery, great folks, intriguing shops and cafés, plus seriously memorable culture. If you are a fan of the dance, look into the offerings at Jacob's Pillow.

I am going to recommend two widely different places to stay--both on Traveler's 2008 STAY LIST of hotels. I suggest that you depend on their tremendous hotel staffs to steer you to see/do/eat options.

For a trendy mix of old and new try The Porches Inn in North Adams, MA (www.porches.com). Or for pure New England quaint opt for the Red Lion Inn, in Stockbridge, MA (www.redlioninn.com).

Wishing you happy trails,

Sheila Buckmaster
Senior Editor, National Geographic Traveler

Have a question for Traveler? Feel free to Ask IT. 

Photo: The Tavern at the Red Lion Inn, by Kristian Septimius Krogh