A more flexible approach to the Middle East
I would like to visit the main historical sites in Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. However, I find the itineraries offered by most UK tour operators far too rigid and rushed. Is independent travel advisable in these countries and if so, can I make advance arrangements?
Peter Lambri by email
The Middle East has acquired a reputation for being a dangerous area, but by taking precautions you can still enjoy a trouble-free stay. Danger areas are well documented. Keep up with current affairs and you can easily avoid conflict. Visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website.
The best time of year to visit is during spring when temperatures are bearable and the tourist count is relatively low. A return flight from the UK to Amman and flying out from Beirut a month later will set you back around £320 including tax (Olympic Airways). Once there you'll find that there are plenty of buses to transport you between all the places of interest. Highlights include the desert landscape of Wadi Rum, made famous by Lawrence of Arabia, Petra (Jordan), the ancient city of Damascus (Syria), the Crusader castle in Tripoli and the magnificent temples in Baalbek (Lebanon).
Accommodation is plentiful. Try the recommendations in Lonely Planet's Middle East guide. A good mid-range hotel costs £20-£30 a night. You must apply for visas prior to departure.
Serenading the Americans
Please can you tell me if busking is legal in the US? A few friends and I would like to serenade some Americans with some fine English tunes. If it is against the law, can we still get away with it?
Neville Buckle, by email
Bringing your guitar should ensure no one forgets you on holiday. In the US how you're received will depend on the regulations in each city and state. You should have a word with a policeman who will be able to advise you on the rules. It's unusual to hear of street performers being hauled off for a night in the cooler (it probably depends how well you sing), but you should assess the risk before starting.
If you're determined to introduce the Americans to the delights of English song, lots of bars and clubs in most cities host open-mike evenings where you can get up and do a turn. Check entertainment listings in magazines and newspapers when you arrive. There are sometimes prizes for the best acts.
Is internet booking safe?
The easiest way to book a foreign hotel direct is by their website/email but they want me to send my credit card number and expiry date before they will confirm booking. Is this safe? I presume that if I don't turn up, for whatever reason, they will charge me anyway - is that the limit of my financial risk?
Graham Williams, Norfolk
Hotel booking policy differs from establishment to establishment but if you want to secure a reservation in advance it is not unusual for proprietors to request your credit card details. Booking forms on the internet normally use a secure connection incorporating SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption so that the only person who can access the information is the intended recipient. Look for the padlock icon that should appear on your toolbar. If you are still uncomfortable with the online booking procedure then make your reservations by fax or phone.
You will probably be charged an initial deposit (a set percentage of the standard rate). This will secure your booking and also act as a cancellation fee should you fail to show up.
Prior to making reservations, you should check the booking/cancellation procedure with the hotel and if you are uncertain about any aspect then don't be afraid to request the information in writing. Always ask for a receipt and keep a check on your credit-card statements. For further general advice on hotel bookings you can contact the British Hospitality Association on 020 7404 7744.
Cruises on the Great Lakes
On a recent visit to southern Ontario, Canada, I saw a local newspaper report on the visit of a cruise ship to Lake Huron and the Georgian Bay area. Can you give me any information on cruises on the Great Lakes?
Trevor Jeffs, Liverpool
The Great Lakes, with their many islands, bays and beaches offer a wonderful cruising experience, and the number of companies offering excursions is growing. One is Traverse Tall Ships (00 1 231 941 2000), which offers three to five-day trips on board the Manitou, a schooner that is one of the largest tall ships operating on the Great Lakes. The ship visits Lakes Huron and Michigan and many unspoilt nooks along the way.
Prices range from £225 to £440 depending on the length of your trip.
The Nantucket Clipper, a small cruise ship, makes the trip from Quebec to Chicago via the St Lawrence Seaway and Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron and Michigan. This trip runs once a year in both directions. Costs start at £2,930 for a luxury two-week cruise. Contact Clipper Cruise Lines (00 1 800 325 0010) for more information.
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