1 Is it safe to use a credit card when reserving rooms by phone? Will they charge me if I don't turn up?
Most hotels will ask for your credit card details when you make a reservation and many charge an initial deposit (a percentage of the standard rate). This will secure the booking and will be retained by the proprietor if you fail to show - some places may even charge the full amount. Do check the booking/cancellation procedure as it differs from establishment to establishment. If you are at all unsure, request the information in writing. Always ask for a receipt and keep an eye on credit card statements for unexpected charges.
Although credit card bookings are a common procedure, there is no guarantee that your money will be safe - many travellers have lost out. If you have any doubts, don't use your card.
2 We are over 50 but still fancy the youth hostel idea. Any suggestions?
Hostels welcome travellers of all ages, so don't be afraid that you'll feel out of place. A good option is to join the YHA (see www.yha.org.uk for details).You can stay at more than 4,500 hostels in 60 countries. Look out for the white triangular symbol that denotes inclusion in the Hostelling International Organisation.
It is always advisable to book in advance, especially at busy times of year or in big cities. Visit www.hostelbooking.com for help with reservations.
3 Any tips for renting a Paris apartment for a week?
Avoid the months of September and October, when students are looking for temporary accommodation for the next term. Contact one of the many rental agencies. Try France Lodge Locations (0033 1 53 20 09 09; 41 rue La Fayette, ninth arrondissement).
Alternatively, you might consider a serviced flat - particularly good for a small group of travellers on a budget. We recommend Residence Pierre & Vacances Paris Montmartre (0033 1 42 57 14 55; 10 place Charles Dullin, 18th arrondissement).
4 We're interested in house swapping for our holidays next summer. Do you know of organisations that can help?
Homelink International (01344 842642; www.homelink.org.uk) is the biggest home-swapping organisation in the world. Thousands of members report great results and excellent service. Channel 4 recently showed a series about house swapping called Home from Home. Its website (www. channel4.com/4homes) contains lots of useful information and lists other useful agencies and organisations.
5 Cheap, quality hotel rooms in London - do they exist?
Recommendations that we've had include the Luna Simone Hotel (47 Belgrave Road, SW1; 020 7834 5897; www.lunasimonehotel.com) near Victoria. A double ensuite room costs £80 in high season (July/August).
The family-run Garden Court Hotel (30-31 Kensington Gardens Square, W2; 020 7229 2553; www.gardencourthotel.co.uk) near Bayswater Tube is well-maintained and all rooms have TV and telephone. A double room with ensuite facilities costs £88.
Travel Inn has several hotels in the city. All have good facilities (if a little impersonal) and competitive rates. Prices start at £75 per room (www.travelinn.co.uk).
6 I've heard that you can do a 'driveaway' in the US. What does this entail?
Vehicle transport companies often need drivers to move cars from one location to another. You'll be expected to deliver the vehicle within an allotted timeframe, which usually means driving for about six hours per day. You must be over 21 and have a valid driving licence plus personal references. You have to pay for fuel but the company should cover the insurance costs - make sure you are covered. You may be lucky and be able to arrange this in advance (visit www.autodriveaway.com) but because availability is limited, you should shop around and be flexible. There are lots of driveaway companies in the US yellow pages - just call them when you arrive.
7 How can I get the best deal on low-cost airlines? Is it best to book early or late?
Generally, the cheapest flights sell first, so book as far in advance as possible. It helps to be flexible - be prepared to fly early in the morning or on a Thursday rather than a Friday. Shop around on the internet for the best deals. Depending on your destination, try www.go-fly.com, www.ryanair.com; www.easyjet.com and www.buzzaway.com.
8 How do I travel overland from Nepal to Tibet?
To get from Nepal into Tibet you must traverse a 575-mile road known as Friendship Highway, one of the most spectacular journeys in the world. Travellers are not allowed to leave the border town of Zhangmu without a Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit. Unfortunately these are only issued to groups, so you have either to join a tour in Kathmandu or hire a land cruiser and guide in Zhangmu. Rates vary enormously, so shop around. Independent travellers often report that visas are issued at the border, although this is not guaranteed. For more information on visas and tourist permits contact www.chinese-embassy.org.uk.
9 Have you any tips to make long flights with small children bearable?
For babies, request a bassinet or sky cot, as this will ensure increased comfort for everyone. Feed your baby juice or milk from a bottle during take-off and landing - this will reduce the pressure and relieve discomfort. Add extra water to formula to prevent dehydration.
Try to avoid flying in peak times, so there is more room for restless legs. Board the plane last, so you can see where the empty seats are. You need more room when travelling with children and can switch places after takeoff. Take some toys, games and puzzles in your hand luggage.
10 Any good tips for Interrailing round Europe? Can you still do it if you are over 26?
Travelling by train is a great way to see Europe and your best option would be to purchase an Inter-rail pass. The pass is excellent value for money and allows you unlimited travel across up to 28 countries in Europe and North Africa.
Prices start at £129 for a one-zone pass if you are under 26 and £185 for those over 26. For more details, visit www.raileurope.co.uk or telephone 0870 584 8848.
11 How do I get a free upgrade on a plane?
Getting a free upgrade is almost impossible. Even if there are seats available in a higher class, check-in staff are reluctant to upgrade you upon request unless you are a member of their frequent-flyer programme, a business traveller or have paid the full published fare. You may get lucky if your flight has been overbooked or significantly delayed, but you must look the part - dress smartly or forget it.
12 What can I do with all my leftover small change?
UNICEF's Change for Good campaign raises funds for needy children worldwide and accepts any amount of currency. You can either drop it into a British Airways Travel Shop or post it off to Unicef Change for Good, Africa House, London WC2B 6NB (020 7405 5592). Alternatively, you could donate it to Ockenden International (01483 772012; www.ockenden.org.uk) which promotes self-reliance for refugees and other displaced people. Contact them for a collection bag and take it along to any high street Barclays Bank.
13 Can I enter Arab states with an Israeli passport stamp?
Unfortunately if your passport has an Israeli immigration stamp you will be refused entry to Iran and most other Arab states (apart from Jordan and Egypt). Ask the Israeli officials to stamp your separate entry permit or even a loose sheet of paper instead. Always check visa and passport regulations with the relevant embassies prior to departure.
14 Will a Northern Cyprus passport stamp prevent me from entering Cyprus?
If you have a stamp in your passport from Northern Cyprus you will still be allowed to enter the Republic of Cyprus, but customs officials will delete your stamp upon arrival. This will not prevent you from visiting Greece, but it is advisable to request that officials stamp a blank piece of paper instead of your passport. When entering Northern Cyprus from the south, you will be allowed a free day pass, but your passport will not be stamped.
15 How do I get a Working Holiday Maker Visa for Australia?
Visit the Australian High Commission website (www.australia.org.uk) for everything you've ever wanted to know about Working Holiday Maker Visas. You can download the application form and accompanying notes. Remember that applications must be submitted by post rather than lodged in person.
16 How do I start planning to get married abroad?
Your first step is to decide when and where you'd like to get married - take care to choose the right season, as there's little point in planning a beach wedding slap bang in the middle of the monsoon season. The BBC website offers a handy weather finder: www.bbc.co.uk/weather/destination.
As well as ensuring you have the correct visas, you'll need to check for any administrative requirements. The relevant embassy will be able to advise you on legislation and application procedures. For embassy contact details, visit www.tagish.co.uk/Links/embassy1b.nsf/ .
There are several companies that will make all the necessary arrangements for you. Try Kuoni's weddings and honeymoon department (01306 747007; www.kuoni.co.uk/weddings) For maximum romance and minimum stress you might like to consider getting married in Las Vegas. Here, you can just turn up and get all the necessary documentation on the day. Choose your chapel or registry office carefully - local advice is often the best. Try www.lasvegas.com/weddings/ as a starting point.
17 Where can I find travelling companions for my trip?
Wherever you travel, you're bound to meet other travellers, especially if you stay in budget accommodation, where it is easy to get to know people. If you prefer the security of having a constant companion from the beginning you might like to check www.thorntree.lonelyplanet.com, a travellers' bulletin board with a branch devoted to finding travelling companions; or advertise in Wanderlust magazine (www.wanderlust.co.uk).
18 Can you suggest tour operators that don't charge single room supplements?
Solos Holidays (brochure: 020 8951 2811; reservations: 0870 074 6453; www.soloholidays.co.uk) offers UK and worldwide trips to suit single travellers aged 25 -69. For the more daring single traveller of any age, Exodus organises adventure holidays in more than 80 countries (020 8675 5550; www.exodus.co.uk). A listing of holidays that do not charge single supplements can be obtained by contacting STAG (Single Travellers Action Group) at Church Lane, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1HR.
19 Tipping is the trickiest subject in the world - any good advice?
The Original Tipping Page at www.tipping.org has all sorts of handy information. There's a tipping table to work out conversions, a guide showing you how much is considered fair in several destinations and a recommended reading list. Our tip is: always carry 10 single US dollar bills.
20 How can I avoid being surcharged for a package holiday I book for next summer?
At present, tour operators are allowed to subject you to a surcharge of between 2 and 10 per cent of your total holiday cost as long as it is not within 30 days of your departure. Charges of up to 2 per cent are absorbed by the operator - more than 10 per cent and you can cancel your holiday and request a full refund. The best thing to do is to check the terms and conditions of your booking. For more information contact the Association of British Travel Agents (020 7637 2444; www.abta.com).
21 Where do you suggest for a family holiday with a bit of adventure but without too much danger?
You needn't venture too far from home to find adventure. The Lake District has lots on offer that will keep both parents and kids amused. Keswick has its own Climbing Wall and Activity Centre (017687 720 00l; www.keswickclimbingwall.co.uk) that organises canoeing, abseiling, climbing, cycling, ghyll scrambling and raft building. The National Park has hundreds of fell walks suitable for all ages and abilities and if you're feeling energetic you can tackle the mighty Scafell Pike.
Once you've stretched your legs, expand your mind by visiting the Puzzling Place. An anti-gravity room, optical illusions and interactive computer modules make it educational as well as fun. Call 017687 75102 for details.
If you prefer to travel further afield then almost anywhere in America would suit your needs. There are plenty of fabulous national parks, such as Yosemite, and hundreds of vast, awe-inspiring natural features such as canyons, waterfalls and lakes. Visit www.seeamerica.org to whet your appetite.
22 Where can I find out what vaccinations I need?
Nomad Travellers Store & Medical Centre has a travel clinic that offers immunisations, health advice and also sells a wide range of health-related products (health advice line on 09068 633414; www.nomad-travstore.co.uk).
Masta (Medical Advisory Services for Travellers; www.masta.org) does not have a travel clinic, but provides information and travel health products. Call their information line on 09068 224 100 for destination specific advice.
23 Can you suggest any ways to combat travel sickness?
There are many products available over the counter that can relieve symptoms of travel sickness. Consult your pharmacist or GP for the best medication to suit you.
If you prefer the natural approach you can invest in a wristband that works by gently pressing down on acupressure points (available from chemists for around £9). Root ginger is also a good remedy for travel sickness and can be purchased in capsule form from pharmacies and health food stores. Alternatively you can simply eat ginger biscuits. Bach's Rescue Remedy is a great homeopathic medicine for stress and trauma.
24 Can I use insect repellent with suntan lotion?
Using a suntan lotion in conjunction with an insect repellent can reduce the efficiency of both products by up to 50 per cent. To compensate for this reduction you should use a high sun protection factor (SPF) next to your skin and apply the mosquito repellent over the top. Remember to reapply both solutions at regular intervals in order to maximise protection. To find out which products would best suit your skin, seek advice from your chemist or pharmacy.
25 Is it safe to travel while pregnant?
With a little careful planning, pregnancy doesn't have to mean the end of travel. If you are planning to have a baby, get up to date with your vaccinations before trying to conceive as doctors are reluctant to give vaccinations to pregnant women. Choose countries which generally do not require vaccinations or anti-malarial medication and which have good hospitals. This doesn't necessarily mean limiting yourself to short-haul destinations - the Caribbean, and in particular, Jamaica and Cuba, are a good bet, and so is America.
It is worth remembering that miscarriage and morning sickness are most common in the first 12 weeks (though nausea can strike at any time). The best time to travel is around the fifth month of pregnancy, after the nausea has subsided and before you get too heavy. You will have also had your 20-week ultrasound scan which can show up any complications. Many airlines will not allow mothers-to-be to fly after six months without a doctor's certificate, and your travel insurance is unlikely to cover you beyond seven months. If you are visiting Europe, fill in a form E111 from the post office: this entitles you to free medical care in EU member countries.
Once you are abroad, common sense applies. Only drink bottled water and do not eat from food stalls on beaches or streets - certain types of food poisoning during pregnancy can lead to birth defects. Needless to say, skiing, scuba diving and bungee jumping are probably best avoided.
26 What is the best way to avoid jetlag?
The only way to beat jetlag is to get as much sleep as possible, before and during your flight. Be really strict with yourself and try to adapt to your new timezone as soon as you arrive at your destination.
Some travellers swear by melatonin (a synthetic version of a human hormone that helps regulate the body clock), others by exposing yourself to lots of sunlight.
During your flight drink lots of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Wear comfortable clothes, stay mobile and refresh yourself with a shower during stopovers.
27 How can I minimise the risk of DVT (deep-vein thrombosis)?
There are a lot of surveys being carried out to try to find the best answers to this. The current thinking is that you should wear surgical stockings (available from Boots; www.wellbeing.com), secure as much legroom as possible on the plane and exercise during your flight - either in your seat or by walking around. It has also been suggested that taking a low dose of aspirin will help.
Also, minimise dehydration by drinking lots of water and avoiding alcohol. Visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or consult your local GP for details.
28 What is the E111 form and how necessary is it?
The E111 proves that you are ordinarily a resident of the UK, a UK national or a national of any other EEA (European Economic Area) country. It entitles you to free or reduced-cost emergency medical treatment in member states of the EEA. The form is available free of charge from your local Post Office, must be stamped and validated by them and carried with you when you travel. It only covers emergency treatment so you must take out additional travel insurance. For more information visit www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice/treatment2.htm .
29 Any tips on what women should wear when travelling in Muslim countries?
Do not wear shorts or skirts and keep exposed flesh to an absolute minimum - opt for a long, loose cotton sundress or trousers. On beaches, follow what the local women - as opposed to other tourists - wear. Keep a sarong handy to cover up arms, legs and shoulders whenever appropriate. Reduce the risk of unwanted attention by covering hair with a bandana and wear sunglasses to avoid casual eye contact.
Many women from our office travel with a shalwar kamis (widelegged pants, tunic and scarf) so that they can cover up easily when appropriate.
30 What are your recommendations for the five best beaches?
Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond beach) on the island of Ko Samet in Thailand is so called due to its vast expanse of white sand. Only accessible by boat, the island is less developed than some of the other backpacker favourites.
Sandwood Bay, on the north coast of Scotland, is one of the most remote beaches in Britain. Reputedly haunted, this beach is made up of pink sand with an impressive sea stack.
Nias, off the west coast of Sumatra, is a surfing hotspot. It is quiet and rugged and, as yet, only one luxury resort has been built. Check out the 3,000-year-old stone carvings.
Whitehaven Beach is on the south east coast of Whitsunday Island, off Queensland, Australia. It's the largest island in the Whitsundays and there are no resorts, only long stretches of fine silica white sands.
For a picture postcard beach, head for Pajem, Zanzibar. Palm-fringed and undeveloped, it is a perfect place to simply unwind and soak up the sun.
31 I would like to do a course to improve my travel photography. What do you recommend?
There are hundreds of courses available, catering for various budgets, timeframes, locations and abilities. You'll find details at www.hotcourses.com.
Absorb tips visiting exhibitions of photography and attending talks and lectures. At Independent Travellers World, held in London on 22-24 February, the travel photographer Doug McKinlay will be speaking at Lonely Planet's travel writing and photography workshop. See www.itwnet.com for details. For photography advice on how to make the most of your skills, you could check out the Lonely Planet guide Travel Photography by Richard I'Anson (£9.99).
32 How do I avoid my film being ruined by airport x-ray machines?
The majority of hand luggage x-ray machines will not damage your film, but to be on the safe side always store your camera and films in your hand luggage and request that your equipment is searched by hand. It's unlikely that your request will be granted at any British airports, but to show officials that you appreciate security procedures, remove all film from your camera and store it in a transparent pouch or container. Try carrying film and flashcards on your person, enabling you to place them in the pocket change tray before stepping through the x-ray machine.
Some professional photographers say that the film is not as effective after having gone through hand luggage x-ray machines more than 15 times. We'd never recommend putting your film in the hold.
33 Where's a good walking holiday destination in Spain?
Although Andalucia does not have a long-standing reputation as a walking and hiking region, it is a fantastic area to explore on foot. The best times to go are between April and mid-June or from mid-September to November when vegetation is at its most colourful and the weather is neither too hot nor too cool to make hiking uncomfortable.
The network of trails remains relatively undeveloped and there are fewer walkers than in other more documented areas. There's a wide variety of maps and walking guides on the market - have a look at Lonely Planet's Walking in Spain and contact the Spanish Tourist Board (020 7486 8077; www.tourspain.es/) for more information.
34 I am going to Thailand for three weeks. Do I need a visa?
If you hold a UK passport, the Thai government will let you enter the country without a visa for 30 days at no charge. For stays of longer than 30 days you will need to apply for a visa - the types and costs vary depending on circumstance. Contact the Thai Embassy (020 7589 2944) to find out which visa is right for you and how to apply.
35 How should I best spend a month in China?
As you've probably realised, you'll only see a fraction of what China has to offer in a month. If you're a first-time visitor to China, you may want to join a tour so you spend less time on planning and more time soaking up the fantastic culture. Imaginative Traveller (020 8742 8612; www.imaginative-traveller.com) runs a 28-day trip starting in Beijing and ending in Kathmandu. Highlights include the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Army in Xian and the limestone peaks of Yangshuo. There's plenty of opportunity for free time, so you don't have to feel tied to the rest of your group. Prices start at £1,750 per person.
If you prefer to travel independently, you could opt to travel between Beijing and Hong Kong via the South West. There's lots of scope for variation along this route - enjoy the experience of travelling on the Chinese rail network and stop over in Kunming, probably the most exotic of the provinces.
36 Any tips for wheelchair-bound travellers?
You should start by contacting Holiday Care (01293 774 535; www.holidaycare.org.uk ). Their travel information unit produces factsheets on disability-friendly accommodation and transport.
Several tour operators tailor-make holidays for wheelchair-bound travellers. One such company is Travelability (0870 241 6127; www.travelability.co.uk) whose knowledgeable staff are on hand to offer help and advice.
If you are travelling in the UK or US, you'll find the Smooth Rides Guide really useful. It contains lots of information for wheelchair bound travellers and there are updates on its website, www.smoothrideguides.com
37 Can you suggest a child-friendly hotel in the UK?
The Wooley Grange Hotel (Wooley Green, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire; 01225 864 705) has 23 ensuite rooms including large family rooms and several pairs of rooms that interconnect (prices range from £99-£250 per room per night.) Children who share with their parents will be accommodated free of charge. The Wooley Bears Den (the nursery) is open daily and supervised by fully trained nannies. The restaurant offers a wide range of English cuisine with a separate menu for children.
The Fowey Hall Hotel (Hanson Drive, Fowey; 01726 833866) in Cornwall has a good selection of family suites and interconnecting rooms (from £130.) It has excellent facilities for children, including a heated pool, Nintendo and a playroom staffed by capable nannies. For more information see www.luxury-family-hotels.co.uk.
38 Can you recommend some weekend ski-break companies?
Short-break skiing has really taken off this year, with many of the mainstream tour operators launching separate weekend ski programmes. Crystal (0870 848 7000; www.crystalski.co.uk ) has launched a range of 'fast-track' ski holidays in Andorra, Austria, France, Italy and Slovenia, and First Choice (0870 750 0499; www.firstchoice.co.uk) runs a Ski Express brochure for short breaks, which include a hire car.
Eurotunnel Motoring Holidays (08707 442211; http://www.eurodestination.com/holidays/motor/eurotunnel/eurotunnel.htm ) has added three- and four-night ski-drive holidays in France for this season. The adventure holidays specialist Tall Stories (01932 252002; www.tallstories.co.uk ) also offers three and four-night learn to snowboard and ski packages in Austria, France and Switzerland.
Ski Solutions (020 7471 7700; www.skisolutions.com) is Britain's largest specialist ski agency and can organise tailor-made breaks when availability allows. Destinations tend to be those that are easily accessible from Geneva Airport, such asChamonix. The best time to take a weekend break is between January and mid-March. Prices begin at £400 per person for three nights.
39 How do I book tickets for next year's World Cup? What about places to stay and package holidays?
There are several different stages of ticket sales and types of tickets you can get. See www.fifa-tickets.com for full details and online ordering. The official accommodation bureau can be found at www.fifa-hotels.com.
Of course, there's nothing to stop you making your own arrangements, but move quickly as demand will grow now the draw has been made. A number of travel companies will be bringing out World Cup travel packages in the New Year.
