The Washington Post travel staff
Q: I’m heading out to the mountains this weekend. I know I should make sure to keep hydrated and watch alcohol intake, but do you have any other hints for lessening effects of the high altitude?
A: I think you’re on the right track. Drink plenty of liquids, avoid alcohol and don’t smoke. Also, experts recommend eating lots of carbs.
– Christopher Elliott
Q: I am planning a trip to Ireland either in September or October and have never been. Which would be better to go as far as cost? Also, I have not purchased my tickets yet. Would it be better for me to wait?
A: Aer Lingus has frequent sales to Ireland, so I would start with that airline. October is typically a bit cheaper than September. Get familiar with the usual round-trip fare so you’ll know when you are getting a deal.
– Carol Sottili
Q: I’m going to Dublin for a long weekend (layover from Portugal). Is there a beach area you recommend that we can visit in a day trip, preferably one that is accessible by public transport?
A: You can find harbors north (Howth and its Claremont Beach) and south (Dun Laoghaire and its Seapoint Beach) of Dublin’s city center. You can take a boat trip around Dublin Bay or plunk down on the beach. Both destinations are accessible by bike or train.
– Andrea Sachs
Q: I received a letter offering greatly reduced prices on Caribbean cruises based on casino usage. Is this too good to be true? Are there any pitfalls?
A: Without having a copy of your offer, it’s difficult to say, but generally these kinds of cruises are too good to be true. The food and amenities are substandard, the ships are older, and the cruise lines emphasize the gambling, which is the revenue driver. I’m sure there are exceptions to this, but if you only have one vacation this year, why take a chance?
– C.E.
Q: Are there any reasonably priced, good hotels in New York City that offer free or reduced rates for car parking?
A: Affordable, N.Y.C. and free parking rarely go together. But try the Alex Hotel on 45th Street, which has a free parking package, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Metropolitan – New York City. Just make sure to do the math so that you are not paying more for the package vs. a la carte.
– A.S.
Q: I’m flying to Miami this week and would like to find a good Cuban restaurant within a few miles of Miami International Airport. Any recommendations?
A: You may not need to leave the airport. Try Cafe Versailles at MIA. It’s one of my favorite places for Cuban food.
– C.E.
