Saving Money in France

Question: Are the French offering any special discounted travel facilities and sightseeing to visitors during their 1989 Bicentennial celebration?

Answer: Numerous hotels, sightseeing companies and transport lines will feature tariffs guaranteed for the entire year, and that will include some bargains. A special cost-saving pass to many of Paris’ museums and monuments is available through Marketing Challenges Inc., 10 East 21st St., New York 10010. A hotel and restaurant guide is available from the French Government Tourist Office, 9454 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 303, Beverly Hills 90212, phone (213) 271-6665.

Q: While visiting Arizona we’d like to see some Native American reservations. Are they open to tourists?

A: Some reservations welcome tourists and offer guide service and other sightseeing facilities. For details, contact the Phoenix Indian Center, 333 Indian School Road, Phoenix, Ariz. 85013.

Q: Can tourists ride on floats during the New Orleans Mardi Gras parade?

A: Only by buying a special New Orleans tour package that includes space aboard one of the floats, costume and tickets to the Mardi Gras ball. Contact your agent or Travel New Orleans, toll-free (800) 535-8747, or Tours by Andrea at (800) 535-2732.

Q: I understand that certain foreign souvenirs made of animal skins and shells can’t be brought into the United States. Is there a list of such items?

A: Customs will seize any product made from hides, skins, feathers, tusks or furs of endangered animals. A brochure, “Buyer Beware,” alerts travelers about wildlife products. It’s available free by calling (800) 634-4444.

Q: What is the range of car-rental rates in European countries and do they have mileage charges?

A: Rates vary widely depending on the car. A check of 10 countries shows prices between $75 and $135 a week with unlimited mileage. Cars in the lower price range might be smaller models with stick shift. Prices are somewhat higher for larger vehicles with automatic transmissions. You can reserve through your travel agent.

Q: We’d like to tour western Mexico by motor coach. Which bus lines go to that area?

A: Gray Line is the only American operator with direct service from Los Angeles and other U.S. cities. For itineraries, contact your agent or Gray Line, 1207 West 3rd St., Los Angeles 90017, phone (213) 481-2121.

Q: What sort of insurance policies are available to passengers from cruise lines?

A: Most lines offer a variety of policies ranging in coverage from baggage insurance and protection against trip cancellation to personal injury. You can buy policies from travel agencies.

Q: Where is the new nightclub in New York City that also has an antique car exhibit?

A: Dezerland, a three-story entertainment complex on New York City’s West Side, near the Javits Convention Center, has a museum of classic cars, plus a restaurant and disco featuring ‘50s and ‘60s music. Unlike other discos, Dezerland caters to families.

Q: Is there a national museum depicting the history of naval aviation?

A: The Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Fla., has the only one. Free to the public, it has aircraft that includes the NC-4 flying boat, which in 1919 was the first plane to cross the Atlantic. For more information call toll-free (800) 327-5002.

Q: Are pets allowed on cruise ships?

A: Only aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2, which has kennels for dogs and cats. They can’t be taken ashore at foreign ports, however.