Visiting Vienna for the Ball Season

Question: We’re visiting Vienna this winter. Can we attend any of the balls being held there?

Answer: Between New Year’s and Lent, some 300 balls are scheduled in Vienna. Reservations are necessary, particularly for the Opera, Kaiser and Philharmonic. Admission ranges from $20 U.S. for lesser events to $300 for the bigger functions. Reserve through your travel agent or contact Austria-On-Line toll-free at (800) 736-4912.

Q: Are there lines that specialize in scuba cruises? If so, where do they sail from?

A: Aquanot Cruise Line--(800) 327-8223--operates dive/cruise ships in the British Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Saba and Curacao. Ocean Quest International--(800) 338-3483--sails from New Orleans to Cancun, Belize and Cozumel. Your travel agent should have schedules.

Q: During our London visit, we want to see Parliament in action. Is the House of Lords also open to the public?

A: Both the House of Commons and the House of Lords have public galleries for visitors.

Q: What’s the itinerary and length of journey on the Mexican Sierra Madre Express train?

A: Eight- and 10-day tours leave via motor coach from Tucson, Ariz., and connect with the train in Nogales, Mexico, with stops at Copper Canyon and other points. Contact your agent or call (800) 666-0346.

Q: My travel agent tells me that U.S. Immigration officers may stop and interrogate naturalized American citizens when they present their passport. Is that true?

A: The Immigration and Naturalization Service denies any change in inspection procedures. It’s up to the control officer to decide if the passport or its holder merit further examination. This applies to everyone.

Q: Is there an organization catering to the handicapped that provides fishing and other outdoor facilities for wheelchair clients?

A: The Wilderness on Wheels Foundation, 7125 W. Jefferson Ave., Denver, Colo. 80235, (303) 988-2212, offers a boardwalk along a trout stream, plus campsites.

Q: Where will be the best place to view the total eclipse in 1991, and will there be special tours to the site?

A: Various operators are marketing tours to Hawaii and Baja, Mexico, both good viewing areas. The eclipse will be on July 11, 1991. The next is in 2132.