Eastern Europe More Expensive Than Western?

Question: We’d like to visit Eastern Europe this summer. Are there modern hotels, tour buses and good restaurants? Will such a trip be more expensive than Western Europe?

Answer: First-class hotels are in short supply throughout Eastern Europe, East Berlin and the Soviet Union. Hungary probably has the most. Although nearly all the countries offer adequate dining facilities for tourists, few match those in the West. First-class rail and motor coach tour travel is comfortable. Travel in some countries is cheaper, but inclusive tours often offer better rates than those available to individual travelers.

Q: I’ve seen car-rental firms advertising free unlimited mileage. Is this available from all companies?

A: Some companies, among them Hertz, now offer it with reservations. Others, but not all, offer it in slack periods. Individual and franchise-rental locations have flexible policies, so be sure to ask before you rent.

Q: Recently, I was fined $50 at the airport for bringing in a small package of fruit from the Caribbean. Shouldn’t the government notify tourists about this beforehand?

A: Fines always have been authorized, but until this year Department of Agriculture inspectors merely confiscated certain foodstuffs originating outside the United States. Stricter enforcement was considered necessary to guard against harmful insects and plant diseases.

Q: Now that China is again promoting travel, has it reduced hotel and other prices that were pretty high in recent years?

A: American tourism to China is not expected to return to its former levels for some time. Substantial bargains have been available in the better hotels. Tour operators also are back in the market with attractive rates. Ask your agent for the best deals.

Q: Is it true that you can’t stay in a good New York City hotel under $125 to $150 a day, plus 13% room tax?

A: New York City hotel rates are between $100 and $300 per day. However, some clean, well-run economy-class hotels are operating close to midtown for $40 a day. Contact the New York Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2 Columbus Circle, New York 10019 for a free hotel folder.

Q: While traveling across country this summer we’d like to visit some outdoor festivals along the way. Is there a schedule for these performances?

A: Summer theatricals are abundant throughout the United States. For a comprehensive listing, send $2 to the Institute of Outdoor Drama, CB 3240 NCNB Place, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, N.C. 27599.

Q: I’ve accumulated frequent-flyer bonus miles. Are they valid indefinitely or must I use them within a certain time?

A: Each airline has its own rules but usually there is a time limit. You can’t turn them in for cash and the airline can change its rules and even discontinue them without notice.

Q: Is it true that the proposed Clean Air Act may limit the number of automobiles at such places as Disneyland and other major tourist sites?

A: While the object is to reduce air pollution, improved auto emission technology and better traffic controls make such drastic controls unlikely.

Q: We’re planning to marry on our European trip. Are the requirements for licenses as simple as here?

A: Marriage procedures in Britain, Ireland and on the Continent are generally more complicated and may involve brief waiting periods and temporary residency. Consulates are the best information sources.