QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question: Are American hotels opening in the Soviet Union?

Answer: Several U.S. hotel chains have projects under way in Moscow, and others are under consideration. Radisson Hotel and business center opens later this year. Sheraton will have one in 1992 and Ramada may build several. Already operating is a bed and breakfast facility at $85 U.S. a day. Contact Amico International, 13113 Ideal Drive, Silver Spring, Md. 20906, (301) 942-3770.

Note: See Peter Greenberg’s Savvy Traveler column on Page 2.

Q: Where can I get updated information about health insurance and other medical emergency needs for traveling abroad?

A: Travel agents should have details of various health organizations. For a free brochure, “Consumers Guide to Travel Assistance,” call (800) 821-2828.

Q: Is the Eurailpass being extended to Eastern Europe this year?

A: Only to East Germany. It will cost an additional $59 to $79 for four days, second- and first-class, and $79 to $119 for eight days, second- and first-class.

Q: Is St. Lucia opening gambling casinos? Where else are they allowed in the Caribbean?

A: St. Lucia is considering casinos. However, they are now operating in Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, St. Vincent and Trinidad.

Q: We’d like to go on a New England foliage tour. When is the best viewing period?

A: Tour operators offering such trips say the beginning of September to mid-October are generally the best times.

Q: Is Congress still opposed to voting money for our participation in the Spanish World’s Fair?

A: Money has been authorized for an American pavilion at the 1992 Seville Exposition to celebrate the 500th anniversary of America’s discovery by Christopher Columbus.

Q: We like to sail on inaugural cruises. What new ships are coming into service this year?

A: There are quite a number, including the Costa Marina, Crown Monarch, Crystal Harmony, Crown Princess, Renaissance 3, Renaissance 4 and Frontier Spirit. Your agent has itineraries and sailing dates.

Q: Is it possible to stay at a foreign university as a tourist? Are meals provide d ?

A: Scores of colleges and universities in Eastern and Western Europe, Africa and the Pacific region accommodate visitors at rates from $12 to $24 per day. Some provide breakfast for a few dollars extra or full board for up to $20. For a complete listing, send $13 for the “U.S. and World Travel Accommodations Guide to 650 University Campuses,” P.O. Box 5007, Laguna Beach 92652.

Q: If a person cancels a tour, can tour operators refuse to refund money paid in advance?

A: Tour companies have cancellation penalties that vary among operators depending on how close to departure the concellation is made or whether it’s a proven emergency. Make sure your travel agent explains what the cancellation clause provides before you book.

Q: I’d like to go on an African photo safari but I am worried about State Department warnings of unrest in some countries. Where can I obtain up-to-date information about where it’s safe to travel?

A: Your travel agent should provide such details. Another source is D. H. Doelker, safari socialists. Call (800) 882-5537. For more information on safety concerns in countries you may be visiting, also contact the Citizens Emergency Center, U.S. Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, (202) 647-5225.

Q: Where can I obtain the Thomas Cook world timetable for railroad travel?

A: Cook doesn’t sell them but suggests Rand-McNally map stores or Forsyth Library, 9154 W. 57th St., Shawnee Mission, Kan. 66201.

Q: Are travel agents allowed to cut the price of a cruise by rebating part of their commission to the customer?

A: Although the cruise lines object to this practice, it’s not illegal. Some agents may offer such discounts, particularly in the slow season.

Q: Are there tours that include Borneo?

A: Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, is bidding for tourists. It is on the itinerary of several tour operators. There are several Holiday Inns and opportunities for animal watching and hikes. For details, contact the Malaysian Tourist Information Center, 818 West 7th St., Los Angeles 90017, (213) 689-9702.