Up and Away With a Freedom Pass

Continental Airlines has renewed its popular Freedom Passport for those over age 62. Under the program, travelers buy a “passport” that entitles them to one year’s worth of airline travel without spending any more money. The Freedom Passport must be purchased for either domestic or foreign travel, in either coach or first class--and the purchase price varies accordingly. Although the initial cost is relatively steep, passport holders eventually reach the point where they are flying for free. Under the program, domestic travel to Continental’s 185 destination cities must be booked no more than seven days before departure date and the same destination may not be visited more than three times in any one-year period. For overseas travel, booking is required 30 days in advance.

The 12-month passport prices are:

* Domestic Coach Passport (mainland only): $1,999.

* Domestic First Class Passport (mainland only): $3,499.

* Global Coach Class Passport: $4,499.

* Global First Class Passport: $6,999.

Seniors who purchase domestic passports may purchase add-ons to destinations outside the continental United States. Add-on costs for coach and first class including number of trips permitted are:

* Mexico (2)--nine cities: $250/$400.

* Caribbean (2)--four island destinations: $250/$400.

* Central America (1)--seven countries: $300/$450.

* Hawaii (1) $400/$550.

* Alaska (1) $400/$550.

* Europe (1) $500/$1,000.

Note that there are a number of blackout dates throughout the year that apply to various destinations. For example, travel to Hawaii is not permitted from Nov. 23 to 28 or from Dec. 16 to Jan. 8. No travel is permitted between the United States and Europe on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays from June 17 to Sept. 18.

Continental Airlines also offers a short-term Freedom Passport valid for four months of coach travel to more than 150 U.S. cities for $999. Except for certain blackout dates Freedom Passport holders may take a one-way trip each week if a Saturday night stay is made between trips. No more than three trips may be made to a single destination during the four months.

Travelers who purchase the four-month passport may also purchase the same add-on trips.

Holders of either the 12-month or four-month passports may purchase a Companion Passport for a person of any age for the same price. The companion may travel on any flight booked with the primary passport holder.

For information, call (800) 441-1135.

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Great Mates, a division of Mermaid and Co. International Cruises, is a travel-matching company for those seeking compatible cruise companions in order to avoid the single supplement cost levied by many cruise lines for passengers occupying a cabin alone. Great Mates’ $10 membership fee will be waived for new members who join before June 30. Members are matched by gender, preferences for indoor and outdoor activities, table games and hobbies, smoking and drinking habits.

For membership details and information, write Mermaid and Co., P.O. Box 4812, Westlake Village 91359; tel. (805) 379-9822

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A discounted rail pass has been introduced by Rail Europe for travelers 55 and up. The pass, called Scanrail 55+, offers a 12% discount off regular adult fares. The pass is good for travel in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. It is also valid for some ferries that operate on waterways among those countries and in Germany.

A four-day pass in first class, which may be used within a 15-day period, is $175, a $24 discount. For second-class travel, the fare is $140, a $19 discount. Passes for 21 or 30 days are also available. For information, call (800) 438-7245.

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Those looking for merchandise to make travel more comfortable, safe and carefree, might be interested in the latest edition of Magellan’s Essentials for the Traveler, available free. The 50-page catalogue lists more than 500 items, including luggage, travel alarms, games, money belts and pouches, security items, tools, maps, locks, books and electrical items, such as adapter plugs, portable appliances, hot beverage makers, travel irons and hair dryers. Magellan also offers an assortment of toilet kits and supplies, travel organizers, non-prescription medical aids and first-aid items. For a copy, call (800) 962-4943.