Traveler’s Notes ...

Several airlines have extended their offers of lower mileage requirements for frequent-flier awards through Dec. 15. Among them: Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines (15,000 instead of 20,000 or 25,000 miles for a round-trip ticket within the U.S. and Canada) and American and United airlines (various discounts on international travel awards).... Just in time for ski season, the Big Bear Lake Resort Assn. has begun offering online hotel reservations on its Web site, https://www.bigbearinfo.com. You can specify the type of hotel and a price range, and check availability on specific dates. The site charges a $10 “itinerary booking fee.” ... Aeromexico plans to begin flying between Ontario, Calif., and Hermosillo, Mexico, five times a week beginning Jan. 20. Round-trip fares will range from about $250 to $654, a spokeswoman said.... Organizers of the first Art Basel Miami Beach, a worldwide art exhibition in the Florida city that was to have included 150 galleries and take place Dec. 13 to 16, postponed the event to next year, Dec. 5 to 8. They cited problems with air travel and insurance after the Sept. 11 attacks.

-- Compiled by Jane Engl e