Inexpensive wealth of advice

Interesting question from Bill Bergfeldt in “On the Spot” [“Worldly Wisdom,” Aug. 9]. I have four additional suggestions for sources of travel information: travel books and concierge service, local chamber of commerces or visitors bureaus, and AAA.

On our first visits to Chicago last year and Seattle the year before, I bought some local guide books. I usually buy a Fodor’s and Frommer’s and others. I made notes and underlined items we might find interesting. Then I called the hotel and spoke with the concierge about our choices. I spoke with wonderfully candid people who grew up in those cities. In a few days I received a nice packet of brochures. Both city cities’ chambers of commerce sent wonderful packets.

Finally, the Automobile Club is the best investment. For my wife’s 60th birthday, I sat with a woman who took care of our every need for a family trip to Walt Disney World. She got us marvelous time-share villas and even got us upgraded to park-hopper status for no extra charge.

There was no charge for any of the services. Try these things and we promise you’ll be happy you did.

Bob and

Donna Tucker

Solvang, Calif.