Letters to the Travel editor

Two views

on Grand Circle

I was very pleased to read the letters from Brenda Schonfeld and Marilyn Van Aken [Letters, May 23] regarding Grand Circle Travel’s immediate response to the volcanic eruption in Iceland and the numerous disruptions that occurred as its result. Their comments more than validated the 28 trips that I have taken so far with GCT. Last month I was on its trip through Southeast Asia, with Thailand as our first destination. The civil unrest in Bangkok was at the beginning stages. Our group leader kept us continuously updated on the situation and informed us of any necessary travel adjustments to ensure our safety during our tour. Credit must be given to the top leadership, owners Alan and Harriet Lewis, for setting the bar high for their outstanding customer service.

Edna M. Tobias

Hermosa Beach

Regarding Grand Circle Travel: I just finished reading two letters in the May 23 Travel section. I thought you might like to hear another story from an eight-time traveler with Grand Circle. I would have joined its Rhone River, Paris and Côte d’Azur tour on April 15 had I been able to get the connecting flight from Heathrow to Nice, France. Until all passengers were stopped, as we headed for the connecting flights, no one knew there was problem. Grand Circle did not pay for my six-day hotel bill. I was not given any extra tours. I never laid eyes on a Grand Circle representative. I am awaiting word from the insurance company to see if I get reimbursed for anything. Anyone want to place bets on that happening?

Arline Jones

Murietta

State history tied

to Pony Express

Christopher Reynolds’ “Pony Power” [May 16] was very interesting. In 1954, when I was 8 years old, the first hardcover book I ever read was a history of the Pony Express, so it’s always been of interest to me.

The far-Western terminus of the Pony Express — the last 90 miles being covered by boat from Sacramento to San Francisco — was at 601 Montgomery, across the street from the Transamerica Pyramid.

There’s a plaque on the Clay Street side of the building indicating that it’s the site of the Russell, Majors & Waddell office, with the route from St. Joseph, Mo., engraved.

Diagonally across the intersection is the original Bank of Italy (now America) office building, beautifully restored.

Half a block south in the alley is the Chinese Heritage Museum, in what was formerly a bank building.

Two blocks south on Montgomery Street is the Wells Fargo Museum, which provides an interesting history of the bank, plus the express company.

For those interested in California history, this small area is a super place to spend part of a day when visiting San Francisco.

Mike Norton

Berkeley

A vintner that

merits a mention

I really enjoyed the April 11 article by Jay Jones about the Fresno County Fruit Trail [“A Fruitful Journey”]. However, I was disappointed that Tivy Mountain Vintners [https://www.tivymountainwinery.com] was not mentioned. I always stop on my visit to or through the area and always find something going on: a wedding in the beautiful park-like setting, a “diva’s weekend” complete with manicures, pedicures and massages, a Burgers & Blues event with live music, etc. I recently stopped by when there was no event taking place and was treated to a beautiful platter of cheeses, chutneys, breads and fruit by the owners. Because it is a boutique winery, the owners always have time to discuss the winemaking process and share a laugh or two. I love their full-bodied reds.

Lynda Blue

Faria Beach, Calif.