Stephanie Serino's Travel Blog

A Time Magazine article describing the myriad fees airlines have recently imposed on the public has named US Airways the stingiest airline in the industry. We are not surprised. Not only do they charge for the first and second checked bag, but they also charge you for a soft drink in flight. They've also increased their fees for issuing tickets by phone, change penalties, and escort fees for kids traveling alone.

You must add Bora Bora to your list of places to see before you die. One terrific way of exploring French Polynesia is by ship, and there are lots of choices. Nomade Yachting Bora Bora This is my first choice for cruising in Paradise — superb cuisine, contemporary Polynesian décor and lots of special touches make this the ideal way to experience Tahiti. A maximum of 40 lucky guests are pampered in style by a crew of 43. (That’s me enjoying the sunset aboard the Ti'a Moana in the photo above.) Classic six-night itineraries are available from Bora Bora sailing Mondays year-round, which combine nicely with a few nights stay in an over-water bungalow. Instead of flying, why not cruise to paradise? Holland America has my favorite South Seas itinerary aboard the ms Ryndam. This unique 30-day cruise starts and ends in San Diego, sailing to Hawaii and French Polynesia on Jan. 4, 2009. It’s perfect for snowbirds looking for a more exotic experience than a condo in Florida! Visit Maui, K