air travelers. These proposals

Air Travel Privacy Air Travel Privacy Latest News | Resources | Identification Schemes | Profiling | FOIA Documents | Other Documents | Analysis | Previous Files The right to travel is a part of the "liberty" of which the citizen cannot be deprived without due process of law under the Fifth Amendment ... Freedom of movement across frontiers in either direction, and inside frontiers as well, was a part of our heritage. Travel abroad, like travel within the country, may be necessary for a livelihood. It may be as close to the heart of the individual as the choice of what he eats, or wears, or reads. Freedom of movement is basic in our scheme of values. "Our nation," wrote Chafee, "has thrived on the principle that, outside areas of plainly harmful conduct, every American is left to shape his own life as he thinks best, do what he pleases, go where he pleases." -- Justice William O. Douglas, Kent v. Dulles (1958) Post-September 11, several measures have been considered to improve aviation security. Some of these proposals, such as improved training for airport screeners, checking all bags for bombs, strengthening cockpit doors, and placing air marshals on flights, do not implicate privacy interests and are sound security measures. Others, however, present privacy and security risks to air travelers. These proposals concern efforts to identify passengers and schemes to distinguish the "good guys" from the "bad." EPIC will make available on this page aviation security and privacy related documents it obtains from the government under the freedom of information law to promote and inform the public debate over these new schemes. In earlier responses to security threats the FAA issued a secret regulation that allowed airlines to demand photo identification and instituted a new profiling program called CAPPS (Computer Assisted Passenger Pre-screening System) based on travel data airlines routinely collected. See Previous Files . New proposals advocate using biometric credentials for "trusted travelers" and using extensive data mining of credit history, criminal records, and travel patterns to profile all airline passengers. NASA has even suggested developing "non-invasive neuro-electric sensors" or brain scans at the security gate to see if people are having suspicious thoughts. The stated goal of these new proposals is to rely on technology to reduce the "hassle factor" in airports and to reduce security threats. The core idea is to focus security resources on suspicious travelers, while ensuring that most people are not inconvenienced by heightened security. Terrorists, however, have been known to go to great lengths to look like most people. Former Transportation Security Agency chief John Magaw refused to endorse a "trusted traveler" card, fearing that it would be the first thing a terrorist will try to obtain. New profiling and identification programs will convert airport security into all-purpose police stops where criminals, deadbeat dads, and others seeking to avoid law enforcement for non-aviation security related reasons face the risk of being arrested. The basic structure of passenger profiling is to use an algorithm to determine indicators of characteristics or behavior patterns that are related to the occurrence of certain behavior. The CAPPS-II initiative will expand the range of databases searched for suspicious activity so that each airline passenger will be subjected to an extensive profiling. John Pointdexter's office in the Defense Department is considering developing a similar Total Information Awareness system. Each structural element of the CAPPS-II profiling system, however, raises a host of complex questions: Algorithm: What logic will be used? What is the basis for developing the algorithm? What are acceptable false positive and false negative rates? Indicators: What indicators are relevant? Are these indicators available? Who will collect and store the relevant indicators? Related: How are the indicators related to particular kinds of behavior? Is that relationship reliable? Behavior: Who determines what behavior should be targeted? What types of specific behavior will the system try to catch? In addition there are several technical issues such as how reliable is the data used to make profiling decisions? What kind of data should be collected and how long should the data be retained? Who will have access to the data and for what purposes? The policy issues also need to be addressed: what will be the rights of individuals to control their personally identifiable information? What recourse will be available for someone wrongly identified or denied a service? Will profiling based on deep data-mining stand up to charges of equal protection and due process violations? The new proposals directly implicate long standing constitutional protections under the fourth and first amendments, including the right to travel, and must be clearly understood and properly considered by the public. Latest News EPIC Joins Campaign Against Biometric Identification. Civil liberties organizations have sent a letter to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regarding their plans to include biometric identifiers such as fingerprints and facial scans on all newly issued electronic passports. The letter, organized by Privacy International , warns this will lead to the first truly global database of biometric information. For more information, read the letter from the Campaign, see EPIC's biometrics page, and read a story by the BBC . (Mar. 30) EPIC Suit Uncovers Watchlist Errors. EPIC has uncovered agency documents through the Freedom of Information Act that raise important questions about how the Transportation Security Administration currently operates the "No-Fly" watchlist. The concerns surrounding the agency's administration of the list previews several potential problems with the proposed roll out of CAPPS-II , the Enhanced Computer Assisted Passenger Pre-screening System. For more information, see EPIC's analysis of the FOIA documents. (Apr. 1) Senators Want Answers on Air Profiling. The Senate Commerce Committee has unanimously agreed to an amendment (pdf) by Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) that would require the Transportation Security Administration to report to Congress on the privacy and civil liberties implications of the controversial CAPPS-II air passenger profiling system. See EPIC's Passenger Profiling page for more information. (Mar. 13) EPIC Comments on Air Travel Database. EPIC submitted comments on a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) proposal [PDF] to create a new database of Aviation Security Screening Records on all airline passengers. EPIC argued that the proposed system did not provide sufficient information for the public to contribute meaningfully to this rule-making procedure, and that the proposed system would infringe on the Constitutional right of association and travel. See TSA Docket for more information and public comments. (Feb. 24) EPIC Criticizes Gov't Rule on Citizen Travel. EPIC has filed comments [PDF] on the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)'s proposed rule to collect passenger manifest information on all international travelers, including American citizens and legal permanent residents. The comments argue that the proposed rule is legally deficient because the INS has not complied with the Privacy Act in creating this new "system of records." EPIC has asked the INS to reissue its notice and meet the requirements of the Privacy Act. The comments also note that, by collecting and sharing travel data about citizens, the INS is placing a burden on the right to travel and the rights of anonymous association. (Feb. 4, 2003) EPIC Files Suit for "No-Fly List" Information. Seeking information about aviation security watchlists, EPIC has filed a lawsuit [PDF] against the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in federal court in Washington. The legislation creating TSA authorizes the agency to maintain such lists, which reportedly have been used to interfere with the travel of political activists. (Dec. 12, 2002) Resources EPIC's presentation for the National Academy's seminar on Concealed Threat Detection , March 2005. Transportation Security Agency Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2002 EPIC v. TSA FOIA Lawsuit seeking information on new identification and passenger profiling schemes Implementation of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act with a Focus on the 60-day Deadline for Screening and Checked Baggage House Transportation Committee, Subcommittee on Aviation, Jan. 23, 2002 Audit Reports on Aviation Security Office of Inspector General, Department of Transportation White House Commission on Aviation Safety and Security web page. EPIC's Profiling Page. EPIC's National ID Page. EPIC's Biometrics Page. EPIC's Face Recognition Page. EPIC's Terrorism Page: Information on pending efforts in Congress to increase wiretapping and gather personal information. EPIC's new page on Surveillance of European Air Travelers . Identification Schemes Gilmore v. Ashcroft -- FAA ID Challenge Aviation Security Biometrics Working Group [see Steering Committee Analysis for detailed information on proposed biometric identification schemes] Airlines Plan Quick System For Identifying Passengers Washington Post , June 22, 2002 Smart Check-In Cuts Airport Lines Wired News , Feb. 5, 2001. [Trusted traveler schemes have been contemplated well before 9/11] Maximus Flysecure proposal Profiling Trading Freedom for Security . The New American Magazine , May 5, 2003. EPIC's new Passenger Profiling page. Air Security Focusing on Flier Screening . Washington Post , September 4, 2002. Intricate Screening Of Fliers In Works . Washington Post , Feb. 1, 2002. Carnival Booth: An Algorithm for Defeating the Computer-Assisted Passenger Screening System . MIT/Harvard Law School Student paper. Electronic Record Systems and Individual Privacy . U.S. Congress Office of Technical Assessment OTA-CIT-296. House Transportation Hearing on Airline Passenger Profiling . Feb. 27, 2002. ACLU Passenger Profiling Complaint Form Documents Obtained under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) EPIC Suit Uncovers Errors in TSA's Watchlist , April 2003. NASA Ames Research Center Northwest Airlines Briefing . December 10-11, 2001. Other Documents Final Report of the White House Commission. Initial Report of the White House Commission (September 9, 1996). Executive Order 13015 creating the White House Commission on Aviation Safety and Security (August 22, 1996) ( PDF version ) Initial Federal Register notice of public meeting of White House Commission. Revised Federal Register notice announcing that part of the Commission's meeting will be closed to the public "in the interest of national security." 1994 statute authorizing FAA research into security matters (including "behavioral research") and exempting information relating to such research from disclosure under the FOIA. Analysis Image of a person scanned using a new x-ray device from AS&E. National Academy of Sciences report " Airline Passenger Security Screening: New Technologies and Implementation Issues " Paper on the limitations of profiling , Roger Clark, Australia National University. ACLU testimony before White House Commission on "Civil Liberties Implications of Airport Security Measures" (September 5, 1996). Letter to Privacy Journal editor Robert Ellis Smith from the FAA denying Smith's request for a copy of the FAA Security Directive on identification of airline passengers. HotWired article " Fear of Flying " on proposals. (September 11, 1996). Previous Files FAA Proposes Profiling Regulations. The Federal Aviation Administration published proposed regulations on April 19, 1999, governing "Security of Checked Baggage on Flights Within the United States." The draft rules detail the use of computer profiling techniques to identify suspicious passengers. Public comments can be filed until June 18, 1999. Airline Passenger Profiling Goes Into Effect. The Computer Assisted Passenger Screening System is scheduled to be phased in nationwide beginning on January 1. Under the system, passengers who "fit the profile" will be selected for heightened security measures, which can include a thorough search of their luggage, intrusive personal questioning, tagging of luggage with orange tape, and a physical escort from the check-in counter to the airport gate by security personnel. The ACLU is providing an online complaint form for passengers targeted by the profiling system. Microsoft Chief Architect Charles Simonyi tells what happens when you "fit the profile" (from Slate ). Proposed FAA rule for collecting personal information including name, address, Social Security Number, Date of birth and next of kin for every domestic passenger. General Account Office report, Aviation Safety and Security: Challenges to Implementing the Recommendations of the White House Commission on Aviation Safety and Security (Testimony, 03/05/97, GAO/T-RCED-97-90). The Gore Commission has released its final report recommending passenger profiling. A coalition of 17 groups has sent a letter to Gore opposing ID checks, profiling, new x-ray technologies and excessive secrecy by the FAA in making decisions. EPIC Privacy Page | EPIC Home Page Last Updated: March 29, 2005 Page URL: http://www.epic.org/privacy/airtravel/default.html

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SARS affects the health of air travel  You are here: About > Travel > Air Travel Travel Air Travel Essentials Save money on airfare Airline Seat Maps Airlines - details and phone numbers Frequent Flyer 411 Info about the 30 Busiest Airports Articles & Resources Book your trip Shopping & gift giving Airlines big/small/budget Airport Info/Shop/Stay/Play Travel Docs and Mileage Seat maps and Inflight Advice and Tips In the news + Travel Tools Safety / Security Job search and training Info/History Buffs Skydive, glide and more Destinations and Events Humor and fun Service Issues Buyer's Guide Luggage Digital SLR Cameras Children's books Portable DVD Players MP3 Players Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Air Travel newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Air Travel Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Elsewhere on the Web World Health Organization - SARS Centers for Disease Control and Prev. Travelers' Health Suggested Reading SARS: from About - Asthma Air travel safety and security Most Popular Airline Phone Numbers Family emergencies - bereav... Paramount Airways Frequent Flyer - Air Tran Sun Country Airlines What's Hot Frequent Flyer - Singapore Jet2 Saving time checking in for... bmi baby Essential Philippines Related Topics Business Travel Budget Travel Hotels / Resorts / Inns SARS affects the health of air travel From Arlene Fleming , Your Guide to Air Travel . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! SARS attacks the air travel industry It is not just war or armed conflict that can have an adverse effect on air travel. Sometimes a virulent virus can create enough ripples of panic in passengers that travel plans are changed or canceled, and airlines suffer as people stop flying or stay closer to home. SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) is proving to be an example of a virus that is steering passengers away from flying to certain regions of the world. Part of the reason that SARS is so potentially devastating to certain sectors of air travel is the fact that it remains ill-understood. Could you catch it from a fellow passenger? How easily transmittable is it? How long can the virus survive airborne, or on objects that have been used by someone infected by SARS? As world health authorities grapple with trying to find concrete answers to such questions, less passengers are willing to risk their well-being (and potentially their lives) over a virus that seems to be reaching different countries by infected passengers traveling via international flights. Not knowing all that there is to know about SARS has led to thousands of canceled bookings as many companies and individuals are heeding the advice to not travel to certain parts of the world unless absolutely necessary. Some airlines have had employees invoke work refusals as the fear of contracting the virus, and its rapid worldwide spread are realized. In light of the growing impact of SARS on air travel, it is important to know what advice is out there for passengers and what efforts airlines are taking on to prevent the spread of SARS. 1 2 3 4 Next        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Frequent Flyer - Singapore Jet2 Saving time checking in for... bmi baby Essential Philippines

Europe Travel Planner 10

Eastern Europe Travel Planner Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Transitions Abroad Magazine September/October 2000 Related Topics Independent Travel Budget Travel More by the Author Work in Prague Paying Bills Back Home Eastern Europe Travel Planner 10 Tips for Visiting “The Other Europe” By Mishelle Shepard It’s true that the majority of Eastern European destinations are not for every traveler. Those who seek comfort and luxury should probably not venture far beyond capital cities like Prague, Budapest, Berlin, Tallinn, and Warsaw. But for those wishing to travel beyond the tourist zone and seek real off-the-beaten path places, people and experiences, Eastern Europe has countless options. Musicians add ambiance to a stroll on the famous St. Charles Bridge in Prague (Photo by Kent St. John) Guidebooks and locals have different definitions of what exactly constitutes “Eastern” and “Central” and “Southern” Europe. Including Albania and Romania with the same traveling advice given for the Czech Republic and former East Germany poses loads of obvious problems. Still, some general tips apply to many countries and can help alleviate minor discomforts. Bring Some Necessities I laughed the first time I left for Eastern Europe in 1990 and my grandfather told me to bring toilet paper. Thinking surely since his visit to communist Russia in the 70s there’s been some improvement, I dismissed the idea. Little did I know that after a couple of weeks I would be begging my family to send me even a 4-pack of bargain brand. Although I wouldn’t dream of loading myself down with such things as kleenex, plastic zipper bags, feminine products, or anti-perspirant, outside the main capitals such things are still difficult to come by. Even in a decent restaurant in a major capital the toilet paper resembles something close to a thin brown-paper lunch bag, and in public facilities it’s rationed according to a per-square price. I consider traveling with emergency reserve tissue an absolute necessity. Choosing Accommodations Planning ahead online is now so convenient that it’s a waste of time not to make reservations when traveling to the major cities in summer. In general, however, even where accommodations are plentiful there can be lack of mid-priced choices. The convenient and popular chains that have sprung up all over the West have not yet filtered deeply into Eastern Europe. • When considering where to stay, a good up-to-date guidebook with phone numbers of accommodations in your price range provides quick and easy piece of mind. Some countries also have extensive hotel and pension listings online that offer discounted reservations, but a follow-up call or fax is still a good idea. • In smaller towns, hotels are reasonably priced and can be found right in the town center. Remember, however, that public transportation stops early in the small towns and a lack of taxis could find you stranded. Even in a heavily touristed spa town like Karlovy Vary during the International Film Festival, a stay in the pedestrian center with breakfast in a well-run 2-star hotel costs about $40. • Pensions are a good budget choice in larger cities and are usually friendlier than a crowded hotel. Still, pensions are only a good option when they’re close to public transport, because a late night taxi ride when public transportation is sparse can quickly offset the savings in room cost. The same goes for private rooms offered by individuals—changing from bus to subway to tram can cost considerable time and money. • When alone, a hostel can’t be beat for meeting other travelers. “Junior” hotels are a similar option in many Eastern European countries and they often rent bikes and other sports equipment. And hostels are not just for students, they offer an affordable alternative for families and other budget-minded travelers. • Camping is a great way to meet lots of locals, but, of course, packing gear is inconvenient when traveling around a city. As in Western Europe, the bungalows fill up quickly in summer, so hauling around a tent may be unavoidable. Unfortunately, in a few countries the camping facilities might be the best accommodations available. Money In major cities credit cards are an easy and safe bet, but not some pensions and campgrounds or smaller bars and restaurants. When paying with a credit card outside the capitals, be warned, sometimes the machine is (mysteriously) broken, and you’ll be asked to pay in cash. If it’s absolutely necessary for you to pay by card, it’s best to make sure in advance. Cash machines are easy to come by in cities, but rare in villages. Carrying cash to smaller destinations is unavoidable, but costs are still relatively low outside the popular spots, so a little goes a long way. The foreigner pricing system still exists but is becoming less common because merchants realize travelers don’t appreciate spending two times the normal price for the same services. Not everything is a bargain in Eastern Europe and doing a bit of research can help you avoid mistaken assumptions or false claims. For example, skiing in some Eastern European destinations is just not worth the meager reduction in cost when you consider the T-lifts, crowds and quality of rental equipment. Beyond the Capitals Traveling as an English-speaker to small towns and villages may get you some longer-than-average looks, but it will also get you warm hospitality, a more authentic perception of local life and some great cross-cultural experiences. Choosing a destination depends on your interests. For first-time travelers, it can be less isolating and still very rewarding to visit vacation destinations that are popular with Eastern Europeans but fairly untouched by native English-speakers. Places like the Great Masurian Lakes near the border between Poland and Lithuania, the coast of Croatia, the Giant Mountains of Slovakia, or the spa towns in many countries are good choices. UNESCO world heritage sites, such as Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, the medieval town of Torun in Poland, or the famous caves of Slovakia and Slovenia are also interesting destinations. It can be fun to plan a“theme trip,” focusing on historical sites and castles, wine regions, or tracing your roots. To Drive or Not to Drive When renting or buying a car for exploring Eastern Europe you have to consider all the hidden expenses. Many countries have toll roads that require you to have a sticker or else dish out a hefty fine on the spot. Sometimes extra insurance is required for cars originating from the West, and gas prices are very high. City-to-city travel by car usually isn’t worth it for groups of less than four. On the other hand, driving can be beneficial if you have limited time and want to see as many places as possible, including all the quaint country villages and castles along the way. Getting Educated For many of us, even the biggest culture hounds, Eastern Europe has remained largely a mystery. Misinformation during communist times has been followed by a general lack of information since. Still, there are numerous books, including Eva Hoffman’s Exit into History, that poignantly describe the culture, politics and history of the region in an entertaining style. There are also some very informative web sites on Eastern Europe. When researching the culture, don’t exclude fiction, especially books written by communist dissidents. A much truer picture of the people, their dreams and their difficulties will emerge than if you limit yourself to non-fiction. Another good cultural education option is to see popular locally produced films, which you can often view with English subtitles at cinemas in the capital cities. Opportunities for work and study are continually expanding, although most economies are still in heavy transition. Those countries hoping for EU entry are adopting stricter visa regulations, so it pays to keep up-to-date at the various embassy web sites. In the major cities, there are many news sources that will keep you up-to-date, and internet cafes have changed the face of traveling altogether. From keeping in touch with family and friends, to knowing what’s going on in town to meeting people, nothing beats the convenience of on-line access when abroad. The Dreaded Languages Unfortunately most of us didn’t have a couple of years of college Ukrainian and Polish along with our French and Spanish. In Western Europe, most travelers can usually manage, but in off-the-beaten-path Poland the choice is to either to improve your gesturing skills or grow very attached to your phrasebook. If you’re staying for more than a few days, it’s worth the effort to learn some of the language. It’s not easy, but you’ll be rewarded with mountains of praise from the locals. There’s no need to take formal lessons unless you plan to work or go to school. Instead, just try offering an exchange of English for Czech, Hungarian, or whatever, and chances are you can work out a mutually beneficial arrangement. Speaking Russian in most countries won’t win you a popularity contest. The few locals who remember their required Russian don’t usually care to speak it and would rather try their hand at charades or even very broken English. Services Although it’s true the atmosphere has changed considerably in the last ten years, that change has stayed primarily in the capital centers. But even in the capitals, old habits die hard. Service varies widely between downright “tippable” to completely aggravating. However, many of us are spoiled. I, personally, can’t recall ever getting better service anywhere in Europe (with the exception of London) than I get regularly in the States. The rule I try to stand by is, don’t pay any more attention to the service than they pay to you. That way when it’s good you’re pleasantly surprised and when it’s not you hardly notice. This attitude has taken a bit of training, but it’s been worth it in the long run. Meeting the Locals Visiting the local festivals is a great way to meet people in a milieu that is not necessarily language-dependent. Medieval reenactments, world championship sporting events, or traveling Romany festivals attract more locals than tourists. It’s easy to find out what’s going on by simply asking around, checking information centers, or reading the monthly cultural guides available in cities and on-line. Not only have many of the natives changed in the past ten years, the ex-pats have as well. The number of ex-pats living in the most popular Eastern European capitals has actually gone down since its height not long after “the fall.” Hanging out at one of the typical ex-pat bars for the true cross-culture seeker used to mean selling out and choosing cultural “isolation,” but now many of the foreigners living here are in intercultural marriages and actually speak the language or heartily try. Moreover, the locals have found the ex-pat hangouts a great place to meet young travelers and practice their English. Shunning the ex-pat scene today could mean missing out on where the jobs are or the chance to meet locals who are looking to get to know you. The Invitation More so than in Western Europe, social life takes place in people’s homes. Just a bit of preplanning is a sure-fire way to meet people even before you arrive. More than once I’ve started correspondences with people on-line and had the time of my life when they invited me over once I arrived in town. It’s important to be cautious, of course, but an invitation to a local’s home opens otherwise tightly closed doors. Rustic weekend cottages and garden plots play a big role in local life in many countries and are a great way to really get to know people. What began as a practical and economical alternative to traveling remains a favorite escape from the city and a special treat for the honored guest. The East in general has retained a sense of formality and hierarchy that has become foreign to most of the West. At the same time, Eastern Europeans seem to expect the traveler to break the rules. The same faux pas that would probably get you a repressed sneer in France will be noticed with only a subdued snicker in Poland. Reading up on the local customs will remind you that taking off your shoes in someone’s home, bringing a small bouquet to the host, avoiding probing questions over dinner, sitting with strangers at a restaurant and other common courtesies are not typically shared by westerners. Perhaps undeservedly, Americans (and other native English speakers) are, for the most part, still adored in most of Eastern Europe. Of course, there has been quite a bit of “demystification” on both sides in the last ten years, but now even among the older generations apprehension has been replaced by full-fledged curiosity. That means the typical tourist misses out on great opportunities for a real cross-cultural experience while their eyes are glued to the cathedrals and their ears are pinned to the city guide. Many first-timers from the West are surprised how far the major cities have come compared to what they’ve read or seen in the past. Other travelers notice how little has really changed in some of the more remote villages. One thing is certain, though; while prices are still low and locals still curious, it’s well worth it to take advantage of this part of the world and appreciate what is undoubtedly a fleeting moment in time. Selected Web Sites www.inyourpocket.com . www.centraleurope.com . www.cdc.gov/travel/easteurp.htm. goeasteurope.about.com/mbody.htm. www.culturekiosk.com . www.hotelscentral.com . www.adventureguide.com . www.concierge.com . Newsflashes General Complying with EU regulations means many countries are updating visa policies. All Canadian tourists will need a visa to travel to the Czech Republic in 2001. Long-term visas are already required for Americans, but the requirements for obtaining one may become less stringent. Slovakia Food and service is still regularly improving and many new options have opened in Bratislava’s The Old Market Place. The new Montana’s Grizzly Bar has already become a popular hang out. Czech Republic In Karlovy Vary the famed Nezvala theatre of Helmer and Fellner, complete with the original curtain by G. and E. Klimt and F. Matsch, has finally reopened after several years of reconstruction. The annual International Film Festival, which takes place in early July, is gaining more international recognition every year. The 1999 appearance of Woody Harrelson caused quite a stir, and Milos Forman is a regular favorite. Prague was chosen as one of the European cities of culture for 2000. Under the broad theme of “cultural heritage” the city has different activities planned throughout the year. The famed ex-pat meetingplace and bookstore The Globe has moved to a bigger and better location: Pstrossova 6 in Prague 1. Eastern Germany This year marked the third year for the annual Summerfest of Theatres in Berlin, for budget travelers it’s a great way to enjoy scenes of local productions for free. The Erotic Museum is an interesting alternative for travelers tired of the run-of-the-mill art and history museums. Poland Krakow, is another of the Year 2000 cities of culture, plans to extend the cultural events into a 5-year program to promote tourism. For nightlife seekers in Krakow the new In Vitro dance club is a popular hip-but-cheap option. Slovenia The international summer festival in Ljubljana is getting bigger and better every year. Not to be missed is the International Biennial of Graphic Arts at the Museum of Modern Art. The Julian Alps are a cheaper alternative to a mountain getaway than her Austrian and Italian neighbors, but expect higher prices than other Eastern European countries. MISHELLE SHEPARD is a freelance writer currently teaching English and French at Charles Univ. in Prague. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Czech Republic from 1994-96. You may contact her at mischelleshepard@hotmail.com . Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Disclaimer ©Transitions Abroad

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Northwest Airlines Promotions & Products Current Promotions " Fare Promotions WorldPerks Travel Offers WorldPerks Partner Offers Vacation Package Offers New Routes nwa.com Direct via RSS NWA Products " Business Services " Biz Perks Event Travel " Welcome to nwa.com. Please log in to access your account information. Logout of WorldPerks-- Add RSS Feeds Vacation Package Offers Whether it's a weekend escape or a two-week adventure, at NWA WorldVacations, we make your vacation planning easy. Plan your next custom vacation package online with NWA WorldVacations: Create a package to meet your needs. Reserve your airfare, car, hotel and activities all in one place. Earn WorldPerks Bonus Miles with the purchase of air and hotel packages. Check out these great WorldVacation Offers: Hit the Slopes with NWA WorldVacations Ski Packages Celebrate the Chinese New Year in Hong Kong from $1054 Lower rates with Alamo and National SkyTeam Europe Pass--the best way to visit Europe View all WorldVacations Offers CyberSaver Packages make spontaneous weekend getaways affordable and easy! We combine our own last-minute flight deals with discounted hotels, cars, and more from the industry's leading travel suppliers, resulting in tremendous savings. Book your CyberSaver Package anywhere between 14 days and 3 hours prior to departure and enjoy your getaway! Get Away This Weekend For Under $300 with CyberSaver Packages View All CyberSaver Packages Need ideas? Sun & Beach Under $300 Romance Top Sellers International Food & Wine CyberSaver Packages Terms and Conditions Prices shown are roundtrip in USD for one adult based on double occupancy and include all applicable taxes and fees. We have set aside an adequate number of rooms and aircraft seats, but they may go quickly. Prices may change. The price listed on the site is the most current. The only price changes you may experience from those listed on the site will be from options that you decide to change, such as your travel dates, number of travelers, departure city, and your choice of flight, hotels or other items. Rest assured that the total price of your travel package will be updated and displayed to you prior to purchase. Also, remember that you may incur other charges while traveling that are not included in the package price, such as hotel extra-person or extra-bed charges, resort fees, gratuities, hotel energy surcharges, parking fees, telephone fees, room service, movies, mini-bar, or rental car insurance, gasoline, and other incidentals. All packages have limited availability. Text Only Version Add RSS Feeds © Northwest Airlines 2005

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MySQL Users Conference Co-presented by O'Reilly Media, Inc. and MySQL AB Home Submit a Proposal Why Attend Registration Speakers Tutorials Sessions Events At-a-Glance BOFs Wiki Stay Informed Exhibitors Sponsors Hotel/Travel See & Do Media Center MySQL AB O'Reilly Hotel and Travel Information Hotel Info | Room Sharing | Travel Assistance | Rental Cars | Airline Tickets Hotel Information The MySQL Users Conference 2005 will be held at The Westin Santa Clara, located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Just off of US Highway 101, The Westin Santa Clara is convenient to the Silicon Valley and the greater Bay Area. The San Jose, San Francisco, and Oakland International Airports are located within minimal driving distance. For those who like to combine business with pleasure, The Westin Santa Clara is a treat, located within walking distance of Paramount's Great America theme park and a 72-par championship golf course. Looking to make a splash? Jump into the Westin's oversized pool or soak up some rays on the 5,000-square-foot pool deck. However you like to relax, The Westin Santa Clara will make you feel right at home. Make your hotel reservations by phone, call: 1-888-627-8405 or call the hotel directly at (408) 986-0700. The cutoff date for room reservations is: March 14, 2005 . Rate Guest Room: $154.00 In order to receive the discounted room rate, you must identify yourself as attending the "MySQL Users Conference 2005" Reservations received after the extended cutoff date of March 14, 2005 will be honored on a space-available basis at the prevailing rate of the hotel. All rates are single or double occupancy. All room rates listed above do not include a 9.5% local & state tax (subject to change without notice). Please provide 24 hours' notice when cancelling your reservations to avoid deposit forfeiture or penalties. Hotel Address The Westin Santa Clara 5101 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 Phone: (408) 986-0700 Due to the overwhelming popularity of MySQL Users Conference, the room block at the Westin Santa Clara is currently sold out. The following is a partial list of alternate hotels in Santa Clara, close to the Westin Santa Clara. Santa Clara Marriott 2700 Mission Blvd Santa Clara, CA 95054 Phone: 408-988-1500 Santa Clara Hilton 4949 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 Phone: 408-330-0001 O'Reilly Media, Inc. and MySQL AB have no affiliation with these hotels. Getting There Airport Shuttle Services From Oakland, San Francisco, or San Jose Airports SuperShuttle Phone: 800-258-3826 VIP Airport Shuttle Phone: (408) 885-1800 Driving Directions From San Jose Int'l Airport Start out going Northwest on Airport Blvd. towards Terminal C. Turn right onto Airport Pkwy. Turn left onto Guadalupe Pkwy. Take the US-101 N ramp towards San Francisco. Merge onto US-101 N. Take the Great America Pkwy. Exit towards Bowers Avenue. Keep right at the fork in the ramp. Merge onto Great American Pkwy. Approx. 5 miles) From San Francisco Int'l Airport Take US Highway 101 South towards San Jose. Take the CA-237 East exit towards Alviso/Milpitas. Take the Great America Parkway exit towards Lafayette Street. Turn right onto Great American Parkway. (Approx. 31 miles) From Oakland Int'l Airport Start out going Northeast on Airport Drive towards Neil Armstrong Way by turning left. Turn right onto 98th Ave. Merge onto I-880 South towards San Jose. Take the Milpitas/Alviso Rd. exit towards CA-237/Calaveras Blvd. Merge onto CA-237 W. Take the Great America Pkwy ramp towards Lafayette Street. Turn left onto Great America Pkwy. (Approx. 33 miles) Parking Self Parking: Free Self-parking in the hotel parking lot or connecting convention center lot is free. Valet Parking: $5 Per Day, $11 Overnight Please Note: Parking fees are approximate and completely subject to change without notice. Room Sharing If you are looking to save money on your housing costs, you may wish to room-share. We have set up a room-share mailing list to facilitate finding a suitable roommate. Please visit the Room Sharing page to submit your information and be added to the mailing list. The list will be updated and broadcast weekly. Travel Assistance The official O'Reilly conference travel planner offers one-stop shopping for your air travel and other travel needs in connection with your attendance at an O'Reilly conference. Vivian V. Russell Travel Services 182 Farmers Lane, Suite 102 Santa Rosa, CA 95405 Phone: (707) 525-0550 Fax: (707) 525-0560 Email: International Attendees Please visit www.unitedstatesvisas.gov for important information about international travel to the United States. Rental Cars Should you choose to make travel arrangements independently, you may contact Hertz directly to receive the special O'Reilly discount on rental cars at the The MySQL Users Conference 2005 . To reserve a car with your special rate, call Hertz : 1 (800) 654-2240 in the U.S. 1 (800) 263-0600 in Canada (405) 749-4434 outside of these areas or call your nearest Hertz reservation center, your corporate travel department, or your travel agent. You must give the agent the Hertz CV #01XY0025 . Air Travel United Airlines is the official airline of the MySQL Conference. If you or your travel agent call United's toll-free number (1-800-521-4041) to book your reservations, you will receive a 5% discounnt off the lowest applicable discount fare, including First Class or a 10% discount off full fare unrestricted coach fares, purchased 7 days in advance. An additional 5% discount will apply when tickets are purchased at least 30 days in advance of your travel date. Discounts also apply on Shuttle by United and United Express. Call United's Specialized Meeting Reservations Center at 1-800-521-4041 to obtain the best fares and schedule information. Make sure you refer to Meeting ID #538GM. Dedicated reservation agents are on duty 7 days a week from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM EST. Mileaage Plus members receive full credit for all miles flown to this meeting. You must refer to Meeting ID #538GM in order to receive the conference attendee discount. Be certain to give either your travel planner or the United reservation agent (1-800-521-4041) this number. O'Reilly Media, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for the facilities or services provided by the vendors and suppliers. Anyone attending this conference releases O'Reilly from any and all claims that may arise out of attending at this conference. ! -- Diamond Sponsor Platinum Sponsors Gold Sponsors Silver Sponsors Media Sponsors MySQL User Conference Sponsor Opportunities — Reach business leaders and technology influencers at the MySQL User Conference. Download Exhibitor and Sponsor Prospectus. Call Andrew Calvo at 707-829-0515 or email at Press and Media For media-related inquiries, contact Suzanne Axtell at Media Center — Press releases, news, and information for the press. Conference News Want to receive conference news? Sign up for our email newsletter. ! -- ! --