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Trip Coach: July 25, 2006

Budget Travel editors answered your questions about travel
Tuesday, July 25, 2006 |

Budget Travel Editors: Morocco is definitely a growing must-see destination--particulary thanks to its convenient proximity to Spain's southern tip and the easy ferry access. The U.S. government does recommend caution in traveling there ever since a series of terrorist bombings in 2003, but Americans weren't the specific target. The country also has its standard amount of petty crime like pickpocketing, etc. If you're sticking to the main cities of Casablanca, Marrakech, or Tangier, you should be fine as American and European visitors are more and more a commonplace. Just be sure to follow obvious safety precautions (don't carry lots of money, stay in well-lit and populated areas, etc.) and blend in, which means dressing conservatively and keeping covered up. There's no need for a headscarf, however. Moroccan men have been known to catcall, but the best response is no response. Also, don't expect to get access to any mosques as they're generally limited only to Muslims, unlike in other countries where tourists are sometimes welcome. As for the ferries, they run regularly from Algeciras, Spain, to Tangier or Ceuta in Morocco; Tangier provides better access to other public transportation around the country.

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Lima, OH: We are going to Nashville in August and would like a list of things to see. We have tickets to Opry and will be staying at the Gaylord. Anything else of interest? Thanks, Karen

Budget Travel Editors: If you're going to the Grand Ole Opry (or Nashville in general), then we assume you're into country music. One quirky option for getting to know the city's musical roots is the NashTrash tour (800/342-2132, nashtrash.com, $30). Led by the frizzy-haired Jugg sisters, the 90-minute tour--aboard a bright pink bus--passes by all the quintessential country music landmarks (Wildhorse Saloon, Printers Alley, the Country Music Hall of Fame, etc.). In the evening, head back downtown to check out live music at classic honky tonks like Tootsies Orchid Lounge (422 Broadway, 615/726-0463, tootsies.net), The Stage (412 Broadway, 615/726-0504), and Wildhorse Saloon, which offers popular country line dancing lessons (120 Second Ave., 615/902-8200, wildhorsesaloon.com). For shopping, most folks head to the Hillsboro Village area, but fuel up before you go at Pancake Pantry (1796 21st Ave. South, 615/383-9333). And if you're there the last weekend of the month, don't miss scouring for finds at the massive flea market located at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds (tennesseestatefair.org).

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Wheaton, IL: We're looking for a budget trip to see fall color out east. Any suggestions?

Budget Travel Editors: One of Vermont's most idyllic corners is the "Northeast Kingdom," the counties of Orleans, Essex and Caledonia, distinguished by sleepy towns, dense forests, and placid lakes. The Federal-style, family-run Inn on the Common in historic Craftsbury (75 miles east of Burlington), will place you in the heart of the kingdom. Rooms are on the pricier side, starting at $185, but are well worth it if you're up for a splurge. Cheaper rates (doubles from $95) can be found at the four-room Riverbend B&B in the tiny town of Troy, where there are trails for horseback riding and hiking and the nearby Missisquoi River for canoeing. For more suggestions, read our fall foliage guides for Vermont, Maine and Connecticut. We also recently ran a Real Deal on a five-night foliage cruise in New England and Canada from $599.

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New York City, NY: I would like to enjoy a language (Spanish) immersion program in Costa Rica. I would want to stay 3-4 weeks and see as much of the country as well. Any ideas? Howard

Budget Travel Editors: One of the more reputable Spanish-language schools in Costa Rica is Forester, which can arrange for homestays in addition to classes, and also organizes excursions. The school is located just outside of downtown San José, the capital of Costa Rica. A week of classes, as well as a homestay with a local family, including two meals daily and laundry service, costs from $450, and weekly prices go down the longer you stay (up to four weeks). For courses that also feature excursions, weekly rates start at $525. Both types of study leave your weekends free to explore. Forester Instituto Internacional, fores.com

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Columbia, MO: I am trying to plan a destination wedding on a budget. I would really like to go somewhere tropical-- do you have any suggestions of places to go that are easy and affordable? I would be leaving from either St Louis, MO or Kansas City,MO in March or April. Thanks for your help!

Note: This story was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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