BT Editors: Thanks for joining us. Let's get to your questions.

_______________________

Everett, WA: I've wanted to go to Mardi Gras forever! The stars have aligned perfectly to allow me to go in 2007, and I figure it might be a good year, as much will been rebuilt after Katrina, and maybe not as "crazy" in the past due, also, to Katrina. I can leave on the 18th of Feb and can stay as long as the 24th. Probably 2-4 of us will go. Can you tell me how to put together a trip that will get me the best of Mardi Gras, post Katrina, at good prices, and point me in the right direction for the "must-see's" and good places to stay, best deals, etc etc? I"m sure others will be interested in ways to maximize post Katrina Mardi Gras visits, too! Thanks, Valerie

BT Editors: We've compiled a handy list of New Orleans resources on affordable places to stay, classic Cajun and French restaurants, and volunteer organizations.

For a taste of the post-Katrina Mardi Gras experience, read the account of a Budget Travel editor who made the trip last year. Let the good times roll!

_______________________

Milwaukee, WI: My sister and I (both age 26) have the goal of visiting every continent. Next on our list is Africa. We would like to travel for about 10 days total (give or take a few days). We are most interested in the Kenya/Tanzania areas. Obviously, we would like to do this trip on a budget, but feel that "doing it on our own" would be complicated, so we have decided to go the tour route. What are some reputable companies that could provide a budget minded tour? We are interested in both animals and culture, though no certain animal in particular. Also, time of year is not of concern; we are willing to go during shoulder seasons or off season. Thank you.

BT Editors: Here are some reliable and affordable tour operators that we recommend: 2Afrika; Lion World Travel; and Swain Tours. We recently ran a Real Deal for airfare, nine nights in Tanzania, safaris, and meals and .
Good luck meeting your goal!

_______________________

oakland, new jersey: how much more do airline tickets cost if you fly into one european city ie. zurich and fly out of another ie. rome as compared to in and out of the same city.
Thank you .
rjn

BT Editors: As multicity routes have become more common, they've become less expensive. Depending on your destinations and dates of travel, the price difference may be negligible and can save you time and hassle. You can compare different types of fares on websites such as kayak.com. For example, we found multicity flights for New York/Zurich and Rome/New York for $517 in early November.

In comparison, the lowest round-trip fare we found between New York and Rome over the same dates is actually slightly more expensive¿$531.