WELCOME TO AMERICA
We've just been to Hawaii and flew from Oahu to Maui and back. We are careful travellers, adding a small lock to our bags that go in the hold of the plane.
It surprised, distressed us, that on both journeys, the US Transport Security Administration cut our locks and inserted a "Notice of Baggage Inspection" along with the remains of the locks, in our bags.
It seems that it is unwise to send baggage locked in internal flights in the US. There were no obvious signs to inform us of this approach. Travellers need to know that locking baggage is likely to mean your cases are opened and examined. Apparently further information can be obtained from the TSA but it is a bit late for us.
Bruce Wilson, Armstrong Creek, VIC
TIP OF THE WEEK: BELIZE THE UNBELIEVABLE
I have just finished reading your cover story, "Keep it Short" (Traveller on Sunday, February 25) and I'd like to add two experiences in Belize in South America that we were fortunate enough to do in 2014. The Caving inActun Tunichil Muknal (locally referred to as the "ATM") cave near San Ignacio is a fantastic wet and dry caving experience.
It can be attempted with the help of a guide who will aid "cave virgins" and novices negotiate the many tight squeezes with ease.
Involving three creek crossings to get to the cave and a swim to enter the cave itself, it is a Mayan ceremonial, and now archaeological, site containing sacrificial skeletons, stoneware and ceramics, including the skeleton of the Crystal Maiden, said to have inspired the film, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.
It was an amazing full-day experience even for two people aged in their 50s, carrying a bit of extra weight around the middle and associated knee problems!
Belize is an amazing destination. Do it while you can.
Vicki Copping, Oatley, NSW
TURKEY OF A SHOW
I noticed among the day-trip suggestions in your "Keep it short" cover story the recommendation to see a whirling dervish show.
A few years ago I convinced a friend to go to a show in Turkey. He didn't think much of the idea but I told him it was culturally significant – besides an hour didn't seem long (believe me, it was).
The first 10 to 15 minutes passed interestingly enough but then things began to repeat themselves. It was like watching a laundry cycle – compelling at first then mind-numbingly boring.
The thing is the only change is they reverse direction so as a 15-minute part of another show it maintains interest otherwise ... I looked around and it looked like the rest of the audience agreed with me. I have been apologising to my friend ever since.
Don't go to this show.
Garry Watson, North Sydney, NSW
COLOMBO PLANS
A few tips for visiting Sri Lanka: spend the night when you arrive (and before departure) at seaside Negombo which is nearer the airport than Colombo.
Visas are obtainable for the equivalent of $US30 online from eta.gov.lk and note that flights are only occuring between 4.30pm to 8.30am until April 6 due to runway repairs (we were told to arrive at the airport five hours prior to departure but got through in just one hour). I easily booked our Sri Lankan Airlines flights through Webjet.
L. Fagg, East Geelong, VIC
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