Columnist Muriel Stevens: Southwest prices ascending

Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2000 | 9:13 a.m.

Muriel Stevens' shopping column appears Wednesdays. Her dining column appears Fridays. Reach her at muriel@lasvegassun.com or 259-4080.

Travel notes: What's happened to the fare rates at the so-called "people's airline," Southwest? I've never been a fan of this no-frills airline, but the reasonable fares and the number of daily flights it offers kept my grumbling to a minimum. Not any more. Oh, yes, there are still plenty of flights, but short-hop fares have escalated.

A recent trip to San Diego via America West, which included an assigned seat and decent in-flight service, was $90. The Southwest price to the same destination on the same day -- $160! Don't even try to get an explanation from Southwest. It's not an option.

Southwest does have the most flights to San Diego, but I'm willing to lose a few hours by going on America West for better service at almost half the price.

I'll soon be going again to San Diego. My traveling companion, a former fan of Southwest, checked the fares. They're still the same. Guess which one we're flying?

Travel savvy: Domestic travel is pretty much predictable. We've all learned to cope with flight delays, overbooked planes, late departures and missed connections. Stay calm. Try to remain civil and come prepared to wait. I always have crossword puzzles and a book in my tote bag, just in case. Arrive at the airport one hour before flight time to avoid being bumped; two hours if you're traveling abroad.

If you are planning to go abroad make sure you have a valid passport. We used to be able to get passports at our main post office, but not anymore, so plan ahead. Passport applications are still available at the post office. If time is limited, pay the extra fee for rush service.

Always make a photocopy of the first page of a passport to avoid the hassle if the original is lost or stolen. Don't keep them in the same place. It's always a trial when a passport is missing, but having a copy of the photo page can make it easier and quicker to get a replacement.

If you're the adventurous type who likes to travel to risky places, get a current travel advisory from the State Department. These advisories are not always up to date, but they'll at least give some insight into conditions in various countries. Call (202) 647-5225.

Some years ago I was part of a writers' conference at a posh Montego Bay hotel in Jamaica. I was advised that my usual practice of going off to explore street markets was not safe. I was told not to go anywhere alone. The armed guards stationed on the beach and in other public areas convinced me to listen to the warnings. It was good advice. Just recently in Jamaica a young American journalist disappeared, presumably after going off alone. She has still not been found.

What to take: I always take an extra pair of sun- and regular glasses and the prescription for my lenses. I've never had to fill the prescription, but I have lost glasses. Take lots of film and extra batteries. Prices are much higher abroad. Don't forget to get a small amount of foreign currency in addition to traveler's checks. Exchange rates are much lower overseas, but you'll need some currency for your arrival. To get the best exchange rate go to a bank. Unless you're part of a tour, life is so much easier when you can handle your own luggage. So travel light. It's the only way to go.