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Wondering about your travel options? Seeking answers to specific issues? Simply ASK BUSINESS TRAVELLER for a plausible solution... Address your queries to ehc@vsnl.com or write in to The Editor, Express Business Traveller Vijay Chadda Chief Operating Officer, BTI-Sita, India answers your queries...

Is there a direct flight to Alaska from Mumbai? How long does it take and what is the approximate cost for the Business Class? - Ramesh Gupta, Delhi

The flights to Alaska depend on the city that you want to visit. However, Anchorage is one of the major cities to which where you can fly via Seoul or Tokyo. The Business Class fare is Rs 169855 + Taxes (approximately Rs 3700).

What are the formalities required to visit Texas in the United States and what is the approximate fare? - Jitesh Rastogi, Mumbai

Texas is one of the states in the USA . You have to specify which city you need to visit in Texas. The state capital of Texas is Dallas. For entry into the USA you need to be in possession of a US visa. The return economy advance purchase excursion fare to Dallas is Rs56000 + Taxes (approximately Rs5500).

Which African countries offer Animal Safari packages? How much would it cost if I am going for a week? - Malini Ghosh, Kolkata

Safari packages are available in countries that have gameparks like Kenya/Tanzania/Uganda/Zimbabwe and South Africa. A Safari package in South Africa for 7 nights would approximately cost USD1000/- upwards. The airfare for Delhi- Johannesburg-Delhi is currently Rs 55000+ taxes (approximately Rs 3000).

I have noticed that in mostly all cruises, embarkation is from a foreign port. Are there any cruise options available which leave from an Indian port? - Kumar Varghese, Bangalore

Currently there are no cruises sailing from any Indian port, but occasionally a cruise liner does touch an Indian port during the sailing.

Which is the largest frequent flyer program available at present for business travellers? - Reshma Jain, Pune

The largest frequent flyer program presently available is from the STAR ALLIANCE. Star Alliance is a joint promotion by a number of airlines and hotels wherein you can earn and redeem miles by using the services offered by its partners. The prominent partners are Lufthansa/SAS/United Airlines/Thai Airways/Austrian Airlines/Singapore Airlines/Air Canada/Varig/Radisson Hotels/Inter Continental Hotels/Avis/Hertz Car rental.

What are the different means of travel within the United States? Is renting a car a very expensive proposition? - Kamlakar Sharma, Mumbai

For travel within the USA from India, it is best to buy a visit USA pass which is more economical than purchasing individual sector fare tickets. Renting a car is worthwhile if you are comfortable driving on the right side of the road, can read road maps, and have an International Driving License. While public transport is available within city limits, for travel outside it is difficult to depend on public transport.