Notes And News

MIDWEEK DISCOUNTS

Most airlines have eliminated their midweek discount fares - Monday noon to Thursday noon - for travel after March 31. Thus, for example, a round-trip Seattle-Philadelphia flight that midweek would have cost $498, now is $549. Special winter fares - usually on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday - remain in effect until the end of March. But tickets must be purchased by Feb. 29 and carry a two-week advance-purchase requirement. As ticketing gets more complicated and more changes occur, working with a skilled travel agent likely will save you time and money.

AGENTS LIKE EUROPE

Europe is this year's top international vacation destination, according to a survey of more than 1,200 travel agents conducted by Maupintour Inc., a U.S. tour operator. They cited Spain and Scandinavia as the top spots for summer and fall.

NEW FERRY TERMINAL

Alaska and British Columbia officials are working out plans to share the cost of a new $2 million Alaska-ferry terminal at Prince Rupert, B.C. The new terminal - to replace a 30-year-old trailer and two shelters - is to include three public waiting rooms, offices, several smaller interview and search rooms for Canadian and U.S. customs, and outside inspections booths for automobiles. Alaska Marine Highway System officials say that between 60,000 and 70,000 ferry travelers pass through Prince Rupert annually; it's the only Canadian port served by Alaska ferries. Demolition of the old terminal tentatively is set for mid-September, and the new building could be completed by May 1993.

NEW FLIGHTS TO CALGARY

Horizon Air will introduce same-plane service from Seattle and Bellingham to Calgary on three flights daily starting March 8. For travel through May 31, the round-trip Seattle-Calgary fare will be $126, and $109 for Bellingham-Calgary (plus tax, with restrictions).

KEEPING TRACK OF TRAILS

The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, which promotes conversion of old rail beds to trails for bicycling, running, hiking, roller skating and other endeavors, has published the sixth edition of "America's Rail-Trails." The $8 book summarizes 360 trails in 40 states. Information: Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, 1400 16th St. N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036; phone 1-202-797-5400.