Sourcebook Updates

I have always enjoyed “The Sourcebook” (May 19), but I find it incomplete. As a travel medicine specialist, I find travelers are not informed about their need to visit someone for medical information before their travels. This is particularly important for those who are going to developing countries or who have ongoing health needs that can be affected by the type and location of their travel.

The International Society of Travel Medicine, www.istm.org, maintains a list of those who specialize in this area and are able to provide consultations and needed vaccines as well as medications specific to travel.

VICTORIA I. PATERNO, M.D.

Santa Monica

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James Gilden, the author of “Weigh the Options for a Fair Deal on Foreign Money,” omitted one form of payment in a foreign country that I think is the best option of all: the ATM debit card. I used mine almost exclusively on our recent trip to Holland. I purchased close to $500 in goods and services, and it cost me only about $5 in currency conversion fees.

The best thing is, when you arrive home there are no bills to pay and you receive a record of what you spent, including conversion fees, on your statement.

CHARLES JONES

Calabasas

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Your story on getting to LAX via public transit (“Public Transit to L.A. Airports”) gave little attention to the rail option, which during rush hours can be competitive with an automobile. When the Green Line goes to LAX directly, travel time will be further reduced.

JON HARTMANN

Los Angeles