All the fuss over carrying lithium batteries (see previous blog entry) is due to the possibility of fire. The connection points must be covered, so, place the batteries in individual plastic baggies! Do not let them come in contact with metal objects, such as coins, keys or jewelry.

Concerns? See Safe Travel with Batteries and Devices at TSA’s Website

Now some good news for those traveling through British airports—
Passengers may now take a purse or laptop as well as a carry-on bag onto flights leaving Heathrow, Stansted, Manchester and some others. This new rule does NOT apply to Gatwick.

When Jay and I were connecting through London last fall, the rule concerning one carry-on was strictly enforced. JMy husband tried to get by with a newspaper and a book- no way, each was considered as one carry-on. I ended up rearranging my camera bag and purse to fit into a collapsible tote or else I would have had to place them in checked luggage. That, of course, is never a good idea. Before you travel, visit the website of the selected British airport to avoid any problems.

Happy New Year to all.

Hidden among my resolutions for 2007 was a decision to become a blogger. Obviously that didn't happen. So, I’ll get started here in 2008.

My blog, intended for family and friends, will primarily be a travel journal but I’ll also include comments on travel issues –such as this gem from everyone's favorite agency—TSA.

CNET News reports: New rules from the Transportation and Security Administration take effect on January 1 banning travelers from carrying loose lithium batteries in checked baggage.

Passengers are allowed to pack “two spare batteries in their carry-on bag, as long as they’re in clear plastic baggies.” I suppose that's not the same baggie you use for your liguids and gels.

This doesn’t apply to batteries that are already installed in gadgets, such as the one in your cell phone or laptop. So, you can still bring along an extra one to power your laptop on a long flight, or have a spare to charge your cell phone battery while using another one.

If you do plan on bringing spare batteries in your carry-on bag, be aware of some other rules: You can only bring batteries with an equivalent of up to 8 grams of lithium content.

For more information see:
New security rules for batteries on planes

Virgin of the Chair

Ask and ye shall receive: The Vatican Mosaics Exhibit
By Debi Lander

If a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, the agreement to loan priceless artworks must include a thousand requests. But according to Monsignor Kern of New Orleans, one offhanded remark resulted in the first showing of the Vatican Mosaic Studios outside of Rome.

The Monsignor said he simply asked if Catholic heritage could be shared, while touring St. Peter's back in 2003. Cardinal Marchisano agreed and plans developed. Unfortunately, hurricane Katrina stalled the event. However, isn't it appropriate for a city rebuilding itself to now host gems literally pieced together.

But visitors must hurry if they want to catch the mosaic exhibit, on loan only until June 1st, 2007.

Michaelango founded the Vatican Studios 500 years ago, to preserve the deteriorating oil paintings of the Basilica. The artisans today continue creating works with enamel glass, stone and even shells.

The 37 pieces displayed in the old Ursuline Convent trace the evolution of the human spirit from Raphael to Rembrandt, Van Gogh to Chagall. Some works date from the 16th century while other 19th century selections feature tesserae, or micro-mosaic. The minute detail almost demands a magnifying glass.

Attendees make their way through the 45-60 minute self-tour, gleaning unobstructed views of the intricate art. At the end, a master-in-residence demonstrates her tools and techniques, plus answers questions.

An added bonus is the Ursuline Convent's painted wooden ceiling and stained glass windows, worth a visit on their own. The 1727 stucco fortress required post-Katrina renovations, but the property ranks as the only remaining building from the French Colonial period in the US. In 1794, legend recalls a catastrophic French Quarter fire that nearly consumed the city. The nuns knelt outside, praying for their hometown. Just as the fire reached them, the wind changed and the convent survived.

Seems this location has truly been blessed.

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Vatican Mosaic Exhibit at Old Ursuline Convent, 1100 Chartres Street, New Orleans. Open Tuesday- Sunday from 9-5 PM through June 1, 2007. Adult tickets are $10 with the proceeds benefiting the restoration and preservation of the convent. Call 504 569- 1401 for more information.