TRAVEL WATCH

I have experienced the new rules firsthand as I have traveled through six airports since security personnel began enforcing strict regulations on domestic as well as international flights.

As most females who travel on business, I consider my cosmetics and hairstyling needs absolutely necessary. On short trips I packed carefully so that my luggage would accompany me as that one piece of carry-on allowance, ensuring nothing got lost and I never spent time idly waiting around the baggage carousel.

Recently, I have had to adjust my traveling habits. I can no longer pop my curling iron or portable hair dryer into my cosmetic case. Ditto for any electronic devices, disposable razors, nail clippers, sewing kits etc.

On a trip back from the Galapagos Islands I was relieved of my nail clipper, nail file and a bunch of safety pins which were tucked in my cosmetic bag and zippered into my carry-on suitcase. On my way to Vienna a sealed pack of AA batteries (for my camera flash attachment) was confiscated.

In August I participated in an 'Exotic Culinary Escape' in the British Virgin Islands and was presented with a professional set of knives encased in a carrying case, the size of a clarinet case my daughter once carried around for her music class. These days, those instruments would never have made it back with me, unless I had the foresight to put them in my checked luggage.

Actually, on my return journey from Vienna I passed through security with my carry-on and camera case and was just getting ready to retrieve them from the conveyor belt when the agent requested I hand over my sandals. I had walked through the scanner without a beep, but she felt she needed to check them. So there I was standing like the barefoot Contessa as my fellow travelers walked past me with inquiring gazes!

I am thankful that the authorities think of the worst case scenario and in the interest of public safety they are instituting preventative methods that could prevent a re-occurrence of September 11th.

If you insist on taking a small case or bag with you on the aircraft, travel lightly. You must be able to lift the luggage with one hand. Mini-size travel accessories are easily available and silk travels well (for that change of clothing). By the way, keep your other hand free for your passport and other documents you may be required to present to officials.

Bon voyage!