Travel Q&A: Hemingway in the Midwest

HEMINGWAY IN MIDWEST? Q I'm heading to Michigan's mainland this fall, and I've heard that Hemingway was from the region. If it's true, I'd love to explore his 'hood.

A Ernest Hemingway was raised in Oak Park, Ill., which did put him within easy reach of Michigan, and he spent the summers of his youth there, near Petoskey, a tad north of Traverse City. (Read about another reason to travel there on G5). The area is so rich in Hemingway history, in fact, that there is a Michigan Hemingway Society. As luck would have it, the group is having its annual meeting Oct. 14-16 in Petoskey (www. michiganhemingwaysociety.org).

If you prefer to walk in the footsteps of the great American author rather than hear lectures about him, there are plenty of opportunities. Grab a treat from the soda fountain at the Horton Bay General Store in Horton Bay (www. hortonbaygeneralstore.com), just as Hemingway used to do. Or get a room at Stafford's Perry Hotel in Petoskey (www.staffords.com), where he once stayed. For more ideas, and to learn how Michigan spots made their way into Hemingway's writing, go to www.startribune.com/a655.

KERRI WESTENBERG

Airlines amp up perks In a move to attract new passengers and improve customer loyalty, several airlines have announced new in-flight amenities for travelers. American Airlines last week began offering pajamas, slippers, quilted bed toppers, duvets, pillows and travel kits to passengers in first-class cabins on Boeing 777 flights from the United States to London. The airline plans to expand the offerings to first- and business-class cabins on other international flights Oct. 1. Meanwhile, Alaska Airlines is offering free wireless Internet service this month to fliers with smartphones and iPod Touches, and those who rent the airline's in-flight entertainment system. California-based Virgin America upgraded its entertainment offerings last month by adding free broadcasts of professional baseball, hockey and football games on the entertainment gadgets installed in the back of seats.

LOS ANGELES TIMES

2-for-1 theater deal in NYC Theatergoers can snag two-for-one tickets to shows on and off Broadway during Broadway Week Sept. 18-30 and Off-Broadway Week Sept. 26-Oct. 9. Broadway shows include "Wicked" and "The Phantom of the Opera." Off-Broadway performances include "Avenue Q" and "Blue Man Group." For Broadway shows: www.nycgo.com/broadwayweek. For off-Broadway: www.nycgo.com/offbroadwayweek.

Japan tries to lure tourists The Japanese government is trying to lure tourists back after March's devastating earthquake and tsunami, even enlisting Lady Gaga to sing the country's praises. In June, the country saw a 36.8 percent decline in the number of foreign travelers compared with the same period last year. Hotels and tour operators are offering discounts on trips, and tourism officials are declaring most major cities safe for travel.

WASHINGTON POST

Keeping cash in the dark The True Utility FlashStash is an LED flashlight with a compartment for stashing a note of currency, pills or waterproof matches. Made of aircraft aluminum, it's a tough, well-made light with enough power to use as a backpacking light. Plus, the stash compartment isn't going to attract anyone's attention, and it's water resistant because of its neoprene O-rings The suggested retail price is $16.39. I found it at www.focuscamera.com, where it lists for $11.99.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Head south for Oktoberfest Enjoy the annual fall celebration Oktoberfest, Sept. 23 and 24, in downtown Des Moines. Folks will gather on S. 4th Street for food and fun, including live polka music, beer gardens, cultural activities and, of course, plenty of German food. Hours are 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., and the festival will be held rain or shine. Admission is $7 in advance or $10 at the door. 1-515-288-2520; www.oktoberfestdsm.com.