Learn to draw; Texas deals; telephone scams

Q: We heard about an 'art lessons' holiday in Mexico, where in 16 hours, an artist can teach anyone to draw. Do you know more about this?

A: The artist must be Karl Barnhart. To prove that anyone can learn to draw, he co-ordinates his lessons into a 12-day, all-inclusive getaway for Canadians to an 18th-century hacienda in the highlands of Mexico. From November 26 to the end of March, participants are accommodated at the exquisite Hacienda San Miguel Regala, which in 1752 was the residence of one of the world's wealthiest men. It's a sprawling estate, flanked by two mountain lakes, aqueducts, burgeoning gardens, fountains, stables, and exclusive villa guest quarters. The hacienda is set deep in the Valle de la Huasco, 90 minutes from Mexico City, where the climate is dry and daytime spring or fall temperatures average 20șC. The art lessons are a commitment of only 16 hours in total, allowing lots of free time to relax, join excursions, or just revitalize. Trips can be booked by your favourite travel agent.

Q: Is it true that there are hotels in Texas that accept the Canadian dollar at par? We're always looking for an inexpensive way to spend the winter.

A: Yes, the Texas Department of Economic Development implemented a savings program aimed at Canadians called 'Buckaroo Bucks', and it is advantageous for both long-stay vacations, or for simpler one- and two-week vacations. Until the end of March 2000, at least nine properties are listed 'at par' with the Canadian dollar, while other hotels, products and services offer discounts as high as 50 per cent. The program covers more than 35 Texas cities with promised savings at attractions, restaurants, golf courses, car rentals, shopping outlets and more. Call (800) 8888-TEX for more information and a copy of their booklet.

Q: We're planning a two-week resort vacation this winter without the kids. When inquiring about the best way to use international telephone services, we were warned of phone scams operating in some of the vacation areas. What advice can you share about this?

A:Yes, this is a timely warning. There have been reports out of Mexico and the Caribbean, about exorbitant rates charged through illegal phones. Cautionary measures suggest :

1. Find out from your long-distance provider how to tap into the same network from your destination. A bad system will be blocked from such calls.

2. Check the rates with the operator if using a pay phone. Hang up if you don't get a straight answer or if you are passed from one to another.

3. Hotel operators have been bribed in some areas. To be sure, don't use hotel operators. Dial direct.

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