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PROFILE 
Linda's love of cruise liners and voyages at sea seduced her into a writing career and her cruise vacation columns and articles have appeared in a variety of magazines and online travel web sites. As a recognized authority on cruise travel, she is frequently interviewed by major national newspapers, television stations, and radio networks. Linda has provided on-air commentary as the cruise travel authority for Broadcast.com and USA Radio Network, appeared on ABC News, and is a contributor to NBC17 News.
When the Internet was in its infancy, Linda began developing and maintaining two travel information sites for About.com. In February 2001, she created CruiseDiva.com and her bi-monthly "Sea Views" newsletter to provide unbiased and practical cruising information to the thousands of Internet users who research their travel choices online.
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LINDA'S ANSWERS
HOW OFTEN DO YOU FLY?
In the past few years I've generally flown to Europe twice a year to meet cruise ships and I take one or two flights annually to Miami or New York.
WHAT CLASS OF SERVICE DO YOU MOSTLY FLY IN?
In the interest of economy, I fly coach most often. Fortunately, I fall asleep easily and nap from take-off to landing. For international flights, business or first class upgrades are bliss.
FAVORITE AIRLINE?
As a southerner, Delta is my natural favorite. I have confidence in them and love the level of personal service they provide. It's not what it used to be, but it's still very acceptable.
FAVORITE AIRCRAFT?
I once had the opportunity to fly from Chicago to Boston on the McDonald's Corporation Lear Jet. It was a not-to-be forgotten experience and I enjoyed sitting behind the pilot as we landed.
FAVORITE HOTEL?
Barcelona is one of my favorite cities and the Hotel Majestic is my choice of hotels there. Smack in the middle of the city's trendiest shopping and restaurants, the location is ideal, and the rooftop pool and exercise facilities are top-notch.
FAVORITE AIRPORT?
Atlanta wins hands-down for convenience and accessibility, although I enjoy the shopping in Pittsburgh.
FAVORITE CITY?
New York! There's no other city with the undercurrent of power that surges through New York. It's also one of the world's most exciting ports of embarkation and sailing past the Statue of Liberty never fails to bring me to tears.
AISLE OR WINDOW?
Give me an aisle seat anytime, especially if I'm stuck in the center of a wide-body plane.
ETICKET OR PAPER?
Call me old fashioned but I feel more secure with a paper ticket in hand, although I've never encountered a problem using e-tickets.
TRAVEL AGENT OR ONLINE?
As much as I like my travel agent, I'll buy my ticket online if the fare is lower. I'm a loyal client, though, and always check with her first.
FAVORITE TRAVEL WEBSITE?
I'd be lying if I didn't say CruiseDiva.com; however, JohnnyJet.com is one of my most frequently clicked bookmarks.
FAVORITE TRAVEL COMPANION?
My husband Mel is my travel partner, as well as my partner in life. We're comfortable with one another and have our routine down pat--I pack and do the worrying, while he does the heavy lifting and takes the photos for my web site and articles.
BEST TRAVEL TIP:
Check in early--both at the airport and cruise port. Be prepared for any contingency with a small carry-on bag of necessities and don't forget to pack a good attitude and your brightest smile.
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