A lot of travel insurance policies have changed this year. Now there are policies that are all-inclusive, covering items from missed planes to returning with a broken leg, and prices have increased.

A "best buy" is CSA (800/348-9505), which is a bargain for people under 70 and a good buy for those older. Their policy covers standard items and also CDW, which makes it unnecessary to take additional insurance in the car rental. Their policy is less expensive than much of the competition, and people over 70 get reasonable coverage without being denied driving privileges.

* We've been using a new credit card that does not charge a percentage for conversions from a foreign currency. MBNA (800/421-2110) does not charge a membership fee or enrollment fee and offers air miles on any airline without blackout dates. We have had the card only since June '03 and have not tried to use air miles yet.

It is my understanding that Visa CitiBank charges a 3% conversion fee and American Express a 5% fee. This makes MBNA look like a real bargain.

BETTE KELLY

Florham Park, NJ

COPYRIGHT 2003 Martin Publications, Inc.
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