Report on Anasazi ruins in Utah stirs curiosity

Stunning photos and report on the Anasazi ruins of Cedar Mesa, Utah [“Rock of Ages� by David Kelly, Feb. 16]. Thank you. I went to Natural Bridges National Monument; now I’ll go back and explore more ruins.

The drive on Highway 261 south off the edge of Cedar Mesa into Mexican Hat is not for the faint of heart. They’re not kidding when they recommend 5 mph.

Anne Eggebroten

Santa Monica

Trust your map, or your spouse?

Regarding the Letters column [“Women Can Read Maps Just Fine,� Feb. 16]: I love maps and know how to read them. My late husband, not so much.

During a house-boating adventure, a rather heated “difference of opinion� arose as to the direction we were heading. I showed him the map and pointed out the direction we should go in relation to north.

His reaction: “Well.... The map is wrong!�

C’est la vie.

Carol Clark

Los Feliz

Just take the bed with you

Regarding “Sore Back? Get Yourself Some Support� [On the Spot by Catharine Hamm, Feb. 9]: I learned several years ago to take my own air bed on the road. Yes, it and the pump take up some room in the suitcase (about the size of two loaves of bread), but it is worth it.

When I first started, the Transportation Security Administration folk at the airport were suspicious, but now there are enough others who bring their own air beds that it doesn’t raise an eyebrow. Ditto with hotel maids who used to not know what to do with it, but now no problem for them either.

It solves the problem of too hard/soft/lumpy a bed, and it’s consistent night after night no matter what hotel, bed and breakfast or inn I’m in. I’ve taken it quite literally around the world.

Roena Oesting

Coronado

Travel section: Think locally

The L.A. Times Travel section has failed us again. On Feb. 2, at a time when we are looking for local travel destinations near home, you have shown us Russia, New Mexico and Britain. Not many of us can afford these trips.

We need to be informed about places we can reach with little gas, and less time. There are so many nice places and wonderful events in L.A, Orange County and Southern California. We are looking for “staycations� and places to go with our family and friends.

We are so starved for things to do around here. The Travel section is thin and small with very few contributors. Every week you take the whole front page for a photo of a shack or a tree or the ocean, space that could be used for local attractions and events.

Every week I hope to see an article about some place I can actually drive to, or take Metro Rail or take a bus or go with friends on local transportation.

It is really disappointing that you are not inspiring your readers or supporting local shows.

C’mon, travel people. Encourage local travel.

Ellen Brannigan

Seal Beach