Falling for New England

Betty Lukas is absolutely right in urging us Californians back to New England in the autumn (“Plan for Fall Splendors,” April 28). That dream of mine came true at exactly the same time hers did, in early October last year. If one never, ever takes another vacation anywhere, one must see Vermont in full dress. God does get a “10” for that state.

However, making reservations now for something that could happen anywhere between Sept. 1 and Oct. 31 or later, can be risky. The leaves turn when they’re ready, not when you are.

Many of the quaint and popular inns and B&Bs; are booked months in advance, but there are plenty of rooms all over, especially mid-week.

As the leaves turn, earlier by one day for each 10 miles north, one can drive in an hour or two to where the constant radio reports indicate, giving a daily fall colors update: “Franconia Notch is at its peak today.”

PATTI GARRITY

Manhattan Beach