EUROPE

LONDON. Good news for the 7 million international passengers who change flights each year at Heathrow Airport: a new flight-connections center at last streamlines the process. Located between terminals 1 and 2, the three-level center handles immigra tion, security, customs and onward-ticketing procedures at one central point on the top floor. On the second floor, travelers can--for a fee--shower, nap on a recliner, have their clothes pressed, use fax and copy machines, hire secretarial support or work at stations equipped with computer links and telephones. A bus shuttle in the reception area on the ground floor provides a fast and frequent link with terminals 3 and 4.

PARIS. A spectacular showcase concert hall has opened at the Cite de la Musique, the shell-shaped rosy white complex of institutions and advanced-research facilities devoted to musical study and performance. The striking auditorium in the Parc de la Villette was built in modular fashion by French architect Christian de Portzamparc so the stage can be easily moved and seating capacity expanded from 800 to 1,200. Sophisticated technology in the oval hall allows the acoustics system to be instantly modified. Through July, an eclectic program of 75 concerts is scheduled, offering medieval, Renaissance, baroque, Romantic, jazz, pop and world music. An upcoming highlight is Karlheinz Stockhausen's Carre, to be performed by four orchestras on Feb. 17 and 18. The facility will also feature musical-instrument demonstrations, listening sessions, lectures, workshops and films.

NORTH AMERICA

NEW YORK CITY. The Russian government has opened its first tourist office in the U.S., providing information on booking airline flights, train trips and cruises. The Russian National Tourist Office, located in midtown Manhattan, can also advise on visa preparation and health precautions. BALTIMORE. The Babe Ruth Birthplace and Baseball Center, a National Historic Landmark, is acting as host of a special exhibit to celebrate the centenary of the legendary slugger's birth. ``Babe Ruth--An Artistic Perspective,'' on view until Sept. 5, portrays America's Sultan of Swat in more than 40 paintings, sculptures and photographs by artists including Miguel Covarrubias, Robert Reger and Nickolas Muray. Also on display at the center is the model for Babe's Dream, a monumental bronze sculpture of Baltimore's most famous son, which will be unveiled at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the city's baseball stadium, on May 15.

SOUTH AMERICA

RECIFE. After 11 shark attacks in one year in the Recife area, city authorities have been forced to ban surfing at five beaches south of the resort, including the popular Boa Viagem. One surfer died as a result of the attacks. Body boarding, wind surfing and kayaking are also prohibited in the 20-km zone. Swimmers are advised to stay close to shore. The ban is in effect for an indefinite period.