Ask Anita

By Anita Hamilton

Q: Which websites are best for getting CHEAP AIRFARES?

A: Before you book that summer vacation with a travel agent, try travelocity.com or expedia.msn.com Both sites have fast, easy fare finders for trips anywhere in the world and will send you weekly updates on new low fares. They also have hotel and destination guides in case you want a place to go after you land.

Q: How can I keep my girlfriend from SNOOPING on my computer?

A: If asking her nicely doesn't work, visit shareware.com for a software solution. The Block for Macs uses an elaborate password system, while Encrypted Magic Folders for PCs hides files and folders. For the truly paranoid, RedHand Pro (PC) blocks access to programs and websites, disables the modem and password-protects your entire PC. It even logs attempted break-ins. First time with shareware? Download WinZip (PC) or StuffIt Expander (Mac) first; you'll need them to open the programs.

Q: Can you recommend a low-cost SLIDE SCANNER?

A: Inexpensive flatbed scanners often come with slide attachments, but their resolution is too low to pick up tiny details and subtle hues. A dedicated slide scanner like HP's $499 PhotoSmart S20, right, offers 2,400-dpi resolution for sharper results. Another choice, Olympus' ES-10 ($399), has an optional adapter for APS film.

--By Anita Hamilton

E-mail Anita at hamilton@time.com and she will answer selected questions