TRAVEL WATCH: DECEMBER 20, 1999 VOL. 154 NO. 24

ALSO IN TIME

Where Asia Goes for Glitz (and Gambling) Haven't been to Las Vegas yet? You're in a crowd that's getting smaller all the time Detour Every year since 1983, the Peninsula Manila has hosted Concert at the Pen, an informal Christmas spectacular Web Crawling If you've ever wondered what happens just outside Las Vegas, Beyond Vegas gives you the answer Hot Tip If the chairman of the Virgin Group has his way--and let's face it, he usually does--his airline will be flying domestic Australian routes by July 2000

Detour

A concert is a concert, but this one is special. Every year since 1983, the Peninsula Manila has hosted Concert at the Pen, an informal Christmas spectacular. It's free of charge and open to all. On Dec. 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra and renowned national artists will perform Christmas tunes and beloved Filipino songs in the spacious, acoustically sound lobby. Seats are available for the first 700 who arrive--often as early as noon; after that it's standing room only.