Cruise line offers ‘stop-smoking’ deal

You’ve tried acupuncture, hypnosis, the patch, nicotine gum and going cold turkey, and you’re still smoking. Maybe it’s time to try a cruise. Carnival Cruise Line and the American Lung Assn. are offering three week-long “Quit Smoking Caribbean Cruises” that feature clinics and seminars.

But perhaps the biggest deterrent to lighting up is the ship’s strict no-smoking policy. If you’re caught smoking, you’ll be banned from the boat, will forfeit your cruise fare and must find your own way home at your own expense. You might even be assessed a $250 fine for “liquidated damages.” Prices begin at $612 per person. For details, call your travel agent.

Go for a loop in Chicago

The Loop Tour Train in Chicago has resumed its tours of downtown. The free, 40-minute tours aboard the Chicago Transit Authority’s elevated trains will depart the Randolph and Wabash station every Saturday through Sept. 28 at 11:35 a.m. and 12:15, 12:55 and 1:35 p.m. Participants should arrive 15 minutes early.

Chicago Architecture Foundation docents present historical commentary.

Get tickets in advance beginning at 10 a.m. at the Chicago Office of Tourism Visitor Information Center, 77 E. Randolph St. (a block east of the station). Disabled visitors can be accommodated. Tour information: 1-877-244-2246; www.877chicago.com.

Personal-care items approved for carry-ons

Tweezers, small nail clippers, nail files, safety razors and eyelash curlers are off the list of prohibited carry-on items, the federal Transportation Security Administration chief John Magaw said recently.

Knives, scissors, box cutters, corkscrews, straight razors, razor blades not in a cartridge, screwdrivers, ammunition, toy guns, golf clubs and dog repellent spray remain among prohibited items.

Magaw said the agency won’t return confiscated items, and people trying to bring banned items aboard an aircraft could be fined up to $1,100 per violation.

Most items on the banned list can be packed in checked luggage, according to the agency.