But they think that by the end of this decade, interpreter telephones will be used for limited applications, like making travel reservations.

The staff can make travel reservations and issue tickets; lunch, afternoon tea, drinks and dessert also are served.

Back in the room I used the phone to make travel reservations and call home with a very guarded account of what I'd accomplished.

Mr. Harris also makes travel reservations and orders medicine on line.

Last year, Orbitz booked $3.4 billion in travel reservations.

Also, at least 2 carriages requiring no previous travel reservation (code: General) are available to board.

Everything from travel reservations and financial services to consumer goods and advice can be obtained by calling the 400,000 800 numbers.

The company believes this will make it possible for individual travelers to take over their own travel reservations.

Such electronic services would allow customers to pay bills, make travel reservations and read newspapers on a video screen via the telephone line.

American Express, as is its style, is also using the service to sell travel reservations and high-priced merchandise.