Traveler’s Notes . . .

Ticket applications for the 1998 Winter Olympics (Feb. 7 to 22) in Nagano, Japan, are being taken by Cartan Tours Inc. of Manhattan Beach, the official U.S. representative. Events range from $25 to $403 (for best opening ceremonies seats). A lottery next month will assign the tickets. Call (800) 818-1998. . . . As of July 1, both American Airlines and United Airlines will ban smoking on all their flights. They currently ban it on many flights but make exceptions for Japan, Latin America and some other destinations. . . . The nonprofit Hospital Audiences Inc. has started a toll-free phone line where travelers with disabilities can inquire about access to hotels, restaurants and other places; sign-language-interpreted shows; and other information about New York City. Call (888) 424-4685 between 9 a.m and 5 p.m. EST.