European air space has opened, but still stranded air travelers around the world are seeking out options to get home or making arrangements to stay put without breaking the bank. (Even Peter considered taking a 19-hour bus ride from London to Madrid when all other options evaporated, but managed to get himself on one of the first flights out when restrictions were lifted.)

The media has reported several cases of price inflation in the face of the disaster, with hotels adjusting rates to the high demand (though some hotel managers dropped their rates after desperate travelers pleaded for assistance).

Cunard, which operates the transatlantic Queen Mary II, is well overbooked and reportedly was charging a $500 deposit just to get on the waiting list (those who did not clear the list had their money refunded).

On the other hand, gestures of goodwill have come from some unexpected places.

Dealing with the volcano? For the latest in volcano coverage, visit our Natural Disasters & Travel section and don’t miss: European Flight Disruption Updates: How Travelers Are Getting Home

In “Camp Kennedy,” the Port Authority has provided stuck passengers with cots, hot meals and even trailers with showers.

Meanwhile, travel providers offering a bit of “ash-istance” (sorry, couldn’t resist), perhaps partly in an attempt to capitalize on chaos for the sake of promotion.

To help passengers stuck in New York City, nycgo.com compiled a list of hotels offering 15 percent  discounts, including the Carlton on Madison Avenue, the trendy Hudson New York, and several budget and mid-level properties such as Hampton Inn and Comfort Inn. The site also lists airport shuttle companies offering 15 percent discounts and various free activities for those who can present a transatlantic airline ticket dates April 14-23. Similar information is being provided through booklets available at key information centers around Manhattan.

Kimpton’s The Muse in New York City quickly came up with its “Kick Ash ” promotion, which includes a free in-room movie and bottle of wine, noting that at least 10 percent of guests were victims of snarled air traffic. Those perks add up to a value of about $40, and the hotel will keep rates flat for guests who needs to stay longer.

Stuck in NYC? Try Three Days, Nine Meals: New York City for restaurants. For stuff to do, try Off the Brochure (sm) Travel Guide to New York City.

Airbed and Breakfast has been enjoying some attention when it knocked $40 off apartment or room rentals for stranded passengers in New York, Paris and London. The site also encouraged hosts to offer free or low-cost accommodations for stranded passengers.

The Stafford London by Kempinski dropped its nightly rate to ₤250 (about $385), which includes queen accommodations, daily breakfast (worth about ₤25) and VAT (17.5 percent) for a savings of about $100 off normal room rates.

Through April 22, Lonely Planet is offering 13 European city guide apps for free on iTunes. Cities include affected destinations such as London, Berlin and Amsterdam. That’s great for those who have a place to stay (and an iPhone) but not so helpful for those living in the airport and focused on finding the next flight home.

By Sarika Chawla for PeterGreenberg.com.

Related links on PeterGreenberg.com:

• European Flight Disruption Updates: How Travelers Are Getting Home
• Volcano News Update: Iceland Volcano Video, the Eyjafjöll Eruption
• Travel News Update: Volcanic Ash Cloud Causes Air Travel Disruption
• London-Heathrow Flights Cancelled as Volcanic Ash Spreads
• Air Cargo Disruption: Iceland Volcano’s Worldwide Economic Impact
• Volcano Causes Havoc for Travelers, Stunning Sunsets
• Natural Disasters & Travel section
• Dealing With Disasters When You Travel