Parallels works fine when my MPB is connected to either of my two home wireless networks (two separate homes). But when I travel, it rarely connects. I'm beginning to suspect it has something to do with being connectd via ethernet, in hotels, rather than via wireless. Do I have to change my connection settings when the connection type changes?
Try to change networking mode from "Bridged mode" to "Shared networking" in VM configuration->Network adapter. It will solve your problem.