¥our travel4seniors.com editor pointed my nosy camera through the side window of a tourist bus on historic Olvera Street in downtown Los Angeles. Result: photo of the very colorful ethnic dashboard collections and surrounding reflections.

According to CNN, soon you’ll be able to go through the check-in line without paper ID and pass, then board your flight with no hassle. Your face will be pre-scanned as a permanent on-line ID by computer. 

Meanwhile, until that futuristic miracle happens, make boarding flights as hassle-free as possible. Have all the necessary documents ready to show at check-in. And don’t try to go aboard with an emotional support squirrel.

We’ve been going to Sin City for many years, but on our last visit we saw many more people now doing sidewalk music and costumes. They’re all over the Strip and downtown Fremont Street. What are the city laws, and is it OK to tip them? RLO’D, Memphis TN

A: There are laws they must obey, but so far the street characters are legal. As in NYC’s Times Square and on Hollywood Boulevard, in Las Vegas they earn tips with costumes and by performing on busy tourist areas. Today, most travelers have cellphones and selfie sticks, and the performers make money by posing for photos and videos. If your camera shoots them, give a tip of from $1 to $5, maybe higher if you're with them more than a few moments. If they bother you, just walk past quickly without taking any photos.

While some US cities are not the friendliest destinations, the recent rise in gang crimes in Mexico urban areas is becoming a major problem, especially for older tourists. Unfortunately, they are the easiest victims. Professional robbers and quick-grabbing kid gangs roam the streets and parks of many Mexican cities.

When you’re sightseeing, day and night, always be aware of your surroundings. Keep wallets in buttoned or zipped pockets. Hold handbags with straps, and when walking, tightly under an arm. Attach a case and wrist strap to your smartphone, and keep it wrapped around a hand when texting and shooting photos.

Use only registered taxis from airports and on city rides. Always ask hotel desk employees about the safest tourist sites, restaurants, entertainment and other nearby local features. When dining, especially outside, don’t leave personal items, drinks or food unattended when taking bathroom breaks. Nights are most dangerous, so stay on well-lighted streets and walk with at least one physically-fit companion.