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T&L: America’s Rudest Cities for Visitors


According to a recent Travel&Leisure Magazine article, the five cities in the U.S. where citizens are not too cordial to tourists are:

1. Los Angeles: That’ll be another $10 for your waiter, 'cause he really needs the dough. He came out here from Podunk to become a big movie star. He ain’t quite made it yet, but your contribution will keep him going a little longer before he has to go back home.

2. New York: Hey, I’m walkin’ here! You think you own the sidewalk or sumpin’? This is my Noo Yawk! Get outa my face, tourist! But first unload your wallet!

3. Philadelphia: Who sez Philly is the City of Brotherly Love? I don’t even like my sister, so pay for your hoagie and scram outa here!

4. Miami: Yeah, it ain’t the heat, it’s the humidity. I know we raised the prices on rooms at our dumpy hotel 200 percent, but ya know, it’s the season. And down here, the season is from January 1 to December 31.

5. Washington DC: Don’t ask me where the Lincoln Memorial is. Go find it yerself, tourist. I’m busy lobbying Congress to get a billion or so to keep my bank from going broke and to pay off more execs with huge cash bonuses.

Just kiddin’. We totally disagree with the listing, and have always found those cities welcoming to tourists with courtesy, great bargains and wonderful experiences.

Q: Are All Travel Ads And Customer Testimonials Fake? PDF Print E-mail


After seeing exciting ads for a seaside resort hotel, we booked a weekend. In the ads, it showed happy visitors enjoying lush rooms, pool, beach and dining in fancy restaurants. Actually, for us the hotel was old and dirty, the food awful and the beach worse. How can we avoid this kind of rip-off? PLJ, NYC

A: Take all big-promise TV, smartphone and print travel ads with caution. Like the miracle drugs, fancy cars and other flowery product ads that are endlessly repeated, most is exaggerated promotion. Before you book, check several independent websites such as TripAdvisor that sensibly review travel destinations.

 
Big Brother Taking Over: Airports Now Face Scanning PDF Print E-mail


Next time you walk through the airport doors, garage or sidewalk, you won’t see them. But dozens of electronic eyes will be following every move, especially as you’re finally lined up at security when boarding your flight. And as the technology gets more and more advanced, those all-seeing eyes will not only scan your face and figure.

They’ll also be able to use that new info instantly to merge with stored visual impulses and texts about you. First, of course, is the search of face and/or figure to seek a match of those of known criminals. There’s particular emphasis on images that may have a history of terrorism or members of terrorist organizations.

Those who fit any of the images will be detained for more detailed security examination, and possible arrest. So, senior wanderer, next time you go into an airport, always wear an innocent smile and carry only approved stuff on you and in your baggage.

 
Buffets Are Yummy, But Watch Your Tummy PDF Print E-mail


Enjoying cruise ships, resorts, casinos and other lush destinations often involves all-you-can-eat meals. Some seasoned travelers jump in and stuff themselves with many more calories than they normally consume.

Especially for older people with tender stomachs, it can be a bad idea, and turn a fun vacation into painful sickness. Additionally, gobbling up more than you eat in normal meals at home can cause medical problems, especially if you try unfamiliar dishes with exotic ingredients. Additionally, because buffet food sits on display for hours, spoilage can be potential for even more serious physical problems.

Therefore, when your journey involves tempting displays of all-you-can-scarf foods, take it easy on the amount you take, and be sure what you eat is fresh and clean. Also a helpful tip from your travel4seniors.com editor. At a buffet, instead of stuffing myself, I eat a modest amount. Wearing a coat with lots of pockets, I then wrap and sneak out with some choice foods for a later free midnight snack and/or next-day lunch.

 
Help My Aging Mind And Body Cope With Long Flights PDF Print E-mail


Q: I need to fly frequently, but as I get older the ordeal becomes more and more uncomfortable, both physically and mentally. I still have another five years of frequent business travel before I retire. Any suggestions on how I can cope? MJMcC, Portland OR

A: Try meditation. Block out aircraft noise, confusion and discomfort. Look for local services that teach the ancient practice, and/or scan online meditation websites for instructions. There are also basic ways to pass the long flight time with smartphones and other portable electronics in your ears and eyes. Fill them with prerecorded books, music and videos. And don’t forget to bring a brimmed hat or cap you can pull down over your eyes to blot out the crowded, noisy aisles and seats around you.

 
San Francisco: Hotel Nikko Is Kind To Our Four-Footed Friends PDF Print E-mail


When planning overnighter drives and flights with your pet, research onlline first to find a hotel/resort/motel that allows them. Then, when checking in, find out all the services and extra costs involved for your pet.

In some situations you may be required to keep your pet in a hotel kennel during your stay. Also, there may be added fees for pet services. On the bright side, there may be special activities provided to make your stay more enjoyable for both you and your furry companion.

For example, if your visit will be in downtown San Francisco, consider Hotel Nikko. First, there’s an official canine welcomer named Buster. For $10 a night your pet gets a doggie bed, toys, tennis ball, food bowl and leash. For more info, go to www.hotelnikkosf.com/pet-friendly-hotel

 
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