The London Times recently reported that many glowing reviews about airlines, hotels, cruises and other travel destinations, are phony. Showing up on the web as authentic experiences from individual travelers, the reviews entice people to patronize the allegedly wonderful product. In one example, researchers found that false reviewers posted hundreds of highly favorable letters under different names to promote a poor quality, overpriced hotel.

Seniors planning trips do best by researching options personally, as well as by asking a trusted travel agent to recommend hotels, cruise lines and other options. If the agent values you as a customer, your chances of suffering a bad travel experience are considerably less.

Tho the epicenter of the recent 5.2 earthquake was 20 miles south near Disneyland, we were all shook up here in West Hollywood the other night.

For about five seconds, we could feel the floor wiggle as if we were on a moving bus on a bumpy road. As news items came in about the earthquake area, they reported no major damage, except for several water pipe breaks and merchandise falling from store shelves.

If your current travels include visiting the Los Angeles area, there's probably no reason to change your schedule. If worried, check with your travel agent about any delays or damages that could affect plans.

An addition to the already-time-consuming passenger check-in process, a new security level has been installed at Syracuse Hancock International (SYR) and Atlantic City (ACY). If proven effective, it will soon be caging people at an airport near you.

They’re barred, glass-framed exit pods that hold individual passengers before they’re permitted to board flights. Security personnel guide them into the pods to be electronically body-scanned while recorded voices tell them to wait. Then a green light indicates the process is complete, and the cell-like pod door can be opened.

Named by Travel+Leisure as the World’s Best River Cruise Line, Tauck has announced a new policy of free unlimited beer, wine and premium drinks while aboard. The service, include extensive Rhine River schedules, is available on its luxury cruise ships in operation this year in Europe, including ms Swiss Emerald, ms Inspire, ms Swiss Jewel, ms Swiss Sapphire, ms Savor and ms Treasures.

Previously, passengers on Tauck river cruises enjoyed unlimited wine and beer with meals only. Tauck’s new all-inclusive service now includes tips, shore excursions, some meals ashore and airport transfers in cruise fares. For cruise schedules, accommodations, facilities for those with limited mobility, prices and other information, go to www.tauck.com