Home YOU ASK - WE ANSWER
Samsonite
Ask our travel experts about travel and get answers to reader questions
Q: Just Retired, Kids Gone & Sold Our Home. Let’s Travel! PDF Print E-mail


Now, while we’re still healthy, we want to celebrate by roaming beyond the US this summer. We’ve been to Italy, Ireland, England and France. We’re looking for other destinations, but not sure which countries are safe for US seniors. What do you recommend? JTL, St. Louis MO

A: OK, let’s start with the US State Department’s most recent warning of countries that are NOT safe. Here’s the official list of ten: Afghanistan, Central African Republic, Iraq, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. Our most current list of ten safe nations that welcome seniors: Australia, Canada, China, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Italy, Singapore and Sweden.

Of course, you could be run over by a taxi in safe Sweden and find friendly kindness in nasty North Korea. So, keep alert and play it safe everywhere in your world travels.

 
Single Widow: Buscando Un Compañero De Viaje A España PDF Print E-mail


Q: That’s about all the high school Spanish I can remember to make my case. I’d like to spend a week or two in Spain this summer, visiting Madrid, Barcelona and beach towns. I don't feel like traveling alone, but maybe with an escorted tour or fellow single. How do I post online to find compatible travelers for the trip? MLP, Ocean City NJ

A: With the dangers of internet hacking, it may be wise not to post your message, email address nor other ID on an online ad. First, check at a local church, school or senior group for schedules similar to your plans. Of course, sometimes you could hit it right by joining thru a commercial site, but it’s wiser to travel with familiar local people and organizations.

 
Q: How Can I Be Safe In A Hotel Elevator? PDF Print E-mail


Recently found myself alone late at night in a casino resort elevator on its way down to the lobby. Two drunks entered and proceeded to annoy me. Fortunately, I managed to jump off quickly in the busy lobby. Suggestions? Mary L, Lansdowne PA

A: If you feel threatened physically and/or vocally, hit the elevator emergency call button immediately. Also quickly grab your smartphone and dial 911. If the contact was potentially dangerous, report the incident to hotel security.

If, during a ride up, you feel uneasy about another person in the elevator, wait until he pushes a floor button. Then, after he exits, hit the correct button for your floor.

 
Q: Is It OK These Days To Sightsee In San Francisco? PDF Print E-mail


For decades, the beautiful city was one of our favorite destinations back in the 1950s and 60s. We’re talking about going back soon to mark our 50th wedding anniversary. However, all the recent news about growing homelessness, dirty streets and crime may make us change our minds. What do you think? CFR, Tucson AZ

A: It’s all still there from your happy memories: Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Nob Hill, Chinatown and cable cars. Unfortunately, the City By The Bay has had considerable bad publicity lately because of the deterioration of safe and clean streets. The ever-growing homeless problem on city streets is a factor that negatively affects tourism.

To determine whether you’ll take your anniversary celebration there, keep in daily touch with news reports about the city. If and when you determine it’s safe for you and your spouse, and as long as you’re aware of potential dangers. Book a stay at a security-protected hotel, such as the St. Francis or Mark Hopkins. And do your sightseeing and dining with an escorted tour group.

 
Q: Can You Explain Aircraft Boarding And Seating? PDF Print E-mail


Every time I fly, it seems airlines make it more complicated, and confuse the hell out of me. Can you explain how I can do it quickly and economically without all the hassle? Jim C, San Antonio TX

A: The easiest way to avoid all the confusion is to make airline reservations with a savvy travel agent you can trust. The boarding rules and ticket prices are always changing, so it takes an expert to keep up with them. Of course, if you’re an online info expert and bargain hunter, try to work thru the ever-changing mess yourself after you get to the airport.

 
«StartPrev12345678910NextEnd»

Page 6 of 68
 
Stay in-the-know about the latest Sports, Life, Money, Tech, and Travel stories. You'll get your first 2 months of USA TODAY for $25 (charged monthly). All print subscribers receive the e-Newspaper included with their subscription.