It seems to be an ever-growing travel industry practice. Quote a price on a room, cruise, flight and everything else, but actually charge considerably more. A typical car rental bill in Las Vegas is just an example of the growing add-on trend that infuriates savvy senior travelers.

The advertised price may be as low as $15 a day for the vehicle. Very reasonable, you believe, if you intend to drive around the city and visit nearby desert attractions. However, when you add up all the extras, the actual out-of-pocket costs could hit $50 and more daily.

When judging where it’s easiest to get around, the best has to be New York. There are other good ones, but they can’t compare with the scope and extensive services pr0vided by the buses, subways, trains and ferries available to New Yorkers and visitors.

1. New York: With the largest subway system in the world, cheap public transportation in New York City and its five surrounding boroughs covers just about any trip. Residents and visitors can get quickly to and from work, shopping, entertainment, dining and just about anything else on the subways, trains, buses and elevated trains.

This could be summed up in just one word: Don’t!! Take along at least one other person or sign up with an escorted group. However, if you insist on going solo, here are some simple ways to enhance safety and enjoyment of your journey.

With the ever-growing advancements in smartphones, never travel without the latest and most convenient for you. Be sure to charge it before you venture out each day. Along with packing for your trip, pre-load your smartphone with favorite movies, TV shows, music and a novel or two. They’ll help pass the time during those waits in airports and during long flights.

Our seasoned experts have wandered extensively in the South, and recommend favorite towns there where seniors can find relaxation and enjoyment without spending a lot of money. Warning: If you enjoy peace and quiet, don’t show up at these towns during spring break time. They’ll be full of loud and rowdy students. However, at other times of the year, particularly autumn, consider:

South Padre Island TX: The 100-mile stretch of sandy beaches is south on the Gulf of Mexico between Corpus Christi and the Mexican border. It boasts year-round tropical weather, and is great for swimming, surfing, fishing and boating. Visitors can see undisturbed flocks of sea gulls, pelicans, plover, falcons and other species at the island’s National Bird Sanctuary.

Blue Bay Inn and Suites, 901 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island TX 78597, 956-761-4350. Close to restaurants, amusements, snorkeling and fishing. Room prices from $80, including breakfast.