Holiday travel means mobbed airports, long check-in lines and frustrating delays. You can ease the way and make sure your stuff arrives when you do. Pack like a pro and take only a carry-on bag. Typically, airlines allow for that one soft bag and another small item free, such as purse or laptop.

Also, when you check in and go aboard, wear a jacket with many inside and outside pockets. They can carry much of your gear conveniently. Checking suitcases not only means high fees and waiting in long lines. There’s always a risk of your luggage getting damaged, lost or stolen. Instead, keep all with you to save time and money, to ensure that all travel belongings deplane when and where you do.

If your wanderings take you to the Los Angeles area, you’ll probably want to find your way up the hills to snap a photo of the famed sign above the movie capital. Your trave4seniors.com editor shot this telephoto one recently from a rooftop.

There are ways to get close-up photos of the sign, including selfies, but also many restrictions. For suggestions, find online sites that give directions. For example, check with blog.jeffersongraham.com/photowalk-hollywood-sign/hollywood-sign-photowalk-how-to-get-the-elusive-shot

The Cuban government sponsored a jubilee week in mid-November as the capital city marked the anniversary of its birth. There were and still are ongoing events at historic and performance sites. Distinguished visitors helped celebrate the birthday, including members of the Spanish royal family. Events include fireworks over the Malecon seaside promenade, parades, sports and all types of local foods and wines.

Havana’s history consists of being part of a Spanish colony for four centuries, English rule for one year and occupation by US troops for several months during the Kennedy presidency. If you plan to enjoy all the beauty and history of the Cuban capital city, be sure to check current regulations and restrictions on U.S. visitors. www.theguardian.com/world/2019/nov/18/havana-on-its-500th-birthday-then-and-now

The list in rank order: 1.NYC, 2. San Francisco, 3. Boston,  4. Miami, 5. Philly, 6. Chicago, 7. Washington DC, 8. Seattle, 9. Oakland, 10. Long Beach CA. Of course, if you choose to do your strolling after dark, those cities’ sidewalks may not be so friendly. Be a smart senior, make sure you do your nightly hikes in well-lighted, busy streets and parks, preferably with at least one younger companion. www.usatoday.com/picture-gallery/travel/destinations/2019/08/12/walkable-cities-u-s-including-new-york-san-francisco-boston