If you’re a venturous senior and and sign up to ride the first civilian outer space vehicle when it’s scheduled to fly in 2018, be warned. The company, Blue Origin, states that the ship, New Shepard, will have no toilet facilities aboard.

Ground preps and the space ride are expected to take about 40 minutes for the adventure. However, passengers will be required to take care of any private bathroom needs before boarding.

Maybe the bloody incident on United where a passenger was beaten and hauled off for refusing to be bumped influenced Delta’s decision. However, the recent super-generous airline announcement of that potentially lofty offer for as much as its most expensive tickets should result in some very eager volunteers.

Your travel4senior.com editor doesn’t seek bumps once seated aboard flights, but on a dozen occasions over the decades has volunteered when an offer was announced. In almost all volunteer bumps, I received $100 or more, as well as a free ticket for a future flight. On occasions when it involved overnight waits, I was given a free hotel room and breakfast.

Located in the city’s beautiful Balboa Park, and one of the world’s most innovative, the facility has many features to offer visitors. There are nearly 4,000 animal and bird residents, representing more than 650 species.

This year’s expansive new attraction is Africa Rocks. It duplicates many of the continent’s most dramatic rocky features. The exhibit displays natural, free-roaming habitats for lions, tigers, bears, elephants, apes and many exotic bird species.

A thrill for kids from age four to 94 is the Skyfari, an overhead moving cable of observation cars. Riding above the many natural gatherings of animals and plant species in their own surroundings is a highlight for all visitors. 

For schedules, ticket prices and other info, go to zoonation.org

Just retired or ready for a new vacation experience on the seven seas? Consider some tips on making a smooth transition from landlubber to experienced sailor:

1. Use a live travel agent. Online agency ads look attractive and seem to cover everything, but for that first cruise, you need to face-to-face with an expert who can save you time and money. Also, if schedules get screwed up and you’re stranded, savvy agents have ways to solve the problems.

2. If you fear being seasick, consult with your family doctor for taking appropriate meds with you. Also, have enough to last at least the length of the cruise and several days beyond, in case of delays. Bring copies of doctor’s prescriptions if you lose your supply or need refills.