Guest Senior Writer Leon P., Reno NV: The Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims, about two hours from Paris, is one of France's great Gothic masterpieces. The structure was started in 1211, and for many years it was the prime cathedral of Northern France, where French kings were crowned.

It served as a representation of Jerusalem for Middle Age worshipers, and continues to impress today. Inside, the ornate ceiling is over 100 feet high. It still boggles the mind how craftsmen created this masterpiece over 800 years ago with the primitive knowledge and tools.

In this hectic holiday season, roaming seniors are often more affected by the crowds and confusion of airports than younger travelers. To maintain health and energy we need restful pauses, particularly in busy airports.

Medical experts in geriatrics recommend finding quiet places for naps of 15 to 30 minutes. Because it’s necessary to get to the airport at least an hour before take-off, use the time for some snoozing. Find a quiet place on a bench or hallway and get as comfy as possible.

Use a wrap-around coat and sleep mask to create comfort and privacy. Keep your smartphone working so you can block out noise, and hear update annoucements about your flight.

Guest Editor Marie P., Phila PA: Whether at holiday season or any other time of year, England’s capital is a great city for shopping. Here are my five favorite retailers, all within central London:

Harrods (87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge), represents what a department store should be. Even as the world changes outside, the inside of Harrods remains a London institution. Added to the best shopping in the world, more than 30 cafés and restaurants welcome Harrods visitors.

With war memories from that part of the world fading into the distant past, Vietnam is becoming more popular and accessible for senior American tourists. When making your plans, be sure to be thoroughly familiar with all requirements. Unless you're traveling for special purposes, such as funeral, family illness, disaster aid or other emergencies, a valid tourist visa must be obtained several months in advance.

There are four variables. A tourist visa can be for a single entry or multiple entries, and can be valid either for thirty days or ninety days. The visa cost depends on those variables.