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LAX Is Best For Flying Senior Health Foodies


USA Today reports results of a survey of U.S. airports conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. The conclusion of its annual Airport Food Review is that Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves the healthiest foods.

The selection, as quoted in the report, includes “the healthy basics” -- veggies, fruits, whole grains and legumes.” This, of course, is good news to seasoned air travelers who’ve spent decades cruising airports with only fast-food and greasy spoon eateries greeting them while on their way to flights.

So, next time you’re at the airport and have time for a meal, stop at one that serves the freshest and healthiest foods. And when finishing your meal, buy a take-out package for when aboard your flight. We’re sure you’ve noted that in-air airline food keeps getting more expensive and less edible.
Florida Thrill: Airboat Ride Through the Everglades PDF Print E-mail


Visiting senior wanderer PJK, Harrisburg PA: Recently, when traveling in the Fort Lauderdale area, we decided to drive north up Florida's boot about 40 miles to the Everglades. The area is easily accessible from resort areas and makes a great natural diversion from just being at the beach.

We booked an airboat water ride with Loxahatchee Everglades Tours. It's a fantastic way to see the still-unspoiled habitat as the flat boat glides over miles and miles of swampy water, flanked by native trees and green flora. The boat passes through carpets of water lilies, sawgrass and cattails. The area is part of the Everglades National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S.

As we boarded the boat, a seven-foot-long alligator circled us in the water. The guide said it was a gentle animal and wouldn't bother us. However, just seeing those beady eyes and enormous jaws was enough for us to heed his warning to keep our hands inside the boat at all times.

While we skimmed at about 30 MPH through the water, above us and in nearby thickets were colorful birds native to the area. They included hawks, herons, ospreys, egrets, cranes and other species. We watched as they sought out their prey.

We spotted more alligators, as well as frogs, snails, turtles and snakes. Although we didn't see any, tourists may see Florida panther, black bear, grey fox, key deer, manatee, otter and raccoon.

The Everglades are protected areas for wildlife, and all of the species of animals, birds and flora remain in their natural state. The guide further stated that great care is taken keep everything as it has been undisturbed for thousands of years.

There's a small museum at the landing, and while we were waiting for our ride, we saw stuffed versions of native animals and birds, including a 30-foot crocodile and other exhibits. We certainly enjoyed our airboat experience in Florida's Everglades, and look forward to the next time.

Our cost for the one-hour ride was about $50 for adults, $25 for kids age six to 12, and $10 for ages three to six. Tours are available seven days a week, the company opens at 9:30 A.M. and the first tour is at 10 A.M. The last tour is at 4 P.M. Loxahatchee Everglades Tours,15490 Loxahatchee Road, Parkland FL 33076-9703, evergladesairboattours.com

 
 
 
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