The list includes those where senior American tourists can usually find someone who understands the language. In order of ability, they are the Netherlands, Denmark.  Sweden, Norway, Finland, Singapore, Luxembourg, Austria, Germany and Poland.

The language problem elsewhere in the world is fading due to tech advances. Before embarking on your next journey, ou can load new languages on your smartphone. Use them for quick references and interpretations when you find yourself in a land where English isn’t spoken.

International Airlines Group (IAG), mommy of British Airways, has created a new budget carrier, named Level. It’s now in competition with other bargain airlines, including Norwegian and WOW Air.

That come-on price for a Los Angeles to Barcelona flight is just one of the many schedules that are now available on Level for budget-minded flyers. For latest info, check with your travel agent or go to www.britishairways.com

Remember not too many years ago, when your economy fare included delicious meals for all passengers? These days, when flying as a peasant, you’re lucky to get free water and a teeny foil bag containing a peanut or two.

Now, American and Delta Airlines add free quickie meals for economy passengers on some of its long flights between New York and California. Not exactly banquets, they include some packaged sandwiches, salads and chips.

Of course, while you’re enjoying the complimentary meal, don’t be upset to realize you’re actually paying for it. The costs will be included among all the other extra charges tacked on to your economy ticket price.

Due to potential terrorist attacks, a new rule is in effect. It forbids laptops on flights from some countries to U.S. and Canadian airports. The ban include Jordan and Saudi Arabia.

Smaller devices, such as Smartphones, may be used by passengers while in flight. The larger electronics must be checked with luggage before boarding. When flying to America from the Middle East, always check with the airline and your travel agent for the latest requirements as they apply to all legs of your journey.