Recent travel4seniors.com articles hint that costumed street performers are pests and dangerous to tourists. Do you ever consider why they do it? Many are unemployed, homeless and/or recent immigrants, and it’s the only way they can make a living.

I’m old enough to remember pretzel and Italian water ice vendors. And as kids, we all loved the organ grinders and their monkeys. Come down off your high horse and consider that many of our parents and grandparents had to work the streets to feed their families when they first came to America. RBJ and MLJ, Jersey City NJ

A: During his teen years, our dad rode a (not high) horse and wagon around South Philly peddling fruits and vegetables.

Q: On our most recent Vegas visits, the noise got to us when we went to bed. In casinos and restaurants, the modern music is ear-shattering. Even when walking outside, the never-ending rock pounding sounds like street jackhammers.

During the day and evening, we can tolerate loud Vegas. But when we usually get to bed in our hotel room around midnight, the hallway and outside noises often keep us awake for hours. What can we do about it? FMS, Dresher PA

A: Don’t call the front desk. If you’re dragged to another room, the Vegas odds of finding peace and quiet won’t be any better. Consider a couple of simple ways to block out the noise.

Q: Like the old Stones song, I can’t get no satisfaction! On a recent flight, my checked bag disappeared. After a lot of haggling, the airline offered me $325, including refund of the bag fee. I lost a tablet computer, quality clothes, medications and jewelry, worth a total of $1,200.

After my complaint, all I get back from the airline is a song-and-dance about depreciation, industry standards and other excuses. It isn’t worth it for me to hire an attorney, but how can I get fair payment for my lost property? ALR, Newark NJ

A: No need to do a King Kong rage about airline luggage problems. First, always be prepared. We keep Efiles of purchase receipts of checked items. In case of loss or damage while traveling, copies are instantly Emailed to the airline with claims.

Q: We’re sailing next month, and always have the same argument. A moderate drinker, I want to buy a package deal, where for a one-time fee, passengers can drink unlimited beer, wine and liquor. It’s a no-hassle way to enjoy the cruise.

My wife believes we’d save money if we just pay per drink. And, she insists, it also keeps us from overindulging in all-you-can booze. What do you say? SBD, St. Louis MO