Q: We’ve volunteered to take our two grandkids to Walt Disney World, and we’re concerned about their safety. They’re very active six-year-old twins, and we’re afraid they’ll wander off in the crowds. We can’t easily chase them nor put them on leashes, but what can we do? F.M.S., Dresher PA

A: It could be a hot summer day at Walt Disney World, but your blood turns ice cold when you realize one or both of your 6-year-old have vanished. Here are a few quick suggestions on what to do if it happens in the happiest, but often most crowded place on Earth:

1. Clothing: Put distinctively colored clothing on the kids, including bright hats. That will make them easier for you to spot in the crowded park. Additionally, put labels in their clothing printed with your name and cell phone number.

2. Photo IDs: Use your cell phone or other electronic camera to shoot photos of the kids as you start the day. In that way, if the kids get lost, you can show security people images to make lost kids easier to find. 

3. Try to keep the kids in your sight at all times. It’s OK when they’re actually in seats on a ride, but otherwise be sure they know you’re monitoring them.

Q: My husband and I just retired, and we plan to celebrate by sailing to Hawaii. This will be our first cruise, and we’re a bit worried. We don’t want to do anything that could spoil it. Briefly, what are your suggestions?

Teresa A, Bronx NY

A: For your first cruise, it’s almost impossible to give you brief advice, but we’ll try:

1. Get a local travel agent: You may be able to find lower prices by surfing the internet, but as first-timers, let an expert offer options and booking.

2. Insurance: Your agent can suggest various kinds of insurance. Trip cancellation and supplemental medical coverage are usually worth the extra dollars, just in case anything goes wrong before and/or during your cruise.

3. See your doctor before you go: Make sure you’re fit enough for the rigors and excitement of a cruise. Take adequate supplies of prescribed meds, including sea sickness prevention.

4. Eat sensibly: Cruises involve unlimited meals, midnight snacks and other potential overeating. Despite temptation, hold close to regular eating habits. If your cruise involves shore excursions, avoid street vendor food and open drinks.

5. Safety first: You’ll be well protected while aboard, but when you venture into tourist areas ashore, keep a watchful eye on valuables and stay in well-lighted, busy commercial areas.

We could go way beyond brief with suggestions for your first cruise. The best advice is to just apply the common sense that got you this far in life, and you’ll be OK. Bon voyage!

Q: When the school year ends, we’ll be traveling to Las Vegas with our grandteens, boy age 16 and girl age 14. We’re not sure of the local laws covering what they can or can’t do. Will you give us a quick review?

B. L. Crowden, Harrisburg PA

A: They call it Sin City because much of it is inappropriate for kids. However, in recent years there have been attempts to be kid friendly. For example, many Strip hotels have exhibits and rides that are more carnival than carnal, such as the roller coaster at New York New York and dancing fountains at Bellagio. All big hotels have kid game rooms with all kinds of electronic doodads.

The general rules are that kids are not allowed in casino areas except to walk through on the way to rooms and restaurants. Your grandkids are at the right age to be curious about the slot machines, so make sure they don’t linger and try their luck. Everyone is on constant camera surveillance, and guards can suddenly appear.

There’s a curfew for anyone under age 18, and kids must be off the streets from 10 pm to 5 am Sundays through Thursdays, and midnight to 5 am on Fridays, Saturdays and holidays. Dance clubs are off limits for all under age 21, as are all places that regularly serve liquor.

If you want to take your grandkids to a live show, check first about the kind of entertainment there will be. Some theaters have toned-down afternoon shows and stand-up comedy that may be appropriate for teens.

One important general rule is that you should keep your teens in sight or under the eyes of nearby security at all times throughout your stay in Las Vegas. Have a very enjoyable time!

Q: My husband just retired from the Marine Corps, and we’re planning our first cruise. The price quote of less than $100 a day all-inclusive seems fantastic. However, friends warned us that extra charges on the ship and shore excursions can add up. How do we keep our cruise costs within budget?

Jill P., Corpus Christi TX

A: First, we consider cruises to be about the best vacation you can have at any cost. They’re advertised as all-inclusive for one bargain price, and if you stick close to it, a cruise is the most economical luxury vacation.

However, as with everything you buy these days, from cars to flights to hotel rooms, there are heavy add-ons. Here are a few bits of advice on how to keep your cruise costs as close to budget as possible.

1. Cabin: Save a lot of money by taking lowest-priced. No balcony nor big outside view, but you’ll only be in the cabin nightly to sleep. If you want ocean views, get out on deck.

2. Shore excursions: For a couple of hours by bus in port area, the cost is $50 on up. Get together with another couple and hire a local taxi. Much cheaper and no dragging on and off crowded tourist bus.

3. Upscale dining: Special on-board restaurant costs $50 and up extra per meal. The public dining room and buffets are more than adequate.

4. Spas: If you want to indulge for $100 or more per massage, go for it. Otherwise the ship’s pool and whirlpools are more than adequate.

5. Booze and soft drinks: They are overpriced and NOT included, so if you drink them throughout the cruise, you may see an extra $200 or more on the bill when you pay it.

6. Tipping: No getting away from it, and expect it to add at least 15% to your total cost. Check with the purser when you board and find out the most economical and convenient tipping system. It’s usually preprinted envelopes to put tips for stewards and dining room employees.

If you buy drinks at the ship’s bars and theaters, the tips can add another $100 or more to your costs.

Summary: Don’t spoil your cruise enjoyment by counting pennies. Just make smart choices on those costs beyond the all-inclusive budget.