We’ve been going to Vegas for several decades, and on recent visits we’ve been shocked by the increasing high prices on everything. Room rates are through the roof. In 1990 we paid $25, and now for the same hotel room it’s $250. A buffet was $5, now $29.99. Taxis for a 10-minute ride from the airport to the hotel were $5, now $40. How can we avoid the rising Sin City robbery rates? PLF, San Antonio TX

A: Consider all kinds of alternatives for seniors. To avoid airline, hotel and other high costs to Vegas, check prices at Native American casinos closer to you in Texas. For Sin City local transport, ride with Uber, Lyft or take the bus. Las Vegas RTC transit offers reduced fares to seniors with photo ID.

If you continue going to Vegas, do research before booking. There are seasonal money-saving promotions, packages that include flights, hotels and meals, as well as senior and AARP membership deals.

After a flight from Los Angeles to Hong Kong last year, I was so sick it ruined the whole vacation. We’re planning another trip that involves long hours in the air. Can you help me make it through the flight? BLJ, Malibu CA

A: Best is to try to set your internal clock on usual hours of sleep and other habits. Get comfy and snooze as much as you can during the flight. Eat lightly whenever you’re hungry, and go easy on the booze.

At start of the flight, set your watch to the time it is at your destination, and gradually prepare mind and body to be able to function normally when you get there. During the flight, get at least five minutes of exercise per hour by strolling the aisle, and stand to stretch arms and legs in bulkhead space.

We’ve been going to Sin City for many years, but on our last visit we saw many more people now doing sidewalk music and costumes. They’re all over the Strip and downtown Fremont Street. What are the city laws, and is it OK to tip them? RLO’D, Memphis TN

A: There are laws they must obey, but so far the street characters are legal. As in NYC’s Times Square and on Hollywood Boulevard, in Las Vegas they earn tips with costumes and by performing on busy tourist areas. Today, most travelers have cellphones and selfie sticks, and the performers make money by posing for photos and videos. If your camera shoots them, give a tip of from $1 to $5, maybe higher if you're with them more than a few moments. If they bother you, just walk past quickly without taking any photos.

I’m usually Ok to do without smoking with short hops of an hour or two, but now we’re planning to fly from Los Angeles to Hong Kong. It’s a 15-hour non-stop each way, my first ever, and I’m not sure how I can handle it. Any suggestions? MRL, Malibu CA

A: Remember the old days when smoking was allowed on flights? Several ideas. Ask the airline if vaping is permitted. If so, stock up some for the flights. If not,  bring candy that contains nicotine. Check the varieties and sources online. To make the flight hours pass, try a sleeping pill and/or order several wine and liquor drinks. Also, before flying, fill up your smartphone or laptop with soothing music and videos, such as Ella Fitzgerald classics, Gene Kelly dances and tuneful Elvis movies.