Hey, every senior has to head heavenward at some time, but why book an earlier angel flight by doing stupid things to mind and body? National Cancer Institute nerds watched over 221,000 people, aged 50 to 71. When the study started 20 years ago, all were considered normally healthy.

During the research, those who watched seven or more hours of TV daily were 47% more likely to die, compared to those who watched TV for less than an hour. Of course, seniors, especially retirees with no fixed daily schedule, are being bombarded with more TV with ever-expanding 24-7 and 100s of stations.

As experienced travel writers, tho we plan and research, we’re always still at the mercy of airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other providers. And need we mention Mother Nature? Here are some helpful tips, based on years of wandering the world.

Fly Light: Especially with ever-increasing baggage fees, get the largest approved carry-on and fit everything inside. And/or for stuff you can stash on your body, wear coats with many inside and outside pockets. Checking baggage costs money and valuable travel time, while increasing the possibility of loss. Consider Fedex or UPS to ship bulky items in advance.

Plan Ahead: On the day before you travel, be aware of potential problems in weather, illness, accidents, labor strikes, political issues and other possible glitches on the way to and at your destination. Always have at least one what-if plan ready to apply.

Instead of traditional hotel rooms, consider spending some travel nights in strange and exotic places. For some examples, try snoozing surrounded by ice, up a tree, under the sea, in a grounded jet or locked in a former political prison.

Canada: Snow Village Ice Hotel, 130 ch. Tour-de-l'Isle, Parc Jean Drapeau, Montreal, Quebec H3C 4G8, Canada, snowvillagecanada.com. Scheduled from December through March, the 30 guest rooms and ice-sculptured hallway tunnels include cozy blanketed beds, fireplaces, hot tubs, bar, sauna, restaurant and wedding chapel. Room rates start at $225, including welcome drinks and breakfast.

With holidays approaching, many seasoned citizens will be traveling for local shopping as well as flying to visit families hundreds of miles away. Especially at this festive time of year, they’ll be carrying credit cards and cash for buying gifts and other seasonal spending. Unfortunately, this makes them prime targets for fake drivers who are actually thieves on the prowl.