OK, driving in the dark is not as safe nor romantic as dancing in the dark. We’re all aware that being on the road after sundown is a serious and difficult task for senior drivers.

Suggestions: During the day we can see in all directions for accuracy, reactions and visibility. When driving at night, senior drivers should:

1. Be in good health: Older people who wear glasses and drive regularly at night, should schedule regular appointments with family doctors or eye specialists to correct anything that could obstruct normal vision. If necessary, prescribed special driving glasses can improve safety on the road.

Do the math. The average cruise costs about $200 a day per couple. The all-inclusive price provides a comfortable cabin, all meals and snacks, Broadway style entertainment, dancing, deck games, swimming, exercise sessions and many other free goods and services.

At today's inflated prices, a landlubber vacation that involves staying at a resort hotel of comparable quality would total at least $400 per couple daily. Three hotel or nearby restaurant meals can easily double that amount. Amenities that are free on cruises, such as games, music, swim, sun and spas, would add considerably to the cost of the same services at resort hotels or private facilities.

Before you decide to take your dog, first check with a vet. Don't go with a sick, severely injured or pregnant dog. If the dog must take regular prescription meds, be sure to pack an adequate supply.

If Fido is very nervous and easily frightened, ask the vet for meds for such emergencies. Also, take over-the-counter meds for possible upset stomach, diarrhea or constipation. Along with your own first aid kit, include meds you can administer in case your pet is injured during the trip.

All boasting mucho fun miles behind the wheel, here are senior road warriors’ choices for this year’s most scenic drives in the USA:

Pacific Coast Highway 101: The road goes all the way from Oregon to the Mexican border. A favorite is the 90 miles between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. The 17-mile drive north of Monterey is also spectacular coastline driving, and makes for a great reason to stop and visit the coastal town of Carmel and the Pebble Beach Golf Resort.

The Road to Hana: On the Hawaiian island of Maui, there’s is a magical road that snakes its way from Kahului to Hana. It crosses over 59 bridges, some above deep canyons, rushing waves and through lush rain forest.

The combination of the rain forest scenery, the cliffs, the mountains and the blue sea below, make this one of the most scenic drives in the world. This is a day-long drive, so be sure to fill your tank before leaving and bring snacks and rain gear.