If you visit Las Vegas, as advertised, you’ll be dazzled by all the glitter and glamor of Sin City. Additionally, if you take time to roam around like a tourist, be sure to visit one of the world’s greatest man-made wonders of engineering and conservation, Hoover Dam.

It’s a 40-minute drive from the Strip, or if you want to take one of the many bus or air tours, your hotel and other sources can book pick up at the door. The chopper tour is touted as the most exciting as it swoops over the huge dam and man-made Lake Mead below.

Can you figure out airline costs these days? Looking at the endless price and schedule lists, it’s like shopping at Sid the Sharpster’s used car lot. Caveat emptor, for sure!

For instance, while recently trying to book from New York’s JFK or Newark’s EWR nonstop to LAX in Los Angeles, there were great differences in prices. Depending on the day and time you fly, the cheapest coach round trip price ranged from $239 to $699.

Q: I’m 74 and long-retired Navy E9. In my active duty career, I experienced just about every world location. I still enjoy travel, but it keeps getting more expensive.

I don’t need luxury, but are there any ways I can get to France, England, Africa, Italy, Japan or China on the cheap? Or totally free? BKL, Birmingham AL

A: The internet is full of bargain travel opportunities, many inexpensive and/or free. Quick general examples: volunteer to teach, rebuild in a storm-damaged area, host at a hostel, home share and guide a tour. Put together a resumé of your education, as well as Navy and other experiences. Make yourself a prime candidate for one or more of those great deals out there. Do some serious internet research, and soon you’ll be packing for that next great travel adventure.

Your travel4seniors.com editor enjoys a comfy nap while aboard United Airlines’ inaugural non-stop journey from SFO to SIN. The flight, which may be the longest non-stop flown by a U.S. airline so far, covered 8,446 miles and took nearly 16 hours.