Now, while we’re still healthy, we want to celebrate by roaming beyond the US this summer. We’ve been to Italy, Ireland, England and France. We’re looking for other destinations, but not sure which countries are safe for US seniors. What do you recommend? JTL, St. Louis MO

A: OK, let’s start with the US State Department’s most recent warning of countries that are NOT safe. Here’s the official list of ten: Afghanistan, Central African Republic, Iraq, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. Our most current list of ten safe nations that welcome seniors: Australia, Canada, China, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Italy, Singapore and Sweden.

Of course, you could be run over by a taxi in safe Sweden and find friendly kindness in nasty North Korea. So, keep alert and play it safe everywhere in your world travels.

Designing and testing are now happening in Japan, China, USA and other parts of the world. In the not-too-distant future you’ll be able to travel by train from New York City to Los Angeles in one hour, and NYC to London thru an underwater tunnel in two hours! Of course, it could take you three hours in heavy traffic to drive the 20 miles from home to the busy downtown station before you can board your bullet train. www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2019/05/10/bullet-train-fastest-travel-prototype-testing-begins-japan

Q: That’s about all the high school Spanish I can remember to make my case. I’d like to spend a week or two in Spain this summer, visiting Madrid, Barcelona and beach towns. I don't feel like traveling alone, but maybe with an escorted tour or fellow single. How do I post online to find compatible travelers for the trip? MLP, Ocean City NJ

A: With the dangers of internet hacking, it may be wise not to post your message, email address nor other ID on an online ad. First, check at a local church, school or senior group for schedules similar to your plans. Of course, sometimes you could hit it right by joining thru a commercial site, but it’s wiser to travel with familiar local people and organizations.

Recently found myself alone late at night in a casino resort elevator on its way down to the lobby. Two drunks entered and proceeded to annoy me. Fortunately, I managed to jump off quickly in the busy lobby. Suggestions? Mary L, Lansdowne PA

A: If you feel threatened physically and/or vocally, hit the elevator emergency call button immediately. Also quickly grab your smartphone and dial 911. If the contact was potentially dangerous, report the incident to hotel security.

If, during a ride up, you feel uneasy about another person in the elevator, wait until he pushes a floor button. Then, after he exits, hit the correct button for your floor.