Home
Samsonite
 

Newsflash

In-Air Gripes: Who’s Your Worst Fellow Traveler?

Recently, a woman flying Southwest from Los Angeles to Houston started painting her nails. Knowing the smell is sharp, she asked passenger around her if it was OK. All agreed, but not the flight attendant. There was a ruckus and the nail-painter was arrested when the flight landed.

Even if she didn’t offend anyone in-flight, there are others who do. We asked frequent flyers who are the worst five of the worst, and these were the results.

1. Seat back pusher: The inconsiderate person in front of you who suddenly tips the seat into your tender knees or loaded lunch tray.

2. Crying kid: Overtired and overwrought, the little angel in the seat next to you screams during the entire flight. Of course, the diaper doo just adds to your misery.

3. The 300-pounder: When this enormous anatomy plops down next to you and overflows into your seat, you know you’re in for a bumpy flight.

4. The great unwashed: Your seatmate is in obvious need of a bath and mouthwash, and the fragrance drifts over to your unwilling nostrils. Inevitably, the clothing and breath smells are enhanced because this is also a heavily addicted smoker.

5. The yakking seatmate: You settle down in your squeezed space to catch a few winks, listen to music or do some iPadding. The passenger next to you needs to hear your entire family and career history. Then, you’ll be obligated to listen to that person’s long, boring tale.

If you’re a frequent flyer, we’re sure you also have your own list of the worst of the worst passengers. Of course, you’re not one of them!

Texting While Driving Illegal, Soon Texting While Walking, Too PDF Print E-mail


New York and other states may soon enact laws forbidding the dangerous practice. Countless times on travels in busy cities I’ve almost collided with clueless texters blocking the sidewalk, either standing stupidly in the middle or shuffling along into foot traffic with eyes glued to little boxes.

Also I hold my breath as distracted texters cross busy streets with little awareness of traffic. Several weeks ago in New York City, I passed a distressed woman sitting on the curb while an ambulance crew examined her injured arm and neck. She was a texter who had been hit while crossing the street. Fortunately for her, she had collided only with speedy, equally stupid scooter riders, who were busy sexting.

 
San Diego CA: Visit Historic Navy Aircraft Carrier USS Midway PDF Print E-mail


Berthed in the city’s harbor since 2004 after 45 years of sea duty, the enormous floating museum welcomes visitors. Explore the carrier’s decks below and climb aboard veteran aircraft on the flight deck. Adult admission $23, veterans and kids $10. Great for selfies and creative family photos. Midway.org

 
Q: Can You Explain Aircraft Boarding And Seating? PDF Print E-mail


Every time I fly, it seems airlines make it more complicated, and confuse the hell out of me. Can you explain how I can do it quickly and economically without all the hassle? Jim C, San Antonio TX

A: The easiest way to avoid all the confusion is to make airline reservations with a savvy travel agent you can trust. The boarding rules and ticket prices are always changing, so it takes an expert to keep up with them. Of course, if you’re an online info expert and bargain hunter, try to work thru the ever-changing mess yourself after you get to the airport.

 
Safety Tips For Elderly Seniors Traveling Alone PDF Print E-mail


First, of course, is if advanced age and/or physical condition are not strong, don’t travel alone. When you must go solo, take all personal precautions to avoid accidents, illness and street crimes.

When walking on busy city streets, don’t attract attention by wearing fancy clothes and exposed jewelry. Do your sightseeing and shopping during busy daylight hours, with wallet in zipped coat pocket or strapped handbag held tightly under an arm.

Be aware of all surroundings when using your phone, preferably in a case and strapped to a wrist. Every morning ask at the hotel front desk about safety in the area, as well as recommended restaurants and stores. Avoid eating from open air food carts and street vendors in parks and other public areas.

 
OPEC Ode To Memorial Day: We're Gonna Empty Your Wallets PDF Print E-mail


This holiday tradition is when we honor those who fought and died for our freedom. The Middle East and U.S. oil moguls feel free on the day by boosting already-inflated prices of gas to highway robbery levels.

According to the app GasBuddy, the national average will go over $3 a gallon. In California and other heavy driving states it could go as high as $5. All we senior roadies can do is find ways of fighting back. Patronize stations that offer the lowest prices, do ride-sharing for local and long holiday drives, and think seriously of getting an all-electric for your next car purchase.

 
«StartPrev31323334353637383940NextEnd»

Page 33 of 530
 
Stay in-the-know about the latest Sports, Life, Money, Tech, and Travel stories. You'll get your first 2 months of USA TODAY for $25 (charged monthly). All print subscribers receive the e-Newspaper included with their subscription.