Another story just broke about an incident in New York City of an assault against a tourist. Travelers encounter the fake Sesame Street and Disney characters day and night on Times Square, Hollywood Boulevard, the Vegas Strip and other busy tourist walkways.

A recent CNN article reported continuing problems of airport workers stealing from checked luggage. It happens to just a tiny percentage of the millions of bags that go through the system. However, if it’s yours that gets a $1,500 watch or $500 bracelet swiped, the problem becomes very seriously personal.

There’s a supremely simple solution that travelers apply to avoid theft from their checked bags. Taking a cue from the Biblical Joseph and his coat of many colors, savvy seniors fly wearing coats of many pockets.

Tired of rising costs, delays, cramped aircraft seats and airport Gestapo, many wandering seniors today are returning to railroad journeys. Although U.S. train service hasn’t yet matched the super speed and upscale comfort of those in Europe and Asia, it still offers a sensible and economical alternative to flying.

To get you in the mood for your next train ride, here are our nominees for some great nostalgic film memories:
Planes, Trains And Automobiles; Von Ryan’s Express; Murder On The Orient Express; Strangers On A Train; The Train; Shanghai Express; Some Like It Hot; A Hard Day’s Night; Silver Streak.

They’re all available on DVD, and some you can view any time for free at YouTube and other online sources.

There was a recent video news item about a London street protest. The reporter asked a sign-carrying guy why he was marching. The answer with a grin: It’s a great way to meet girls.

Meeting new people while traveling alone isn’t difficult if you can be outgoing, friendly and a bit devious. The next time you’re roaming alone and feel lonely, you don’t have to join a protest march. Just be out there and get noticed.

At least on one night, instead of a motel or hotel, stay in a b&b. Everyone there gets together in the kitchen and open areas to prepare breakfast, talk and exchange info. The relaxed atmosphere in small groups makes it easy to start up a conversation with other travelers.

Though most hostel visitors are very young, it could be worthwhile to try one. An experienced, mature wanderer could enjoy being a gourmet chef or storytelling mentor among an audience of rapt teenagers.