We’ve been on dozens of cruises in the past two decades and never once were sick. Of course, there were occasions when others aboard our ship had problems with seasickness, scarfing too much food, overdoing booze and other troubles.

Also, some had been infected by other passengers who brought flu aboard with them. Of course, during excursions when some went ashore and consumed unclean street cart food and local water, it wasn’t the cruise line’s fault. 

What set off this tirade is recent sensationalized news blared out by media about a cruise ship returning to its Florida port from the Caribbean with 2,500 passengers. The reports state that 66 of them showed symptoms of gastrointestinal illness. For anyone who can do basic math, that’s about 2.5 percent.

A new Marriott in New York City is claiming to be the tallest single-use hotel building in North America. According to company reports, the Courtyard-Residence Inn Central Park is 750 feet and 68 stories high. There are at least a dozen taller hotels around the world, including another Marriott in Dubai, that soars 1,165 feet and 77 stories.

Opened at the end of 2013 at 1717 Broadway at 54th Street, the Courtyard section has 378 rooms, with an additional 261 suites in the Residence Inn. Quoted rates for the luxury hotel start at about $300 a night. For more information, go to www.marriott.com/.../nycpk-courtyard-new-york-manhattan-central-park

For a stimulating holiday experience or any other time you’re in Las Vegas, consider becoming a lion tamer. Think of the fantastic photos and video you can send to the folks back home proving what a super brave senior citizen you are!

There are two options. A $20 fee per person gets you a four-hour visit. Additionally, the Lion Habitat Ranch offers a four-day, $800 program for lion lovers to immerse themselves in the day-to-day duties of big cat care. Participants age 18 and above prepare food, clean cages, bathe, hand feed, and work with lions in training pens alongside experienced trainers.

Video and photo options are available at additional cost. Advanced training is available for qualified applicants. The facility is located at 382 Bruner Av., Henderson NV, a nearby suburb of Las Vegas. For more information and to apply online, go to lionhabitatranch.com

With several casino bus accidents within just the past few days in California, there are growing concerns about their safety. CNN recently revealed info about the U.S. Department of Transportation shutting down over 50 unsafe private bus companies nationwide.

With more casinos opening throughout the country all the time, seniors who like to gamble often go aboard those types of buses.The bus companies are paid by the casinos, so usually the come-on is a free round-trip ride, plus free gambling money of $10 and up. 

If you’re planning a casino bus ride, before you sign on, make sure the company has established currently updated and clear safety records. Also consider alternatives. For example, contact a local limo service.