There are many new start-up small airlines that specialize in short flights at bargain prices. They usually cost about $150 or so each way. Also, if you’re traveling in a group, it can actually be cheaper and less complicated than flying commercial.

Does it remind you of the Ella Fitzgerald classic?
Pack up all my care and woe,
Here I go, singing low.
Bye-bye, blackbird.

Of course, the private Blackbird aircraft are considerably more modern than the above fun illustration. For more info, schedules and prices to to www.blackbirdair.com

This was shot by your travel4seniors.com editor just a few days ago near glamorous Hollywood Boulevard, Of course, the same scene could be in Manhattan, Chicago, San Francisco or dozens of other tourist destinations in the USA.

If you want to help those unfortunate wanderers, there are more effective ways than just handing them a few dollars. Seek info on programs for the homeless by familiar agencies, such as the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Volunteers of America, National Coalition For The Homeless and others in your hometown. Make contributions to one or more organizations that provide professional help for those in need.

On a recent flight, after boarding, I saw an elderly woman in my seat. I checked my boarding pass, and said she was in error. She refused to move.

When I told the flight attendant, he said the woman, who waved her cane at me, was handicapped and could not be moved. Angry as hell, I was sent to a seat in the rear. During the flight I saw the “handicapped” woman easily strolling the aisle several times. What should I have done? Jack R., Lafayette IN

A: Not much. You can later file a complaint with the airline, and maybe get a free future flight. Fake handicap pre-boarding, seat grabs and phony companion dog scams are all too frequent. The best way to react is not to lose your temper and just firmly state the facts to the airline. In flight, always cooperate with flight attendants, who must deal with these offenders daily.

Recent news about an American hunter who killed a rare giraffe just for the sport of it can be disturbing. To respond to such tragic happenings, senior travelers have alternatives by signing up for trips that feature improving the lives of animals.

Just one example involves an orangutan sanctuary in Borneo. The species of ape closest to humans is in danger of extinction. Some scientists predict that if current negative conditions continue, the species could be gone within 50 years. For more info, go to www.volunteerworld.com