We don’t fly often, but every time we plan to go, younger family members keep warning us about getting stuff stolen. Suggestions? MTL, Troy NY

A: It could happen just about everywhere in the airport, especially hand-held items and carry-on bags. When walking and sitting in the waiting area, make sure bags are strapped to an arm. At check in, when open carry-on bags are on the conveyer belt, keep your eyes constantly on them. After landing and waiting for checked bags, follow all arriving bags on the carousel to take yours quickly on the first turn. Best advice: Travel light with just a carry-on, and wear a jacket with many pockets.

As you arrive at the hotel’s front desk, you’ve already been informed what price your reservation states. So, do you just accept that it’ll be $199.99 plus local taxes and the usual add-ons per night?

Hell, no! There are many ways to cut that price, as well as get extra goodies, such as dining credits at hotel restaurants. All ya gotta do is politely, but firmly ask. First, of course, you tell the clerk you’re a senior, and ask if that gives you a discount.

Another way, working your senior charm, is to say that you and your companion are celebrating an anniversary, such as 50 years of wedded bliss. Or marking retirement after 25 years in the U.S. Navy, or 30 years as a math teacher. With a convincing story, you may get an upgraded room, plus a nice percentage knocked off that original quote.

We woke up in our Vegas upscale hotel to find bedbugs in the sheets, and bloody bites on our legs.When we complained, the desk clerk offered to move us to another room down the hall. We quickly checked out and refused to pay our bill. Did we do right? Mrs. PKMcD, Chicago IL

A: Of course you were correct. Try to prevent it from happening again. Always travel with a small flashlight, and as soon as you check into your room, immediately pull back covers and sheets, and make a close check. If you see soiling or bugs, notify the front desk, check out and find another hotel. Also, report the situation to local health authorities.

The newly-installed Jabbrboxes in the terminal resemble upscale versions of coin-operated street telephone booths and public toilets. Of course, in today’s grossly-inflated economy, customers can’t use them for just a nickel or dime.

They’re stations for people who want some private sitting space while waiting for flights. The booths, with see-thru front door glass, don’t include toilets, but do have video screens, Wi-Fi, USB charging, mood lighting and continuous audio flight info. Fees are $10 for 15 minutes, $15 for 30 minutes and $30 for an hour. Not so long ago at those prices, you could've booked a comfy hotel room for 24 hours.