I do everything possible to be very independent when traveling. I don't have more luggage and stuff than I can easily handle and I don't hide out in hotels after dark.

I traveled with a woman a few years ago who would not walk across a street to attend registration in another hotel. She insisted on a taxi! It was possible to see the other hotel's entry very easily from our hotel.

I walked to the other hotel and left her standing on the sidewalk. No way was I going to ride in a taxi for such a short distance.

I was glad that I wasn't her boss!

If we want to be treated like 2nd class citizens, I promise we will be.