Planning a trip while you are still working or your children are growing up can be challenging. But now you are retired, and the kids are all grown up. Its time for senior citizen travel.
Travel obstacle when you were younger
You probably did a little traveling before retirement, but there are always hassles. Find a week when you and your partner can get time off. And it must be in the summer if you have kids. And maybe the kids don’t want to go where you want. That can be a headache.
You are now retired, and the kids are grown. You can travel whenever you want, except if you have a retirement job.
Where and when
Are you looking for an exotic trip for over a week or just a weekend? Are you more into lounging by the pool or sightseeing? There are great opportunities for senior citizens.
Like any buy, especially big-ticket ones, you must set a limit on the total price of traveling. A lot of that depends on your financial situation. It always does, but there are bargains to be had.
The travel industry recognizes older people as a fast-growing segment of the population. This trend will continue for years.
Bargains and Discounts
It’s important to note that the travel industry loves senior citizens. Most companies have discounts for things like AARP Travel Center. They have a website powered by Expedia that gives great information about AARP members traveling at a discount.
Everything from cruises to flights to hotels and a lot more! You probably should belong to AARP anyway, but if traveling is part of your plans, it’s even better.
If you are traveling solo, there are also savings to have. There are hotel bargains that you can look into.
Weekend trips
Maybe you don’t want to invest the time in a trip across the ocean or country. You like short trips where you don’t have to pack everything under the sun and hope you didn’t forget anything.
Where would you go? It depends on your location and whether you want to drive or take a short plane ride. My wife and I like short trips to the mountains (when the weather is nice) or to the beach. We live in Atlanta, so it’s not that far from either.
Flying is a choice, but the Atlanta airport can be stressful for a trip of just a few days. But for many other folks, it isn’t a big deal.
Travel Insurance
We found out early on that travel insurance is a smart buy. You never know when something will come up. You need to cancel your plans or leave a hotel early. It’s worth it in the long run.
Travel with other folks
Not everyone likes to be grouped with strangers, but maybe you should give it a chance. You make friends for life and dinner partners as well. These trips are usually longer, like to Europe or Hawaii, but they sound fun.
You want to check out a fantastic YouTube video from Senior Travel.
Top 10 Senior-Friendly Travel Groups – YouTube
Foreign Travel
10 Best Trips for Seniors and Retirees Who Love to Travel
If you are heading to another country, you should do some research before you get there. Is there a language barrier? Many countries accommodate English-speaking travelers. Yet, it is wise to learn a little of their language. Understanding some of their culture can also be beneficial. You don’t want to stick out in the crowd.
Money exchange is also necessary to decide what the currency is worth compared to the dollar.
Things will be different, but that wouldn’t make the trip less enjoyable.
And, of course, make sure your passport is also up to date.
Thanks, and leave a comment if you want
David
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