Around 22 percent of all Americans who plan to travel in the next 12 months are Baby Boomers aged 55 and above. According to a 2018 survey by Travelport, people younger than this age group are more cautious about planning their future vacations and are also less likely to prioritize travel plans when they have young children. Senior travelers, on the other hand, often look for age-appropriate travel destinations to suit their lifestyle. They can either go on city tours or enjoy the great outdoors. If you fall into this demographic and plan to travel alone for the first time, here are several tips to make sure that you will enjoy traveling during your later years in life.
Explore The Country First
If you are a senior traveler who plans to take a leisurely trip on your own for the first time, you can start by visiting other states first before going to other parts of the world. There are plenty of destinations in the US that make sense for senior living. Whether you plan to do some historical sightseeing, have an exciting outdoor adventure, or embark on a relaxing getaway, you have many options just by staying in the country.
Traveling state-side will allow you to enjoy all the perks of discovering a new place without having to veer out of your comfort zones. After all, traveling can provide a lot of health and social benefits for people in their 70s and beyond. Even if you are traveling by yourself, it can be extremely advantageous to your mental and physical well-being to visit senior-friendly destinations in the US.
Reduce Travel Costs
No matter what age group you belong to, traveling solo can get very expensive. You need to pay for everything on your own. If you plan to book a tour through a travel agency, ask your operator if they have an option to pair you up with a travel roommate. This will allow you to split up the cost of your accommodation.
You may also try to look for a travel buddy in advance through different online travel forums. You may meet someone who plans to visit the same destination you have in mind and share different insights, expectations, and experiences before your planned trip. These websites can also help you find someone who is willing to explore the same trip that you want.
Cross Out Something From Your Bucket List
You might be at the prime of your life, but it does not mean that you are already too late to tick off your bucket list. You can visit all the ancient places in Peru, walk along the Great Wall of China, or dance the flamenco in Spain. As long as you have a clean bill of health and not at risk of any serious complications, you can sign up for any activities or go to any locations that you want. But before you book your tours and hop on the plane, you need to see your doctors first to get a medical clearance to avoid any problems once you reach your destination. You may also ask for help from your tour operator when needed.
Traveling alone during your senior years can be nerve-wracking, especially if you will do it for the first time. But as long as you know how to prepare for it properly, you will lessen the risks of any untoward incidences. Most importantly, you need to enjoy every moment of your trip to make a lasting memory.
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