For several generations now, retirement has been viewed as the time to slow down, settle in, and take up hobbies; but, in this modern world and with the help of modern medicine, retired people are getting healthier and healthier.
For many who may have led an active life, retiring, slowing down and settling in sounds like a nightmare; there is so much to see and do out there, so why stand still?
As the world advances and travel options get faster, safer and easier all over the globe, it makes total sense for retired people to up sticks and see the world, right?
If this is similar to the train of thought you’ve been having, but you have no idea where to begin, or how to plan the trip of a lifetime, then keep reading this guide for some tips on why your retirement is the perfect time to get out there and see the world.
Age is, as they say, just a number, so let’s take a look at just a few of the reasons you should be spending your retirement experiencing life to its absolute fullest; your golden years are about to get a lot more exciting.
Cruising Into Retirement in Luxury
One of the most popular options for senior travel is hopping aboard a luxury cruise ship and seeing the sights of the world in style, and it’s easy to see why this is a popular option.
Cruising offers a convenient, stress-free way to travel; think about it, your itinerary is set, your food is taken care of, you can see an unbelievable amount of sights without packing and repacking your bags every day, and you’ll have all the amenities you could possibly imagine at your very fingertips.
Many cruise lines will offer packages specifically for senior travellers with options like accessible rooms, age-appropriate entertainment, excursions for older travellers and medical staff on hand at all times.
If you have concerns about the physical demands of travelling then booking a cruise could be the perfect way to dip your toes in the water, so to speak, with an incredible trip free of logistics and planning.
Whether you’re looking to explore:
- The Mediterranean coast
- The fjords of Norway
- Venture into the Arctic
- Enjoy the Caribbean sunshine
There are options for all desires and all types of adventure; one thing’s for sure though, if you’re looking for an easy way to see an awful lot, cruising could be the one for you.
Overland Adventures: Guided Tours for Senior Travellers
If you don’t fancy spending an extended period on a cruise ship, or you’ve never really found your sea legs, then there are still plenty of options for you.
An overland adventure is a superb way to pack in as much as you can on your trip and is perfect for those looking for a low-pace itinerary that can be customised to the needs and desires of the traveller.
The great thing about going on a guided tour holiday is that any budget can be catered for. You can travel by car, train, coach, tuktuk and anything in between.
You’ll be able to tick off some incredible locations and you’ll have a tour guide with you the whole way, as well as a team of people taking care of the logistics for you.
There is a higher level of adventure available when compared to something like a cruise, but that’s not to say that the needs of a senior traveller will not be taken into account; many operators will actually offer tours specifically for those travelling in later life.
The beauty of an overlanding adventure as a senior is that you’ll receive an extremely personalized service, often be a part of a smaller group, and be able to form some real friendships with guides and fellow travellers.
It is estimated that 1 in 4 European travellers are aged 65 and above, so you definitely won’t be alone in wanting to see the world.
A destination like Europe, with its incredible rail connections, means you can sit back and relax as you tour the world’s most impressive and beautiful cities whilst someone else is in charge of the entirety of the planning involved.
Enjoy the support and experience of knowledgeable and passionate guides, receive the help of a team of experts when you need it, and explore all the locations you’ve always wanted to see in comfort.
House Swapping: Experience Life as a Local
House swapping is not for everyone, but it should not be dismissed without due consideration; it might just turn out to be the best thing you ever do.
For a ‘silver nomad’ on the more adventurous end of the spectrum, house swapping could be a wonderful and unique way to see the world and experience new places as a local would.
For some, the idea of living in another’s house, whilst a stranger lives in yours sounds like a nightmare, but for others it could be an intriguing adventure.
It’s a great way to travel on a budget whilst enjoying the comfort and security of home life, and it will often encourage an extended stay far beyond what would be affordable in a hotel or similar. It’s a wonderful way to experience new cultures, truly get to know a new area and have stability and all the amenities you’d usually enjoy at home.
Some companies ensure the service is all above board and help you avoid being scammed or taken advantage of. Services will insure you for the experience, allow you to meet and interact with your swap partners, and generally professionalise the whole experience.
These services are the encouraged way to enjoy a house swap, so why not make the most of your retirement with an adventure that’s more than a bit untraditional?
Campervan Road Trips: Freedom on Four Wheels
The campervan road trip needs no introduction; it’s an age-old classic that has existed since the first humans climbed onto horseback and began exploring.
In the modern world, a campervan can be an incredible way to see the world from the comfort of a space that is startlingly similar to home; you can enjoy the convenience of a shower, toilet, full kitchen, wifi and even a double bed in most modern campers.
It’s a great way to travel as the itinerary is totally in your hands, you can travel at your own pace and stay wherever you like. What’s more, no drive will ever be too long again as you can simply pull over, put the kettle on, and go to bed.
For those concerned about budget, a campervan will indeed set you back about the same amount as a small house, but there are plenty of options available for hiring a camper all around Europe that are more than reasonable.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous and have no idea where you’d like to travel, checking out campervan relocation services can be a great way to go.
Relocation Services
When someone goes on a road trip, they can go on a loop and end up back in the same place they started, which is great for the operator. However, if someone were to go from A to B then fly home, their camper needs to be returned home; this is where you come in.
You can sign up to a service and rent a camper that needs driving home for as little as €1 per day. If you don’t fancy choosing your adventure, then this is a superb way to enjoy a camper and a wonderful journey, at a fraction of the cost.
For retirees with a love of the open road and a sense of adventure, a road trip is hard to beat as it offers freedom, control of your own pace, unlimited sleeping options and the comforts of something very similar to home; see the world on your own terms in a campervan on the open road.
The World Is Waiting
So there you have it, just a few ways you can enjoy travel like anybody else; adventure is an adventure, no matter your age.
Whether you’re cruising the great oceans, driving across continents, touring the ancient cities of the world or relaxing in your own motorhome whenever you fancy it, travelling in retirement has never been easier.
Senior travel is more accessible and diverse than ever before, with more and more retirees out there exploring.
With an open mind and a willingness to embrace a bit of adventure, you’ll be able to pack your bags, head out the door and see the world.
