Best Trips for Retirees & Seniors
Some of us are born travelers, wanderers, forever seeking new horizons, cultures and experiences; it simply breathes life into our veins. However, for many, traveling is only an occasional option, instead of a way of life. With this in mind, care needs to be taken in choosing your holiday destination and the activities you want to participate in. There is no fixed rule, as different activities can interest a wide cross section of ages, such as nightlife, culture and history.
However for those beginning early on their bucket list, it would make sense to divide destinations based on your age group. Though in todays time, age would just be a number and not a limiting factor. But to ensure that you get the most out of your holiday at all ages, that means careful planning, creating a wish list based on physical, financial and emotional limitations at different stages of life.
Keeping this in mind, in our upcoming articles, we have categorized dream destinations based on age group. High adrenaline destinations which include water sports, hiking, biking, difficult terrains are more suitable at a younger age, so are camping and other low budget accommodation ideas. At a later stage when travel includes small kids, selection of destinations will include theme parks, animal safaris, and comfortable hotel stays. Whereas more relaxed sightseeing and cultural, historical trips are suitable for the middle aged. Similarly relaxed cruise trips and longer itineraries are ideal for retirees.
In this article we have focused on seniors and their requirements for comfortable travel.
1. Singapore
The Gardens by the Bay have to be one of the new 7 wonders of the world. With its skyway, breathtaking myriad of plants, as well as its themed domes, forest and heritage gardens, this is a must for all plant enthusiasts. If one world describes it is has to be ‘inspirational’. However, you should not forget some of the older gardens that Singapore has to offer, including the National Orchid Garden, housed within the Botanic Garden.
It is essential viewing for all orchid enthusiasts, with 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids on display you really will think you are in Eden. It is amazing! And the Botanic garden is no shrinking violet either and with its majestic palms and gardens. Other notable gardens to visit are the Butterfly Garden in Changi Airport! Jurong Bird Garden and the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Natural beauty is appreciated the most at a mature age, along with luxury of extra time on hands that senior citizens enjoy.
2. China & Hong Kong
Although China is a little tattered around the edges, it is certainly well worth a visit as it has some of the world’s most outstanding natural beauty. It has to be said that no visit can be called complete without visiting the panda’s at the UNESCO Wolong Nature Reserve. Other essential viewing items are Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Army and the Big Goose Pagoda in Xi’an and of course the Great Wall of China.
Hong Kong on the other hand is a complete contrast, its bustling, noisy and an insomniac, which is why it makes it such a thrilling stop off or holiday destination. It’s a shopper’s paradise with markets covering just about everything from flowers, fish to clothes and jade The best way to experience Hong Kong is on foot as you’ll get to see it at its very best. The diverse Asian culture can truly be experienced and appreciated by retirees.
3. Japan
Is one of the world’s most beautiful places, with its stunning architecture, history and natural beauty. With so much to see and do from the Kyoto temple and gardens, Tokyo Imperial Palace and so much more that your days will be filled. But make sure that you take the time to view Tokyo’s amazing architecture and if you time it right, you’ll have the time to stop and admire the cherry blossom. Among some of the most beautiful and exotic natural beauty experiences across the globe.
4. India
After the film, the ‘The best Marigold Hotel’ a wealth of older travelers have seen India as an ideal place to travel to, not just in terms of spirituality but also because of its excellent medical care. If you are first time visitor why not try the ‘Golden Triangle’ – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, which includes the Red Fort, Humayan’s Tomb and of course the Taj Mahal, which many have considered to be a life changing experience (in the nicest possible way).
Wildlife lovers will adore the chance to see tigers, lions, one horned rhinos and wild elephants in the National Parks. Feeling very adventurous? Then try a desert camel ride from Jaisalmer or Bikaner in Rajasthan.
5. Scandinavia
Is amazing, where else would you find endless days and polar nights. Despite the freezing winter temperatures there is a host of winter and summer outdoor activities.
Oslo
If all this ruggedness is a bit too much then visiting Oslo (Norway) will allow you to get a great feel for the country in a cosmopolitan setting and with fantastic Viking museums, stunning architecture, music festivals you’ll not run short of things to do.
Stockholm
Stockholm (Sweden) is believed to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world and with its soft hued buildings, art galleries, bohemian shops, museums and gardens it is a delight for all travelers.
Copenhagen
Copenhagen (Denmark) with its engaging atmosphere, is considered to be one of the liveliest Scandinavian cities with its waterfront bars, cafés (some 100 years old) and restaurants. Stroll through the Tivoli Gardens and be transported to new dimension, meander through the streets of the old port and become immersed in an impromptu jazz concert , and if you are feeling a tad jaded then take a boat trip, as its one of the best ways of seeing the sights.
6. Europe
Europe and its many beautiful, historical cities including Tuscany, Costa Brava, Madeira and Porto Santo as well as the more famous Budapest, Prague, Istanbul, Switzerland, etc
Tuscany
Sublimely beautiful, Tuscany is unparalleled, from its beautiful sculptures, fine art, rich history to its outstanding countryside and extensive program of events With such a wealth of events and attractions, there is something for everyone, any time of the year.
Costa Brava
Outstanding in terms of landscape and architecture; after all it is one of the most important Greco/Roman/Iberian archeological sites in Europe. Food aficionados will love the local cuisine and wines, Dali enthusiasts will adore the three museums dedicated to the great man. Those looking to blend pleasure with outdoor activities won’t be disappointed as the golf courses are excellent and the coastline sublime.
Madeira
Known as the ‘Floating garden’ of the Atlantic, Madeira has a lot to offer its visitors. The capital, Funchal is charming with its black and white tiled pavements and blend of historic buildings and modern shopping center’s. The gardens, of which there are several including Monte Tropical Garden, the Botanical Garden and Palheiro Gardens, are beautifully maintained and well worth visiting. Levada walking is popular with walks ranging from easy to mountainous.
Many of these European cities offer great cultural glimpses and are very convenient to travel intercity. This is due to the very convenient Eurail which connects all important cities and offers superior comforts while travelling.
7. Rail Travel Across Europe and America
Traveling by rail may be slower, but you will get to see and experience so much more; in fact you get to see the minutiae of life, from rural, coastal to metropolis all from the comfort of your seat.
Eurail across Europe
With so may European cities to visit, you are spoilt for choice and with rail travel being so easy (Eurail (non EU citizens) or interrail (EU Citizens) and a multitude of travel options available, the only limiting thing, is your imagination. Travelling by rail is more relaxing way to travel and although overnight trains incur extra charges they do provide a cheaper form of alternative accommodation. Interested? Here are a few train journeys to whet your appetite:
Amsterdam to Copenhagen, a very popular trip which gives you the chance to watch the Danish countryside unfurl in front of you. Budapest to Split, this service only operates in the summer but it is a dream especially as you get to pause in Zagreb and pass Hungary’s Lake Balaton.
Prague to Kraków an all time favorite, Moscow to St. Petersburg is always thrilling, London to Fort William a fantastic experience especially if you travel on the Caledonian sleeper. Paris to Venice, if you are unable to sleep and it’s a moonlight night, it is possible to make out the Alps, or watch the early morning sun glint off the Italian lakes.
Another classic is Trondheim to Bodo, especially during the summer as the scenery will be breathtaking both day and night. You’ll also get to cross the Arctic Circle. For further information, prices, tours and availability please visit www.eurail.com
Railways across America
If you want to see America, then this is the way to do it. Amtrak offer 15/30/45 day travel passes and with 500 different destinations to choose from you will be spoilt for choice. There are also specialised tours for those wishing to see a specific attraction such as the Glacier National Park, Boston to the Maine coast, Sequoia National Park and the Yosemite by train. For further inform
8. Cruise Travel & some of the best Itineraries
If you are looking for something a little more exotic and tailormade; then cruising will be your perfect travel choice. With so many variables and high standards of accommodation and care, it is obvious why more and more retirees are deciding to take up cruising, especially as more and more cruise lines are taking into account single travelers and those with health and mobility problems.
U.S.A and Canada Cruises
A cruise is fantastic way to see the highlights of the U.S.A and the awe inspiring Canadian coast. Many companies offer additional short land tours, these are typically 7 or 10 days long and take in landmarks such as Niagara Falls, Québec’s French Quarter, Washington D.C, Williamsburg, Toronto and Montreal.
Alaska cruises
Alaskan cruises have to have some of the most dramatic scenery in the world and as many of the cruises start from San Francisco, Seattle and Vancouver you can add a little pre-cruise shopping and sightseeing.
Mediterranean Cruises
If you think that azure blue skies and stunning architecture could get a bit monotonous, then think again as Mediterranean cruises can be whatever you want them to be, whether its sightseeing, relaxation, golf or the pleasure of fine dining there is no better way of visiting old favourites and places you have never explored before, such as, Santa Margherita (nr. Genoa), La Spezia (Italy), Bonifacio (Corsica) and Ciutadella (Menorca). With so many options geared to all budgets you’d be mad to miss the opportunity of seeing the Mediterranean by ship.
Baltic Cruises
In our pursuit of sun and relaxation, we often miss out on some of the world’s most interesting or little known places and cruising in the Baltics is a not to be missed adventure. So if you are interested in modern history as well as the turbulent past you will not be disappointed. Visit cities that were once hidden by the Iron Curtain such as Gdansk (Poland) and Tallinn (Estonia) and of course St. Petersburg. Other cities include Helsinki, Stockholm and Copenhagen and where else would you be able to visit the cellar where Rasputin was poisoned in Yusupov Palace, St. Petersburg, or travel by boat from Gdansk to Westerplatte; where the first shots of WWII were fired, The church in the Rock in Helsinki and of course Checkpoint Charlie and the Bradenburg Gate, Berlin.
Final Word
All the above destinations and travel planning ideas are specially suited for Retirees/ Senior Citizens, keeping in mind physical restrictions and easy availability of medical facilities. Also considering growing interest in natural beauty, culture and history these are some of the best picks for seniors.
Do provide us feedback in comments section so we can include those suggestions in future articles.