Whether the destination is near or far, a travel journey is not only about reaching new destinations but also about reigniting the joy of discovery itself. Whether your dream vacation includes indulgent rest and relaxation at an all-inclusive resort, experiencing new cuisines and wine tasting, or becoming immersed in a different culture, we’re sharing some suggested destinations and travel tips that celebrate the unique pleasures and considerations of travel during this stage of life.

There’s no one-size-fits-all destination for senior travelers, so the first step after deciding you’re ready to plan a vacation is figuring out where you want to go. The possibilities are endless.

Cruise Destinations: Cruising is a convenient avenue for exploring multiple destinations while enjoying the comfort of on-board amenities, activities and sophisticated dining options. Think of it as an opportunity to enjoy the comforts of a floating resort, where all that’s required of you is to board the ship and enjoy. Popular destinations include the Mediterranean, Alaska and European river cruises. These cruise lines are among the favorites with more mature travelers and some offer adult-only options.

U.S. National Parks: Grand Canyon, Grand Teton and Yellowstone – just to name a few – showcase stunning natural beauty and provide endless outdoor options for a variety of activity levels, such as hiking, sightseeing, bird watching or renting e-bikes for an afternoon. Check out more senior-friendly national parks here, including helpful information on various accessibility needs.

Costa Rica: Speaking of the great outdoors, Costa Rica is a haven for nature lovers, boasting 12 diverse ecosystems, 500,000 species of wildlife and over 100 national parks. From reserves to protected lands, Costa Rica is a wildly biodiverse country, so there’s a little bit of something for everyone. It’s not uncommon to find luxe accommodations that offer a balcony with a view of the lush surroundings, lagoon-like pools, on-site waterfalls, or hot spring spas. It’s a destination where you can appreciate the beauty of nature without compromising on comfort.

European Cities: Vienna, Paris, Rome and Barcelona – just to get started – offer rich histories, a wealth of art museums and boundless cultural attractions. Many are pedestrian-friendly with efficient public transportation, making it easier for you to explore at your own pace. This guide highlights seven of the best places for seniors to visit in Europe, including a recommended length of stay to help with planning your itinerary. 

Cultural Experiences in Asia: Japan combines modern technology found in Tokyo with a deep respect for tradition in places like Kyoto where you’ll find a showcase of historic temples and gardens. You’ll experience the trifecta of rich cultural experiences, historical sites and delicious cuisine in places like Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Scandinavian Countries: Looking for stunning landscapes, well-maintained cities and efficient public transportation, Norway and Sweden just might be the ticket for your next adventure.

Now that your bucket list has grown exponentially, let’s take a look at some ways to make travel easier, safer and more enjoyable.

Staying Healthy

• Visit your doctor for a checkup before you leave, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. If you’re traveling abroad, ask about vaccinations against infectious diseases.
• Keep a list of your medications on hand. Mobile apps can help with this and they also allow you to set pill reminders.
• Air travel, car rides and train travel can often mean being seated for a long period of time. One step toward avoiding blood clots is to take a stroll down the aisle during the flight or break up a road trip with short breaks to walk around and stretch.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, plan rest breaks throughout your travel itinerary and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
• In many cases, Medicare does not cover medical care received outside of the U.S. Check with them for details and consider international travel insurance to make sure your individual needs are met.

Airplane Travel

• Use a carry-on bag with wheels to make getting from security checkpoints to your gate a bit easier.
• Pack prescription medications in your carry-on, not in checked baggage. If you take a liquid medication, work with your doctor to get documentation stating the need to carry those medications onto a flight to navigate the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) with a little more ease.
• Start your vacation off on the right foot by arriving early to allow plenty of time and avoid being rushed. Need some extra help, like a wheelchair or special assistance, getting through the airport? Just make the request with the airline when you book your flight.

Safety First

• Leave your travel itinerary with family, including flight numbers and hotel information.
• Try to avoid traveling at night.
• Consider leaving expensive jewelry at home.
• Always use the security chain on your hotel door. Also, don’t call attention to your absence by hanging the “please clean my room” tag on your door.
• The U.S. Department of State offers a free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) when traveling to a foreign country. When you enroll, the U.S. Embassy can contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.

One last tip: The more you plan for the unexpected, the more relaxing your trip will be. And isn’t that what we’re all looking for in a vacation? So, get ready for an escape where each chapter unfolds before your eyes with memories to last a lifetime.

As you embark on your next voyage, remember that the beauty of travel lies not just in the places you visit but in the enriched perspective you bring back home. With amenity-rich features and the freedom of a lock-and-leave environment, Aspens Senior Living is a carefree place to call home – when you’re not out seeing the world that is. Click here to learn more.