Timely Travel Tips Targeted to Seniors, from Seniors
Ask the experts before jet-setting this summer
Who would know more about the secrets of successful senior travel than experienced world travelers? The following tips were provided by several avid trip-takers, aged 66-84, who’ve traveled widely with Road Scholar, the non-profit organization that has been creating educational adventure programs for baby boomers and beyond for over 40 years.
- Floss is Boss – Bring an extra container of dental floss to use as a clothesline in your hotel shower.
- Don’t Obsess – Compress – Get up and walk around every two hours when on a long flight. Also – compression socks are great for circulation and now come in funky and fashionable designs.
- Sarah V. (aged 66) of Philadelphia, PA, worked as a retail branch banker for 38 years and now travels the world.
- Pack Black – Pack 2-3 pairs of black pants and tops and 6-7 scarves to add color. It’ll look like you’re wearing a different outfit every day. You can also buy scarfs on your trip as inexpensive mementos.
- “I List Therefore I Exist” – Write short lists to remind yourself not to forget your power cords or anything you’ve locked away in the hotel or room safe.
- Maxine T. (aged 73) worked in marketing and even modeled once for a funeral home advertisement. At age 50 she got her advanced degree and began a career in Mental Health and Non-Profit Management. She currently resides in Walnut Creek, CA.
- Toss Your Dross – Old underwear, pajamas (or any other pieces of clothing you wish) can be left behind throughout your trip, making space for new items.
- Be the Early Bird – Try to arrive at your destination a day before your tour begins so you don’t miss connections. If you’re going on a cruise, best not to miss the boat, so to speak.
- Ona R. (aged 84) of Tiburon, CA, is a retired ESL teacher who went to graduate school in her 50s. She’s been on terrific intergenerational trips with four of her five grandchildren.
- Sound Proofing – Travel with earplugs to block out noise on the plane. The moldable kind work best.
- Practice Mental Flexibility– Be open to new experiences. Plan B can be as interesting as plan A.
- Bobbie O. (aged 73) of Alexandria, VA, is a retired librarian and school administrator.
- Lighten Your Load – Pack two small bags rather than one big bag – especially if you’ll be carrying your bags up flights of stairs by yourself. Easier to take two trips than to lug one heavy suitcase.
- Be Aware and Care – Be considerate of other travelers in a group who may not be as agile as they once were. Hip replacements abound.
- Debbie S., (aged 65) Was a clothing buyer, wallpaper hanger, landscape designer, had a Great Harvest Bakery and worked at a B&B in Chile. She was the project coordinator for an all-volunteer built playground. She currently divides her time between Arlington, TX and Presque Isle, WI.
Road Scholar Tips:
- Not all group travel is created equal. For people who think they would never want to travel as part of a group – there are significant advantages. It’s ideal for travelers who want to relax and enjoy their experience without sweating the details. Make sure you choose a program that allows ample time on your own and multiple options for activities.
About Road Scholar Road Scholar is the nation’s largest not-for-profit educational travel organization for adults – a true university of the world. It offers 5,500 programs in 150 countries and 50 states and financial aid for those who otherwise could not participate in its programs. Road Scholar educational adventures are created by Elderhostel, the world leader in educational travel since 1975. Learn more at roadscholar.org.
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