Age - The One Factor That Shouldn’t Hinder You From Traveling
On my recent travel journeys, I have encountered many elderly couples and individuals traveling the world - not worried about anything but simply creating memories and enjoying life!
One may think this is a major concern regarding the age of most elderly. In the eyes of tourists and world travelers, there is absolutely nothing out of the ordinary about this.
Months ago, I encountered a retired veteran on his way to Dubai for the first time. On a flight to Paris for Christmas, I met this awesome Chinese couple who started traveling once they retired. Just the other day, I met an African couple in their early 50s who had just taken their first international flight and vacation to Bahrain.
Traveling as an elder can be just as rewarding as any millenial or young adult. Age isn’t really a factor that should stand in one’s way of traveling and exploring the world. No matter how old you are, you’re never too old to start traveling and here’s why:
It's Liberating
Life can be one mundane routine that can seem redundant and boring if we allow it. Break free from home, even if it’s just for a weekend. We all deserve a vacation every once in a while. Accept new things, complete your dream goals or take up a new hobby. The daily routines of life will still be there when you return - and perhaps some inspiration to continue traveling.
Most older travelers are afraid of traveling due to health concerns that come with age. But with careful planning, it’s possibel to travel without issues. Choosing destinations with quality health care and hospitals nearby are a precaution measure that could mitigate this fear. Tip: Packing essential medicines and carrying the generic names in case refills are needed and having travel insurance is a great way to travel.
Assistance Is Available If Needed
The elderly should always plan any trip with assistance in mind. If mobility is a concern, flights are more comfortable if you are able to upgrade to business or first class and nearly all airlines provide wheelchairs and assistance to those who may be handicapped to avoid the hassle of walking. Upon arrival, consider hiring a driver as chauffeurs are not always expensive and less tiring than public transportation.
Travel Experiences For A Lifetime
I've been traveling for almost all of my life, but the more I’ve read, watched on television and experienced for myself, the deeper the understanding I have of the places I’ve been. Once you begin traveling, you’re able to put what you’re seeing into context from the lifetime travel experiences gained. At the age of 26, I have ventured beyond my American comfort zone to Japan, Korea and all parts of the Indo-Asian Pacific to Africa, Europe and the Middle East. I admit that at times I was too naive and blind to fully appreciate what I envisioned on most of my travels in my younger days. But with age comes wisdom, knowledge and most of all - understanding - as I was able to put my experiences into context.
Take Advantage of Senior Discounts
There's a world of discounts out there for those who fall into the elder and senior citizen category - reduced prices on admission, cheap bus and train fares as well as food, lodging and attractions. Such concessions are the perfect excuse to book a trip!
Preserve Your Youth
Living arrangements such as hostels, community spaces and shared rooms are a great way to meet and communicate with fellow travelers as interacting with younger travelers broadens your horizons. It is believed that traveling preserves your youth and helps you live a healthier and longer life of happiness and satisfaction.
Retirement Means Longer Trips
For some of us, the demands of life such as career and family commitments can make it difficult to find time to travel, especially for extended periods of time. However, retirement changes all of this as you’ll have time for longer trips when you’re retired. So why not put your time to good use and travel, perhaps take longer trips? Rent an RV and travel cross country across the United States or acquire a train pass and venture across Europe. Slowing things down and taking your time while traveling allows you to enjoy your destination and appreciate it more. You’re given the opportunity to really get a feel for a place. But I must warn you, once you get started, it becomes very addictive. There is a such thing as a travel addict! It is possible to become an addict without warning.
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