The idea of traveling has changed for today’s woman over 50.
While older generations considered it to be something reserved only for the very affluent, today’s woman considers it to be a necessity to their well-being.
Although there may have been certain locations that were considered to be “retirement destinations”, today’s women don’t put boundaries on where they can go or what they can do.
Women in their 50s today have completely changed the look of travel.
Today new destinations are pencilled in, from all-inclusive resorts to going it alone while backpacking through Europe.
Traveling for Baby Boomers is becoming such a priority that travel numbers for this group have been on the rise for the past several years. Yes, even amid a downturn in the economy.
If it’s time for you to get up and go out on your own, with a group of gal pals, or with your significant other, keep reading.
You’ll find out where to go and how to get the best deal when going there.
Where to go?
So time is cleared on your schedule and you’re all set to get up and go somewhere. Anywhere that gets you away from it all and puts you in a place you can truly relax.
But where is that exactly? How do you even begin to get ideas of places that would make for an unforgettable getaway?
Start with these top five ideas, provided by Carol and David Porter, creators of the online travel magazine, The Roaming Boomers.
Alaskan cruises – These trips have been popular for at least the past ten years and they’ll continue to be for many more. No matter how many visitors these parts see, their pristine beauty is still as untouched and breathtaking for each new traveler that visits. Alaskan cruises are also the perfect trip whether you’re going solo or you’ve already got a group you’re bringing along. Groups will find plenty to do, while traveling alone will give you the opportunity to meet new people.
Road trips along the Big Sur – Want to take charge of when you head out, how far you go, and how many stops you make along the way? Big Sur is an almost desolate stretch of the Santa Lucia Mountains along the central coast of California. Ride along them and you can be dazzled with the one-of-a-kind views while being thrilled by the winding mountain roads.
Arizona – Enough said, Arizona is a great spot for travelers over 50 and you really can’t pick a bad place in Arizona to go. Phoenix, Tucson, Sedona, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Flagstaff are just a few of the choices you’ll have. They’ll all provide for plenty of fun in the sun in one of the most beautiful spots in America.
Santa Barbara – When you want to trade in hiking boots for heels and travel mugs for wine glasses, Santa Barbara, California is the place to go. You can still find beaches and mountains here for the outdoorsy-type, but this destination is mostly known for its world-renowned food and wine.
Hawaii – Like Arizona, you can’t go wrong no matter where you go in Hawaii. However, those in their 50s often want less of the hurried tourist crowd and more of the peaceful, serene beaches and natural wonders. For this reason, of all the Hawaiian Islands, The Big Island is the top spot for Boomers.
No one can be expected to choose their vacation spot after hearing of just a few choices. To review all of your best options, and maybe even open up the door to new places, there are a number of online travel companies that cater specifically to those over the age of 50.
It can make for a great opportunity to grab your friends and head out on a girls’ getaway.
Or take the time for yourself and enjoy a few days of being solo.
If opting to go it alone, there are some important safety factors to take into consideration.
Travel insurance is one of the most important items you need when traveling. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most often overlooked. Whether you’re on your own or with others, travel insurance is important for people of any age. It’s so important that if you’re over the age of 50, you’re likely eligible for a discount on travel insurance.
In addition to travel insurance, make sure you register yourself as a traveler with the Department of Foreign Affairs, especially if you’re traveling abroad. This might be the only point of contact you have with your country while away.
Leaving your information with the Department of Foreign Affairs will give them a way to contact you while you’re away. This can be invaluable if you need to be informed of any emergencies. They’ll also provide you with safety information on sexual assault in certain countries, and keeping yourself safe from theft.
For women in particular, it’s of utmost importance that when traveling to a different country, you familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions. Some countries have strict rules for a woman’s dress and behavior and it’s important you know what they are.
All-inclusive vacations
When choosing your ultimate getaway location, you’re not only going to consider where you’d like to go, but also where it will be most affordable for you to go.
But just what are the best budget choices out there for travel? Will cruises get you the best bang for your buck, and are all-inclusive vacations really everything they promise to be?
All-inclusive vacations can be great deals, but you need to make sure you know what you’re getting before you sign any contract or deal.
All-inclusive resorts can provide you with all the sports, recreation, and entertainment you could ask for. Plus they’ll give you up to three full meals a day, sometimes even with free cocktails included.
Read the fine print. Find out exactly what will be “included” in the trip because different locales have different definitions. If you’re unsure of exactly what’s included, you could end up paying a lot more than you thought.
Availability can also be a tricky thing to maneuver with all-inclusive deals. Dates are filled quickly so if your heart is set on a particular time, you’ll need to book as early as possible. However, prices tend to get cheaper the closer you get to the date so if you can be flexible, you can save yourself some cash by booking at the last minute.
However, all-inclusive resorts aren’t for everyone.
If you like to hop from town to town, try different restaurants, and be free to go where you want when you want, you might want to look at a different vacation option.
Cruises
Cruises are very much like all-inclusive resorts in the way that you’ll book your trip, pay for it, and have nearly everything you need provided for you.
Like all-inclusive resorts, you’ll need to book as early as possible to ensure there’s a spot available for you. But, being flexible and snapping up last minute deals can also be a great way to go on a cruise that fits easily within your budget.
One of the best ways to get a deal when taking a cruise is to speak to a travel agent that specializes in cruises. They’ll be able to direct you to the best prices currently available, and tell you about early booking discounts and credits you can receive onboard.
When booking a cruise, don’t forget about “Wave Season,” which runs January through March.
Traveling at this time of year doesn’t mean that you’ll experience high, rolling waves on your cruise. It’s simply the time of year that the travel industry sees its best sales, and when you’ll likely be able to snap up the best deals.
Traveling when you’re in your 50s can be one of the greatest things you’ll ever do. Whether you choose to take the road less traveled by, or visit some of the top spots for Boomers, take these safety and travel tips with you. They’ll help you get the vacation you want at the price you want.