By Marybeth Bond
As someone who has gracefully crossed the threshold into the 50+ age bracket myself, I find the world of travel evolving in fascinating ways. We are stepping out with our partners, friends, children, grandchildren and even alone. We are zooming along roads, paths and waterways with style, humor and courage.
So, what are the latest trends shaping the journeys of travelers in our demographic?
- Destination Hubs: Many of us are opting for a single destination as our base and then using it as a launchpad for exploring surrounding areas. Whether it’s renting a house or an apartment, this approach allows us to invite family and friends, rekindling old connections and creating new memories together.
- Cruises: The allure of cruising continues to captivate, especially among retirees. With the convenience of unpacking just once while visiting multiple destinations, cruises to the Greek Isles and Mediterranean are particularly popular.
- River Cruises: For those who favor intimacy and immersion, river cruises offer a unique experience. With a focus on culinary delights, wine, and cultural exploration, destinations like The Danube, Rhine or French waterways are popular. Amawaterways also offer adventurous cruises such as the Nile and Mekong Rivers. River cruises provide an all-inclusive, slow-travel experience with small groups.
- Comfort and Safety: The emphasis on comfort and safety has led many to upgrade their flying experiences to Business Class and invest in comprehensive travel insurance. Providers like WorldNomads cater specifically to our adventurous side by covering over 200 activities.
- Celebration Trips: Milestone moments like anniversaries, big birthdays, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures (think Antarctica) are becoming more common as we seek to celebrate life’s significant events in grand fashion.
- Family and Friend Visits: Travel is increasingly serving as a way to reconnect with distant friends and family, whether it’s for class reunions or to bond with kids and grandkids who live far away.
- Solo Travel: Embracing the freedom of solo adventures, including women traveling alone, is on the rise. This trend allows for personal growth and discovery without compromise.
- Easy Drive Trips: Short road trips from home to picturesque destinations offer a convenient and enjoyable way to explore without the hassles of air travel.
- Off-Season Travel: Traveling during the fall, winter, or spring seasons provides unique opportunities such as leaf-peeping or escaping to warm weather destinations in January and February.
As we navigate these trends, it’s clear that the landscape of travel for those of us over 50 is not only rich with possibilities but also tailored to our evolving interests and needs. Whether seeking comfort, adventure, or connection, there’s a perfect journey waiting for each
