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| Infinity Fun and Travel |
TOO OLD TO TRAVEL
Yesterday I was introduced as an
"Older" lady who’s energetic. I laughed and said, "I'm
younger than I look." I gave a presentation of my second career as a
Travel Advisor after retiring from Property Management.
We've all heard the old saying "You're never
too old to travel." That might be true but as we age, our bodies do change,
and we have more challenges that affect how we get around.
We might not be able to rock climb or zip line
anymore, but that doesn't mean we have to store away our luggage and stay
home. However, your never too old to have fun and see something new.
I just watched a video of an 88-year-old that
lives on a cruise ship. She is enjoying her life traveling around the
world instead of sitting in a retirement home. She dances every day and
enjoys meeting different people.
So what can you do to keep traveling?
First - Hire a Travel Advisor
Even if you are still tech savvy and can look at
the travel websites and apps you won't be privy to the deals that knowledgeable
travel advisors can provide. There is so much information and when you
look at all the pretty pictures made for the websites it can be confusing.
We work for you and are with you from planning until you come home. We are available to help if you have any problems while you are on your trip.
Consider a cruise!
Cruise ships have advantages for seniors who want to travel. You don't have to unpack and pack to go to another location. Everything you need is located on the ship.
- You get excellent service and attention on board.
The cabin stewards take care of your cabin and are there if you need
anything.
- The cruise ship is accessible for scooters and
wheelchairs. My husband zipped around on his scooter while we were
on our last cruise. It even fit in our balcony stateroom.
- The food is excellent and there are so many choices from
buffet to specialty restaurants.
- There are medical personnel available in case of
emergencies.
- There are activities for all levels of physical
abilities.
- There are all kinds of entertainment.
- Multi-generational travel. They offer activities
for every age from toddlers to seniors. It's a great way to be
around the kids, but also offers programs to keep the kids entertained
while you relax or enjoy adult activities.
Here is some of my Tips for Senior
Cruising
1.
Save
money with Senior Discounts
Check
for specials that cruise lines offer that younger cruisers can't get. Some
cruise lines have specials for seniors that are travelling solo in addition to
age discounts. Typically, cabins are designed for double occupancy, and an
individual traveling alone pays almost as much as two people. But seniors who
travel solo can save money by booking on a ship that has single occupancy
rooms. Norwegian offers studio staterooms that have access to an
exclusive studio lounge where travelers can socialize with other solo travels
and have coffee and snacks.
2.
Always
buy Travel Insurance
A
missed connection, lost luggage or a sudden illness can ruin a vacation.
Travel insurance can reimburse you for trip cancellation or medical
evacuation. Even if you have health insurance or Medicare, it won't cover
your medical costs when you are traveling outside of the United States. The
price of insurance is determined by your age, duration of the trip and the cost
of the trip. A travel advisor can help you choose the right policy for
your needs.
3.
Be
Your Own Pharmacy
You
can save money and avoid hassles by being prepared for potential illness or
injury. For example, if you think you might suffer from seasickness you
can purchase wristbands, patches, or motion sickness medication prior to your
cruise. Pack over the counter medication you often use as well as
first-aid items. Always bring prescription medication and pack extra just
in case the trip gets extended. If you medications require refrigeration
check with the cruise line in advance (30 to 60 days) to see what arrangements
can be made.
4.
Choose
Excursions You Can Do
Cruise
lines offer shore excursions at every port. These fee-based activities
range from swimming with stingrays, to coach tours and cooking classes. Just make
sure your physical abilities are up to the tour's requirements. Typically
the cruise ship will have brochures or on line information that details
the various excursions, the duration of the activity and a symbol
indicating the physical requirements. Don't overestimate your abilities.
Use a tour company to guide you around.
A tour company will provide a safe haven for solo travelers as well as groups.
It doesn't have to mean sitting on a tour bus all day. You can stroll
down the streets of a village led by a friendly tour guide taking in the local
culture. You can have an educational tour visiting famous landmarks.
There are land tours that visit wineries, local food and educational tours. Take a scenic river cruise to see the tulip festivals or the Christmas markets.
5. Pace Yourself
It's
tempting to overindulge on food and alcohol, both can play havoc with your
health and enjoyment on a cruise. Balance meals with exercise. Mix
special treats like steak and huge desserts with healthier items on the
menu. Know your limits when it comes to alcohol.
It's
easy to overdo it with activities as well. Review the ship’s daily newsletter
and determine which of the following days activities are most appealing to
you. Take time to relax in the solarium, at the swimming pool or on
the balcony. Enjoy the scenery.
6.
Plan
in advance if you have Special Needs
Cruise ships offer a variety of assistance, services and accommodation
for passengers with special needs. If you have difficulties walking
long distances, consider renting a wheelchair or scooter. You can rent
other specialty needs as well. Equipment can be delivered to your ship
and will be waiting for you. Your Travel Advisor can help get what you need.
Ships also can accommodate special dietary needs, aid with
eyesight, hearing and emotional needs such as autism.
Don’t forget to check for mobility issues at Ports O Call. Some ports require tendering in small boats from the ship to the shore. These are not wheelchair accessible. Be prepared not disappointed.
One of the great joys of cruising is the opportunity to meet new people, whether you’re traveling alone or not. The strangers you meet might become cherished friends and future traveling companions. Strike up a conversation over cocktails or a game. Invite a friendly couple to join you for dinner.
Another way to meet like-minded people is to choose a themed cruise or one with a special event. Think of a hobby or activity you enjoy. For example, foodies might enjoy a cruise with a guest chef, cooking lessons or visiting local restaurants.
Hopefully I've dispelled some myths about senior travel. Retirement doesn't have to mean Coach Bus Travel. Get out there with other seniors and check off that bucket list.
Regrets last much longer than jet-lag!
https://infinityfunandtravel.com
855.229.5723
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