Here are my top tips for senior travelers exploring the world on their own.
And I do recognize that certain trips, like adventure travels, are best managed in groups.
you’re free to even travel solo and join a group for a taste of both.
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Here are some suggestions for making the most of your solo trips after retirement.
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Do your research.
After deciding on my destination, I make the basic arrangements for flights and hotels.
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We all arrive a bit tired, and its pleasant and safe to have a destination to start with.
The same goes for hotels.
Check booking sites and compare their deals by contacting the hotel directly.
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Choose the right tour for you.
Picking the right tour for your needs can make seeing the top sights easy and stress-free.
On a trip to Rome, I naturally wanted to see the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums.
So do thousands of others every day, especially during the peak travel months.
(Even skip-the-line groups often wait up to an hour.)
Related:14 Best Senior-friendly Travel Groups
Seek out new experiences.
In London, I visited the posh Burlington Arcade, one of Londons most historic shopping destinations.
A Beadle in a delightfully British uniform greeted me with a bit of information about the arcade.
I know its not exactly skydiving, but they were a few of my novel experiences.
you’ve got the option to choose your own.
Make a to-do list.
Sometimes, its just not possible to do everything, so you may need to prioritize to be practical.
Save something for the next time, is what I always say.
Your list will also help you decide where and when to go based on location.
Keep an eye on your cell phones battery.
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Let someone at home know your travel plans.
For your security and for peace of mind for the folks at home, let someone know your itinerary.
Better to be safe and share your experiences when you get home.
For your safety, always be aware of your surroundings and alert to whats happening around you.
If it doesnt feel right, just move on.
And beware of pickpockets and scams.
AARPwarns of the creative ways criminals take advantage of travelers.
I wont say exactly where because this can happen anywhere, even at your local shopping mall.
Others prefer to use money belts for cash.
Be prepared.
Im sure youve heard this before, but its good advice.
Before you travel overseas, obtain some of the local currency, including small denominations.
Also, youll want to tip hotel staff who help with your bags or provide other services.
While youre traveling to experience new places, it helps to know a bit about them before you go.
Naturally, that was a cash transaction, and I was glad to be prepared.
Travel light.
Thats my sign to edit do I really need those dress shoes?
Or all those cosmetics?
(And its not the flight attendants job.)
Also, I always limit myself to two items.
Then theres no problem boarding a crowded flight where they check how much youre carrying.
Just as important, its easier to keep track of two things so nothing gets left behind.
