Dear Alyne is a World Citizen and has been to 72 countries around over the globe. She is a WU customer and guest blogger who we’ve teamed up with. Follow along with her adventures, here: https://www.instagram.com/dearalyne/
My mother is no stranger to travel. In fact, she’s the one who originally inspired me. She’s been around the world, and even married someone she met on a trip to Israel in the 80’s (Oh hey Dad!). My mom is active and social, plays soccer almost daily, visits the elderly, is active in her church, fluent in multiple languages, and can navigate Facebook like a pro. She’s a recently retired school teacher, so she has free time. She’s careful with her finances, so she has some savings. So why doesn’t the woman who inspired me to visit over 50 countries travel herself anymore? I asked her.
“Too much trouble, too much money, and it’s too scary.”
But what about before, you traveled before, so why not now?!
“Well, the first time I traveled I took a tour and I loved it. They took care of me. I was with a group, and they took care of all the arrangements.”
Aha! We had pinpointed the problem. The reason she, and many other adults are no longer traveling, it seems is STRESS. As we age have a lot more responsibilities. Kids, pets, homes, and jobs are all barriers to having the time to research and plan trips. And then there’s the whole “ageing bodies” thing. As we age, our knees go out, our energy may flag, our health may pose some extra obstacles. So, to continue traveling like we want to, here are some tips.
1.) Accommodate your body. Choose countries that fit your health needs, perhaps dry weather makes you feel alive, head to a desert! Perhaps you need easy access to transport, choose a place with affordable Ubers! Places like Ireland are great for bad knees, because you can drive around the country and really enjoy. Places like Machu Pichu are great if you’re still very active and prepared for a lot of steps and stairs!
2.) Consider slow travel. Many of us move quickly. City to city, sight to sight. But another way to enjoy a new country is booking a beautiful B&B for a week and taking small day trips. Spend a morning relaxing, and an afternoon at specific sights. That way you have the comfort of a home base without feeling hectic!
3.) BOOK A TOUR. These days, there are MANY unique tour companies that cater to all sorts of personalities and interests, and many are just as affordable as booking your own trip. You can book a small tour with a small group, day trips, or just have someone book your entire trip for you so you don’t have to worry at all. Check the reviews, call the company to chat and get a feel for their vibes.
4.) TAKE A FRIEND. Something you can do is find a friend that loves to travel and cover their costs in exchange for their help and guidance. This can work great for kids in college who love to travel, have the time and knowledge, but don’t always have the funds! So, think of a nice, kid, or grandkid that you’d love to have around and say,
“Hey! Let’s plan a fun trip to Costa Rica, you’re in charge, you plan the itinerary, and you get to go for free!”
There are so many beautiful places around the world that are great for people of all ages, and we hope these tips help you find a way to travel that works for you!
