Travel Guides

• Select a location and preferred traveling style to create a clear vision for your trips.
• Compare the prices of hotels, vocational rents, and cruises. Seek senior discounts.  
• Pack smart and get travel insurance for any unforeseen incidents. 

Retirement marks an incredible milestone, and now it’s time to finally get ready for your greatest adventure yet – exploring the world on your own terms. Whether you've been itching to see Machu Picchu, sample street food in Bangkok, or cruise the Mediterranean, this guide will help you turn those retirement travel dreams into incredible reality.  

Now, to plan a perfect travel itinerary, there are a few things you must consider. 

1. Define Your Dream Travel 

Do you see yourself enjoying a luxurious European river cruise or a challenging trek through the Himalayas? Don't worry about the exact location yet – focus on the type of adventure that excites you. 

The journey isn't just about where you go – it's also about how you travel. Do you crave the speed and convenience of flights, or do you relish the scenic train journeys? Do you love the freedom of traveling solo or enjoy being in a group?  

There's no single "right" answer – the beauty lies in tailoring your adventures to your preferences. By taking the time to introspect on these questions, you'll be well-equipped to embark on unforgettable retirement travels. 

2. Plan Your Timeline and Budget 

Time is your greatest asset in retirement travel. Unlike pre-retirement vacations, you have the flexibility to travel during off-peak seasons and extend your stays to your will and budget.  

Set a realistic timeframe that considers your health and desired travel pace. Research weather patterns to find the best time to visit your chosen destinations. Also, factor in rest days and activities that suit your physical capabilities. 

Next, establish a solid budget to ensure your travels don't deplete your retirement savings. For this, here are some potential cost factors that are worth considering: 

• Destination: Research variations in cost between countries and regions. For example, Europe can be more expensive than Southeast Asia. 
• Accommodation: Wish to immerse yourself in five-star luxury accommodations or opt for charming, budget-friendly stays - the choice is yours. 
• Transportation: Compare flight deals, train fares, and local transportation costs. Consider travel passes if you plan extended stays in specific regions. 
• Activities: Factor in activity costs like entrance fees, tours, and equipment rentals for desired experiences. 
• Food and Dining: Research average dining costs and consider self-catering options for some meals. 

With this balanced approach, you can plan your retirement travel that balances your desired experiences with your financial goals. 

3. Research Your Travel Destinations 

Sure, the Eiffel Tower and the Roman Colosseum are iconic. But wouldn't it be more romantic to hold hands with your sweetheart while wandering through lavender fields in Provence at sunset? Or how about sipping wine with locals in Italy’s Tuscan village? Now, those are the memories that make travel in retirement truly special. 

So, how do we find such hidden gems? The internet is overflowing with travel info. Look for: 

• Travel websites offer in-depth information on destinations, including cultural insights, off-the-beaten-path recommendations, and even user reviews from past travelers. 

• Travel blogs often provide a more personal perspective on destinations, featuring in-depth articles, captivating photos, and local recommendations straight from real travelers who've been there. 

But hold on, there's more to planning an unforgettable retirement trip than just finding hidden gems. Visa requirements can vary depending on where you're headed, so make sure you check that before you book those plane tickets.  

Finally, learn a few basic words in the local language. A "bonjour" in France or a "Hola" in Spain may lead to some pretty awesome interactions with the locals. 

4. Prioritize Health and Safety 

We all know that the last thing you want on your trip is a foreign hospital bill that could rival your dream vacation. Avoid that stress by ensuring you're up-to-date on vaccinations and get a clean bill of health from your doctor for any pre-existing conditions. 

Why does this matter? Medical care abroad can be quite expensive. However, if anything does happen, travel insurance for seniors with pre-existing medical conditions can be helpful. You will want to purchase your policy right away if pre-existing conditions are a concern for you or your traveling companion. You may also consider coverage for medical evacuation if the need arises to transport you back to a familiar medical facility closer to home. 

Travel mishaps can extend beyond health concerns. So, travel insurance with baggage loss coverage can reimburse you for essential items you need to buy while waiting for your lost luggage to be recovered. 

For safety reasons, look up your destination’s crime rates and mark any specific areas that you must avoid. Stay alert, be mindful of your surroundings, and keep valuables tucked away. Utilize hotel in-room safes for passports, cash, and other precious items. 

Also read: How to choose the best Senior Travel Insurance 

5. Explore Travel Accommodations 

Whether you are going for a one-day trip or a month-long adventure, there are many accommodation options available for retirees.  

Hotels are your classic companions for quick trips. Unpack once and enjoy amenities like housekeeping, on-site restaurants, and concierge services.  

For longer stays, consider a vacation rental. Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying in an apartment, villa, or even a charming bed and breakfast.  

Cruise ships are another popular pick, especially for senior citizens. Why? Many cruise lines cater specifically to seniors, offering accessible cabins, mobility assistance, and exciting itineraries. All you have to do is relax, sip cocktails, and soak up the sights as you sail from one captivating locale to the next. 

Who doesn't love a good deal? Enquire about senior discounts readily available on cruise lines and hotel websites when making bookings. Plus, leverage your existing memberships and loyalty programs to stretch your travel budget even further. 

6. Pack Smart for Your Needs 

“What should I pack, and what should I leave?” Confused? It is a trick question, but this can help you: 

• Prioritize lightweight, versatile pieces that allow for easy movement and minimal luggage. Try to have only one or two carry-ons.  
• Create a capsule wardrobe by selecting inter-mixable clothing in complementary colors. This allows for a variety of outfits with fewer items. 
• Carry the most comfortable pair of shoes you own. They are definitely worth more than packing three different pairs.  
• Make a mini travel kit with important medicines, first-aid basics, motion sickness medications, bandages, etc. 
• Above everything else, never forget sunscreen to protect yourself from the harsh sun rays. 

Here’s a pro tip: rolling your clothes instead of folding them saves tons of space.   

7. Embrace Slow Travel 

Instead of focusing on checking destinations off a retirement travel bucket list, slow travel is about immersing yourself in the local culture and building connections with the people and places you visit. Especially when you stay longer at a place, you move from tourist to temporary local.  

It is almost surreal that you can build lifelong friendships in the most unknown places. Try to enjoy the trip rather than suffering from travel fatigue by rushing between sights. 

Now, what could you possibly do on a long-term trip? Take a cooking class, learn some of the local languages, explore some hidden spots, and make unforgettable memories.  

Here are some tips that will make it all worth your while. Rent an apartment or a house for a week or book an Airbnb instead of jumping between hotels. Choose one or two in-depth activities instead of surface-level sightseeing.  

Things rarely go as planned. Flights can get delayed, itineraries can shift, and that is when the most unexpected detours can happen. Embrace spontaneity and go with the flow with this new freedom.  

FAQs About Retirement Travel 

Q. How do I plan for unexpected situations while traveling? 

Pack a small first-aid kit and learn basic phrases in the local language. For bigger issues, have AXA's travel insurance specialists on speed dial to guide you through emergencies.  Lastly, digital copies of important documents (passport, insurance) on your phone give you easy access in case of need. 

Q. Where can I find travel insurance for seniors? 

AXA offers Travel Protection Plans with options for seniors. The Gold plan might suit your cruise trips; Silver is designed for domestic trips, while the Platinum plan provides higher coverage. For more guidance, talk with their travel insurance specialists.  

Q. What are some travel essentials for retirees? 

Pack comfortable shoes, clothes for different climates, and a small first-aid kit. Invest in a good guidebook or download travel apps. Bring a universal adapter for electronics and consider a portable Wi-Fi hotspot for staying connected. 

Q. What does travel insurance for seniors typically cover? 

Travel insurance for seniors generally offers coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and even flight delays. Look for a policy that suits your age, destination, and activities. Consider medical evacuation coverage, which can be crucial in getting you back home safely in case of a medical emergency. 

Q. What are some creative ways to finance travel in retirement? 

Renting out a spare room or your whole home while you travel creates income on the go. Travel hacking with reward credit cards lets you earn points towards flights and stays. Finally, explore volunteer opportunities that combine cultural immersion with travel and accommodation, often at a reduced cost.