One of the best things about retirement is that you no longer need to carve out time away from work to take a road trip, indulge in a cruise or embark on a global odyssey. Bonus: A change of scenery is just the thing to keep your mind and body active. What’s more, smartphone travel apps make it easier than ever to plan and book your trip, find discounts for folks over 65 and even take a virtual tour of your destination. Here are some ideas to inspire your imagination as you plan your perfect getaway.
Dust off Your Passport
After decades spent building a career and getting the kids launched, retirement offers the chance to cross a few international destinations off your bucket list. For a once-in-a-lifetime visual treat, head to Iceland to experience the northern lights—or to South America to marvel at Iguazu Falls.If ancient cultures fascinate you, the Parthenon in Greece, the Colosseum in Rome or the Pyramids in Egypt offer a breathtaking glimpse into the past.
Feeling adventurous? There are many ways to experience the continent of Africa, from joining a safari to staying at a luxury lodge and exploring a different destination every day. Tip: Time your trip to coincide with the Great Migration, when millions of antelopes, wildebeests and zebras travel from the Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara. If colder temperatures are more to your liking, consider a cruise to the Alaskan glaciers or the frozen continent of Antarctica. You’ll return with major bragging rights, not to mention spectacular photos and stories.
On the Road Again
You don’t have to leave the good ol’ U.S.A. to create a lifetime’s worth of vacation memories. Just map out your destination, climb into your car or RV and head out on the highway. If you have an appetite for nostalgia, small towns and kitschy landmarks, one uniquely American idea is to take the iconic Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the “Santa Monica 66—End of the Trail” sign.
For a shorter, but just as unforgettable, road trip, consider the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds through the southern and central Appalachians in Virginia and North Carolina. Famous for its panoramic mountain views, hiking trails and natural landmarks like Mount Mitchell and Whitewater Falls, the Parkway is a true national treasure to be savored. We recommend planning your trip for the fall, when you’ll enjoy the bonus of trees draped in dazzling shades of red, orange and yellow.
Voyage by Rail or Sea
Do you like the idea of unpacking only once? A train excursion or cruise might be just the ticket. Trains, unlike planes or cars, let you enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace with scenic views around every bend. Rail travel also offers amenities like dining cars and sightseeing lounges where you can get to know your fellow travelers. Seasoned train enthusiasts recommend the California Zephyr, which climbs through the heart of the Rockies, or the Adirondack route, which winds its way from New York City to Montreal.
Cruising is also an excellent choice for retirement travel, whether you prefer a short river tour or a worldwide adventure that stretches for weeks (or even months). With dining, entertainment, accommodations and day trips included in one package, cruises take the stress out of planning, so you can spend more time enjoying. Many folks also use cruising as a backdrop for anniversaries or family reunions, making for a memorable multigenerational experience. Bon voyage!
Springmoor retirement community in Raleigh, NC is home to folks who’ve traveled every corner of our country … and the world. To schedule your tour today, call 919-651-4844.
