Whether you’re looking for a relaxing destination where you can do as little as possible whilst soaking up the local atmosphere, or you prefer a more action-packed holiday, here’s a selection of some of our most popular choices for senior travellers.
The United States’ 49th state is also its largest and least populated, which means there’s plenty of open spaces on offer. A cruise is an easy option that allows you to see the glaciers, fiords and islands that make up the stretch of coastline that links Alaska to the rest of the US, with British Columbia in between. The itineraries and sizes of ship on offer are as diverse as the wildlife you’re bound to see along the way.
If ever there was a country that understood how to take it easy, it would have to be Portugal. Beautiful scenery, warm weather and great food and wine all combine to create an atmosphere where it just seems natural to move at a slower pace and enjoy all that’s on offer. Take a cruise on the Douro River, play golf on one of the dozens of beautiful courses that dot the Algarve, or simply enjoy a meal of locally-caught, freshly-grilled sardines overlooking a beautiful Atlantic beach.
As soon as you arrive in Honolulu hop straight on a flight to one of Hawaii’s other islands: the relaxed pace and spectacular scenery will have you brimming with the “Aloha spirit” in no time. Head to the Big Island if you’ve always wanted to see an active volcano, Kauai for vast, jaw-dropping landscapes or Maui if you’re looking for a deserted beach for total relaxation. Or visit all three islands on a week-long cruise that lets you explore the easy way.
Friendly, compact and great fun: these are the qualities that make the Emerald Isle seem like home to all who visit, from first-timers to experienced travellers. Whether you prefer to let someone else do the driving on a guided coach tour or pick up a rental car and simply go where the road takes you, you’ll find beautiful scenery and welcoming Irish people everywhere you go. Most of the main cities have hop-on, hop-off bus tours which are an easy, fun way to have a look around. Don’t forget to take advantage of the many senior citizens’ discounts on offer at theatres, museums and on public transport.
Like Ireland, New Zealand is relatively small, safe and easy to get around, so a self-drive itinerary is an easy option. If you prefer the sort of holiday that requires a little more physical exertion, you can soak up the brilliant autumn colours as you cycle the Central Otago Rail Trail, or you may prefer to enjoy spectacular South Island mountain scenery on a five-day guided walk on the Milford Track.
Whatever your destination, there are plenty of tour operators who specialise in travel for seniors. Whether you prefer to join a group or make your own way, your personal travel manager can help you find the best option to suit.