Once you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, it is hard to let go. While travelling is fun and adventurous, it can get exhausting and for senior citizens who want to see the world, it can get tough. However, in recent times, there has been a significant increase in travel among senior citizens. According to Make My Trip, their platform has found a 15 per cent increase in the number of bookings for international destinations among senior citizens. There are a number of reasons – disposable income, the affordability of international travel, and most commonly, to go and meet children settled abroad. Many group tours for senior citizens are also on the rise for first-time travellers. Many tour operators are offering special group packages which can be luxurious and customised. According to MMT, senior citizens using their website for international destinations, are opting for guided tours with tour managers, Indian meals, and relaxed itineraries.
When picking a place to travel to, keep a few things in mind – interesting things you want to see, the availability of public transport, and food preferences. While one is travelling for leisure, try and have an experiential holiday at that! We bring you five places to choose to travel to if you are a senior citizen.
Italy
The country is known for art and its museums and architectural gems are a major attraction for visitors. For senior citizens, transportation isn’t that tough with taxis. Walking is best but take your time to appreciate the surroundings. Rome, Florence, Milan – they all have pretty cafes to sit by the roadside after appreciating the fine arts in a museum. You would want to avoid the summers, though the weather is sunny, as Italy receives a large number of tourists then. The winters are colder but discounts will be aplenty.
Japan
Japan is one of the most senior-citizen friendly countries. With over 20 per cent of the population above the age of 70, the government tries to make everyday an easy venture for the elderly. Japan attractions offer discounts to seniors but one may need to ask. Tokyo is a great tourist spot. From tradition to modern, food to heritage, the city offers tourists a lot of options. However, the language barrier maybe an issue.
Australia
Australia is one of the most senior citizen friendly countries. The transportation system in the big cities is easy and the laid back attitude is inviting. A lot of Indians settle Down Under for job opportunities or go there for education purposes. Thus, the continent makes for a great parents’ attraction! Australia is great for wildlife, natural beauty, food and sports, in tandem with its great city attractions. Don’t forget to check out koalas and kangaroos while there!
Rajasthan
Rajasthan is always a good idea! Dance, music, forts, sand dunes, rural villages, pretty jewellery, and great food; what’s not to love about visiting this state in India? Though Rajasthan is a popular destination among senior citizen travellers, one needs to keep in mind the hectic nature of travel it can lead to with so many things to see. Fly to Jaipur, Jodhpur or Udaipur; or just take the train to reach the state. Taxis are easily available to travel within cities and outskirt tourist attractions. There are plenty of budget to high-end stay options to give you a royal feeling!
Kerala
Kerala is an ideal family destination. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, rivers, beaches, and hill stations, this place is a well-blended mixture of spirituality and adventure. The best time to visit Kerala is from September-April as the weather is better. The most recommended stay option is the houseboat in the backwaters of Kerala. It gives you a traditional feel of the place while transportation to get around is easy.
Thus, senior citizens are going to far flung places, eager to enjoy everything the world is offering!