Photo by Gooze at Shutterstock
Retirement is the perfect time to take a few trips and go out to see the world, visiting places you’ve only dreamt about. But considering how big and magnificent our planet is, the question is: where do you go?
Well, the first thing you should know is that the best vacations for people 60 and older don’t look that different from the getaways you might have planned in your 30s or 40s. The main difference is that you can spend a little more time at every destination you reach.
And without the restriction of trying to keep your entire family happy, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace and really engross yourself in the places you explore.
On that note, it’s time to start ticking off some items on your bucket list, whether that means booking a beach destination for some rest and relaxation or embarking on the adventure of a lifetime in a faraway place. So here are the 6 best trips for travelers over 60.
Click “Next” to see your fantastic options, and be sure to let us know what YOUR top picks were!
Whether you’re dreaming about a château in Provence, a Mediterranean villa in Tuscany, or a hacienda in Malaga, for several weeks, staying in a holiday home is leisurely travel at its best.
Submerging oneself in everyday life of shopping, eating, and participating at the local level is how to get a feel for a place. It’s a perfect way to discover new cultures and their traditions. Suppose you’ve always wanted to go on a trip and visit Italy.
In that case, certain websites offer exclusive villas in Tuscany and Umbria, where you can go at your own pace without worrying about anyone bothering you. You can even choose their customized concierge service with maids, private chefs, and wine tastings.
Or, if you prefer a more do-it-yourself kind of stay, opt for a self-catering property. After all, you can always explore the local food scene for a meal out if you get tired of cooking.
This isn’t just some ordinary trip on a train! The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a rolling tribute to perhaps the most famous rail service in our history. It takes passengers aboard lavishly restored 1920s carriages across Europe… time, for that matter!
The Classic Route, which takes off between Paris and Venice, carries passengers through panoramic European towns, cities, and farmlands in the comfort of their own private cabins or grand suites. And you’ll have plenty of elegant dining to enjoy along your way.
Pro Tip: You can make the trip even more memorable and dress to impress on this nostalgic train ride.
For many people, an African safari would be like an ultimate vacation. In fact, lots of people consider this trip their first great adventure once they’ve entered retirement. But we will admit: planning one can be an overwhelming experience with all the options available.
Which tour company should you book? And how much will you be spending where you stay? Well, accommodations range from extravagant glamping spots to cute rustic lodges and even tent camps.
The one thing they all have in common though is that they’re all perfectly comfortable for folks over 60. While on this trip, you’ll catch glimpses of the Big Five, spot certain breeds of birds, and you’ll be greeted by many cultural experiences as well.
To see everything you wish for, small group hikes are available. Or book a couple of jeep rides if you want a more intimate experience.
The most important aspect of this particular trip, however, is the research and planning. Speaking to a travel agent is key to creating your ideal safari vacation.
While it may be far away, it’s time to see Sydney in all its glory. Located on New South Wales’s eastern coast, this is Australia’s largest city. When visiting, you can gaze upon the architecturally spectacular Opera House bursting from Sydney’s awe-inspiring harbor.
Lay back and relax at one of its many beautiful beaches, visit the world-famous Sydney Zoo, scale the Harbour Bridge or take a tour of the Museum of Contemporary Art. And after sunset, take part in the city’s uber-cosmopolitan dining and nightlife.
The bottom line is that Sydney has no shortage of things to see and do, so it’s pretty tricky to pack everything into one vacation, but you can always prolong your trip!
This type of trip is typically a tourist destination off the beaten path, and many people associate this place with religion and more profound beliefs. And even though this may be the case with many people, it’s definitely a “Must-See” city in our book.
The Old City of Jerusalem has an enchanting atmosphere that doesn’t exist anywhere in the entire world. It’s famously known because of the Muslim, Christian, and Jewish religions and their history.
And while many sites in this city are dedicated to those religions, we think you’ll find exploring them quite fascinating. After all, it’s a charming city with colorful old alleys that will take all of your time wandering.
The food is absolutely delicious, the weather is always delightful, and you’ll really enjoy the spectacular beaches.
The Caribbean is another perfect trip to kick off your retirement because it’s the most easily accessible one on our list. There’s virtually an endless number of islands to escape to and enjoy a tropical getaway.
But if you’d prefer to avoid loud parties and noisy casinos, Nevis will be your best bet. It’s peaceful and stunning. As one of the Caribbean’s leafiest islands, you’ll also enjoy dense, breathtaking scenery and idyllic, white-sand beaches, minus the crowds.
Plus, it’s one of the best islands you could choose for AH-mazing cuisine, with outstanding dishes that are typically a fusion of European, African, and American. And let’s not forget about the local fruit like tamarind and mangoes. Are you a fan of golf?
Then we recommend staying at the Four Seasons Resort, and you can tee off on one of the world’s most picture-perfect courses, featuring a few oceanside holes, as well as fantastic views of the historic sugar mills and Green Vervet monkeys from Nevis Peak.
So which one will YOU choose as your first trip post-retirement? Be sure to let us know in the comments below. And while we’re on the subject, have you been to a destination recently and want our readers to know about it? Let us know, and we might include it in our next post!
But until then, our site has so much more for you to enjoy. We recommend you also read about 5 Best Small Towns on the West Coast for Wine Tasting and Beautiful Views
Looking for your next vacation destination? Check out these European-inspired places in Florida! Florida is…
Keep reading to find out when NOT to visit some of the best cities in…
Going on a trip? Take a little detour to these adorable Appalachian Trail small towns!…
Forget spending an arm and a leg! These low-cost beach vacations are just what you…
What are YOU doing this summer? How about planning a trip and staying in one…
Going on a vacation doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg...Check out these…