Best vacation destinations for SENIORS
From budget to itinerary, there’s plenty to think about when choosing a holiday, but seniors often have even more things to consider, like health care, accessibility and ease of walking.
A survey by the AARP found that 37 per cent of all travellers in 2023 were seniors over 60. Not quite back to the 46.3 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, but 48 per cent report a desire to return to normal travel in 2024.
Seniors also tend to be less interested in fast-paced tours and more inclined to spend longer in one place, relaxing and enjoying serene vistas and exploring local culture and attractions. From domestic destinations to bucket-list journeys on the other side of the world, here are some of the best destinations for seniors.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA
The survey found that 61 per cent of seniors wanted to travel only domestically in 2023, so we’ll start off in Canada’s smallest province. With its picturesque waterfront, incredible coastal drives, iconic historical sites, red and white sand beaches, and a national park spreading 40 scenic kilometres along the northern coastline, there’s plenty to see in P.E.I. Add in scrumptious seafood, friendly locals, and more golf courses per square kilometre than anywhere else in the country, and it’s easy to see why Prince Edward Island is one of Canada’s most popular senior tourist destinations.
KYOTO, JAPAN
Japan is known for its hospitality and senior-friendly infrastructure, with many hotels designed with older travellers in mind. Kyoto, in particular, offers an abundance of attractions for older adults, including hundreds of teahouses, temples and shrines. Whether you stroll through beautifully manicured Zen gardens or the historic Gion district, this magical city’s efficient transportation system ensures comfort for older travellers. Consider visiting in early April for cherry blossom season, when Japan’s former capital transforms into an enchanted explosion of pink and white petals.
ISTANBUL, TURKEY
This is where Europe and the Middle East converge, bestowing Turkey with a diverse and intriguing identity and a host of cultural landmarks, including the iconic Byzantine Hagia Sophia, featuring a 6th-century dome and rare Christian mosaics, and the Blue Mosque, which dominates Istanbul's magnificent skyline. Visit the Sultanahmet district, once the site of chariot races; bask in the thermal hot springs; shop at vibrant markets and bazaars; or stroll along the serene coastline. Istanbul offers a slower pace and scores highly for health care, walkability and peacefulness.
ARIZONA, U.S.A.
Many snowbirds have switched their go-to winter destination from Florida to Arizona. The dry climate boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year, perfect for outdoor activities. The beautiful capital city of Phoenix caters to seniors, with plenty of activities aimed at those with limited mobility and seniors’ discounts on accommodations and attractions. The Grand Canyon has numerous guided shuttle and bus tours that service the needs of seniors. The desert town of Sedona, famous for its majestic red rock formations, is an excellent destination for more active seniors, featuring over 100 trails that range from casual walks to strenuous hikes and an assortment of world-class rejuvenating spas.
ROME, ITALY
The Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Forum, Palatine Hill and Trevi Fountain are just some of the highlights of this classical city, perfect for history buffs, art lovers and foodies. The “Eternal City” is very walkable, with most of its top attractions close together and many places to stop and rest along the way. Rome has a terrific public transportation system to get around, or you can take a variety of tours, many geared specifically toward seniors. Although Rome is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, the city has a relaxed vibe, so you can take it all in at a relaxed pace. Don’t forget to cross into Vatican City to see the Sistine Chapel.
CRUISING THE CARIBBEAN AND BEYOND
From the islands of the Caribbean to the rivers of Europe, cruises have long been a popular vacation option for older adults. Even if you have limited mobility, you can take advantage of the combination of relaxation, entertainment and scenic destinations they offer. Many cruises are designed with seniors in mind, providing medical facilities, comfortable quarters, and accommodations for special diets. The all-inclusive nature of cruising makes it easy to plan and get around. Once you pick your itinerary, you’re ready to go.
An Alaskan cruise is a truly one-of-akind experience, where massive glaciers and humpback whales are all part of the scenery from the deck. Of course, venturing on land also offers railway tours through mountains along the original Klondike Trail. Or, hire a helicopter to take in the vastness of this untouched wilderness.