Could equity release help you go on dream holiday?

Driving through the desert on safari, swimming in the crystal clear waters of Hawaii or seeing the Northern Lights in all their glorious technicolour are experiences most of us can only dream about.

But every year, many retired Scots are turning their holiday dreams into reality thanks to their property wealth.

Research from over-55 finance specialists Key Retirement revealed that of the nearly 1600 Scottish pensioners who used equity release plans to unlock the cash tied up in their home in 2016, 16 per cent used the money to fund holidays of a lifetime.

And with homeowners releasing an average of £55,200, the sky’s the limit when it comes to destinations. Here, we look at some of the hot and happening holidays you could experience in retirement. Widely agreed to be one of the most beautiful, tranquil and idyllic spots on Earth, everyone should experience Bali at least once in their lifetime.

From the white sandy beaches of the capital Denpasar to the art and culture of Ubud, this small island offers a world of opportunities for travellers.

Experience the island’s bustling nightlife, the countryside’s iconic rice terraces and the world-class surf by planning a multi-stop holiday spread over several weeks. Who hasn’t listened to Mick Jagger sing about getting his kicks, and started to imagine driving along America’s most famous highway in an opentop convertible?

Retirement is the perfect time to live out a fantasy, and taking a Route 66 road trip could be the perfect way to discover the backwaters of the good ol’ US of A. Backpacking around Europe’s major cities is usually something travellers do before they enter the world of work, taking advantage of long, carefree summers in between lectures and essays.

But with more money in your pocket and the office a distant memory, your retirement years are ideal for exploring more of the countries on our doorstep.