Plan Your Well-Deserved Getaway for Maximum Joy
Who doesn’t want to escape to a tropical island, a fun adventure or an exotic foodie vacation?
You deserve a joyful and fulfilling trip! But, before you pack your bags and cue up your most relaxing yoga retreat yet, do your homework. The smartest course: Delve into the facts, rather than assuming anything. And take advantage of every 55-andolder perk and discount you can find. Plan ahead to map your routes, schedule your activities and set aside rest and relaxation time. If you’re joining a tour, check the activity level and the sightseeing itinerary. You can call tour companies to find out if they cater to certain age groups.
For example, the Toronto, Canadabased ElderTreks adventure travel company serves people ages 50 and older. AARP also lists tips, ideas and vacation suggestions at aarp.org/travel/vacation-ideas. Familyvacationist.com offers ideas for people who want to stay active rather than stick with cruises and bus tours.
If you’re going it alone or with family, you can plan a flexible schedule so that you can visit museums while your travel companions snorkel and scuba dive.
Make sure to also check your hotel location. If your goal is to get a good night’s sleep, is it near a nightlife district? Is it close to the places you want to see, or will you pay for transportation? And do you know the correct buses, trains and routes to take?
Brush up on the news to stay informed about any potential hazards at your destination, like boycotts, work stoppages or weather emergencies. It’s also good practice to research hidden expenses, like gratuity customs; the cost of meals, admission and ticket fees; and charges for hotel Wi-Fi access, parking, housecleaning, refrigerator snacks and spa services.
If you’re flying, you likely know that headlines warn of understaffed hotels, pilot shortages and downsized airline schedules — the after-effects of COVID lockdowns. So pack lightly and, if possible, bypass the need to check bags. Book fares that can be canceled. Take the first non-stop flight available — the earlier, the better. Get Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. Bring plenty of COVID tests, or find out where to obtain them at your destination. Check all COVID restriction updates. Figure out the best way to get medical, lost luggage and other insurance coverage. You can use specific credit cards that offer these benefits. If you’re renting a car, avoid weekends and get creative with booking dates to save money.
If you’re traveling to one of the 19 European Union countries that uses the euro, take advantage of the favorable exchange rate by paying for purchases with a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees. Look on the bright side: Airlines, hotels and travel companies desperately want your business. They’re waiving fees, rolling out new spas and themed tours and increasing bonus points for loyalty club members.
Focus on the details and stay flexible. Dream big, as many international destinations offer generous benefits. And, enjoy your trip!