These days, when we talk about senior citizens, a different image is projected in our heads than decades ago. Long gone is the idea that the beloved “grandparents” do not leave their homes or maintain a passive life. On the contrary, many elderly people give place to their lives a healthy attitude, gym, walking or touring tourist places. In short, it can be said that today’s “grandparents” are more active than those of long ago and take advantage of this stage of life to fulfill desires or pending projects. One of them is traveling.
Anyone who has traveled a lot can surely tell you that certain tourist destinations are better adapted to certain people of a certain age group than other groups.
Some tourist destinations attract mostly young students, for example, Barcelona or Mykonos (although there are options for adults within these two incredible places).
Other destinations, on the other hand, concentrate largely on more “mature” tourists.
A good alternative for the beloved “grandparents” is the package to Turkey and Greece. A trip full of history for those who wish to know the most important aspects of the millenary Athens, exploring its cultural and historical places, up to Santorini, the famous “blue and white island.” This can include a cruise. It is that one of the classics of tourism for seniors is to enjoy a relaxing cruise on the sea. The boats are real floating cities, with many activities for seniors and fully accessible facilities. Among the most popular cruises are those that sail along the Mediterranean. For example, the beautiful Italian coast or the Greek islands have various circuits on offer.
But when it comes to cruises, nothing is set in stone. For seniors who prefer more exotic destinations, there are routes along the Nile in winter. Another more romantic option is signing up for a sailboat cruise. There are many destinations with these types of luxury boats. The cruises let you see almost any coastal area of the planet and its main cities. All this with exquisite attention and all the comforts.
Another classic of senior tourism is to spend a few days in a spa. In all the countries with beautiful beaches (Greece, Italy, Turkey, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates) that Greca Viajes operates, there are facilities adapted for the elderly, with activities and care to improve health and in spectacular surroundings.
Some old people may even choose to retire in such a country, for example, Italy, that offers great living conditions and an attractive program for seniors.
Some popular cities and destinations are sometimes overlooked. The third age is a perfect time to fulfill those pending desires. Don’t forget to book vacation accommodation in advance.
Among these favorite places for seniors, these destinations stand out:
Gold Coast in California, USA
The route of the golden coast in Catalonia is a great option to see different points with beautiful beaches, natural pools, and reefs. A beautiful place with many varied options that will captivate the whole family. It would be a great idea to rent a remote house with an ocean view this way. Fall asleep with the sound of waves; what could be better? On Karta vacation rentals, you can find nice options.
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
A city that breathes light, culture, and many activities to offer you.
San Diego, California, USA
One of the most visited cities in California. A sun and beach destination that has captivated thousands of retirees for its numerous leisure options for seniors. In San Diego, there is everything for everyone.
Washington, D.C, USA
Granada attracts and captivates with its impressive culture, history, and tradition. An ideal destination to enjoy with the family.
Egypt’s pyramids
Africa continues to be a place that attracts. Especially the Egyptian pyramids, which are on almost every bucket list. There are many offers to combine this destination with others nearby.
Rome
And from the Holy City to the Eternal City. Rome is also a classic destination for senior tourism, and there are many vacation packages to get to know its History and impressive cultural offer.
Amalfi Coast
Small villages nestled in the hills, a deep blue sea, subway caves, and a road winding through plantations. Such is the Amalfi Coast in the south of Naples, a strip of about 50 km along a promontory, one of Europe’s most beautiful coastal areas. A quiet tourist destination, full of beautiful bars and restaurants and a unique view.
Greek Islands
Through a cruise, after touring the impressive and ancient Athens, you can visit the beautiful Greek islands. The ships are authentic floating cities, with many activities for seniors and fully accessible facilities. A not-to-be-missed tour.
Istanbul
Istanbul can also be reached by cruise ship. This is one of the largest cities in the world. Undoubtedly, it is the most famous and populated city in Turkey. The beauty of Istanbul is governed by the gashes that trace the Bosphorus Strait (which separates Asia from Europe) and the Golden Horn that connects the bridges and ships. It is also governed by the colors provided by the dozens of mosques. This destination can be done slowly, with strategic focuses, and through the security and information, our guides provide.
Venice
Riding the gondolas is one of the most popular activities among seniors. This unique city is built on an archipelago of 118 small islands connected by 455 bridges, including the islands of Murano and Burano.
Undoubtedly, in Venice, you can walk along its beautiful little streets over the water, contemplate the Grand Canal, and visit St. Mark’s Square with its Basilica (“The most elegant hall in Europe”… that is how Napoleon Bonaparte defined it). In turn, visit the Doge’s Palace and enjoy the beautiful view from the Rialto Bridge. Not to be missed. Precautions to take when traveling as a senior citizen.
Final thoughts
Among these precautions, it is necessary to value those related to health and accessibility. As some exclusive sites for seniors indicate, senior tourism has its own characteristics that differentiate it from the rest.
In addition, check the existence of special menus and, if possible, bring a medical report including any illnesses you may have. With these precautions and good planning to avoid stressful situations, one can live pleasant trips in this stage, which is only the prelude to the fourth age. Have a good trip!