Upon retiring as a physician assistant at the age of 65, Mary Krewsun embarked on her long-awaited journey of travel. With newfound time on her hands, she pursued a goal she had long dreamed of: walking 100 kilometers (approximately 62 miles) along the historic pilgrimage route known as the Camino de Santiago, culminating in northwest Spain.
Inspired by her cousin’s experience on the Camino, Krewsun was determined to add this adventure to her bucket list. Opting for a more comfortable accommodation experience, she and two companions chose boutique properties over traditional hostels, arranging for their luggage to be transported between stops. “I didn’t want to sleep in a dorm with 15 men snoring,” Krewsun remarked.
Despite occasional foot discomfort, the journey proved to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Krewsun. “You better do this now while you still can,” she reasoned, reflecting on the decision to embark on the pilgrimage.
Krewsun’s retirement goal of exploring the world is shared by many. While travel plans were delayed for retirees during the pandemic, they are now eager to resume their adventures. Whether it’s a local road trip or an extravagant international excursion, retirees are expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing travel surge, projected to continue through summer 2023.
According to a recent survey by AARP, a majority of adults aged 50 and over (62%) plan to take at least one vacation in 2023, with most intending to embark on three to four trips.
With time and savings at their disposal, retirees may find themselves pondering the question: where to next? Here are some retirement trip ideas to kickstart your travel planning.
Around-the-world cruise
Around-the-world cruises, lasting two months or more, are experiencing high demand, with some cruise lines offering world cruises for the first time. Royal Caribbean stands out with its record-breaking nine-month itinerary covering 65 countries across seven continents, with the inaugural voyage scheduled for December 2023.
While the concept of such cruises is to explore the world comprehensively, it’s essential to note that the term “world” is often used loosely. Many itineraries do not visit every continent but instead combine several iconic destinations. For example, Cunard offers 100-plus day world cruises annually, with voyages from Southampton in the United Kingdom to destinations such as Dubai, Singapore, Melbourne, and Cape Town aboard ships like the Queen Mary 2. In 2024, Queen Mary 2 will embark on a 108-night World Voyage spanning Europe, Africa, and Australasia.
Upscale cruise line Oceania Cruises offers “Around the World in 180 Days” itineraries, while ultra-luxury operator Silversea has introduced soft-adventure expedition world cruises from pole to pole. If you’re considering a world cruise, preparation is key. Familiarize yourself with potential itineraries and be ready to book as soon as reservations open, as these cruises often sell out quickly, sometimes within a single day.
Family reunion
For retirees eager to strengthen bonds with their grandchildren, family reunion trips offer valuable opportunities for bonding and creating cherished memories. These experiences often become the stuff of family lore, with amusing anecdotes like “Remember when grandpa mistook a clump of seaweed for a big fish?”
The choice of destination for these trips depends on the preferences of you, the children, and the grandchildren. Options range from a magical getaway at a Disney resort to booking a cozy condo in a ski destination, enjoying the rustic charm of a dude ranch, or indulging in the luxury of chartering a yacht in the Caribbean.
Consider staying at a traditional resort such as the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, or the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island in Michigan. These establishments offer not only elegant accommodations but also opportunities for timeless activities such as dressing up for dinner and engaging in classic lawn games—a perfect way to divert the grandkids’ attention from their iPads.
To plan the perfect family reunion trip, present a few destination ideas and gauge your family’s preferences. By involving everyone in the decision-making process, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
Follow your passion
Retirement presents an ideal opportunity to indulge in your passions, and many retirees find that their hobbies and interests make excellent themes for travel. For instance, if you’re an avid golfer looking to refine your skills, consider planning a dream trip to renowned courses like St. Andrews Old Course and Royal Dornoch in Scotland, both of which are acclaimed as some of the finest in the world.
Alternatively, for those with a penchant for fine spirits, embark on a journey along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to enhance your tasting abilities. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the world of wine on a river cruise through Bordeaux, where you can sample exquisite vintages amid picturesque vineyards.
For the ultimate luxury experience, indulge in a high-end driving adventure, such as the six-day Porsche Travel Experience, where you can navigate a Porsche 911 through the scenic mountain passes of the French Alps. This exclusive package includes accommodations in a luxury Alpine “igloo” and a thrilling helicopter flight over Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak.
Walk the world’s great treks
If you’re inspired by retiree Krewsun’s adventures, you might consider embarking on a shortened version of the famous Camino Frances pilgrim trail, known as the “Camino in Style” hike, as she did through Macs Adventures. Alternatively, for those with exceptional fitness levels, tackling the entire 500-mile Camino Frances over approximately 35 days is also an option.
Numerous other breathtaking hiking trails await exploration in destinations worldwide. Among them is the moderately strenuous Kungsleden, also known as The King’s Trail, spanning about 273 miles through the picturesque landscapes of northern Sweden. Alternatively, for a more challenging trek, consider the highly strenuous 26-mile Inca Trail, which ascends 13,838 feet in elevation over four days to reach the awe-inspiring Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. Companies such as Wildlife Trekking and Country Walkers offer a variety of organized group treks to these and many other remarkable hiking destinations.
Book a bike trip
Ideal for active retirees, bike tours offer a wide range of experiences, from leisurely rides to more challenging adventures. It’s essential to select a tour that matches your fitness level and desired route. For those seeking a more relaxed option, companies like Backroads and VBT now offer e-bikes on select tours in the U.S. and Europe, providing an extra boost for riders.
For a scenic journey through Switzerland, Germany, and France, consider VBT’s Black Forest and the Alsace Wine Route itinerary, where you can pedal or use e-bikes to explore charming landscapes. Alternatively, if you’re up for a challenge, Backroads offers a thrilling trip through the Canadian Rockies, from Banff to Jasper National Park. Experienced cyclists can opt for Level 4 or 5 routes on select days, including an 86-mile ride with a 5,800-foot elevation gain.
While Level 2 cyclists may enjoy a 22-mile route near picturesque Lake Louise, those tackling Level 5 routes will embark on a more demanding journey. Both Backroads and VBT also offer well-planned self-guided bike tours, allowing you to explore at your own pace and tailor the experience to your preferences.
Live like a local
If you have the luxury of time, consider the enriching experience of settling in one location for an extended period instead of rushing through multiple destinations. Opting for an apartment or house rental allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, shop at markets, cook your own meals, and mingle with residents—a truly rewarding experience. Embrace the opportunity to engage with the community, even if you occasionally encounter curious references to “the Americans” as you stroll through quaint streets in a small Italian town.
Thanks to platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, finding comfortable accommodations in desirable locations has never been easier. Simply input your travel dates and preferences, whether it’s high-speed internet, laundry facilities, or specific amenities. Take the time to peruse ratings and reviews from previous guests to ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay. With careful planning and consideration, you’re all set for an unforgettable journey.
Take that once in a lifetime adventure
Maybe you’ve postponed your dream adventure of witnessing penguins in South Georgia and Antarctica, snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, or going on a safari to spot the Big Five in Africa—all because work commitments made it impossible to take time off. But now that you’re retired, what’s holding you back?
Closer to home, Alaska beckons with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. To truly experience all that Alaska has to offer, plan for a minimum of two weeks, if not more, to explore both its land and sea treasures.
Go on a road trip
If you’ve been postponing a grand road trip due to time constraints, now is the perfect opportunity to hit the open road and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Consider exploring the stunning landscapes of Arizona and Utah with a scenic route through national parks, or discover the diverse beauty of California from San Francisco to San Diego along the Pacific Coast Highway—a journey spanning approximately 600 miles of breathtaking coastline.
For a nostalgic experience, set out on the iconic Route 66, a legendary highway stretching 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. Immerse yourself in Americana as you explore state and national parks, historic trading posts, and iconic landmarks such as the Milk Bottle Grocery in Oklahoma City and Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.
Another unforgettable drive awaits on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile scenic roadway winding through the picturesque landscapes of Virginia and North Carolina. Dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive” by the National Park Service, this route offers stunning vistas and abundant natural beauty.
For a more adventurous journey, consider circling Iceland on the 825-mile Ring Road, where you’ll encounter dramatic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and otherworldly scenery at every turn.