Once retired, many people take advantage of this free time to travel. Going to visit your grandson who is studying in Canada? Finally going to Moscow, which you have dreamed of discovering for years? Treat yourself to a cruise on the Mediterranean Sea? Or simply go and enjoy the sun in the south of France? Whether you want to go abroad or stay in mainland France, retirement is an ideal time to travel. However, with age, traveling requires special organization…
A lot of advantages …
The first advantage is obviously time. As a senior, you are of course more flexible on dates, and can therefore leave at any time, even out of season, without having to make sure you can take enough leave. You can leave for 3 days or a month, and prepare a trip to the other side of the world months in advance, such as a weekend in Brittany with your daughter two days before departure.
Preserve your mental health
It is often said that travel builds youth, and if it is true, it also builds the mind , regardless of age. By discovering new landscapes or new cultures, you stimulate your curiosity and open yourself to new horizons.
Traveling also helps break the routine , promotes creativity , reduces stress , and encourages adaptability . For many people, travel represents an escape from everyday life, a good way to recharge the batteries before returning to everyday life.
Take care of your physical health
Traveling is also a great way to get physical activity without really realizing it . Visits to towns or museums, or even hikes… It is rare that we are not on the move during the holidays. In addition, whether you go on sunny days or on the contrary in winter, traveling often encourages you to get some fresh air and sunshine : enough to stock up on vitamin D to be in good shape!
Strengthen social bonds and break isolation
Whether you go alone, in a group or to visit family or friends, going on a trip is an opportunity to meet new people or to strengthen existing ties if you are going to see your family in particular. Especially if you are used to living alone, traveling can allow you to break away from the isolation you suffer from, and breathe new life into your daily life .
Take advantage of adapted stays and reduced rates
As a senior, you can benefit from preferential rates from certain tour operators, airlines and railway companies, or accommodation establishments. For example, the ANCV (national agency for holiday vouchers) has offered the “Seniors on vacation” program since 2007. Thanks to this initiative, seniors over 60 and their caregivers can benefit from organized group stays at the fixed rates.
But also some risks…
But possible health problems, fatigue and stress caused by the organization and the trip, or even the lack of mobility which reduces possibilities, can constitute obstacles for some seniors. However, it is entirely possible to go on a trip, even after 60 years . The main thing is to listen to you and take into account your abilities, your needs and your desires , to adapt your stay and leave in complete safety .
6 practical tips
Have the ARIANE reflex if you go abroad
ARIANE is an official site of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs allowing you to declare to the French administration that you are temporarily leaving French territory , so that you can easily be notified and repatriated if necessary. You will be able to provide useful information such as your itinerary and the planned mode of transport, the duration of the trip, the address where you will be accommodated, emergency contacts, etc.
Filling out an NCAD form if you have a disability
Due to age or possible illness, you may need equipment during your trip , at the hotel or during the journey, on the plane for example. Be sure to inform the relevant service providers and complete the NCAD form when booking your plane ticket if you require assistance, such as a wheelchair.
Traveling in a group
Traveling alone can be risky, especially as you age. It is better to be surrounded in the event of an accident, and also to avoid feeling isolated . For example, you can consider organized vacation club trips or cruises in particular. These organizations offer numerous activities and visits suitable for all travelers, and ensure a certain comfort and numerous facilities available.
Think about the medical examination before departure
If you have chronic illnesses , such as diabetes or cholesterol for example, it is best to consult your doctor before departure , to ensure that you are fit to leave and to obtain any advice and treatment that may be necessary. . Also be sure to take your medical documents , most recent test results, health and vaccination records with you , in case you need to see another doctor during your trip.
Take out senior travel insurance
If you are traveling outside the European Union , to be covered in the event of a travel accident, injury or illness, it is important to have senior travel insurance , as medical expenses can, in some countries, turn out to be very expensive. This will also allow you to be repatriated urgently if it is impossible to receive the necessary care in the country where you are.