There’s a whole world of experiences and best vacation spots that are especially perfect for boomers and seniors. Australia’s over 55’s are a well-travelled lot. Mature travellers are out there experiencing the world in force. They are cruising Europe’s waterways, gazing at breathtaking views from the Rocky Mountaineer or driving around Australia in a caravan. Italy, Alaska, Tasmania and UK. Tick, tick, tick, tick.
Cheers, GoldLeaf Service. Photos: Rocky Mountaineer
Photo: Christina Pfeiffer
Photo: Tourism Tasmania & Supplied Courtesy of Wineglass Bay Cruises
Here are some more ideas for those of you who love exploring the world.
1-Australian dream
Been there
Driving around Australia or New Zealand in a caravan, motor-home or campervan has long been the great Australian dream and generations of grey nomads have embraced the caravanning lifestyle with relish.
Photo: Christina Pfeiffer
You’ll love
If you love caravanning why not try cruising. Cruising is a relaxing way of seeing Australia and a comfortable way to explore the world.
A large proportion of passengers booked on Australia and New Zealand itineraries are aged over 55 and are new to cruising.
Rather than hooking up the caravan and taking months to drive around, these circumnavigation voyages allow you to explore our diverse countryside in comfort. You’ll also get the chance to visit spectacular natural wonders that are not accessible by road.
2-Canadian landscapes
Been there
The stunning landscapes of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies are a magnet to Aussies. Winding through the Rocky Mountains in a glass-domed GoldLeaf carriage on the Rocky Mountaineer is a life-long dream for many retirees.
Photo: Parks Canada/Ryan Bray. Canadian Rockies
You’ll love
Seeing Canada’s mountainous landscapes from the air is simply breathtaking. In Alberta, helicopter flights offer birds’-eye views of stunning panoramas. Adventurous travellers can arrange to be dropped off in the wilderness with an experienced hiking guide.
There are hikes to suit all fitness levels.
British Columbia is famous for heli-fishing lodges such as Nimmo Bay Resort where nine cosy two-bedroom cottages are linked by a floating boardwalk to a floating main lodge.
Helicopter excursions from the lodge are memorable; choose a salmon fishing trip in remote river or land on a glacier for jaw-dropping views and a spot of lunch.
3-Romance by rail
Been there
For many mature travellers, a train journey is a romantic and leisurely way to see the world. In recent years, over 55’s have hit the tracks with gusto on legendary train journeys like the Rocky Mountaineer and The Ghan.
GoldLeaf Service Dome Coach on board the Rocky Mountaineer Train in Canada.
You’ll love
Explore India aboard the Maharajah’s Express, where you’ll be treated like a maharajah. Think turbaned butlers, plush interiors and polo books strewn round the colonial-chic Safari Bar.
Routes criss-cross the Indian subcontinent transporting guests in style to see Hindu temples, forests, forts and the Taj Mahal. The luxury train has 23 coaches, two-fine dining restaurants and a lounge. Super high-rollers should book the ultra lavish Presidential Suite, which occupies an entire car.
4-River cruising
Been there
For the last few years, European river cruising has been riding a wave of popularity. The cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest is a favourite among over 55’s but if you’ve done that there are plenty of other options in Europe such as cruising in Russia, between Moscow and St Petersburg, and cruising in France and Portugal.
You’ll love
As the idea of unpacking once and exploring a different place each day is irresistible to mature travellers, the demand for new river cruising destinations is sky high.
The Mekong River is a hot favourite with luxury vessels such as The Jayavarman and RV Amalotus cruising in Vietnam and Cambodia. Cruising in India is also becoming popular along the Ganges and Brahmaputra Rivers.
5-Sizzling hot Vietnam
Been there
Cheap flights, tasty food, the lure of untouched beaches and fascinating war history have enticed many Aussies to visit Vietnam in recent times.
Cyclo around Hanoi’s historic centre
You’ll love
Vietnam is a destination that draws visitors back again and again. And over 55’s can’t seem to get enough of the country. New hotels and improvements to the country’s infrastructure are attracting travellers who want to see treasures in Hanoi, Halong Bay, historic Hue, Ho Chi Minh City and UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hoi An in comfort.
Not all travellers are veterans returning to the battlegrounds of the seventies war. Many are newcomers wanting to experience the different cultures and traditions and generally see how local people lead their everyday lives.
6-Turkey’s treasures
Been there
Mention Italy and many baby boomers reminisce about good times renting villas, attending cooking classes and soaking up art, culture, music and history.
You’ll love
Exotic destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean such as Greece, Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Turkey are in demand. Most people who are well-travelled continue to seek more exotic and unique destinations for their getaways. And Turkey’s fascinating culture, history, ancient ruins and local cuisine are a magnet to those who are well-travelled.
7-Alpine boomers
Been there
Whether you’re an experienced skier or a first-timer, as we grow older and our reflexes become slower balance and speed control can be harder to maintain.
You’ll love
Skiing in Canada is fun for all ages and not as expensive as you may think. And if you’ve never been skiing before, click here to watch a beginners’ lesson with former Olympic champion Nancy Greene:
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