March 22, 2017 - Kate
As we move through different phases of life, our ideal travel plans are likely to change quite a bit. Where you want to go and what you’ll want to do once you get there will be very different when you’re a student than when you have a family. And your travel insurance should look different depending on what those plans are, which is why we’ve made it easy for you to find policies unique to your travel style.
If you’ve recently become an empty nester or retired (or both!), this is the time to get a little more selfish in your travels—you deserve it. Instead of thinking through where each of your family members want to go, you can think about what you want when you’re planning your travel. Plus, planning for just one or two people rather than a whole crew is a lot cheaper. With so many new doors open, it’s time to go on an adventure! Here are three ideas to help you get started:
 |
Score a Discount |
Moving into retirement not only means that you have extra time on your hands, but also, in many cases, that there are new discounts available to you. For example, a number of airlines offer discounts for those ages 60-65+. Right now, these airlines include Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. For some of these, senior discounts won’t be listed online, so be sure to call the airline before booking to get the scoop.
You’ll also be able to find discounts for other elements of your travel experience, such as car rentals, trains, hotels, and restaurants. To name just a few, Alamo, Best Western, Amtrak, and Marriott offer pretty great discounts for seniors—you can find a more exhaustive list here. And if you’re looking to book a vacation package where it’s all taken care of for you, Priceline offers senior deals on flight, hotel, and car rental options here, and AARP has some great package options here.
 |
Get On the Water |
Taking a cruise is a great way to see and experience a lot in one trip, without having to plan too much. One of the best parts about taking a cruise is that most of the logistics and details around your travel plans are handled for you—all you have to do is book your trip, relax, and enjoy.
First, you’ll need to make a few decisions. Are there particular parts of the world you want to see on your cruise? Are you looking for warmer or cooler climate? A cultural experience, or more adventure? Are you traveling solo, or with a companion? Answering these questions will help you determine what type of cruise you should go on.
Once you know the region you’d like to visit, you may have to decide between an ocean or river cruise. Generally, these are entirely different experiences, with ocean liners being much larger and offering a wider variety of onboard amenities, and river cruises being more intimate and less expensive. If you’re prone to seasickness, a river cruise might be a good option for you, as sailing usually happens while you’re asleep so you can spend entire days at port, whereas ocean liners often alternate sailing and touring days.
Then, take some time to review each cruise line’s amenities and options for activities. You can find some great tips to help you choose your cruise and take advantage of the experience here. And don’t forget your travel insurance when you’re cruising—the best options are here.
 |
Take a Tour |
Now that you’re no longer traveling with kids, you can forgo planning trips around family-friendly foods and activities, and cater to your own tastes and preferences. It’s time to explore rich cultures, try new cuisines, take in exotic landscapes, and indulge in your favorite hobbies.
If you’re interested in art, for example, we recommend that you head to Paris, France and sign up for a guided tour of its many incredible art museums, where you’ll find some of the most famous pieces in the world alongside lesser-known gems. If you fancy yourself a wine connoisseur, book a trip to Tuscany, the home of Chianti and a number of other well-known and loved varietals. Or if you’re into golf, take a golf tour of Scotland, where the sport originated—the number of stunning courses available to you will be seemingly endless.
If you’re an empty nester whose been somewhere particularly fun or unique, or know someone who has, share with us on Facebook, Twitter, or tag us on Instagram (@insureyonder). We always love hearing about your favorite travel destinations!
