Pounce on the World: 6 Tips for Stress-Free Senior Travel
Barcelona with friends — photo supplied by the author
Anyone who really knows me can attest to the fact that travel is one of my greatest passions. My parents introduced me to Europe at the tender age of twelve, and I often say that they created the travel monster that I have become.
Since then, I have traveled across the Atlantic on multiple occasions and have developed a series of six practical recommendations from my personal experiences. I hope these tips enhance your travel planning experiences, too.
Comfortable Flights, No Matter the Seat
Friends call me a world traveler, but do not agree. I am a Europe Girl, and this area of the world continues to call out for me to return. I enjoy exploring this area of our planet and keep discovering more in each country.
I wish I could always fly business to Europe, but I cannot. I splurged one time and felt like a queen in my perfect little pod. However, since I travel frequently, my budget just will not allow it a second time.
So, I enter the plane, and I longingly look left and wish I could enter the inner sanctum of luxury. But I turn right and enter with the masses.
There are, however, a few hacks that I’ve discovered that will make that economy seat a bit more inviting.
First, get an aisle seat. If you are a senior woman (we don’t need to go into details, if you know, you know…) you may need to leave your seat frequently for a bathroom break. I, for one, prefer not to wake up or bother the passenger blocking my exit. Yes, there are times I must make that very quick getaway.
Next, invest in a foot hammock. I discovered this on a flight from Sicily when my aisle mate pulled down her tray table and slipped this contraption over the back of it. It was ingenious and I envied her ability to just lift her feet off the ground.
A foot hammock is not as perfect as a flat bed in a pod, but it will elevate your feet just enough to provide a bit more circulation and reduce your discomfort. This product has been a game changer. They only cost around $15, and you can find numerous options on Amazon.
Finally, if you can sleep, then do so. If not, get up and stroll the aisles, hang out near the flight attendants, get a snack or a glass of water. Just move. Your legs will love you for it.
Savor Every Bite: Navigating Food on the Road
I always start off with the best of intentions. In my under-the-seat travel bag, I stock nuts, an apple, and a protein bar.
I feel good about myself.
I drink water.
However, this lasts about as long as it takes to dim the lights for the flight sleep phase. This is about as far as my good eating goals go.
Once I arrive in Europe, I am tantalized by the pastas, pain au chocolates, French onion soups, not to mention the alcoholic delights of wine and an Aperol Spritz.
After all, isn’t this one of the reasons we vagabonds enjoy travel? So, I put aside my self-guilt and give into temptation to relish and appreciate why I am there in the first place.
And it is a vacation! After every one of these trips, I promise myself that at the next one, I will do better, and I usually return to my healthy food options.
My tip: HAVE WILLPOWER.
photo by Laura Lee @pouncetothrive
Explore More: Why You Should Walk the Road Less Traveled
Walking is one of my favorite forms of exercise, so it comes naturally to me.
I do not need a Fitbit to mark my steps. I just walk everywhere.
This is the best means of travel, especially in a city. You can explore and discover on your own and step off the beaten path. There are definitely times you need an Uber, a bus, or the metro, but whenever you can, take the road less traveled.
Connect & Thrive: Transforming from Tourist to Traveler
I will engage with a local in a heartbeat.
This approach offers an effective means of gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of any location you visit. I will stop locals asking directions, to recommend a restaurant, or to sugar up their dogs because I am missing mine.
I have dragged more than one stranger into a selfie shot, and these usually end up being my most treasured photos.
It is amazing how easy it is to approach a stranger, but naturally, do not be foolhardy. I am always with someone, usually in a group, so I never feel alone or in danger.
These interactions help me develop personal growth, tolerance, and a broader worldview. Isn’t this why we travel in the first place? Connecting this way transforms you from just a tourist to a world traveler.
Practicing the art of becoming a traveler, not a tourist in Umbria — photo supplied by the author
The Power of Solo Time: When to Go It Alone
When traveling with friends, I always set time aside for myself.
On a trip to Paris, I left my companions and walked all over the Left Bank of Paris, exploring the Pantheon area on my own.
I found the most authentic café and sat on the sidewalk, eating my French onion soup, leisurely drinking a glass of wine, dipping my bread in the broth, and simply enjoying the moment. I ended up walking through Luxembourg Gardens where a local orchestra was performing.
Sitting on a park bench in this gorgeous setting, I had a limited but sweet conversation with a Parisian woman. A fond memory!
On a trip to Florence, Italy last year, once again I opted for a solo day. Umbrella in hand on this very rainy day, I discovered a darling restaurant.
As the tables were quite close to one another, I met a cute young couple from Sicily. Again, a conversation ensued, and I shared with them my impressions from my recent trip to Sicily.
As I exited the restaurant, I encountered a woman and her adult daughter, who wore a distinctive outfit that included a floral headband and a sash. When I asked, I learned the daughter had just graduated college, and the flower band was a symbol of her achievement.
Taking time out for oneself can be beneficial. Though I love my travel friends, it can be stressful when too many people are making decisions.
These alone times allow me to breathe, to take a mental break, to let go of worries and stress. The next time you travel, detach yourself from the group for a little while, and GO SOLO.
unsplash
The Art of Chilling: Giving Yourself a Break from the Burnout
Traveling can be stressful and tiring. Sometimes I just take the day off.
I may choose to remain indoors, engaging in activities such as resting, reading, watching television, or simply observing from the window, without needing to dress formally or leave my hotel or rental house.
Instead of meeting my companions at 9 a.m. for a morning excursion, I say, “Y’all go ahead. I’m just going to chill today.”
And when I say chill, I truly mean chill. This is plain old travel burnout, and it is fine to give in to it.
You will be better off, more energized, and ready to fire on all cylinders the next day. Do not hesitate to give in to just a day of doing nothing.
Final Thoughts
My travels have been made much more enjoyable by keeping things simple and relaxed.
I really feel that if you can embrace walking everywhere to really see a city, chatting with locals for genuine experiences, and taking time to wander or chill on your own—even if you are traveling with friends—you will have a much better experience.
And if you need it, do not feel bad about taking a day off just to rest and recharge.
The vibe: explore, connect, and do not forget to care for yourself along the way.
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