Friday, August 21, 2009

Senior Travel...Getting Away Without Getting Taken



Dreaming of venturing off to some exotic destination? Looking to rent a ski chalet to enjoy the holidays with your children and grandchildren this year? Or maybe educational travel is what you yearn for? Whatever your passion, you can find what you're looking for on the links below. This list of websites offers senior travelers great information on everything from where to go, to how to get there, and how to avoid the hidden costs.

You knew that AARP provided you with great discounts, but did you know their website is brimming with travel ideas and information? The AARP website is filled with articles aimed at the over 55 traveler. You can read about which airlines don't nickle and dime their passengers, destinations that provide fun for every generation, where to find freebies in major cities, plus links to discount cruises. There is so much information on this one site, you may find it difficult to choose where you want to venture to next!

Click Here to visit the AARP's website


Do you thirst for knowledge? Are you the kind of person who can't wait to learn more about something or someplace? Then Elder Hostels may just be the ticket! Billing themselves as the travel company that offers "Adventures in Lifelong Learning," they provide travel opportunites in the USA, Canada and Internationally. You can glean knowledge about any number of subjects from their wide range of experts all while taking in the beauty of a new and exciting destination. Ever wanted to go birding in Costa Rica? How about delving in to the magical history of the Scottish Highlands? Or maybe you're still a kid at heart and want to know what goes on behind the scenes at Disney World. Their website gives you trip details including daily itineraries, plus specifics for any physical requirements, such as hiking or biking involved on certain trips. Don't forget to check out their website for any "last minute" specials!

Click Here to visit the Elderhostel Website



Grand Circle Travel is another great place to begin your search for the perfect vacation. Specializing in ocean and river cruises, their site offers plenty of information to stir your imagination. Want to experience the Romance of the Rhine and Mosel or cruise down China's Yangtze River, then Grand Circle Travel might be the place to start. Their site also offers traveler reviews and free or low-cost single supplements for the solo traveler.

Click Here to visit the Grand Circle Travel Website
 
If you like doing things yourself and want to find a good deal on a vacation rental on your own, you might venture over to Vacation Rentals By Owner. This site allows homeowners to list their vacation properties for rent. With rentals all over the world you can pick your destination and even a specific area (such as "North Myrtle Beach") to narrow your search. Most owners have pictures of their property, detailed descriptions of the home and it's amenities, as well as an availability calendar. Because many of the properties aren't managed by a property manager you'll want to do your homework and make sure you're getting what you are paying for. I speak from experience in saying that we've had wonderful luck with this website, including a recent trip to North Carolina where we rented a beautiful home on Lake Lure for a family reunion.
 
Click Here to visit the Vacation Rentals By Owner Website

 
However and wherever you chose to travel be sure to remember your medications and be sure to check with airlines, cruise lines, or railroads to ensure they can meet any special needs you may have. Always make copies of your passport to leave at home with family or friends and write down important phone numbers such as your credit card company or bank numbers in case your cards are stolen or lost. If you'll be gone for a long period of time, consider turning off your water at your house or make sure you have someone you trust check on your property while you are away. Most importantly, have a wonderful trip, enjoy the sights and sounds of your new surroundings and take plenty of pictures to capture those special memories!

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