Travelers are more satisfied, in the physical, emotional and financial sense of the word, than non-travelers, according to the Global Coalition on Aging’s report “Journey to Healthy Aging: Planning for Travel in Retirement.” Almost half of those surveyed say travel improves their mood and outlook and one-third of those interviewed say it reduces their stress, strengthens interpersonal connections and improves health. Embrace the opportunity to travel and go abroad for a European vacation you’ll never forget.
Trip planning essentials
Apply for a passport at least three months in advance to ensure enough time for processing and delivery. If you are on Medicare, remember that it will not cover healthcare overseas. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs recommends securing travel health insurance for emergency medical and dental treatment. Look for a policy that also covers medical evacuation to the U.S.
Brush up on the driving laws and conditions in your vacation destination. For example,Top Tests offers mock tests and driving information in the U.K. They also provide a Highway Code on everything from how to handle a roundabout to understanding lane markings.
Yorkshire, Northern England
Senior foodies will love tasting their way through Yorkshire. Dotted with castles and medieval abbeys, Yorkshire boasts a reputation for the best food and wine around the U.K. It’s only second to London, featuring a variety of Michelin-starred restaurants. A rugged backdrop frames the charming gray stone villages making for a dramatic landscape while eating pork belly and seasonal ingredients at the Black Swan at Oldstead.
Barcelona, Spain
Spain is generally more affordable than many European countries and boasts world-class cities like Barcelona. Barcelona has been called Europe’s best bargain retirement city by U.S. News Money. Take a vacation to Spain’s second largest city with pre-Roman and Modernista architecture. La Ribera area once housed the city’s richest families and is home to the Picasso Museum and Santa Maria del Mar Church. Stop by Las Ramblas for a glass of wine and people watching while taking in the Gran Teatre del Liceu, and Boqueria Market.
Portmeirion, Wales
Portmeirion’s unique history dates back to 1925 when architect Clough Williams-Ellis decided to develop it to give people a different perspective on how nature and buildings could coexist and compliment the landscape. He envisioned the prefabricated village as a place for events, concerts, celebrations and exhibitions. Go after 3:30 p.m. for a discounted admission and see the village, gardens and surrounding woods.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is popular with senior tourists looking for architectural wonders, rich history and plenty of attractions. One of the oldest city’s in Europe, Lisbon houses a 16th century Moorish castle, the largest Aquarium in Europe, and stunning pedestrian squares full of fountains, statues and restaurants. Hop on Tram 28 to take a cable car ride through the city and rub elbows with the locals.
Puglia, Italy
Head to Puglia for white washed landscapes along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Take a cooking class and learn more about the region’s olive groves, artichokes, and fresh seafood. Depending on your preference, head to the area in July and August for a food festival, concert and party with droves of Italian tourists. Or avoid the late summer months and enjoy a quieter vacation in a hilltop town.
