You worked hard all these years to make your retirement a golden period. Now that you have finally crossed 60, it is time to focus on your dreams and happiness.
The best thing you can do is take a soothing break and spend time with yourself in a distant natural wonder or bustling destination.
To help you explore the world independently in your post-retirement life, we have compiled a list of the best places for senior citizens to go. Keep reading!
Best Places for Senior Citizens to Visit
Istanbul, Turkey
Geographically, Istanbul is a place where East and West meet. This city is preferred not only by senior citizens but also by youngsters.
So, if you are an elderly solo traveller or someone travelling with parents and looking for things to do with elderly near me, here are some wonderful places to visit for senior citizens in Istanbul:
Hagia Sophia: Once a church, converted to a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia walks you through Istanbul's history. Besides its religious importance, the architecture and beautiful mosaics are a sight.
Topkapi Palace: Ottoman Sultans resided here for over 400 years. What makes this place a must-visit are the palace's holy relics of the Muslim world, including Prophet Muhammad's cloak and sword.
Blue Mosque: Noted for its beautiful blue tiles, the Blue Mosque welcomes tourists as well. The six minarets are another notable aspect to capture with your camera when here.
Grand Bazaar: If you love shopping, do not miss out on the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world! You can find various goods at this bazaar, from jewellery and ceramics to spices and textiles.
Bosphorus Cruise: A cruise on the Bosphorus Strait is the perfect way to explore the city's landmarks, including the Dolmabahçe Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge.
Istanbul travel budget: ₹1,25,000 to ₹2,00,000 per person for a week (charges include airfare).
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a city on the northeastern coast of Spain. It is the country's second-most populous city and a major Mediterranean port.
Gothic Quarter: This is the centre of the old city of Barcelona. It stretches from La Rambla to Via Laietana and from the Mediterranean seafront to Ronda de Sant Pere. This place is recommended for a walk along narrow cobbled streets with many historic sites.
Gaudí Tour: The credit for Barcelona's architecture goes to Antoni Gaudí. A tour of his works takes you through the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
Rioja Wine Tour: Spain is famous for its wines, and a tour of the Rioja region is a great way for seniors to sample some of the country's best.
Madrid Old Town Tour: While not in Barcelona, a short drive to this place is full of history and charm.
Citizen Café: This café in Plaza Urquinaona is a great place for seniors to relax and enjoy a meal. The staff is friendly, and the food is delicious.
Barcelona travel budget: ₹1,25,000 to ₹2,00,000 per person for a week (charges include airfare).
Melbourne, Australia
It is the coastal capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria, with various attractions for all ages. Some of the best travel destinations for senior citizens in Australia are:
ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image): Situated in Melbourne's Federation Square, ACMI is Australia's national museum of screen culture. It offers interactive exhibitions, art installations, film programs and special events.
Phillip Island: A short trip from Melbourne takes you to Phillip Island, where you can see native wildlife in their natural habitat. From the famous penguin parade to wallabies and emus, explore it all.
Melbourne's Back Streets: Melbourne is famous for its hidden cafes and restaurants. From Vue de Monde in Central Melbourne to Second Home in Eltham, discovering them and interacting with other retirees is one of the real joys of exploring the city.
Queen Victoria Market: For a relaxed evening during your hectic trip, visit this market at the corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets. You can enjoy food and drinks while experiencing a mix of ethnicities and cultures.
Shrine of Remembrance: Experience the Shrine in depth during a 45-minute excursion led by a guide. Learn about the fascinating history of this monument born of grief.
Melbourne travel budget: ₹1,90,000 to ₹2,50,000 per person for a week (charges include airfare).
Dubai, UAE
Be it natural beauty or skyline architecture, Dubai is famous for both. As a senior citizen, you must not skip exploring the following places:
Al Seef: Overlooking the Creek, Al Seef is a designed lifestyle destination. You can stroll along the creek, ride a traditional abra and shop at the old-fashioned souk.
Old Dubai: Do not restrict your trip to the skyline; put Old Dubai on your bucket list. This area is home to many heritage sites, such as the Dubai Museum, Heritage House and the Arabian Tea House.
Hatta Village: Explore the other side of the desert at Hatta Village. Trust us, you won't find a better place than this to learn about the traditional Emirati lifestyle.
Burj Khalifa: This place needs no introduction. Simply visit the world's highest observation decks on the 124th and 125th levels of Burj Khalifa. Modern telescopes are provided at every viewpoint, offering an up-close look at the city below.
Desert Safari Adventure: Do not let your age stop you from having an adventure trip! Enjoy traditional Arabian hospitality in luxury Bedouin tents while exploring desert dunes on a jeep safari adventure.
Dubai travel budget: ₹65,000 to ₹1,00,000 per person for a week (charges include airfare).
Singapore
Singapore is an island country in Southeast Asia. Despite its small size, Singapore packs a punch with its rich cultural heritage, world-class attractions and culinary delights. Here are some places to go for senior citizens:
Disappearing Trade Tour: Take this tour to glimpse Singapore's past. It showcases trades and crafts that are slowly disappearing. It is an educational and nostalgic journey for seniors.
Sentosa Island: This wheelchair-friendly island offers attractions like the S.E.A. Aquarium and the Singapore Cable Car. It provides wheelchair-accessible transportation options and is connected to VivoCity via a fully sheltered boardwalk.
Singapore Botanic Gardens: With wide walkways and sprawling green fields, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is perfect for a serene day out. The National Orchid Garden is a highlight, showcasing over 1,000 different species of orchids.
Singapore Flyer: This is one of the world's largest observation wheels, offering stunning cityscape views.
Gardens by the Bay: This nature park is a must-visit for its stunning Supertree Grove and cooled conservatories.
Singapore travel budget: ₹75,000 to ₹1,25,000 per person for a week (charges exclude airfare).
Bali, Indonesia
Bali, an Indonesian island, is a paradise for travellers of all ages, including senior citizens. Here are some vacation spots for older adults:
Uluwatu Temple: This ancient temple is on a cliffside. Besides its importance among locals, the place offers a breathtaking sea view. However, be mindful of the monkeys that inhabit the area.
Tirta Empul Temple: This temple is known for its holy spring water. When here, participate in a purification ritual, immersing yourself in the temple's sacred waters.
Balangan Beach: This long, narrow, stretched beach is below the rocky cliffs, covered with palm trees and white sand.
Mount Batur: Located in the Kintamani region, this active volcano is known for its beautiful views. For lodging and dining, visit a nearby village.
Lombok: It is a tropical paradise noted for beaches, majestic volcanoes and cultural temples. When here, visit Gunung Rinjani, the second-tallest volcano in Indonesia.
Bali travel budget: ₹30,000 to ₹1,00,000 per person for a week (charges exclude airfare).
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and serene canals make it a must-visit city. Here are some places to explore:
Van Gogh Museum: You love art? Visit this museum that houses the world's most vast display of works by Vincent van Gogh, a Dutch post-impressionist painter.
Anne Frank House: This historic house is where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. Visit to this place will take you through her life and the horrors of the Holocaust.
Jewish Cultural Quarter: This place has the Jewish Historical Museum, the Portuguese Synagogue and the National Holocaust Memorial. It is a gateway to the history and culture of the Jewish community in Amsterdam.
Canal Cruise: Take a canal cruise to enjoy the city's beautiful architecture and landmarks in the most relaxing way. Some cruises even offer live guides and onboard bars.
Body Worlds: This unique museum explores the intricacies of the human body and the impact of happiness on our health.
Amsterdam travel budget: ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,25,000 per person for a week (charges include airfare).
Conclusion
Do not let old age deter you from exploring the world. Travel to the beautiful locations mentioned above alone or with your family and create wonderful memories.
Although travelling in old age brings joy, you should be prepared for any uncertainty on your trip by acquiring travel insurance. With Reliance General Insurance, you can get a customised
senior citizen travel insurance, which fulfils the insurance requirements of the elderly.
Additionally, if you are travelling with your spouse or children, consider our family travel insurance. With family travel insurance, you can cover your entire family under a single plan, and all the covered members can enjoy the policy benefits for a single policy premium.
Not only that, Reliance General Insurance International travel insurancealso covers medical expenses if you experience health issues while exploring your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should senior citizens consider when choosing a vacation destination?
As a senior citizen, you should consider factors such as accessibility, climate, medical facilities and the physical demands of activities. Also, consider the vacation's pace, ensuring ample time for rest.
How important is travel insurance for senior citizens?
Travel insurance is crucial for senior citizens as it can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage and other unforeseen issues. It provides a safety net and peace of mind during travel.
What types of accommodations are suitable for senior citizens?
Acommodations with amenities like elevators, handrails in bathrooms, emergency call systems and on-site medical assistance can be beneficial. Senior-friendly hotels often have these features.