While it may not be exactly clear sailing this summer (given the uptick in COVID cases in many parts of the country) it does seem that a great many of us are putting risk aside and pulling out our suitcases once again. According to the 2022 AARP Travel Trends Report, 66% of those over 70 anticipate traveling again this year, with a particular emphasis on getting together in person with family after several years of being apart. The majority of us are not completely ignoring COVID risks (73% of those surveyed by AARP did admit to being concerned about COVID), but that concern is apparently not standing in the way of getting back out. While mask mandates have been lifted from modes of transportation, the CDC still recommends you keep your mask on when on a plane. And even if you’re vaccinated and boosted (something recommended for all older travelers) getting infected with COVID is still a possibility. To find out what to do if you become infected while traveling out of the country, pull out your test result and look here. Furthermore, if you or an older loved one plan an ambitious journey, you may want to follow expert recommendations on how to prep and prepare for whatever may lay ahead, by purchasing necessary insurance coverage, gathering medical records to have on hand, or minimizing the chances of travel hassles such as delayed flights or airport crowds. 

Assuming you plan to forge ahead, where might be the best place to go? It’s hard to suggest there’s one “right” place for anyone over a certain age. Like any other demographic, older travelers have various needs, interests, and budgets which will help determine the parameters of any planned excursions. Are you interested in relaxation or activity? Mountains or sand dunes? On land or by sea? With your peers or along with your grandkids? All-inclusive or à la carte? No matter your preference, various experts have plenty of suggestions.

For example, if you think you’ve done enough sitting for a lifetime and are looking to be active, USA Today has put together a list of “active” trips that will suit a wide range of senior styles and interests. From national and state parks to river cruises and hiking and biking tours, there are an array of opportunities for older adults to travel at a pace and length that feels comfortable and engaging. Some group tour operators, including Backroads, now have excursions that may be slightly more accessible for those of us with older knees or aching feet. Called Dolce Tempo, these tours offer a level of comfort, freedom, and easygoing adventure for those of us not looking clock dozens of miles of biking or hiking in a single day. There are also trips specifically designed to appeal to both seniors and their accompanying grandchildren (sometimes called skip-gen vacations) offered by such tour operators as Tauck Bridges and Road Scholar.

If you’re trying to determine in which direction you should head, US News recently put out a list of the top travel destinations for retirees. Among the most desirable spots? In Europe, France, Italy, and Ireland are at the top; Going south, Mexico and Aruba seem to lure older adults, and in the US? Destinations span the country, including California, Las Vegas, and New York. Travel and Leisure posted 9 American resorts that they recommend for retired individuals, ranging from Suncadia Resort in the state of Washington to Bungalows in Key Largo, Florida. But if you want a wide array of options to consider, depending upon your budget or bucket list, you may want to check out the latest posts on Travel Awaits, a travel website devoted to serving the 50+ traveler.