(4 Minute Read)
One of the greatest perks of retirement is a chance to use your newfound free time to travel. Without a 9-to-5 schedule or nagging work requirements, you can finally start planning that long vacation you’ve always talked about. However, travel in your golden years doesn’t always look like it did in your twenties or thirties. When seeking a restorative retreat or vacation destination as a senior citizen, there are certain amenities and considerations that should be taken into account. So, before you decide to buy that plane ticket, here’s a guide to what to look for in a senior vacation and some of the best spots to promote wellness and feel refreshed.
After considering what limitations or necessities should be included with your trip, it’s time to start thinking about what you want to get out of a vacation. Are you looking to spend time outdoors, getting fresh air and exercise? Or would you prefer to just relax and take in the sights? Maybe you’re even interested in doing some shopping along the way, or trying your hand at games of chance? Whatever the case, here are some top destinations for retirees looking to get away.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale offers a beautiful alternative for those who want to be outside but don’t want to pay for it in sweat or discomfort. Seemingly created with seniors in mind, the desert city is filled with tons of spas, leisurely hikes without much change in elevation, and golf courses. And of course, it’s all nestled among gorgeous rock formations and incredible Arizona sunsets.
Palm Springs, California
This is a spot for the true relaxation expert. Along with stunning views and pleasant year-round weather, Palm Springs is home to a number of renowned and award-winning spas, including the Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage and the La Quinta Resort and Club, which was recently voted the #1 golf resort in the world. On top of that, the city is alive with classic Hollywood cool, from the Mission-style and adobe architecture to the remaining historic haunts of movie stars past.
Branson, Missouri
If you’re a lover of live music and spectacular entertainment, Branson provides a wonderland-like environment that caters more to the Greatest Generation than Las Vegas or New York City. Though it’s typically thought of as a country music city, Branson features a wide variety of live show experiences, in addition to museums, wineries, spas, and golfing.
Williamsburg, Virginia
History buffs will go nuts for a chance to slip back in time in colonial Williamsburg. The park is massive and features a cast of interactive actors who will let you glimpse what life was like for early American settlers. Chat with the town cobbler, make a candle or take a crafting class, or just listen in on the banter of these dedicated park actors.
Alaskan Cruise
Travelling out of the country may be a headache, but heading to our northernmost state presents a grand alternative that doesn’t require a passport or 18-hour flight. On an Alaskan cruise, you’ll get a chance to be pampered by the staff while taking in the majestic and unforgettable sights of this wild countryside.
What to Look for in a Senior Vacation Spot
As an older person on the go, your needs for a vacation or wellness retreat destination are likely different than that of your kids or grandchildren. Sure, you’re still looking for clear, blue waters or a gorgeous view of the local landscape, but you also need to know that any physical or age-related limitations will be attended to. When considering where to head for your trip, you’ll want to be certain the location has the following:
- Accessibility, whether it’s for a wheelchair or scooter, or even just a plethora of elevators. You may want to avoid vacation spots that require extensive climbing, such as in the mountains.
- Readily available amenities, such as medical supplies
- Access to medical professionals
- Areas with adequate cell phone service, or at least a way for the management to assist in getting calls to your doctor, loved ones, etc.
Your retirement years are a great time to fulfill those lifelong travel dreams. But with travel comes the need for a fair amount of on-hand cash. That’s where Life Settlement Advisors come in. “If you’re planning your financial future, you might realize you’re carrying life insurance policies that are no longer needed. A life settlement allows the policy owner to sell all or a portion of the life insurance policy, for as much as 4-7 times the cash surrender value offered by the insurance company. If you want to learn more, visit our calculator to see if you qualify.
Case Study:
Catherine, a widow for many years no longer has a federal estate tax liability due to recent tax changes. Catherine planned to surrender her life insurance policy as the need has gone away and the premiums have increased. Her financial advisor suggested selling the policy. Catherine sold her life insurance policy for $230,000 and used part of the funds for a vacation of a lifetime with her children and grandchildren. The balance of the proceeds were used to cushion her retirement.
Leo LaGrotte
Life Settlement Advisors
llagrotte@lsa-llc.com
1-888-849-0887
