Think you're too old now to see Europe? Don't make any assumptions here.
Granted, it will be a different experience from hitting Europe as a sweet young thing with boundless energy.
But chances are you have more money, more experience, and maybe more appreciation for such an adventure at your ripe older age.
More money now or not, of course, crossing the ocean is a pricey challenge. But if you're smart with your money, you can cross the ocean and visit the Old World.
If you're willing to schedule your trip during the off-season, your pocketbook will thank you for it. You'll avoid the big holiday surcharges required by most of the airlines this way.
A Medical Evacuation policy is worth serious consideration. This policy is a travel medical insurance which will allow you to be airlifted home if need be. For seniors, this type of insurance can be a life saver.
According to Travelinsurancereview.net, river cruises are affordable, and move at a slower, more leisurely pace than some other types of tours.
Often accommodations and meals will be part of the price. This affordability is in part because cruise lines buy in bulk, which will make prices lower than a lone traveler would be able to find.
Budget airlines are available to get from one European country to another.
The fact that many European countries being small as they are makes traveling in a rental car a practical option for seniors who are fit behind the wheel. Rent your car a few weeks in advance and you may get a substantial discount as well.
Some of the most amazing European sights you'll see come without a price tag.
Browse through the centuries old art galleries, museums and libraries, be dwarfed by the cathedrals and churches, and experience historical places you've only ever seen before in pictures.
Americans who are 60 years of age or older are eligible for senior discounts from RailEurope, for travel in Ireland, France, Romania and the United Kingdom. Buy your rail pass before you head out on your trip.
It's a good idea to reserve seats as soon as you get to your destination in Europe, to ensure yourself a seat. These rail passes don't apply to Eurostar Chunnel trains. Nevertheless, the Eurostar train does offer a senior rate.
Your travel agent could turn out to be your new best friend. They'll get to know your needs, and what you can afford.
They can also help you choose a travel package that is a good fit for you.They'll help you to rent vehicles and housing.
A travel agent with experience can help keep you from being taken by surprise, and meet each step of your journey balanced and confident.
Sources:
How do seniors travel cheap to Europe? Travelinsurancereview.net. Retrieved March 15, 2012.
http://www.travelinsurancereview.net/2010/05/23/how-do-seniors-travel-ch...
Can I Get a Senior Discounton Rail Passes? About.com. Retrieved March 15, 2012.
http://seniortravel.about.com/od/traintravel/f/SeniorRailPass.htm
How the Seniors Can Travel Europe on an Affordable Budget. Vacationrentals.bg/blog. Retrieved March 15, 2012.
http://vacationrentals.bg/blog/how-the-seniors-can-travel-europe-on-an-a...
strong> Visit Jody's website and blog at http://www.ncubator.ca and http://ncubator.ca/blogger
Reviewed March 15, 2012
by Michele Blacksberg RN