What better time to see the world (or a corner of it). We have raised our family, planned our retirement and now we want to enjoy the fruits of our senior years taking trips we only dreamed of when we were younger. At this time, prices are better than they have been in years. Go for it.

Seniors may have some special needs that will be a factor in deciding where and how you want to travel. There are so many types of overseas travel places to visit that you can select what suits you best. There are those who prefer a luxury cruise through the warm waters of the Caribbean, formal dress and relaxing in the sun and dancing in the evening. The larger cruise ships have elevators, most of them have a doctor on board and you really do feel pampered. Other seniors may prefer a more casual type of cruise which is called River Boat Cruising. These cruises are gaining in popularity. The ships are much smaller, averaging about 140-160 people and are much more casual. River boats do cater to a more senior population because they do not offer all the pools, entertainment and child care that cruise ships offer and therefore are not as attractive to young families. You may want to consider a particular country that has always intrigued you. There are many tour trips that include tours throughout a particular country. These are especially exciting if you have family members who have immigrated from that country and you can see where they may have lived. Many universities and churches offer these trips. Your selections are endless and I will give you some tips on choosing what might me right for you.

I will include several links that will be informative. Click on the blue links for more information.

     Unless you are a seasoned traveler, it is suggested that you find a good Travel Agency or a travel group that you are familiar with. To find an agent, ask friends or neighbors. They will be the first to tell you their experiences, good and bad. Most airlines, cruise lines and hotel chains will offer tours. Group tours are run very much the same way. These agents will guide you through the maze of airline arrangements, guest quarters and most will offer a package deal that includes almost everything except gratuities and extra meals. They can advise you what might suit your needs best. I have found their suggestions are very good and I like the idea that someone will always be there to greet me in another country with all my tour information. If you have any medical problems or disabilities they will help you choose a tour that is suitable.

These duel tours are becomming more popular than ever. River boat tours let you use the boat as your hotel and you enjoy land tours during the day. They can allow you to see several different countries, enjoy fine cuisine and they are very casual. There is no arranged seating and with only 100-140 people, you meet almost everyone on board. The boats pull right up to the cities and you are just steps away from enjoying the culture of the country you are in. We took one on the Danube River and covered 5 countries. We enjoyed every minute of it.

The large cruise ships offer many amenities. They also offer on board medical care which may be helpful if you have an existing medical condition that should be monitored while you are on vacation. Always be sure to check that this is available on the ship you will be on. These large ships offer fabulous food around the clock, live entertainment, a chance for formal dining, swimming pools and a very helpful staff.

Some to be tourist are now taking a "destination" trip. You fly to one country where you have rented a house, condo or apartment and stay in one place and enjoy day trips and tours in the country side. Be very sure that these have been arranged through an agent. You don't want any surprises. These are very casual and you can prepare your own meals or eat out. It will just be the group that goes and you get a real taste of the country you are visiting.

Take this time in your life to enjoy the wonders of travel. Overseas travel does take a certain amount of planning but it is well worth it. You meet others from all walks of life, experience beautiful scenery that you could never imagine, try fascinating new foods and step into another world for a week or more. The "travel bug" will bite. Preparation and planning are very important to a most enjoyable trip.