One of the greatest pleasantries for many during retirement is travel. Seeing new areas of the state, exploring the country and even venturing to other parts of the world are exciting ways to retreat and relax. Travel keeps the mind and body active while providing opportunities for education, relieving stress and reconnecting with loved ones.

With the current state of the economy, many are hesitant to take a vacation. Travel agent and owner of R&R Vacations, Christa Hess, encourages vacationing. “The most popular destinations are at an all time low, and it’s difficult to find a destination and hotel package not offering a good rate. If you can afford to vacation, you should.”

Seniors are often in a unique position to take advantage of some of the best deals and rates. During retirement, one can travel during the week, a less popular time, and take advantage of extra savings. With the flexibility, last minute deals can be snatched up for even further savings. Subscribe to e-deals via websites such as expedia.com and cheapflights.com to discover massive savings on travel. “The industry has to make vacations marketable in this economy, so I am seeing more travel discounts than ever before,” says Hess.

Other options for getting the best deal for your money include using a travel agent, joining AARP, which offers a plethora of price cuts on services and accommodations and traveling with a senior tour company. Travel agents can save you time and money by reducing your search time and can access discounts not seen by the general public. Throughout your trip, your travel agent will be there to support you and address any concerns or issues that you may face, providing extra peace of mind. AARP members can access their website and see a consolidated list of major travel companies offering discounts on everything from hotels to cruises and dining to shopping. Traveling as a part of a group trip offers a tour, cruise or adventure at the pace that a senior wishes to experience things. Scheduled outings and meals give you the experience of your destination without the headache of trying to plan your own itinerary and fearing that you may miss a spectacular site.

No matter which option seniors choose for travel, safety should always be a priority. Never travel alone outside of the area of your resort or tour, and always be aware of your surroundings. Do not carry large amounts of valuables or cash, and keep such items out of view of others. Make sure all prescriptions are filled and labeled properly before leaving. Only inform family and close friends of your departure, and make certain not to discuss travel plans with strangers. Then kick back, relax and enjoy your vacation!



Where to turn for travel information, guidance and discounts.
AARP
Being a member of the American Association for Retired Persons has a wealth of benefits including travel discounts. AARP’s travel department offers savings on vacation rentals, cruises, hotels, resorts, rental cars, dining and more. Piece together your own adventure using their extensive resources, or book a discounted tour or planned vacation. With links to expedia.com and savings through America’s largest travel companies, their website is a great place to start. www.aarp.org

Seniortours
Seniortours has been in business for 32 years and offers organized trips to domestic cities such as San Francisco and Cape Cod/Martha’s Vineyard, cruises to Florida, Hawaii and the Caribbean and many more exciting adventures. Their fun-filled trips are set at a senior’s pace and are priced right because their “volume buying power and low overhead give you the most tour for your money.” Excellent repeat traveler record. www.seniortours.com

Road Scholar
Traveling with Road Scholar is an adventure in lifetime learning. Each of their more than 8,000 excursions is carefully planned, researched heavily and guided by an expert. Road Scholar is a non-profit organization and presents destinations in a way that others cannot because of their connections to locals and knowledge of their subjects. Scholarships are available to assist with costs. www.roadscholar.org

R&R Vacations
Locally owned and owner operated, R&R Vacations can find the right package for you. With daily updates and deals, owner Christa Hess can put together your dream trip or cruise while providing personal service. R&R Vacations offers you the reassurance that all will be right on your vacation, and if you hit a bump on the way, they are there to help amend it and get you back to relaxing. Contact Christa Hess at trvlagnt11@aol.com to get started planning your own adventure!