It sounds almost cliché to most people, that once you retire the first thing you have in mind is to “travel the world”! Well, there is probably a reason for that – most folks spend their entire lives living and working in the same place, never really experiencing the joy of travelling to other countries (or even other states, in some cases!).
So, since we no longer have the burden of working, at least on a full-time basis, it’s natural to want to dream about the faraway places we always wished that we could see but never had the time or the money to see. I’m starting to see a pattern here, with the “time and money” theme! Yes, both are very important in life – think about what you want more of, time or money? You might say both, but if you are in a situation where you don’t have much of either one left to spend, it’s a very close and tough decision to make. If you have already made the leap into retirement, you already figured out the money part, so why waste time? Get busy doing the things you want to do!
You may or may not have given it a lot of thought towards the details, so I wanted to figure out a way to help with the process of helping you figure those details out. In order to do almost anything new, we need to know the five W’s of learning – who, what, where, when and why (I’m adding an H to this list as well, for “how”). This way you can get more detailed information about the dream vacation, or vacations, you want to take. At first it seems almost obvious that you know some of these answers already, but I want you to really think about them individually and flesh out some more reasons – it will really make the trips you take more meaningful in the long run.
My first step in this process is asking where do you want to go for your getaway in retirement? You may not have a specific place in mind yet, but like most people you have a pretty good idea where a great place would be for your visit. Some of the most travelled places are:
Sunbelt Destinations:
– Florida, USA: Popular for its warm climate, beaches, and retirement communities. Even if you don’t want to live there, it’s still a good spot to visit.
– Arizona, USA: Known for its desert landscapes, golf courses, and retirement communities.
European Cities:
– Paris, France: A city rich in culture, history, and culinary delights.
– Barcelona, Spain: Offers a mix of art, architecture, and a Mediterranean lifestyle.
– Florence, Italy: Known for its art, history, and scenic beauty.
Caribbean Islands:
– Cruise Destinations: Retirees often opt for cruises to various Caribbean islands, providing a mix of relaxation and exploration.
Cultural and Historical Hubs:
– Rome, Italy: Home to ancient history, art, and renowned landmarks.
– Kyoto, Japan: Known for its historical temples, gardens, and traditional culture.
Other Retirement Hotspots:
– Costa Rica: Attracts retirees with its natural beauty, biodiversity, and affordable living options.
– Mexico (e.g., Puerto Vallarta): Offers a blend of culture, beaches, and a lower cost of living.
Scenic Nature Retreats:
– New Zealand: Known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and welcoming communities.
– Canada (e.g., Banff National Park): Offers natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.
Cruise Destinations:
– Alaska, USA: A popular cruise destination with breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
– Mediterranean Cruises: Retirees often enjoy exploring various Mediterranean destinations on cruises.
Southeast Asia:
– Thailand: Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and affordable lifestyle.
– Vietnam: Offers a rich history, diverse landscapes, and delicious cuisine.
American National Parks:
– Yellowstone National Park, USA: Famous for its geothermal features, wildlife, and natural wonders.
– Grand Canyon National Park, USA: Offers stunning canyon views and outdoor activities.
These destinations cater to a variety of interests, from relaxation to adventure, cultural exploration to nature appreciation. Retirees often choose places that align with their preferences, health considerations, and budget constraints. Additionally, travel preferences can vary widely among individuals, so these suggestions may not cover the full spectrum of choices for retirees. You have so many options to choose from!
Planning for your retirement can be tricky, and there are questions you have like everyone else. If you want to learn and explore more ideas for yourself, check out my book here for more information:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3S2V9VM
Happy retirement planning!