There’s no doubt that traveling when you’re older is not the same as traveling in your 20s or 30s. For a start, you’ll probably be more apt to lap up the history and culture of a place, although it would be unfair to characterize all twenty and thirtysomethings as uninterested in that type of thing. As an older solo traveler, you can take your time and immerse yourself in these experiences at your own pace.
It may be that your lifestyle at this age gives you the opportunity to venture on a different kind of solo trip: you may be able to take a longer vacation or even a sabbatical, and may have more money to invest in such a trip. Typically in your 60s, you are more independent to do what you want to do: there may be less of an element of compromise, and you probably won’t have dependents who need to be constantly catered for.
If this sounds like you, then there are a number of wonderful, intrepid options for you to explore as you look to solo travel in your 60s.
Here are six possible destinations you may want to consider:
Greece
Greece is one of the modern cradles of civilization and offers a vista of breathtaking beauty to boot. It will probably be that both of these options flick your switch, and the beautiful weather probably won’t put you off either. However, do be aware that it can get stiflingly hot in this part of the Mediterranean in the summer months, as well as crowded with tourists, so July and August are probably best avoided.
From the Acropolis and the Parthenon in Athens to the stunning plethora of islands that can be hopped to and from by boat, Greece offers something that barely any other country can match. The people are warm, the food is delicious, and the cultural cup is overflowing.
A solo trip through Greece should teach you many new things and be a trip of self-discovery that will help you grow and that will inspire you.
Turkey
Similarly, Turkey offers many of the delights that Greece has to offer, but in some ways, you can venture slightly further off the beaten path. Turkey’s infrastructure doesn’t quite support the travel industry to the same developed extent as in Greece and other European countries such as Italy and Spain, for example, but then the travel experience will be completely different too.
Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, truly bridging Eastern and Western culture like nowhere else. Then there are the delights of Cappadocia in the center of the country which offer cave hotel accommodation and hot-air balloon flights over the magnificent terrain.
Your solo trip through Turkey will never make you bored because of all the amazing things you will see. There are many activities and many people that visit Turkey, so you will always be able to find company if you need it.
“The food and weather will never fail to impress in Turkey, and the sheer size of this culturally diverse nation offers a great opportunity for exploration on an extended trip,” states travel blogger, Brendan Jones.
Argentina
One of the most culturally diverse continents in the world is South America, with its blend of native indigenous cultures and European colonialization influences. Argentina is a great example of the rich offerings available in this part of the world, and the country’s size and diversity again offer plentiful experiences for an extended stay.
From the European feel of the capital city Buenos Aires to the fertile heartlands of Patagonia and the stunning vistas of the Iguazu Falls. Skiing and cowboy-country experiences go hand-in-hand in this demographically diverse gem of a vacation destination. There are many things to do there and you will definitely love this country on your solo trip.
Japan
Japanese culture is so different from that experienced in the west that a visit to this fascinating country will provide you with a very real opportunity to step into the unknown. Explore ancient Japanese traditions and an incredible diversity of food while enjoying the juxtaposition of the incredibly modern metropolises that exist here.
Enjoy the stunning beauty of Mount Fuji and get yourself lost in the futuristic delights of Tokyo, all the while learning about a rich history and tasting some delicious food that is not often found on Western menus. Solo trips are an exploration of the world on your own terms and getting to know who you are better. This is why Japan is perfect for solo travel.
Egypt
Another modern cradle of civilization, nowhere else on earth can you enjoy the historical wonders of a Nile cruise and the culturally impactful delights of the pyramids of Giza. Then there is the extreme-sensual experience of the cities of Cairo and Alexandria, all set to the backdrop of rich culture, sumptuous food, and delightful weather. These are all a crucial part of self-exploration and solo travels.
“Another country which offers the possibility of an extended stay due to its size, Egypt really does offer unique vacation possibilities as well as opportunity to explore one’s self in relation to their surroundings,” says psychologist Katie Hart.
Ireland
A land of rich cultural heritage, with many links to other countries throughout the world due to a shared history and vast legacy of emigration, modern-day Ireland offers visitors the chance to sample a joyous culture with stunning natural scenery and a chance to truly connect once again with the wild side of nature.
From the thronging capital city of Dublin to the more remote delights of the Aran Islands, Ireland will have you singing and dancing your way back home after an extended trip to the Emerald Isle. As a solo traveler too, you cannot fail to make a friend in this warmly sociable country.
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Have you taken the opportunity to solo travel? Where have you been and what was your experience like? Please leave a comment below.
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