Seniors need vacations too. Contrary to popular opinion, retirement is not one long vacation. It won’t be long before you find that you need a break from the everyday busyness of retirement. What better way to do this than to take a vacation.
Maggie Reed (Washington Jewish Week: Gaithersburg: February 19, 2009) writes that cruising is a care-free and fun filled way for seniors to travel. What could be more ideal than a vacation where food, entertainment and medical help are always available?
There is a lot more to cruising than shuffleboard and 24 hour buffets. The author enthused that whatever your needs may be, they will be met on a cruise. Staterooms are available to accommodate wheelchair and other handicap needs, and staff members are dedicated to ensuring that you have a good time. Cruise ships are known for catering to older travelers and it is perfect that everything is in one place. You can enjoy arts and crafts, games, trivia contests, karaoke, casinos, spas and bingo without actually going anywhere. There is nonstop entertainment somewhere on the ship at all hours of the day or nights.
A cruise is the best way to get away from your normal environment while still enjoying all of the comforts of home, and more. The author leans toward practicality and gives some sage advice.
- Book early and look for special deals or special interest groups.
- Do your homework and learn something about the culture and history of the places that you will visit.
- Do not forget your passport, and she recommends taking some emergency information with you in case you lose it (a photocopy of the data page, phone numbers of U.S. Embassies and Consulates and a couple of passport sized photographs).
- Leave a detailed itinerary with family and friends.
- Don’t over pack.
- Don’t forget medications (pack plenty and keep them in the original containers rather than a pill box), it wouldn’t hurt to take a copy of your prescriptions and an extra pair of glasses with you.
- Health insurance information.
- Money, mostly in traveler’s checks.
- Don’t overbook yourself. You are on vacation to relax and have a good time.
- Slow down, you are on vacation.
- Wash your hands often.
- Enjoy yourself.
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