In theory, retiring early (or even at the right time), should give you the opportunity to do more with your life. And for the purposes of this article, we are referring specifically to travel. If you have a bucket list of dream destinations, and travel plans still unfulfilled, now is the time to do something about it.
But here’s the thing. The older we get, the more hesitant we get. Our dreams remain dreams, and we are left to wonder and consider what might have been. But don’t let that be you. If there are any barriers stopping you from travelling, perhaps it’s time you found ways to overcome them.
What kind of barrier are we referring to?
It might be your age. You’re not as young as you used to be, so you might be hesitant to travel. But if you have always wanted to travel more, your age doesn’t have to be a barrier. Research suggests that more people over the retirement age are taking the opportunity to travel than ever before, and you can see some examples here. Provided you have good health on your side (though you may still be able to make some adjustments if not), then go, and take one step further to living with less regrets when you are too old to travel later on in life.
It might be your spouse. If there are places you want to go, but your spouse is resistant, then you may decide to stay at home instead. This can be an issue, but do you have friends you can travel with? Do you have family members who can see more of the world with you? Could you book yourself on a group tour? Could you compromise with your spouse, and go somewhere that is fitting for both of you? There are ways to overcome this barrier, so think about what you can do.
It might be your family. Are you unwilling to travel far because of your children or grandchildren? If they genuinely need you around, then sure, stay closer to home. However, if your family are perfectly capable of looking after themselves for a while (and they probably are), then let go of those ties for a short time, and live the life you want to live, instead of always being there in case others need you. And remind your family of your needs should they question your intention to travel, as it might be time they stood on their own two feet anyway.
It might be your finances. Travel can be expensive, but seniors are eligible for discounts on airfares as well as some hotel accommodations. And you don’t even need to stay in a hotel, as you might opt for a home exchange with somebody willing to swap with you. And if you can’t currently afford to travel, make the effort to save money now, and you might be able to fund a short expedition somewhere down the line.
Bottom line
Think about the adventures you could be having. Instead of bemoaning the barriers ahead of you, find ways to overcome them. And then start planning on what you might be able to do. Visit the UK’s #1 surf shop and buy yourself a wetsuit, and go swimming with the dolphins. Buy yourself some new walking gear, and plan an expedition in a place filled with scenic beauty. Consider a luxury cruise, and spend time visiting new parts of the world when the boat docks on shore.
There is a whole world out there waiting for you to explore. So, if you can overcome your barriers, don’t let anything else stop you from your post-retirement travel!
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