Travel Planning Checklist

If you are planning your next trip, make sure you consult our exhaustive travel planning checklist, This is one of our special gifts to you to say thanks for being a part of our valuable community.

How To Use The Internet To Find Cheap Hotel Deals For Senior Travel

Luckily for the web-savvy traveller, it’s easier than ever to find cheap hotel rates abroad, in many different countries, if you know how to take advantage of online booking through companies that offer discounted prices to their customers over the Internet.  Being a senior traveller means that you may have a little extra time on your hands to research.  It is well worth it if you can.

The web makes it easy to shop around, so you can purchase a hotel room for the lowest price possible. Because many hotels now operate through websites that find you the best travel deals, it’s definitely possible to compare prices offered by the various hotels and take advantage of the competition between establishments.

Searching for hotel deals on the web is a great way to evaluate prices and learn what’s available at any given moment, but often you can even use the Internet to book directly, through the hotel you’re interested in. The hotel’s own website can make your life much easier and may offer a discount because you’re skipping the middleman to purchase a room right from the source. 

Online sales tend to be cheaper all around because they offer good deals to people who are willing to plan ahead and book long before they plan to travel. You beat the crowd and get in ahead of the game before rooms are few and far between. When hotels are guaranteed a certain amount of bookings for the season, they can provide competitive prices.  It also helps them manage forward cash flows in an uncertain economy.

But the reverse can also work to your advantage. If certain hotels have last-minute cancellations or availabilities, and you’re ready and willing to hop on a plane and travel almost on the spot, you can grab fantastic rates as well because hoteliers want to fill up rooms rather than leave them empty, without any paying occupants.

Online booking can save you big bucks once you arrive at your destination as well. During tourist season, expecting to walk off the street and find a room for a reasonable rate may only going to disappoint you. You either won’t be able to find a room at all, or it will be much too expensive.

If a hotel has rooms ready to go, they will be reserved for online sales. So if you are a last-minute kind of person, don’t even bother to try visiting an establishment in person to find a room. Instead, locate the nearest Internet connection and book the room online! Not only will you get a really good price - you’ll actually get a room.

Nowadays there are a lot of quality travel websites that let you book hotel rooms at discount prices in worldwide destinations. Many of these companies also offer virtual hotel tours, list facilities available in the rooms, and even provide hotel reservation tips.

Online booking boasts many benefits you can’t enjoy when making reservations via the traditional route, in addition to the money-saving side of things. For instance, an online reservation website may have hundreds of hotel listings so you can choose from a wide range of hotels, room sizes, and amenities.

And these sites usually give you access to additional hotel discounts, special offers, combination deals, and hotel events, making it easy to put together an affordable package of discounts. The whole process usually goes very quickly and smoothly.

But make sure you don’t choose just any hotel, based solely on the pictures provided online, and the low price. The one disadvantage of online shopping is the inability to determine whether or not a hotel really is clean, safe, and worth the price. As with any major purchase you make, research the hotel you’re considering before committing to a booking – read reviews from fellow travellers who have stayed at the same place and look through unbiased opinions on the hotel from various sources. Many websites offer information from other globetrotters that will help you determine whether or not a particular lodging is acceptable or should be crossed off your list of potential accommodations.

Anytime you book discount hotel rooms online, make sure you read the fine print: check if the rates change for an extra person (this can be a real price increaser in my experience), and if breakfast, parking facilities, and hotel shuttle services are part of the deal. Read the hotel’s cancellation policy to know what you’re getting into when you book and determine if there are any special added rates you need to look out for.

With this knowledge in hand, you should never have to pay full price for a hotel room again. The Internet offers the experienced and inexperienced traveller alike an excellent opportunity to enjoy a great holiday for less – if you’re willing to give it a try.  I have built an ongoing list here for you to refer to.  Here are some of the better known ones.  Please let me know if you find a good one too.  Click here for the list

Discount Accommodation For Seniors Travel

There are many chains that offer great deals for seniors travel. However, always check for the best rate of the day.  These days there are so many deals available, it is best not to restrict your research to seniors discounts.

Zuji is one of the big sites that give great hotel deals.  They also do very good combined air and hotel packages so if you are planning both, make sure you check this site out thoroughly.

Expedia is probably the biggest global player so if you are after a name you can trust, go with Expedia.  They have good ongoing cheap rates.  They also have great last minute deals.

CheapOstay.com guarantees low rates on luxury suites, motels, resorts and inns, last minute hotel deals, 5-star hotels, free hotel upgrades and thousands of unsold hotel rooms at incredibly low prices.

Accor Hotels own many familiar chains such as Sofitel, Novotel, Ibis and Club Med.  They own 3000 hotels worldwide.  Accor offers senior discounts that vary for each hotel, so check with reservations on the day.  They also have a price guarantee where if you find a cheaper rate on any other website for one of their hotels, they will beat it by 10%, conditions apply.  They also have great ad-hoc deals such as $1 breakfasts and family specials such as 50% off second room.

Hotels.com is a discount hotel site that conducts a yearly hotel price index review - where you can stay in a 5 star hotel in the world for $200 or $100 etc.  Good site and trusted brand.  Hotels.com in my experience is one of the cheaper hotel booking sites.

Cheaper Than Hotels helps travellers find the right hotel at the right price.You can quickly search a database offering bargains at more than 60,000 properties in 130 countries worldwide (making it one of the world’s largest).

Hotels Combined.  As bizarre as it sounds this site compares all the prices of the accommodation booking sites all in one spot.

Hotel.info is different in that it can offer hotel evaluations available on the relationship between price and quality in 3 and 4 star hotels shows customer ratings and reviews.  It also offers cheap hotels and no cancellation fees.

Otel.com is a discounted hotel site that will give you at least a 5% ‘cashback’ on your next hotel booking 

DHR’s point of difference is that it has great hotel rates for Europe.  They also have fire sales where they sell good quality hotels for up to 70% off.  These are generally exceptional value Book your hotel up to 70% discount in great destinations worldwide

Radisson is a well known and trusted brand.  They have great last minute deals in their hot deals page offering discounts on discounts, upgrades, loads of freebies and value.  Worth a look in your research.

Hot Dockets is run by shop-a-docket and allows you download the discount travel dockets that are usually found on the back of your shopping dockets.  Whether you’re looking for a weekend away or a longer break, Hotdockets has discount holidays all over Australia.  Discounts are available to everyone and are generally fabulous deals!

Best Western will give at least 10% off for seniors travel, if you are over 55. Many Best Western hotels offer seniors little extras like early check-in, late check-out, a complimentary hotel room upgrade or continental breakfast. Conditions apply and it varies from hotel to hotel.

Crown Plaza Hotels and Resorts is giving 10% off USA hotels for Seniors, 62 and over.

Budget Motel Chain motels are independently owned.  However, most do offer seniors discounts in off-peak periods.

Choice Hotels Australasia offer between 10% - 30% to senior travelers over 60 on their Comfort, Quality and Clarion chains.

IHG offers seniors discounts for those over 62 and retirees.  You will be familiar with some of their brands - Intercontinental, Crown Plaza, Holiday Inn. The discounts are great and there are some terrific value-add deals like free breakfast for you, kids and grandkids in some destinations.  They also have great advance purchase bargains.

Marriott Worldwide offer at least 15% for seniors over 62.

Rydges is part of the Seniors Online Program.  They give seniors free breakfast if you are a member.  Rydges also has good impromptu specials from time to time so make sure you check them regularly.

Waldorf Apartments offers over 55 seniors discounts on weekly rates during off-peak periods.  They also include complimentary light breakfast for 2 on some of their seniors deals.

YHA  is not just for young travellers. They are open to anyone and are becoming extremely popular with the senior traveller. Hostels and backpacker accommodation are becoming flashier with more choice in room options. You may share a room with up to 6 or 8 people or many these days have single or double rooms so you don’t have to share.

Home Exchange is becoming more and more popular.  You will not only potentially save thousands on accommodation, but gain a real insight by living like a local.

Hostelbookers.com gives a great alternative to traditional hotel accomodation.  You will be pleasantly surprised.  Hostels now offer private rooms with bathrooms - double, single and traditional dorm style rooms in the centre of town.  Do not discount researching hostels for your next holidays.  You could save a lot of money.

Deals for Senior Single Travel - Tours and Holidays

Check out thes companies that we consider to be ‘senior single travel friendly’:

G Adventures cater extremely well to single travellers.  You may choose to share and they will match you with a fellow traveller of the same sex.  Or, if you wish to have your own room, some tours provide special single room pricing.  They run small groups tours to most corners of the globe to off the beaten track locations.  Average group size is 10 and they take no more than 16.  You will encounter unique and local style accommodation and best of all, the costs are very reasonable. Click here for more  They always have great specials, particularly for those willing to book online.  Check out G Adventures promotions and specials page. You should also take a look at their 50 tours under $995

Intrepid Travel has assembled a selection of travel experiences that cater well to those singles who prefer not to be completely alone.  They’re not run-of-the-mill holidays typical of the larger tour companies.  Journeys range from the unexplored to the luxury and cater for many special interests, including cooking, music, painting and walking tours.  They also have a number of journeys that are exclusively for women.

A Rendezvous for Singles is a travel agency that specialises in travel for single people.  If you want to travel with like-minded people, they have regular departures for both Australian and overseas holidays and cater well to the +45 age-group. 

Evergreen Tours has regular tour departues with huge savings on single supplements.  

Odyssey Travel is a not-for-profit educational travel agency that provides limited single rooms with no single supplement on their tours.  Last we spoke to them, these included departures to Italy and France.  There is also no single supplement on their Norfolk Island program.

Sage Travel specialises in senior over 50’s travel.  They offer relaxed fully inclusive tours with minimum 5 nights in each city.  In many instances they offer single ensuite rooms at no extra cost.

Single Seniors Travel - Taking a tour

Single seniors travel has become so popular that many companies are now catering exclusively to the senior single. As well as specialist companies, many well known and trusted touring brands are also offering tours catering specifically to single senior travellers. As with independent travel, there are positives and negatives to travelling as a group.

Pros:

1. They can pair you up with another senior single (same sex) for your accommodation, avoiding the dreaded single supplement


2. You are not alone at the dinner table


3. Everyone is in the same boat as you - they don’t know anyone else either


4. You will meet other people who share your travel interests and have the opportunity to make new friends

Cons

1. You may be restricted with flexibility, with many tours offering little room for tailor made options.  However, this is changing as travellers are looking for more independence in a tour


2. If you opt to share with another person – they may not your ideal room mate.  If you are not flexible, open-minded or open to accept the foibles of others, sharing with a stranger is not for you.

There are plenty of single senior travel options available.  Take a look through the tour operators that we recommend who cater particularly well to the single senior traveller.  Click here for the list.

Hot Deals

Great Tour Deals With G Adventures: They run small groups tours to most corners of the globe to off the beaten track locations. Great tours if you are seeking adventure but with all the comforts They always have great specials, particularly for those willing to book online.  Check out G Adventures promotions and specials page. Always great deals for every corner of the globe as well as their flagship Antarctica tours.  .  You should also take a look at their 50 tours under $995

25% off Tours with Intrepid Intrepid has a great range of last minute deals for tours worldwide - Europe, Asia, Africa and South America.  You can nab a real bargain if you can be flexible with your travel and book around 6 weeks in advance.  Click here for more.

Hot Deals with Constellation Hotels:  Constellation Hotels are offering some great value Spring getaway package deals in great locations across Australia and New Zealand so you can shake off your Winter blues. They are not only offering cheap prices, but throwing in all sorts of extras (different for each hotel).  Examples include breakfast, $50 Myer vouchers, bottles of bubbles, late check-out, cheese platters, dinner vouchers and much more.  Click here for more.

Expedia Deals - 50% off Accommodation

Expedia.com.au: 72 Hour Hotel Sale - Save up to 50% on select hotel bookings in a new destination ever week!- Tuesday - Thursday

IHG Group - Intercontinental, Crown Plaza and Holiday Inn + more

15% off advance purchase. Choose from over 40 hotels in Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands.  Save big when you gook in advance.  Click here for more.

Last Minute Cruise Deals.  It pays to be spontaneous with cruise1st.com.au.  Check out these HOT last minute deals.

 

Package tours

Taking an organised tour need not make you feel like a piece of herded cattle and the advantages are great.  Unfortunately package tours have suffered from a poor consumer image for some time, but smart travellers have been seeing the benefits for years.  The advantages are plentiful, for a start, the cost savings.  Consumers enjoy the benefits of buying power that tour companies have.  They purchase their rooms in allottments every year that offer cost savings in the form of a bulk discount.  The same goes for day tours, museum entry and transport.  They are a great option for senior travel.

There are also time savings to be had.  The hard work in terms of researching your destination is already done for you (although some would say this is part of the fun).   Package tours offer a convenient option to those who are willing to leave it to the experts.  Having someone else do it all for you also ensures that you will tick off the ‘must see’s and do’s’ with minimal hassle and you won’t waste time in being unfamiliar with a destination.  Check out the following great companies that are expert in catering to the +50 seniors market.  Your travel agent will be able to book these tours on your behalf.

Adventure Tours

GAP Adventures has over 1000 adventure tours ranging from basic through to superior standards.  Great tours if you are seeking adventure but with all the comforts. Check out G Adventures promotions and specials page. You should also take a look at their 50 tours under $995

Intrepid Tours pride themselves as a tour operator who likes to get travellers off the beaten track.  I have booked many travellers with Intrepid and found them a great company to deal with.  Their website has lots of information and articles of interest.  They have tours to destinations all over the world.

A1 Classic Holidays design ‘armchair tours’ designed to allow travellers to experience exotic and unique destinations in comfort and style with 5 star accommodation and cuisine.  Destinations include:  India, Nepal and other parts of Asia.

Chimu Adventures deal with expedition ships going to Antarctica and South American tours. They consistently offer special deals and discounts direct to the public.

Eldertreks is an adventure travel company designed exclusively for +50 seniors. Established in 1987, ElderTreks offers active, off-the-beaten-path, and small-group adventures by both land and sea in over 80 countries.  Journeys focus on adventure, culture and nature. Exotic destinations such as Namibia and Botswana, India, Syria, Jordan and Cuba are examples.

Malaysia Holidays are Malaysia travel experts to exotic destinations such as Borneo, Sarawak, Brunei and Sabah.  You can travel to these destinations in comfort and style. 

Tri-State Safaris is a multi-award winning tour company specialising in 4WD Outback adventures out of Broken Hill.  Tri-State are regulars on popular travel TV shows.

APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures has been operating 4-wheel drive safari tours throughout the Kimberley for more than 15 years, and are recognised as the touring specialists in the region. The company’s reputation for traveller satisfaction and quality operation has been recognised with several tourism awards. It is their commitment to ensure that Kimberley Wilderness Adventures continues to exceed all your holiday expectations.

General Touring

Travelmarvel offers affordable touring and cruising of exceptional quality in Europe. Receive great value for money touring, as well as all the reassurances of travelling with a well respected and reliable tour operator.

A.N.Z Nature Tours offers a variety of tours to Australia and New Zealand with a natural focus.  They cater for independent travel, tailor-made options and small group travel.

Beyond Travel is a specialty travel company for Eastern Europe, Croatia and Russia including river cruising.  They regularly feature special deals.

Evergreen Tours specialises in premium touring around the globe with a focus on destinational icons, but at the same time, freedom to explore independently.  They regularly feature great specials.

Handpicked Holidays  is Australia’s number 1 wholesaler for Back-Roads Touring Co, which specialises in small groups.

Northern Highland Travel is a family owned award winning business boasting repeat travellers up to their 40th tour!  They have a variety of packages from day trips and domestic tours to many interesting international departures.  They create a great atmosphere and keep travellers coming back to take their tours. 

Tempo Holidays is one of Australia’s most respected wholesalers.  They specialise in fully inclusive tours to around 42 destinations.

Well Connected Travel create their own tours to exciting destinations and specialise in tours to The Baltic, Nordic and Eastern European countries

Luxury Tours

Tauck Tours are definately not the cheapest on the market but they do offer tours where you can be certain to receive 5 star all the way. 

APT (Australian Pacific Touring) is the expert in European River Cruising, and has custom-designed and built their own fleet of river ships, signify the evolution of modern river cruising. From the intricate elegance of the interior appointments and the opulence of the suites to the wealth of recreational choice provided in the vessel’s public areas, these river ships are truly the finest on Europe’s waters.

Education

Odyssey Travel is a not-for-profit organisation that specialises in educational tours around Australia and the world. They always have a range of great specials including limited no single supplement departures.   They offer free travel seminars and various locations around Australia.  You must book early to get into one of these.

 

The Best Country Towns in NSW

Australia is full of unique country towns, we all have our favourites.  Every time I drive into a new country town, I can’t help but feel one of two ways.  A sense of hope and prosperity or a sense struggle and abandonment.  Interestingly, you generally know as soon as you start to drive through the main street, what sort of town it will be.

There are many fabulous country towns that have come with progressive local councils and community where they truly thrive. These places are a credit to the locals.  The towns tend to have several things in common.  They provide true authentic Australian experiences - a sense of what we as city folk try to capture in a fleeting snapshot, passing through. 

The locals are friendly, they tell you about ‘their secret spot’ and the pub serves a steak that covers your plate.

OK, so with this list,  I will be slightly self indulgent and mention the ones I have been to.  I have covered NSW extensively with a bit of Victoria, your job is to fill out the rest.  Here are my top NSW country towns, not in any particular order. And they could change…

1. Broken Hill - actually, I think this is officially my favourite.  The old mining town has a brilliant mix of history, art, surrounding national parks and local characters. 

2. Tilpa - Located halfway between Bourke and Broken Hill.  I think I had one of the funniest nights of my life here in the local pub.

3. Lightening Ridge - Wierd vibe, but fascinating.  People come here when they don’t want to be found.

4. Gundagai - The song, the true country look of the town and the gorgeous main street.

5. Wagga Wagga - A bit of city in the bush.  For the ladies, great shoe shops.

6. Glen Innes - The agricultual industry gives it a real sense of properity.  Combined with the Celtic history, you will find many reasons to stay a few nights.

7. Yamba - The pub with the best view in Australia.

8. Quirindi - Some of the best agricltuarl land in the world...get there before the Coal Seam Gas miners get their grubby hands on this absolutely beautiful town with surrounding plains and rich soil.  World class bird watching.

9. Mudgee - Good wine, great pubs and make it to the Mudgee Cup one day if you can.

10. Bourke - The backdrop of the Darling River gives it a truly romantic feel.  You can imagine what it would have been like with a paddle steamer gracefully making its way down the river.

11. White Cliffs - The opal mining town offers a great experience with a pub that is at the centre of the community.  Try P.J’s underground Bed and Breakfast.

I guess for me, the further away from the city the better.

So, what is your favourite country town in Australia?

Going Solo - The Cons of Senior Single Travel and Sharing.

Our guest post is by Sandra Frank, your fellow New Young Travel reader, who has been travelling solo as a senior for many years.

What are the risks?

I have just returned from a 28 day tour of China’s Silk Road with a major Australian/International company and I went “single, willing to share”.

My allocated room-mate was a couple of years younger than I and had travelled extensively in her younger days, backpacking to Europe and around for over four years. I had retired from a government client service position and she was a social worker before retiring so I thought we would have some things in common.

But unfortunately I soon discovered that she was not “willing to share”. She wanted to share – and smoke – never an option.

I was not permitted to have any lights on at night- not even the night light if there was one available – I was told that if I had a light on then she would smoke; the curtains had to be fully closed; no windows open; air conditioning – if working (and many did not) set on 25c or higher.

If I wanted to read, she would put the television on, and many times I was blasted with abusive and foul language.

One night she removed the “key card” that controlled the electricity and so I had no light for the bathroom; another time she gave my bed two heavy thumps during the night and woke me up.

When I mentioned some of the above incidents to the National guide, he dismissed them as just some of the things that go with the “willing to share” option, but in this case there was no willingness to share, just selfishness and bullying.

Of course, I could have paid the extra for the single supplement, but that would have meant that she had won – at no cost to her.

I have shared many, many times on tour (Europe three tours - 31 nights, 16 nights and 12 nights, Tahiti - 14 nights, Bali - 10 nights; Egypt - 14 nights; China - 22 nights and Taiwan - 14 nights) and this is the first time I have encountered such an inconsiderate, uncompromising person.

Maybe it is time that the companies that offer the “single willing to share” option have a compatibility type questionnaire for the applicants to complete.

Early Bird Airfares to Europe

Early bird airfare season is upon us. If you can book and pay well in advance for trips next year, you can make big savings. And not only on airfares. Packages including hotel rooms and credits to spend on other tourist services can also come into the equation.

These deals tend to be for travel to European destinations departing in the April-November period. You will generally need to book your fare now and pay anywhere between November 30 this year and January 5 next year, but the dates vary a little depending on the airline.

Early bird aifares really are worth it for the savings and piece of mind.  As an early bird, you’ll avoid the ‘flap’ and stress of leaving arrangements until the last minute. You’ll also get into hotels in the best locations at the best prices. The closer it gets to your departure date, the more expensive room rates tend to become (particularly in Europe).

Note that the exception to the April-November early bird discounts is the ‘high season’ around July. Cut-off dates vary from airline to airline, so shop around. If you are thinking of travelling around high season, the few days before and after are always the first to sell out. Also note that most airlines don’t allow bookings more than 330 days in advance.

When making early bird bookings, don’t forget to consider insurance to cover you for unforeseen circumstances. And check the types of cancellations you are covered for.

Italy for Seniors Travel

It’s no surprise that Italy is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, with amazing sights like ancient cities, classic works of art, charming villages, majestic natural scenery and much more spread all over the country. It’s also a great place for seniors in particular, with a large range of great historical tours, wine tastings, education and language packages and cruises tailored to overseas visitors on offer. Check out our top travel tips to help you get the best out of your next trip to Italy.

Seniors enjoy a respected status in Italy. Culturally, they are considered not old, but wise and experienced having contributed long and well to society.  This great respect for seniors translates to all sorts of benefits like discounts at restaurants and all sorts of local places, so be sure to ask wherever you are.  However, in terms of overall discounts to well known attractions, we have heard in some instances that seniors travel discounts do not get offered to non-EU citizens, but be sure to ask.

Avoid the queues.  As anyone who’s been to Rome or Florence in summertime can tell you, seeing Europe’s top artistic sights is no mean feat during high season. Visitors from all over the world queue around the block, and sometimes the block after that, to see the many masterpieces on display.  We are talking HOURS.   If you want to see these great works without standing the sun all day, come to Italy between mid-March and May or in September and October, when the crowds are considerably smaller. Another great way to avoid a long wait at the Vatican Museum in particular is to come on the last Sunday of every month, when admission is free and the line moves considerably faster!   Alternatively pre-book your entry tickets.  This is a great way to avoid the terrible hassle and something I personally do before all my trips.  Viatour :  has been around for years.  As a travel agent, I am confident to recommend their products.  They actually have a series of tours called “Skip the Line” tours for some of the top attractions.

Prepare for the heat.  Italy is one of the hottest parts of Europe in high summer – in the capital, for example, the temperatures frequently exceed 30C during July and August. For the most comfortable trip possible come between April and June or in September and October, when temperatures will range from 18-25C. The ottobrate, or “beautiful October days”, are especially well known as a great time to be in Rome. If you do come during the high season, bring plenty of water and sunscreen and wear a hat during the midday sun. It’s easy to get dehydrated when there are so many fascinating sites to visit! I have also found that some of the shopping centres are not air-conditioned, you find this in France too.  So at times in high heat, an escape to the shops is not an option.

Take your time.  Even without the scorching sun and thronging crowds of summer, seeing all the sights of Italy can be a demanding task for anyone. In fact, most people find themselves walked out after only visiting a couple of the main historical sites in Rome such as the Roman Forum or the Coliseum. Many of the country’s coastal and rural tourist sites, moreover, are difficult or inaccessible to anyone with mobility issues. The best way to get around this problem is to take it easy, prioritize which sites you’re most interested in and don’t try to cram in too many activities in one day.   If you truly are interested in visiting the famous historical sites and museums, my advice is to allow plenty of time to do this and try not to do too much in a day.

Stand for your coffee.  It is a whole lot more expensive if you take a table at a cafe for your coffee break and panini.  You will see the locals standing at the coffee bar because it is cheaper.  However, I personally see taking a table at a local haunt as part of the tourist attraction - watch the locals and recover your feet.  But if you are on a budget, stand for your coffee.

Savour the flavor.  Of course, another of Italy’s top attractions is its great food. The home of pasta, ice cream and pizza has a deservedly good reputation for its delicious traditional fare – make it your business to try all three! The Trastavere food district in Rome is a good place to start.   You will find great deals everywhere for food, particularly if you are willing to explore the back streets a little and get off the tourist path.  A great cost saving tip is to take a set menu, generally offered at lunch time.  They include a range of courses and almost certainly come with a glass of wine.   So, eat your main meal during the day at lunch time like the Italians.  You can walk it off in the afternoon.  For the true lovers of Italian food, there are plenty of cooking courses to do.  You can choose from half day courses to 2 week immersion experiences. 

Enjoy wine country.  For wine lovers the world over, Italy is a feast for the taste buds. Famous varietals like Chianti, Sangiovese, Montepulciano and Pinot Grigio all come from here, plus dozens more you can come to know and love during your stay. Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to vineyard tours, which are dotted all around the country.   If you are not staying in one of the wine regions, again, you can take day trips from some of the major destinations like Florence to Chianti.  There are plenty of options from Rome, Milan and Naples too.

Safety.  Italy is well known for pick-pockets.  Please be careful, particularly around the well known tourist areas like Florence and Rome.  They operate in very organised groups, with children unfortunately often being used as ‘bait’.  My cousin was recently a target in Florence - on R & R from his tour in Iraq (he is in the Australian Army).  So big tough army guy was no match either - Anthony is a big softie and a sucker for cute kids.  Beware.

Road Tripping For Seniors Travel

So you’ve got the itch to travel but you just aren’t sure where to go, or more importantly, how to get there. If there is one form of travel that has been tried and tested, it is travelling by car.  It is particularly relevant for seniors travel.  There are few more beloved forms of seeing the world than by road trip.

Road tripping offers endless possibilities for seeing local sights, as well as the freedom to customize your itinerary in a way you never could while bogged down with train tickets and flight schedules.

So, why should you opt to travel by car, and when is a road trip appropriate? First of all, not every holiday is going to be conducive to a road trip. Travelling through Japan, for instance, you are better off taking public transport.

However, if you prefer to stay on home soil or are heading somewhere like the USA, where road tripping is a veritable way of life for some, travelling by car or camper can be the best (and in some cases, the only) way to go.

There are several advantages to traveling by car or campervan:

#     Your schedule can be flexible. If you feel like stopping for an extra night in a town that catches your fancy, you can.

#     You’re can explore out-of-the-way and off-the-beaten-track spots that public transport sometimes just doesn’t go.

#     You can take it slow and see your surroundings as you go, which will ultimately offer you the best way to learn about your destination, and all the locales along the way.

#     You eliminate the hassle of hauling luggage down footpaths, in and out of train stations and through airports.

#     In a camper van or an RV, you cut down on accommodation costs by taking the hotel room with you!

There are a few things to keep in mind when embarking on a road trip. If you’re heading abroad, or don’t have a reliable vehicle, you’ll want to make sure to plan ahead for car/camper van hire. Decide on a budget and factor in the cost of the vehicle rental, plus local taxes.

There is also petrol to take into account, which, depending on where you’re going, could get quite pricey, particularly in Europe.

You also need to make sure that your local insurance and driver’s license are enough to hire you a vehicle in your destination of choice. In some places, you might be required to obtain an International driver’s license, but this is becoming less of a requirement.  Furthermore, many car hire companies require you to purchase accident insurance, which you’ll need to factor into your budget.

Then there are the rules of the road, which differ from place to place. Not all countries abide by the same standards, or even drive on the same side of the road, and this can be intimidating at first. Fear not, though, as it usually only takes an hour or so of driving in a new environment before you’re zooming around just as at home! 

And if you are travelling with a loved one, I well advise you implement our personal household road tripping rules - car arguments don’t count!  Let them go...and reconnect with a glass of wine in your accommodation at the end of the day.  I am speaking from personal experience with various family members and friends throughout the years.  It can get ugly.

Make sure you check out our Touring by Car resources when planning your next road trip.

 

Glamping - Luxury Camping For Seniors Travel

‘Glamping’ is the new travel buzz word - it stands for – glamorous camping - the comfortable high-end way of experiencing the great outdoors. Luxury tour operator like A&K has a number of glamping tours to some of Australia’s most beautiful hard to get to places including parts of Tasmania, Western Australia and South Australia.

A&K’s Managing Director, Sujata Raman says, “It’s what takes travellers out of their comfort zone and off the beaten track to experience beautiful landscapes and wilderness areas in an active and adventurous way. It is also about bedding down in these often-remote areas in comfort and with all the expected elements of a luxury journey with A&K. The A&K team responded accordingly by seeking out the best locations and involving our select partners to deliver this new offering – it’s camping at its classiest!”

A typical ‘glamping’ experience might feature accommodation in a spectacularly located luxury canvas tent furnished with all the essential home comforts - full sized mattresses, fine cotton sheets, plump pillows and duvets. The camp will most likely be in the midst of pristine wilderness where only the most eco-sensitive accommodation is appropriate. With just a canvas or screen to separate guests from the bush, it’s likely that they will fall asleep gazing at the stars, wake to sunrise over a billabong or take an afternoon nap with the sound of the water lapping on the sand.

Most glamping trips involve a level of outdoor activity such as hiking and kayaking but comfort at the end of a day is paramount. Every detail is carefully considered and included for the ‘glamping’ guest. Luggage is transported, expert guides carry drinking water and snacks, and quality gear is used including first aid equipment and satellite phones in remote areas. Nothing is left to chance.

Finally great food, wine and hospitality are a focus of the glamping experience. Guides and hosts amaze guests with culinary creations unexpected in remote locations.  Add candlelight, good company and it becomes an experience to remember.

I would consider myself to be a glamper.  I glamped treking through Nepal a few years ago and would highly recommend the experience if you want a taste of adventure without carrying your own backpack, cooking meals or pitching your own tent.

Hobart For Seniors Travel

Hobart was our unanimous choice for our long awaited girl’s weekend away.  It’s a lively place, with a waterfront that buzzes with action around the surrounding restaurants, pubs, cafes and clubs. Yet as we found, Hobart is a city of contradictions. It has all the advantages of city services but its population of 185,000 has retained a sense of community. So the locals are laidback and friendly despite their urban surroundings.

Hobart’s Salamanca precinct is just a pad beyond the fishing fleet and punts selling seafood fresh as summer rain. Bands, buskers and more than 300 stallholders gather every Saturday in the historic Sullivans Cove precinct for the city’s famed Salamanca Market, which sells everything from hand-crafted wooden sushi trays to organic vegetables, alongside artist studios and cafes. 

Salamanca Market regularly attracts large crowds for it is as eclectic as anywhere in Australia, if not more. It is arguably one of the few authentic market experiences left in Australia.  It is not touristy but seems to have a genuine mix of old and new from emerging designers to handcraft wooden toys.  Not to mention a variety of food stalls displaying local produce.

After spending many several hours at the market and contributing substantially to the local economy through our purchases, we headed back to our Apartment Somerset on the Pier, armed with our Bruny Island cheeses, breads and olives to compliment our Clover Hill sparkling wine.

Tasmania is a gourmet paradise, where people live close to the land and the sea and there is an easy flow from harvest to plate. The island State is a place where a fantastic lifestyle and innovative ideas accompany a temperate climate. The island has four distinct seasons that make it perfect for producing prime cheeses, mouth-watering berries ripened slowly for maximum flavour, wide-ranging vegetables, stone fruits, herbs,  premium beef, specialty honey, mushrooms, chocolate and fudge, cool climate wines and some of Australia’s leading beers. Whether you are browsing at a local market stall or dining in a restaurant, visitors to Tasmania are spoilt for choice.

Our hotel, Somerset on the Pier offered a wonderful place to base ourselves for the weekend. The apartments are located on the pier at Battery Point and the location is fantastic.  The apartments have great views overlooking the water. There are plenty of restaurants underneath with access to the pier. The apartments were well appointed with all the modern conveniences you could ask for.  Just don’t leave your smelly Bruny Island cheese in the bin within the apartment, it will stink the apartment and the hallway out!  The staff were great and I can honestly say there was really nothing bad to say about this place.

We ate dinner at Plum Restaurant, just off Salamanca Place.  I can honestly say, it was one of the best meals I have had in a very long time and would be up there with any fine dining experience you would have in any international city.  The prices were extremely reasonable for both food and wine.  You would pay at least double for this standard of dining in Sydney or Melbourne. We visited a couple of the pubs around Salamanca Place after dinner.  The area has such an old-fashioned feel about it, you really feel like you have stepped back in time.

As successful as it has been in its contemporary reinvention, scratch the surface of this picture-perfect city and you’ll discover a seamy past, built on convicts, merchants and whalers. This is Australia’s second oldest city, after Sydney, and you can touch the marks of a convict chisel on a public building, down a beer at a pub named after one of the colony’s corrupt ministers of the cloth, or stroll along streets of original workers cottages in Battery Point.

China for Seniors Travel

China is undoubtedly one of the most alluring and intriguing places on earth. For many, it also seems like an impossible place to visit. However, tourism in China has changed drastically over the past decade and it is an increasingly accessible place for many travellers. You don’t have to be a gutsy backpacker willing to rough it to see the Middle Kingdom anymore. In fact, according to Chinese culture, the older you are, the more honoured you are. So pick up a Mandarin phrase book and get out your best hiking boots for a short walk up the Great Wall!

Get on a guided tour. You might feel overwhelmed at the idea of getting around China. Perhaps the language barrier seems insurmountable or you are worried about the general safety and quality of transportation there. The best way to see China is to sign up for an all-inclusive tour. These package deals are the most common way that both international travellers and domestic Chinese tourists travel, so there are literally thousands of packaged tours available, many of them specialising in seniors travel groups. Signing up for a package deal, you will be taken care of from airport to airport with no hassle.

Ask about discounts. Many stores, sights and transport options will have seniors travel discounts available, but you’ll have to ask about them. In and around Beijing, many attractions such as the zoo, Great Wall and Summer Palace now offer half-price admission to seniors over 60. They accept passports or driver’s licenses showing date of birth on them as proof of age.

Transport deals. Hong Kong is an attractive destination for the senior traveller, not just for its beauty and plethora of beautiful hotels and great restaurants, but for the discounts! Senior travellers (65+ with a senior ID) can ride the Star Ferry across Hong Kong harbour for free. Seniors can also purchase the Octopus Elder Card, which works on all of Hong Kong’s public transportation options, and gives varied discounts depending on whether you take the bus, MTR trains or ferries.

Flight deals. Air Asia is a low-cost airline that flies all over Southeast Asia, including China and Hong Kong. Air Asia has open seating, but seniors 55+ can pre-board flights and get their choice of the best seats. Cathay Pacific, the official airline of Hong Kong, also often runs seniors travel specials that, in the past, have included 50% off flights to Hong Kong. You must be a member of their newsletter to find out about the upcoming deals. They also run a Worry Free Fare for people 55 and over from selected U.S. cities, with flexible travel dates, no change fees and reduced fares.

Health. China is definitely a modern nation in many respects, but in others it is still developing. There are relatively few amenities for disabled people and you will likely find yourself walking, climbing stairs and battling climate and pollution issues while you’re there. Consult your doctor before you make plans and be sure to carry an extra supply of your prescription medications with you (including the scripts showing your name). Also be sure to keep a good supply of tissues with you at all times. These can be purchased in any small convenience store or shop around China. It is uncommon for toilet paper to be provided in Chinese bathrooms, so you will need to carry your own.

Safety. As in any country, in China tourists can easily be targets of petty crime. Look around you for suspicious activity and keep watch over your wallet or handbag in crowds. Do not follow any strangers that offer to help you or show you around, no matter how well-intentioned they may seem. Additionally, you can utilize bilingual business cards (often with a map) provided by your hotel or tour guide in case you get lost.

Expect lavish meals. In China, food is one of the most important aspects of life. China has a long culinary history and many rich food traditions. On your tour, you will likely find yourself seated at a large, round banquet table feasting on dozens of unique, delicious dishes.

Throw out the stereotypes. Perhaps when you think of China, you imagine a third-world country where everyone wears little Mao caps and rides bicycles. Of course, those things do exist, but China is now a thriving modern nation with the types of amenities available in most countries. Beijing and Shanghai are huge metropolises similar to New York or Sydney. It is a country where you can experience 5,000 years of history and see the future at the same time.

Utilise business cards. Business cards are all the rage in China - everyone has one! Your hotel and tour guide will both offer you business cards, most likely bilingual ones and often with a map that you can use to find your way back. Be sure to carry these with you in case you get lost.

10 Reasons To Visit Paris in the Springtime

1.  Enjoy the festive atmosphere and incredible weather.

2.  Avoid the Summer hoards of tourists.

3.  Paris is in full bloom.  The gardens offer hours of  free  entertainment in the most glorious and historic settings.

4.  Enjoy the local morning markets.  Buy your gourmet delights and head of to the gardens and watch the world go by.

5.  New season spring menus at every restaurant.  Look for the plats du jour - special deal of the day.  Always comes with a glass of wine and usually a bargain.

6.  Romance everywhere!  Kissing, hand holding, gazing, you name it, the french are more in love in the Springtime.  Singles, don’t despair, you will have admirers everywhere, I promise, I lived  for 6 months in Paris as a single woman!

7.  Outdoor cafes are the place to be.  I recommend Saint Germain, The Latin Quarter on a Saturday afternoon around 4pm.  Watch the French enjoy life and relax.

8.  Check out the best window boxes you will ever see!

9.  Enjoy a day on the hop on hop off open top bus - on top of course.  Admire the exquisite buildings - my favourite,the Paris Opera.

10.  And finally, Cole Porter and Frank Sinatra told us to visit Paris in the Springtime...they were certainly on to something.

Vietnam For Seniors Travel

Vietnam is among the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Since it opened its doors to tourists a few decades ago, people from all over the world have been flocking to Vietnam to get a glimpse of its exotic beauty and natural wonders, and have a taste for something out of the ordinary.

Vietnam has been transformed from the war-torn country in the 1970s to the quiet, peaceful society that it is today. Aside from glorious vegetation, the vast rice fields and iconic pagodas, Vietnam also boasts of a cultural heritage that is the legacy of their nation. The Vietnamese people have benefitted from the warm tropical climate and enjoy an abundance of seasonal crops that fed its people.
 

Aside from these aspects, the beaches in Vietnam are the best places to just relax and enjoy, and can rival all other beaches in the region. Vietnam is truly a tropical paradise. From the towering hillsides to the magnificent temples, Vietnam captures the essence of greatness and opulence. Strengthened by an embattled history that included violence and war, the Vietnamese people has evolved and continue to become hardworking, hopeful citizens that look forward to a brighter tomorrow. They are tough, brave and strong fighters who are always proud of their country, happy to welcome tourists and introduce their beloved country to the rest of the world.


The People


Like their neighbors, the Vietnamese are extremely courteous, well-mannered and kindhearted people who are willing to go the extra mile in order to please their guests. You will find them refined in ways with the kind of timidity that draws others toward them. Although they may appear reserved and not very sociable at first, Vietnamese people are always helpful and accommodating especially to travelers. Tourists who are newly acquainted with locals will usually be requested to join a family meal and be treated as one of them. A large number of the population in Vietnam can speak and understand English, especially those working in businesses and shops, so you can communicate with them comfortably.  Some locals can also understand a bit of French, Japanese and Chinese,


Vietnam for Seniors Travel


If you don’t get around as easily as you used to, or you are looking for accessible travel options, you may find it difficult to travel around in Vietnam.  This is largely due to the horrendous traffic caused by the hoards of motorbikes and cyclos alike, loss of elevators in smaller buildings and missing ramps for the wheelchair bound. You can request for assistance from your travel agency or hotel management to get around, and they will try to find a way like a private car rental for your safety.


Respect for elders is an important cultural value and in general, the Vietnamese culture values respect for authority and avoidance of conflict.  In the Vietnamese community the benefit of the family and community comes before the individual.


While seniors travelling in Vietnam might enjoy the all round respect for elders that the social fabric and Confucianism affords you - you are unlikely to enjoy any of the major travel discounts you enjoy at home.  But do ask about travel discounts as you are wheeling and dealing on the email and Internet back home when you are planning your travels.
 

Travelling on a budget
  

You can choose to go luxurious with the five-star hotels at more than $700 for an overnight stay or opt to go more economical by staying at mini-hotels which are mostly rooms for rent by families who have space to spare. These are mostly air-conditioned and well-kept, and since most Vietnamese are friendly to travellers they can offer it to you at a bargain price. They can even provide you with extra beds or mattresses as well as other requests for a small, additional fee.
 

Dining out in Vietnam is YUM. Street food can be interesting and cheap too, but you should afford caution.  Most street foods are soup bowls with noodles, as is the usual Asian flair. However there are also various restaurants that cater to European and Western tastes, including some Japanese and Chinese cuisine as well.
 

Vietnam’s Pho (classic Vietnamese noodle soup) has captivated the world and can be found in many menus worldwide. In Vietnam you’ll see nearly every stall or restaurant serving Pho with beef, the typical combination. Fish sauce is also a staple, along with fresh fruits in season that you won’t find back in your hometown like rambutans and longans.
 

Vietnamese people love to drink beer. Try the local pick-me-up drink and have a swig of bia hoi (Viet beer). If you prefer other beer brands you can find these in restaurants too, at a slightly more expensive price. As always, only drink bottled water and avoid eating raw food to prevent any stomach problems while travelling overseas, as you wouldn’t want an illness to ruin your trip. 


Ease of getting around


It’ easy to flag a taxi cab when travelling in Vietnam, and you can distinguish them by their colors (yellow or green). Be prepared and jot down the exact destination’s address for the drivers to follow as chances are they are not all too familiar with using the English language. Another way to go around is through the bicycles or cyclos which are relatively cheaper but slower. Vietnam’s cities are known for motor bicycles running in the major thoroughfares, so you can opt to ride one of your own by renting or buying one at a low price either in the capital Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi. Ask your tour guide or hotel officer for any information on the best deals where to hire or get a motorbike. Also don’t forget you need a driving permit, although it is rare for Vietnamese police to check on foreigners on bikes.


Travelling tips


The climate in Vietnam varies in its three regions (North, South, Central), so it doesn’t really matter which month you visit. Even if it’s the summer or the winter season the weather will not be too hot or too cold for comfort, and generally you’ll be able to enjoy a visit to Vietnam without worrying too much about the climate. However if you’re a beach aficionado which are in the North and South areas of Vietnam, it’s best to go during April to May. The major cities can be really busy during the peak seasons (November to March) so careful not to join the rest of the tourists during these months.


Establishments are open as early as 7 in the morning up to 6 in the evening, and Vietnamese people take their breaks seriously. Nothing can disturb their lunch hour so if you arrive at a shop from 12nn up to a little before 2pm chances are you’ll find the shop closed for lunch. Banks and government offices are the same. To visit temples you can go anytime from 5:00am to 9:00pm, while if you wish for entertainment clubs are open up to the wee hours of the morning (usually around past midnight, like 2:00am).


Going online is pretty easy, since virtually all buildings and businesses now have internet connection. If you want to use the internet, you can do so for a minimal fee, although some luxury hotels do offer this service for free. Nowadays many internet cafés have sprouted in the cities, and you can use their workstations or connect your laptop with no difficulty at all.


The manner and style of clothing is important, as Vietnamese people tend to be very conservative which means only long sleeved shirts and pants are acceptable. Wearing clothes that show off even a little skin in the public is prohibited even for foreigners. Shoes are always left outside before entering a temple, a pagoda or even someone’s home. Taking photographs of infantry men or members of the armed forces are a no-no as this may be seen as a hostile act to provoke them. Similarly do not bring your camera when visiting the indigenous tribes in Vietnam as this is regarded as an invasion of privacy.


Vietnam has a lot to offer in terms of scenic spots, and these include the populous and artful city of Hanoi, the historical city of Ho Chi Minh near the river of Saigon, the enchanting caverns and waterways along Halong Bay, the grottos inside the majestic Phong Nha Cave which is the largest in the country, the appealing and noteworthy gastronomy in Hoi An, the spotless beaches in Mui Ne and Nha Trang, and the magnificent old ruins of the Champa Kingdom. Vietnam has a bustling art community with a number of museums and galleries for your viewing pleasure. Hué is the old capital of Vietnam, and is home to numerous religious towers and temples where you can spend a day of meditation and cultural immersion.


Shopping in Vietnam can be a bargain! Many tourists bring home items of fine cloth with lacework, delicate silk, crafts with mother-of-pearl designs, and even bamboo furniture including chairs, mats, curtains and blinds.

Discount Travel Websites

ZUJI Australia is a New Young Travel partner.  This is a strong enough endorsement.  They know that more than half of their custom comes from travellers over 50 years so they specifically cater to you. They offer great deals for both air and land.

Expedia.com.au is one of the worlds largest online agencies owned by the huge Travelocity.  They have a massive buying power, so always check out what is on offer here.

Travel.com.au  was the first Australian online company.  They have been around for years.  They offer consistently good deals.  I particularly like their fare comparison capabilities.

Hotels.com is a discount hotel site that conducts a yearly hotel price index review - where you can stay in a 5 star hotel in the world for $200 or $100 etc.  Good site and trusted brand.  Hotels.com in my experience is on of the cheaper hotel booking sites.

Cheaper Than Hotels helps travellers find the right hotel at the right price.You can quickly search a database offering bargains at more than 60,000 properties in 130 countries worldwide (making it one of the world’s largest).

Hotel.info is different in that it can offer hotel evaluations available on the relationship between price and quality in 3 and 4 star hotels shows customer ratings and reviews.  It also offers cheap hotels and no cancellation fees.

Blue Holidays is Virgin Blue’s discount holiday website that has lots of great deals on an ongoing basis to their destinations around Australia, Asia and The Pacific.

Otel.com is a discounted hotel site that will give you at least a 5% ‘cashback’ on your next hotel booking Book with Otel.com & get 5% cash back on next booking!

GTA’s point of difference is that it has great hotel rates for Europe.  They also have fire sales where they sell good quality hotels for up to 70% off.  These are generally exceptional value Book your hotel up to 70% discount in great destinations worldwide

Hot Dockets is run by shop-a-docket and allows you download the discount travel dockets that are usually found on the back of your shopping dockets.  Whether you’re looking for a weekend away or a longer break, Hotdockets has discount holidays all over Australia.  Discounts are available to everyone and are generally fabulous deals!

Hostels and Backpacking for Seniors Travel

We all know the stereotypical backpacker – a wide-eyed youth trunking a heavy bag of dirty clothes around the middle of nowhere, a rebel without a cause. We also know where he usually sleeps – a dingy dorm room with 12 other young people, struggling to sleep amid the noise and a disturbing smell from an unknown source.

Although we all know someone who’s had this experience – maybe we did it ourselves back in the ‘60’s or ‘70’s – hostelling and backpacking isn’t necessarily like that these days. 21st Century hostels are clean, welcoming places.  They are often with state of the art facilities with private single and double rooms with private bathroom facilities.  These hostels and backpacker guest houses can be utilised by travelers who are young and new young alike. Here are our top tips to getting the most out of hosel and backpacking accommodation for seniors travel:

The accommodation is better than you think: Hostels nowadays are a far cry from the dark old days outlined above – most are modern, clean facilities with friendly staff and a wide range of sleeping arrangements available. If you can’t face the idea of a large dorm, you can take a bed in a 6-bed, 4-bed or 3-bed dorm – chances are, the other beds will be vacant half the time. And if that still seems a bit uncomfortable, many hostels have private twin and single rooms with bathroom facilities as well. Check out Hostelbookers.com for hostels you can prebook in over 3500 cities worldwide.

You’ll be surprised at how cheaply you can get what is basically a regular hotel room without some of the frills. Once you’re settled in, you’ll find a host of amenities are available to you – a fresh breakfast in the dining area, assistance with maps and guidebooks at the reception, and wifi internet access to keep up with the rest of the world.

Transport options are many and varied: For most of us, the idea of packing up a heavy backpack and lugging it around is a good example of a nightmare trip. But you don’t have to strap pots and pans to your back to be a real backpacker – most people travel much lighter these days, and you can take advantage of a mix of public and private transport to get around. Why not take the airport bus instead of a taxi, or hop on a group tour instead of renting a car. You’ll be surprised at how much you can see without hanging on to the usual creature comforts. Many hostels and backpackers offer a tour desk as part of their service. Generally, the tours are extremely good value.

The savings cannot be beaten: Without the price of a hotel room and a rental car, you’ll find your travel costs way down on the usual. It’s a simple process: for example, becoming a member of YHA (Youth Hostels Australia) only costs a small fee and is not restricted to any age. Getting a YHA member card entitles you to discounts on a whole range of attractions as well as a cheaper hostel bed in their huge network of reputable hostels around the world.

Backpacking for single seniors travel:  If you are after true seclusion, backpacking probably isn’t for you - because you will make so many friends along the way many of whom are also travelling alone.  The one thing I love most about backpacking is the people you meet and the friends you make.  Don’t be surprised if you are not travelling alone for long!

The world of hostelling and backpacking is wide open for all to enjoy - it is a great start for seniors travel. And the lower prices mean you can go much further and see much more on your next trip. It is an option to be considered for both domestic and international travel.

For more information, I highly recommend Hostelbookers.com.  With Hostelbookers.com you can prebook your hostels in over 3500 different cities around the world.  They also have regular specials and promotions.

 

Work On a Cruise Ship

Love to cruise?  Then we have found a way for you to be paid to cruise. Cruising is the fastest growing travel sector worldwide.  There can be over 200 different cruise ship vacancies on any one ship with many opportunities for professionals whether you are looking to build a career or have a bit of fun with retirement or semi-retirment. Working on a cruise ship is great for seniors travel, particularly if you cannot afford to pay to cruise as often as you would like.  This is a great way to do it.

Cruise ships cater to all sorts of different people - mature age customers, singles and families,  so companies are always seeking a wide range of skills and backgrounds. 

In the next 5 years, more than 50 new cruise ships will be launched in this booming industry.  This means lots of cruise ship vacancies will be available with a wide variety of skills required. 

The types of jobs are wide and varied:  childcare workers, entertainment specialists, retail staff, photographers, production staff, counsellors, gym instructors, tour guides, dance instructors, teachers and plenty more.  Great cruise jobs for seniors include: 

Gentlemen Host.  Gentlement hosts are single men who’s job is to entertain and dance with mature single cruise customers.  You generally need to be 45+.  In exchange for dancing and chatting, you are given free room and board on the ship.  You litereally get paid to have fun.

On Board Lecturer:  Most cruise lines offer a series of lectures held throughout the day, it is a very popular form of entertainment.  Topics generally include history, art, health and well being, politics, science and any sort of interesting topic really.  If you are suitably qualified in your field and appointed as an onboard lecturer, you will generally receive free room and board on the ship.

Arts and crafts teachers:  Cruise ships are always looking for fresh topics.  So if you are a knitter extaordinaire or specialise in scrapbooking, there could be a place for you on the ship.  No hobby is too obscure, if you can teach it, let them know.

If you are interested on pursuing cruise ship work, I can recommend the eBook How To Work On a Cruise Ship .  The book is written by Derek Baron, an ex- cruise ship tour manager.  He goes through the pro’s and con’s of working on a ship, the types of jobs available and what to expect on-board.  He also gives great tips on how to write your application and the types of things that go down well in the interview.  There is also a good description of all the cruise companies and the type of people they like to employ.  Click here for more.

 

 

Volunteer Travel

Volunteer Travel is fast becoming an alternative travel experience sought by experienced and new travellers alike.  You have the ability to combine travel to your dream destination with volunteering your time to a charitable cause. Volunteer holidays provide you with the opportunity to give back to others by sharing your knowledge and skills to underprivileged communities in different regions all over the world.

Becoming a volunteer can be such an amazing and fulfilling experience. When you join other volunteers in supporting various educational projects, conservation activities, and building homes for displaced families, you’ll feel a sense of achievement. Not only will you get to experience new things, you can also get a different perspective of life by immersing yourself in these communities.

Why volunteer travel instead of a normal holiday? Volunteer travel is something out of the ordinary, because instead of idly staying under the sun on a beach and going on tour to view scenic spots, you get to absorb local culture plus experience a new way of living. With volunteer holidays you can observe how people from different parts of the world go on their day-to-day activities, understand their areas of concern, and see how you can help.

This type of holiday is not for the relaxing type. But what’s great about this kind experince is, that although it is hard work and can definitely be challenging, you will meet people who can change your life completely. Meeting the local townsfolk along with other volunteers will be an overwhelming experience, as you get acquainted with people who believe in the same cause as yours and are willing to devote time as well as effort towards achieving a common goal.   You will truly enhance your sense of immersion and experience of a culture. 

Sample volunteer holidays you can join. While volunteering, you will be introduced to a foreign language plus acquire new skills, both of which can be extremely gratifying. Whether its wildlife and environmental conservation, training and education or social work, you’re sure to not only enjoy but make an impact on the community you’re working with. Here are a few sample volunteer holidays being offered that you can take on:

- Assist in conserving endangered species

- Teach and care for children in impoverished communities

- Facilitate community development, housing projects

- Work for marine and wildlife conservation

As a volunteer, you have the option of staying for a specific period of time, say a short period of one week to three months or even up to two years. Organizations including charities which support volunteer holiday programs will advise you of visa requirements, program duration, flight recommendations, placement and the amount you may need in support funds while you’re staying in a foreign country. Fees are usually all-inclusive of board and lodging, insurance, local transportation, and program orientation so you don’t have to worry much when you arrive at your destination. Most volunteer travel is are arranged at least two to three months prior to departure, so make sure to plan ahead of time.

Making a difference. Going on a volunteer holiday is a great way to foster harmonious relationships between family members, so certain volunteer programs accommodate those who volunteer as a family. Volunteer travel is essentially a working holiday where you can enjoy and learn at the same time. As a volunteer, you’ll be able to contribute to a better and brighter future for these communities, and at the same time forge bonds with people from all over the world. You’ll also take pleasure in new sights when you’re in a foreign country in a way you won’t experience when you’re on a tourist holiday. Each volunteer program is designed to provide you the best volunteering experience possible.

Try these companies for further information:

GAP Adventures

i-to-i Travel

Transitions Abroad

Cruises for Singles - What to Expect

Cruising is a great choice for single seniors who love to travel.  There are many cruisle lines that actively encourage singles cruise options making it easier in many ways to travel as a single on your chosen ship.  There is such a demand from singles who would like to take a cruise, many cruise ship liners have introduced singles friendly initiatives to make passengers feel more comfortable.  These include special activity programs and discounted singles pricing. Some of the welcoming singles initiatives include:

- Providing gentleman hosts to ensure you always have a dance partner.

- Providing purpose built single cabins that are cheaper than the usual.

- Dedicated singles lounges to help you mingle.

- Meet and mingle cocktail evenings especially for single travellers on the first night. 

- Tables hosted by the ships officers or staff for the single travellers.

- Group departures for single travellers.

And if you are thinking of cruising solo, bigger is not necessarily better for singles cruising.  Choose a small to medium sized ship that will make it easier to bump into people you have met.  The larger ships mean that if you strike a friendship with someone by the pool, you may not necessarily see them again. Smaller ships also tend to attract an older clientelle. This is largely because they tend to be more expensive.  The smaller ships by nature are also a little more social, because of the fact that you do see people again. 

As we all well know, the single supplement is the most irritating thing about travelling alone.  Interestingly, the smaller, more luxurious cruise lines tend to be the ones that cater very will to singles cruising by offering the best single supplement deals.  Often it will work out cheaper to cruise luxury than middle of the road for a single - what a bonus.  There are also great cruises for singles deals to be had for European riverboat cruising. Also, many companies have good deals for those who book well inadvance and last minute so try to scan the market as much as possible.  Try these companies for consistently singles friendly deals:

- Silversea - single suplements just 10%  for selected voyages

- Holland America - over 40 programs developed specifically for singles cruise. 

- Crystal - ambassador host programs for singles

- Seabourn

- Norwegian Epic, Azura - both with the latest in purpose built singles cabins

- Hurtigruten - 10% single supplement all year round

- Voyages of Discovery

- All Fred Olsen Ships

Companies offering share with a stranger options are few and far between these days for cruising, but Holland America still offers this service. 

 

Philippines for Seniors Travel

Did you know that in the Philippines, there exists a law granting a blanket 20% discount on everything upon turning 60. Known as the Senior Citizens Act, all  establishments in the Philippines are required by law to offer a 20% discount to all senior citizens aged 60 and above.  While the law does not extend to tourists, make sure you do ask.  Many places will allow the discount to foreigners at their own discretion. Now that is what I call a truly ‘seniors friendly’ country.

The Philippines is now emerging as one of the most sought after destinations in Southeast Asia, embracing visitors from various parts of the world every year. With its tropical climate, the Philippine isles has become a haven for nature lovers and backpackers, becoming a major tourist attraction particularly for its pristine white beaches, clear blue waters, fantastic dive spots, lush hills and mountains. Many tourists are attracted to the Philippines for its laidback, easygoing lifestyle.

The people. Nothing beats the warmth and hospitality of the Filipinos. They welcome everyone who visits their home, treating guests as royalty and making sure every need is attended to. Filipinos are predominantly Catholic, while parts of the population are Muslims, Buddhists, and Protestants. You can say that the Filipinos are a religious bunch, even teaching moral values in school like respect for elders and being kind to one’s neighbor. For Filipinos, the family is given utmost importance. It’s not uncommon to find homes with extended families all sharing the space together. Whenever there is an important event or gathering, guests are always treated like they are part of the family. You’ll get a feel of this when you visit a Filipino home, as they give up their best seats, beds and even prepare a feast to make you feel satisfied and comfortable.

Ease of getting around. Nearly all locals can communicate in English. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions! Locals are warmhearted and are always ready to help, some even willing to show you around. Local public transport includes jeepneys, tricycles, buses and trains (MRT, LRT). Air carriers fly to local destinations, metered taxi cabs are available widely in the metropolitan area, while boats can ferry you around the islands as well.

Travelling on a budget. Nearly every coffee shop offers WiFi and internet services, some offering this for free. There are plenty of cheap hotels and hostels which can provide you quality service and nice facilities are available. If you want to go shopping, Manila is known as a haven for bargain shoppers where you can virtually everything from clothes to shoes to bags, household items and even hardware supplies at low cost.

Eating. When dining out, you have a wide variety of options from Western choices like Italian, plenty of American food chains, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine like Japanese, Chinese, Korean. Hotels can serve a myriad of cuisines, and of course you can have a taste of original Filipino cuisine which usually consists of fresh seafood, organic greens and a rich flavor (a combination of sweet, sour, salty tastes) that Filipinos love. Best of all, every meal is inexpensive when compared to eating out in other countries, so you can get the best of both worlds by getting budget accommodation with world-class service.

Travelling tips. The Filipinos love a festival.  There are a number of festivals called fiestas are held in various provinces across the country, so check the local tourism office for information when these will be held.

Check your travel dates and make sure you don’t go during the typhoon season (around June to September). With a tropical climate, you’ll experience the hot summer from March to May and wet season with occasional rain showers from June to October. The remaining months from November to October are normally cool and windy.

A Pocketful of Paradise. The nation is divided into three main regions, each with its own metropolitan hub and particular points of interest. Luzon to the north is the most populated region, with the expansive capital city Manila as its main destination. Travel farther north to Banaue where a spectacle of rice terraces had been etched up along the hillside by the Ifugao tribespeople over 2000 years ago. Also, don’t miss the truly isolating beauty of Hundred Islands National Park where you may just find a beach all to yourself, as there are literally hundreds to choose from. The central region of Visayas is mostly smaller island clusters and famous for Boracay Island’s White Beach and surrounding resort and aquatic activity areas. Please check out our photos posted on our forum. by Julian, they are stunning. Make sure to explore the island’s less crowded, but just as white-and-turquoise beaches.

The southernmost region of Mindanao is home to Davao, the largest city in the world by land area, and the stately Mount Apo, the Philippine’s tallest mountain. Enjoy a thrilling river rafting trip in Cagayan de Oro or get back to basic Filipino life in the Tiruray Highlands where he remote shores of Lake Sebu are peacefully inhabited by the T’boli tribe.

Europe for Seniors Travel

1.  Avoid the queues and pre-book with museums and galleries direct online or via a tour company like Viator.

2.  Avoid European Summer and you will avoid the crowds.  If you are retired or semi-retired or can travel when you like,  why travel with the hoards?  Europe in the Spring, Autumn and Winter is magical.  Summer is HOT and crowded.

3.  Look out for Earlybird aifare deals with airlines from October each year.  You will save lots.

4.  Always book and pay for your rail pass before you leave home.  You will save a lot of money.  Check out Rail Europe Australia

5.  Eat and drink the local fare - you will also save lots of money!

6.  Take a water bottle and fill it up along the way.  I have been to some European cities and paid up to $15 for a bottle of water!

7.  Travelling on trains overnight will save you a night in a hotel.

8.  Consider staying in hostels.  No longer just for ‘youth’,  hostels these days very often come with single or double rooms with your own bathroom.  You no longer need to share a room with 7 others…

9.  If you are going to be carrying your own luggage around, consider traveling with hand luggage only.  This is especially so if you plan on independent travel for all or even some of your trip.  Even more so if traveling    solo. Taking your bags on and off trains is hard and tiresome.

10.  If you plan on staying for a while, have you considered a home exchange?  You will save a huge amount of money.  Home exchange is becoming more and more popular.  For in-depth information, go to Home Exchange

11.  Many museums and galleries are closed on Mondays.  If you are on limited time, check your days before you go.

12.  Look out for pick pockets and thieves.  Be aware of your luggage, money and valuables.  They are common, particularly in crowded places

India for Seniors Travel

Home to more than 1 billion people and the fastest growing economy in the world, India is a country of rich history and diverse cultures. In fact, theirs is a country of old traditions and beliefs.  It is where you will find the eternal Taj Mahal and the many temples known to man. There are a lot of natural attractions in India as well. From waterfalls to exotic wildlife, one will be amazed at the many things this country has to offer. India is a great place for seniors travel.

However,  if you’re considering visiting India, you need to accept the fact that life is different there and you need to come to grips with this before you go. In truth, India is an incredibly captivating country of beauty, stunning sites and incredibly funny people.  On the otherhand, India is a country where you will see everything you can imagine. More importantly, everything you will see will be intense. You will not see a beggar, you will see millions of them. You will not see a beautiful beach, you will see the most beautiful beaches in the world. Places of wealth are so over the top you’ll be stunned. The shanty towns of the poor, on the other hand, will set you back on your heals.

There is a lot about tourism that India can be truly proud of. It is among the best tourist destinations in the world in as far as its natural resources are concerned. Home to the white Bengal tigers, dromedaries and great Indian rhinoceros, there is more to India than meets the eye.

It is also a cultural haven.  A place where you will experience many festivals and feasts. Of course there is Bollywood with its talented Indian actors and actresses.

Despite popular opinion, there are both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights to be had in India. The staple foods of India  are ones made from rice or wheat, but a wide variety of cuisine is available to you as you travel through different regions. Different types of spices and sweets are available and used in the dishes they prepare in each area. Sweets and spicy food is very popular in all of India. On the down side, food hygiene is somewhat questionable, even if you are travelling 5 star.  I would highly recommend you consider going vegetarian for your Indian travels. 

One of the biggest traveller complaints about India is the poverty. In truth, it is bad. There is simply no way around the fact. Whatever you have previously seen, wherever you have previously gone, nothing matches the poverty in India. The shanty towns are large cities and the conditions are less than ideal.  Regardless, you will have problems dealing with the poverty in India. It can ruin your trip if you’re not careful.

Indians also have high regard for seniors, locals and tourists alike. As a primary aspect of Indian culture, respect for the senior is sincere.

There are lots of seniors travel discounts when it comes to India.  Most tour companies will offer seniors discounts.  You are are also entitled to discounts and other benefits in so far as meals, foods and transportation are concerned, you just need to ask. These include on the rail network, Air India and various Indian hotel chains.

Most Indians can speak, understand and communicate in English. Once you get lost or can’t find your way around, you can just ask anybody for directions. Respectful, helpful and accommodating, Indians will really make your stay at their place a truly memorable one. Indian people are the happiest in the world.  They are always cheerful and smiling - spiritually at ease with their live and lot.

Consider our top 10 tips to prepare you for a trip to India:

1. No amount of research will every prepare you for the first time you arrive in India.

2. Register your plans so the Indian State Department can better assist you in an emergency and assure of your safety.

3. Food hygiene is somewhat questionable in India so I would highly recommend you consider going vegetarian for your Indian travels. 

4.  India is a great place to travel by train.  If travelling by train, plan well ahead if you want first or second class and book at least a week ahead,

5.  Be prepared to pay people for photo’s that you take of them.  It is an expectation. A small amount is enough.

6.  Don’t eat anything offered by fellow travellers on train or road travels. It might have sleeping pills. Always travel reserved class in trains.

6.  They love Australians - especially any of our cricket champions.

7.  Dont be in a hurry.  You will enjoy India if you take a relaxed approach and gain a deeper understanding into this amazing country.

8.  Avoid tap water at all costs - drinking, ice, salads, brushing teeth etc.

9.  Toilets are famous for being terrible!  Carry toilet paper and soap/anti-bactieral wash at all times.

10.  When it comes to scams - it is inevitable you will be exposed. Use a bit of common sense and just move on if you smell one.

South America for Seniors Travel

The long, wide continent of South America holds lots of charming experiences in store for any visitor. See the haunting landscape of Patagonia, walk the lively streets of Santiago and Montevideo, marvel at the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, the seaside pastures of the Falkland Islands. You may not pick up too many senior discounts, but you’ll find the exchange rates are good and the prices are generally much lower. It’s also a relatively easy continent to get around in, as English is widely spoken in all of the top tourist areas.

Taste the diverse delights.  The cuisine of South America varies a great deal depending on culture, nationality and geography. Argentina is famous for its beef, for example, while countries like Chile with a long coastline serve the tastiest fish around. For true gastronomy, the top tip is to follow the wine: where’s it excellent like in Argentina and Chile, so is the food, while mid-ranking wine producers like Uruguay and Peru can be somewhat mediocre on cuisine as well.

See the sights by train.  Railways are something of an endangered species on the continent of South America, but you can still see some amazing places at your ease by taking the train. There’s a scenic line between Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca running through the Sacred Valley and Cusco, for example. Chile has some excellent trains for day trips south of the capital Santiago, while in Argentina you can get to Rosario and Cordoba from Buenos Aires by rail. A particular highlight is Argentina’s Old Patagonian Express, or La Trochita to the locals. This steam locomotive line has long since passed its heyday, but you can still take a one-hour tourist train to sample a bit of railway history. See www.patagonia-argentina.com for more information.

Visit the world-famous wonders.  South America is home to a number of landmarks known the world over. The Christ the Redeemer statue above Rio, for example, is now seen as one of the Seven Wonders of the modern World. You can visit the statue on Corcovado Mountain by road or rail, and there are escalators and elevators on hand to spare you the 222 steps up to the statue itself. The once ‘Lost City’ of Machu Picchu is now easily accessed by road or rail from the modern Peruvian city of Cusco, followed by a short bus ride. Even Easter Island is only a flight away from Santiago, and there’s plenty to see and do once you’re there.

Sample the open-air markets.  One relaxing activity you can enjoy on your trip is to take a walk around a street market. Luckily, you can find these almost anywhere in South America. For instance, Ecuador has exotic foods and Panama hats in its markets, while Argentina is a good place to go to find unique antiques at one of several flea markets in Buenos Aires. And Rio de Janeiro has innumerable places where you can find great souvenirs at reasonable prices.

Experience the rhythm of Rio.  Even though it’s no longer the capital, Rio de Janeiro remains the pulsing heart of Brazil. Here you can take a relaxing walk along the famous Copocabana promenade, admire the renowned works of modern architecture and see some of the many fascinating museums and art galleries that pay testament to the city’s varied past and multicultural present. There are also many great places to go to see some live Brazilian music, such as the charming Rio Scenarium music venue.

South America for Seniors Travel.  There are many tour companies operating in South America – most of which offer seniors travel discounts of between 5 – 10 %.  The key is to contact the companies directly. As a destination, South America and its countries doesn’t cater specifically well to seniors.   I would advise that you are in good health when you travel there and tend not to attempt independent travel unless it is something you have been doing for a while and used to.  There are many fantastic tour companies that operate in the region catering from budget to 5 star.  In some areas, such as the popular Machu Pichu Inca city, consider the effects of high altitude.  This is something that you don’t really know about until you are there.  However, there are ways to minimize extreme effects so talk to your doctor and read plenty of travelogues / research on the area before you go.

Cruise

Cruising offers fabulous value for money.   Generally the best deals and discounts can be found through your travel agent or cruise specialist as some major cruise lines do not show all of their discounted prices on their websites.  Many of the best deals tend to be last minute when the ships try to sell ‘distressed capacity’ in order to fill their ships.  So, if you don’t mind being spontaneous, this option can save you a lot of money. Because of currency fluctuations prices and specials can change daily, so that amazing special you see today, may not be avaialble tomorrow.

The benefits of cruising are terrific - you have paid for most of your holiday upfront - accommodation, food and entertainment.  Once on-board, you need to allow for alcohol, shore excursions (optional) and generally tips. It is important with cruising to compare apples to apples.  Ships and cabins vary greatly so please do your research.

Cruise Specialist Travel Agents

www.cruisesalefinder.com.au is a unique cruise specialist which seeks out the best sale prices for Australian cruise lovers. They are backed by the strength of iMall Brands Ltd, an internet travel leader which books tens of thousands of travel reservations each year. This level of booking volume enables them to negotiate the best deals available.

Creative Cruising

The Cruise Specialists is a specialist Australian based cruise travel information and reservations service.  They offer great deals for you to view on their web-page.  The Cruise Specialists also have a monthly newsletter featuring hot last minute specials with limited berth availability.  They also offer Seniors $50 off each booking on all cruises.

Ecruising has a cruising loyalty program, ‘Posh’ where the more you cruise, the more you save.  Frequent cruisers may receive free travel insurance and onboard credits.

Ozcruising

Travel the World specialises in luxury cruising.  The sell 5 star + cruise lines such as Holland America, Silversea and Windstar.  They have access to regular specials and discounts on these cruise liners. 

Cruise company websites

Holland America.  We love Holland America.  Luxury cruising at its best with ‘world class everything’.  They have a special offers page displayed in Australian dollars.

MSC has a specials page on their website with great deals including kids cruise free - why not take the Grandkids?

P&O Cruises offer excellent early bird specials and offer many cruises for Australia and the South Pacific on their ships, Pacific Dawn, Pacific Sun, Pacific Jewell and Pacific Pearl.

Royal Caribbean is one of the worlds largest cruise companies.  They offer a ‘hot deals’ section on their website.

Cruise magazines and publications

Cruises with fresh articles and the latest cruise news, Cruises.com.au will provide you with all the ins and outs of the cruising world.  Browse through stunning cruise destinations, cruise ships and their features before you book your next holiday on the water.  Subscribe now to Cruise Passenger magazine and receive 50% off the normal subscription price exclusive to NewYoungTravel members.

Intelligent Cruiser is an ebook written by an ex cruise director. He shares many secrets on how to save money on shopping, alcohol, shore excursions, water etc.  He also shares with the reader how easy it is to receive cabin upgrades, become a VIP and obtain a whole range of benefits and discounts.   I have personally read the book and gave it to my cruise addict girlfriends to look through (they would cruise around 3 times a year) and we all agree there are some great suggestions in here.  Even as seasoned travellers, we thought there were some great tips in the book.  Bronwyn





 

 

Hawaii for Seniors Travel

One of the world’s most famous places for sun, sand and leisure, Hawaii is an easy choice for a great holiday, partiuclarly as a seniors travel destination. A popular destination for relocation retirees, Hawaii is also a very seniors friendly destination. For example, a law was recently passed requiring public highways to be made fully accessible for all. There are also lots of great discounts you can pick up to make your holiday that bit more affordable. Check out our essential tips for getting the most out of senior travel in Hawaii.

Shop around and save. One advantage of visiting a popular tourist destination such as Hawaii is that there’s plenty of competition in the tourist industry, and many discounts are available if you shop around. You will find seniors discounts pretty much at every attraction and many restaurants and hotels. If you don’t see it, make sure you ask  Many seniors travel discounts start at age 50.  Don’t forget to carry a proof of age with you.

Hotel and apartment deals.  Some hotel resorts will offer discount accommodation.  Most of the large hotel chains offer seniors travel discounts: for example, Outrigger resorts in Waikiki, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island of Hawaii offer special FiftyPlus rates. Castle Hotels and Resorts offer senior travel discounts if you are over 50 and so does Aston.  Hawaii is a great place to get an apartment if you prefer this style of accommodation, there are some great deals around.  You can be super organized and have Island Grocery Service  do your shopping and stock your apartment before you arrive.  I love this concept!

Feast on fantastic food.  As a multicultural island state, Hawaii has a distinct cuisine made up of a number of unique specialties. You can try amazing dishes like fish sauced with fresh coconut, laulau (steamed meat wrapped in leaves), manapua (a large bun filled with shredded meat), coco puffs, Hawaiian cookies and many more. To sample some of these treats, you can join one of the many food tours available.  Many local restaurants offer great seniors deals on certain nights so be sure to do your research.

Take in the history at Pearl Harbor.  The attack on Pearl Harbor and its consequent effects on the course of World War II was probably Hawaii’s most significant moment in history. One of the most interesting ways to revisit this period is to take a tour of the USS Missouri, which is docked at Pearl Harbor. You can see all areas of this massive 900-foot long battleship, which was the scene of the Japanese surrender to the Allies in 1945.

Have a health and wellness holiday.  Hawaii is a top location for health spas, with a strong emphasis on catering for senior clients. During your stay you can try out a number of local health treatments such as a lorni lorni massage, local herbal remedies and aroma therapy Hawaiian style. You can also avail of meditation, spiritual retreats and art and dance theraphy. The Hawaii Island Wellness Travel Association lists dozens of health holiday locations

Cruise around the islands. As well being the perfect option for a simple and relaxing holiday, a cruise is also one of the least taxing ways to see Hawaii’s islands up close. You’ll get the benefit of all the usual facilities of a hotel plus get to experience many Hawaii locations without the burden of overland travel. A number of cruise operators offer different voyages that take in stopovers at breathtaking locations such as Kona-Kailua, Kauai, Hilo, Kahului and Honolulu.  Most of them also offer great seniors travel deals.

Souvenirs. You won’t want to go all the way to Hawaii without bringing home some great souvenirs for that special someone at home. To do so without breaking the bank, head to Hilo Hattie, considered the top souvenir location in the state. You can pick up simple gifts like macadamia nuts, shell leis and Kona coffee among many others. They even offer a free shuttle bus Shopping Tour that takes in a number of their stores plus a free tour of downtown Honolulu.  For something truly Hawaiian you can also visit the International Market place where you can get all sorts of local crafts from the supremely tacky to the truly intricate traditional.

Germany for Seniors Travel

As one of the largest nations in Western Europe, Germany is a country rich in contrasting sights for the visitor to enjoy. It’s got both historical villages and cosmopolitan cities plus beautiful natural scenery, from pristine green forests to gleaming lakes to fairytale castles. Best of all, it’s a very senior-friendly country that has one of Europe’s oldest populations. You’ll pick up plenty of great seniors travel discounts if you look out for the senioren category on price lists. Check out our top tips to get the most out of senior travel in Germany.

Travel and save.  One great way to see a chunk of this vast country in a short timeframe is to take a scenic train journey. German rail operator Bahn offers a 50% discount to seniors on its Rail Card (available from http://www.bahn.com), which entitles you to half-price train journeys around the country, including high-speed lines. It also gets you free tickets on KD boat trips as well as discounts on some coach travel. If you’re just planning to stay within one place, you can still get discounts on the metro in all the major cities. But make sure you compare your prices with Rail Europe as depending on what you are doing, it can be cheaper to buy a Eurail Pass before you leave.  They also have a great deal – happy-weekend tickets, that allow you to travel anywhere in Germany for the week end for 35 Euro.

Sharpen your language skills.It’s great to be able to speak another language, no matter what age you are. It’s also a great way to fully experience a new culture and meet interesting people. Learningtraveller.com offers language and culture courses specifically for the over 50s. The one- and two-week courses are held in the picturesque town of Ellwangen in southwest Germany, and include accommodation and meals in the booking price.

Take a river cruise. While cruising has become more popular, so has European river cruising. The mighty Rhine river has dictated much of Germany’s development through history. You can get a great sense of this story, plus see many of the country’s top sights, by taking a German river cruise. There are many river cruise companies, too many to mention.  They tend to specialise in the over 50’s traveller so be sure to ask about senior travel discounts.  These boat trips are great that take in the beautiful castles and lush landscapes of the Rhineland. Meals, day tours and accommodation are all part of their package deals so you know what you are up for before you board.

History. If you’re a history buff, you’ll definitely want to visit Berlin, where a number of different museums and historical sites tell the story of World War II. Once you have a good guide book you can get to these sites yourself without even needing a tour guide. You can see the Nazi government district, the site where the Holocaust was planned, the scene of the German surrender in 1945 and many other fascinating and moving museums and ruins from this dark time in world history.

Spend a unique Christmas. Berlin’s Christmas Markets have a reputation for being among the best in Europe. The city is decked out in beautiful fairy lights all December long, with some 60 locations around Berlin making up the market scene. There are many different ways to enjoy this winter magic whether you want to browse the vendor stalls for unique handicrafts, taste some delicious mulled wine, take a historic carriage ride or see some great outdoor music performances.

Spoil yourself at a spa.Germany is a great place to go for some pampering, being home to more than 900 spa resorts. Mineral spas, mud spas, health resorts, seaside resorts and hydrotherapy spa resorts are all available here. The resort town of Baden-Baden in southwest Germany is a particularly good spot to visit. Look out for the public baths, where you can spend all day moving between different pools for a fraction of what it would cost to visit a spa resort at home.

Hear some great music.The German city of Leipzig has a long history of great classical music, being the home of celebrated composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Felix Mendelssohn. You can take some fascinating walking tours in this city which feature many aspects of Bach’s life as well as a visit to Mendelssohn’s home. The Gewandhaus Concert Hall hosts regular top notch performances throughout the year, including an annual Mendelssohn Festival each August and September. 

Accommodation.    As you may well be aware, I am a great fan of the hostel, no matter what your age.  And if there is one country that does a hostel well, it is Germany.  Having experienced many hostels across the country, if you are a little nervous, this is probably a good place to start.  In my experience, they tend to be well managed, clean as well as catering very well to the senior traveler.  Most hostels have great single and double rooms as well as the usual dorm style.  You can pre-book your hostel on hostelbookers.com.

Berlin Flats.  There are hundreds of apartments available to rent for short term holiday accommodation in Berlin.  These apartments, known to those in the know as Berlin flats are a left over legacy from Eastern Block Berlin and offer a great insight into life in East Berlin.  Many have now been converted to tourist style apartments with full facilities.  They offer a great value alternative to hotels and tend to be much cheaper.

Beer.  And of course, we cannot talk about Germany without mentioning beer.  Lonely Planet has come up with the top 6 German Beer towns…

Imbiss. Eating on a budget in Germany is easy if you stick to the local Imbiss food outlets.  Germany’s alternative to fast food can be found everywhere from deli’s, bakeries to local butchery’s.  The Imbiss tends to consist of local fare – sausages and sandwiches as well as kebabs and other international ‘fast food’ like naan bread.

Accessible Travel. For information on accessible travel, including hotels, attractions and museums, go to this site.

New Zealand for Seniors Travel

Much like Australia, New Zealand is quite friendly to senior travellers; indeed, it is a country of seniors, as many of the Baby Boomers have watched their children head off to the U.K. and America in search of better opportunities and jobs. In light of their own aging population, New Zealanders are incredibly welcoming toward mature visitors and you will find that many of your Australian senior benefits will be honoured in New Zealand.

Camper van travel. Camper van travel is all the rage in New Zealand, especially on the stunningly beautiful South Island. You’ll find plenty of places to hire a camper van and there are numerous pull-in sites and campgrounds to take advantage of. As well, all public land around the country is open for overnight camping. Ferries carry cars and camper vans between islands from Wellington to Picton. Check out the New Young Travel Car and Campervan Hire page.

Tours. Adventurous seniors might want to sign up for an all-inclusive seniors tour of New Zealand.  There are so many companies offering senior travel discounts it is not worth mentioning them all.  Make sure that you ask your travel agent or the tour company direct when booking about seniors discounts.

Wineries. New Zealand has some 450 wineries, many situated in the lush Marlborough Valley of the South Island. Since New Zealand’s wineries are scattered around both islands, you can opt to drive between them, sampling a number of varietals, or sign up for a wine tour, such as those offered by Grape Escape.

Scenery. New Zealand’s biggest draw is perhaps its scenery, which consists of stark mountains, snowy peaks, rugged coastline, extinct volcanos and exotic farmland. The fjordlands are arguably the most beautiful area of the country, located on the South Island. A cruise through Milford Sound offers up-close views of stunning rock faces and hidden waterfalls and includes breakfast or lunch. If you’re an adventurous senior, you might also want to explore the many opportunities for tramping in New Zealand, whether through elegant mountains or along rocky beaches.

Maori Culture. New Zealand’s native Maori culture is one of its most beautiful and unique elements. It is possible to visit the bush and experience firsthand the elements of Maori culture that are so special through tours like Maori Tours, which offers half-day treks that bring you into the unique Maori landscape.

Shopping. If it’s a more cosmopolitan flair you’re after, make for New Zealand’s cities. Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin all offer different types of shopping, from cute local boutiques to secondhand shops and trinket stores. You may wish to pick up a Maori jewellery piece, including the beautiful jade, bone and blackshell pieces, and colourful paua shell necklaces. Likewise, you can invest in a comfortable Marino wool jumper, made locally from the wool of New Zealand’s 39 million sheep.

Climate. Being a snip further south than Oz, you may find New Zealand’s climate to be slightly different, but still incredibly pleasant. The country generally enjoys mild summers and rainy winters, though the central parts of the South Island can get quite cold in winter. There is plenty of snow in the mountains for winter sports and plenty of sunshine on the beach for summer fun. Try to pack light layers, as the weather can change quickly here.

Seniors travel deals and discounts.  New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for Australians to travel to at the moment in terms of value.  The airlines are offering extremely competitive fares as the seat capacity grows almost on a daily basis.  You are also in a position in New Zealand to use the strong Australian Dollar to your advantage.  If you are willing to do your research, particularly on the net, you will certainly nab a few great travel bargains.  And don’t be afraid to negotiate and bargain your prices directly with the accommodation suppliers.  Also, check out  Ezycoupons.co.nz in your planning, it is similar to our hot dockets site.  You can download discount coupons for accommodation and restaurants.  Make sure you sign up for Seniors Card NZ. It is available to everyone (not just New Zealanders) provided you are over 55.  There is a small fee for the card but it gives you access to loads of negotiated discounts. 

Japan for Seniors Travel

Japan is a fascinating place to visit for even the most seasoned traveller.  It has to be one of my favourite countries.   It’s a country of great contrasts, with ancient temples and futuristic cities, misty green hills and bullet trains, be-suited businessmen and beautiful geisha. It’s also a challenging location for senior travel as despite the large senior population here, urban life moves at a lightning pace and there are few senior discounts on offer. Nonetheless once you take the plunge, you’re guaranteed to be greeted with amazing hospitality in a country full of rich, exotic heritage to explore. Japan is also very safe.  You will find the locals incredibly friendly and genuinely interested in helping you enjoy their country.  Check out our essential tips to getting the most out of seniors travel in Japan.

Packing.  There are a number of things you should make sure to pack in your luggage for a trip to Japan. Comfortable socks (without holes) are a must, as you’ll probably be asked to remove your shoes when visiting someone’s home as well as ryokan inns, temples, museums and even some restaurants. You should also bring plenty of tissues, a washcloth and hand sanitizer, since many restaurants don’t give out napkins and a lot of public bathrooms do not have towels, soap or hand-dryers. A travel umbrella is also recommended since Japan’s climate is such that it can rain at any time of year.

Soak in a hot spring.  Hot springs come in both natural and man-made varieties all over Japan, thanks to a local appetite for weekend getaways. If you venture into a rural area of the country you may find some very picturesque natural springs located among scenic mountains and pretty foliage, although access to these areas may be difficult for those with mobility problems.  In general, Japanese hot springs are especially pleasant for seniors because of their soothing effect on muscles and joints. At the springs, which are most commonly separated into men’s and women’s baths, you may come across locals soaking in the nude – but don’t worry, wearing a bathing suit is perfectly acceptable for foreigners.

Take in the history. There are tons of fascinating museums and amazing temples around the capital alone. The Sensoji Temple is the oldest in Tokyo, and attracts many visitors each year to see its imposing gate and colorful five-storey pagoda. The same area is dotted with souvenir stalls and foreigner-friendly places to eat. To learn more about the country’s long history, the massive Tokyo National Museum is a surefire hit, with five halls of historical and cultural exhibits that will more than satisfy even the most avid history buff. Just don’t expect to see everything!

Walk in the beautiful gardens. Deservedly famous for its flower gardens, Japan has no shortage of gorgeous plant life. The city of Kyoto (500km west of the capital), in particular, has a number of fantastic gardens, parks and scenic countryside in store for the adventurous traveler, especially if you come in the autumn and see the gorgeous red leaves.  April is another fantastic time to visit Japanese gardens because beautiful cherry blossoms will be in bloom. Tokyo’s Imperial Palace East Garden - which is open daily except Mondays and Fridays, and is free to enter – as well as the Rikugien and Hamarikyu gardens are all great places to experience this wonderful natural occurrence without leaving the capital.

Budget Travel Tips. It is a common misconception that Japan is a very expensive place. This can be true - some restaurants will not even display their prices until you get the bill and taxis and cinema tickets also tend to be quite expensive.  However, it can be a great budget holiday.  Coffee prices are about the same as in Australia and you’ll find that some items such as alcohol and some electronic goods are cheaper here than at home. Cost saving tips include:

-  Eat at the local Japanese restaurants.  You will find food prices comparable to home.  Make sure to bring along a good guide book like Lonely Planet with plenty of restaurant listings.  In the local Japanese restaurants you will find window displays of mocked up menu items.  All you need to do is just point at the item and it will come exactly as displayed.  This is generally the case for noodle and traditional soup dishes.  It is very cheap.

-  Visit the local supermarkets for food supplies.  These can often be found in the basements of department stores.  Be adventurous and try some of the free samples.  You should also check out the local bakeries for the delicious Japanese bread.  This is the way it goes in the supermarkets - the higher the level, the more expesive the food.  So stick to basements in the supermarkets for both food and restaurant items.  Royal Host is a great family restaurant chain in Japan where you can rely on a cheap meal, including western style breakfasts.  I have used these a lot in the past and can vouch for their breakfast.

-  Drink the local beer.  Far cheaper than imports, Japanese beer is also becoming very popular outside of Japan.

-  Visit the 100 Yen shops.  These places are amazing!  They are everywhere, make sure you hunt them down.  You will find amazing gifts, crockery and lovely souveniers that don’t cost a fortune.

-  Catch the local transport such as trains and buses instead of a taxi.  The system is really easy to navigate and very cheap. You enter the buses through the back door and pay when you leave via the front door.

-  Invest in a Japan Rail Pass to get around.  Do so before you leave home, it is much cheaper.  It is also fine to buy the ‘Ordinary Pass’ instead of th first class.  You will find Ordinary Class far superior to our usual second class and on par with Australian 1st Class trains.  Good advice for if you plan to travel the country by train, is to take hand luggage only and pack light.  There is no space on these trains to store your luggage.

-  Avoid western hotel chains.  These are far more expensive than the local Japanese chains.  Here are a few to try that we can personally recommend:

Hotel Villa Fontaine Washington Hotels   Tokyu Hotels  Prince Hotels Jal Hotels   Grand Pacific Hotel  Hotel Sunroute

-  I also recommend to research pricing within 3 months of your departure.  Any earlier than this means you will not get access to the special deals and rates.  Japanese hotels rarely release specials outside of 3 months to the date.

-  Check out the Gday Japan website.  Written especially for Australians, it has great tips if you want to travel or live in Japan.

Singapore for Seniors Travel

The delightful country-city-island Singapore is a great place for senior travellers to discover Asia. An accessible, clean and modern place, Singapore is extremely safe and the government does a lot to keep the city crime and litter-free. Additionally, the over 50’s enjoy the advantage of being most highly respected in Asian cultures, and that includes Singapore.  I usually recommend Singapore to travellers who have not been overseas much and may be a little nervous about culture shock.  It is an easy place to explore explore, feel safe and wet the appetite for more travel.

The city is home to a mishmash of cultures, including Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Thai, so it makes a great place to discover all of these cultures in bite-sized form. Its incredible fast, modern public transit system also caters to travellers, allowing access to the entirety of the island of Singapore and the outlying islands. And because Singapore was a British colony until 1940, most people here speak English.

Public transport. Singapore’s mass transit system, the MRT, is ubiquitous and covers the entire island with a network of light and underground rail lines. These clean and speedy railways are the best way to get around Singapore, even for older travellers, as all of the stations and trains are equipped with accessibility features like lifts, escalators, ramps and handrails. While Singapore also has a wonderful bus system, travelling by train is really the way to go, especially for seniors. Australians can also take advantage of the Singapore Tourist Pass, an unlimited 1, 2 or 3-day card that grants unlimited access to the city’s entire mass transit system. A 3-day pass costs around AU$24.

Health. Singapore is undoubtedly the easiest place to travel in Asia, and that extends to health concerns. The streets are kept meticulously free of debris (in fact, it is illegal to sell or distribute chewing gum within the entire country!) and shining downtown skyscrapers gleam. Even the tap water here is drinkable, which is a nod to the government’s commitment to make Singapore into a truly 1st world destination. Because of this commitment, though, laws here are much more stringent, and this even extends to tourists. When coming through customs and border patrol, make sure that any medications are in their properly-marked bottles and that you carry all of your prescriptions (showing your name) with you at all times.

Heat. Singapore sits just a few degrees north of the equator, meaning it enjoys a tropical climate year-round. Senior travellers should be particularly careful of the high temperatures and humidity here, taking care to always apply sun cream liberally, wear hats and long sleeves, and avoid walking outside for long periods of time. Luckily, Singapore is well equipped with state-of-the-art air con systems, so it is easy to escape the heat for a few minutes inside a café, museum, mall or subway station. When packing, forego warm clothes and opt for lightweight, breathable clothing in fabrics such as cotton and linen. A sunhat is also highly recommended.

Cultures. There is no better place to get a feel for a variety of East and South Asian cultures than in Singapore. The city boasts lively cultural quarters that include Little India and Chinatown. Here, you can taste the flavours and enjoy the arts and shopping of these multi-faceted cultures, all in one day. Furthermore, Singapore’s own unique Malay culture offers a wonderful selection of cuisine and traditions that combine all of the city’s unusual pastimes.

Unique Shopping. Along with Singapore’s multitude of cultures come some amazing shopping opportunities. Within the lively Chinatown and Little India districts, you can find an assortment of inexpensive, distinctive clothing and trinkets to bring part of Singapore back home.

Arts and Attractions. Singapore has no shortage of fun and interesting things to do. In addition to its multi-cultural districts, Singapore has a number of museums and historic sites, including the National Museum of Singapore, where seniors can enjoy 50% discounted admission and free entry into the Singapore Living Galleries after 6 pm daily. You might also want to pop into the historic Raffles Hotel to enjoy a Singapore Sling cocktail in the bar where it was first invented! Singapore is also well-known for its natural surrounds, including nature reserves, parks, beaches (many of which offer free admission all the time) and its world-famous Singapore Zoo, where the Night Safari gives visitors a unique evening look at more than 1000 nocturnal animals from around the world.  Singapore is also well known for its food.

You’ll want to check out the Your Singapore website for an interactive exploration of the entire city and a useful online trip planner.

Queensland for Seniors Travel

When it comes to domestic travel, it’s easy to forget what amazing options we have right on our doorstep.   In researching seniors travel discounts for our articles, we have found that Australia is truly ahead of the game.  In particular this relates to transportation options, hotels, restaurants and more. Queensland is the State that is most definitely at the forefront when it comes to looking after senior travellers.

Discount Cards.  Queensland is undoubtedly the destination that where you will gain the most advantage with a seniors card. The card provides access to hundreds of discounts across Queensland – so make it work hard for you if you have one.

Ask For Discounts and Value Add Options.  Having been in the travel industry for many years, I have seen the peaks and troughs.  The industry overall is finding it tough at the moment, Queensland particularly so.  The Sunshine State is one of the casualties of low cost airlines allowing more Australians to travel overseas.  This gives you, the domestic traveller a great bargaining position.  The seniors travel discount tends not to be the best deal these days.  When you are calling hotels or requesting your quotes on the Internet, be sure to ask for “the best rate of the day”.  Ask for extra’s such as free Internet access, free breakfasts, free gym access etc.  If the hotel is not a member of a large chain, you will have more negotiating power.   Be flexible and ask what days of the week are the cheapest.  The large chains are less likely to be able to budge on price and inclusions.

Queensland Rail.  Australian Government Seniors Card holders are now entitled to the following discounts on Queensland Rail Journeys

•    50% discount on economy and business class seats

•    50% discount on the economy and first class rail portion for sleeping berths

•    20% discount on the premium Queenslander Class fare

Translink. When travelling on any Translink trains, buses and ferries, both Seniors Card and Pensioners Card holders are entitled to concession fares. This means you can get around the state for a great discount, leaving you more play money to eat and shop with.

Cheaper meals.  Take advantage of the great deals to be had at top restaurants if you are willing to eat early.  Many Gold Coast restaurants offer discounts, usually around 50% or buy 1 get 1 free if you order between 5pm and 7pm.  We did this most nights on our recent trip to Broadbeach and there was definitely no skimping on meal sizes or standards. 

Head over to Trip Advisor. Trip advisor has a page dedicated to the top Queensland Hotels for Seniors.  If you haven’t visited Trip Advisor before – I warn you, once you are there, you will be lost for hours.  This is a great site that provides comments and ratings for people who have previously stayed at hotels.  I personally do not book a hotel these days without taking a peak at Trip Advisor

How to Save Thousands on your Next Cruise

Don’t bother me; I am planning my next cruise. I have just finished reading David Kirkland’s Intelligent Cruiser E-book package.  This eBook professes to tell you how to save thousands of dollars on your next cruise, become a cruise VIP and receive exceptional value on all your future cruises.  I’ve been in the travel industry a while now, and been on a few cruises.  I am delighted, there are things in here I didn’t know about.

Background

David Kirkland is an ex cruise officer.  For 10 years, his job was to get cruise passengers to spend as much money on the ship as possible.  He shares his insider information in this e-book to ensure that you receive amazing value out of your future cruises.  The eBook is full of useful tips and actions that you can take to do anything from slashing the cost of your spa packages, working on the ship to gaining VIP status and dining with the Captain.

Premise

Intelligent Cruiser is based on the fact that cruise companies make the majority of their once you board the ship.  It gives you an insight into how the cruise industry works and assumes that you the cruise ship passenger is spending way too much on anything from water to shore excursions.

What’s wrong with Intelligent Cruiser?

Intelligent Cruiser is way too long.  You do have to go through the whole thing to get the good stuff out.  He comes across as a bitter ex employee at times and this is reflected in the tone of the book.  But it is still well worth the buy.

Why you should Buy Intelligent Cruiser

He shows you how to obtain the best value from your future cruises – this is great because you save money to spend on the things you really love (for me the local shopping).  Now, the key word here is value.  It is not about the amount of upfront money you pay for the cruise itself, but ensuring that the money you spend on the ship goes a lot further.  We all know how expensive it can be once you are on the ship.  This is why I like the book.

This is also lots of information about how to cruise for free by working on-board.  Something that is relatively easy to do.

What you get with Intelligent Cruiser.

You receive a number of reports for this investment

•    The Ultimate Cruise Savings Guide

•    Spoil yourself with VIP Treatment

•    Truth Exposed – about drastically reducing your port expenses

•    Free Airfare for Life

•    Lower Your Cruise Fare

•    Free Cabin Upgrades

Conclusion

Want free cabin upgrades, to dine with the Captain, VIP discounts and cheaper shore excursions?  I would invest the USD37 to buy Intelligent Cruiser. I recommend this eBook whether it is your first cruise or if you are a seasoned cruiser.  Your money is well spent and I consider a good investment to save money on-board.  All the more money for your next cruise and shopping on shore!  Click here, to buy the book.

UK for Seniors Travel

The United Kingdom is one of the top travel destinations for Australian seniors, thanks to the long-standing links between the two countries. In fact, many of the top UK sights like Buckingham Palace, Westminster, the Tower of London and others will be on plenty of Australians’ must-see lists. The great thing about seniors travel to the UK is that it’s easy to get around without any language barrier, and the culture and society will of course take little figuring out. Best of all, there are lots of things for you to see and do in the UK whether they go to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. Check out our five top tips to make sure you get the most out of your holiday in the UK

Packing.  The United Kingdom’s mild and rainy climate means you’ll get cool weather at almost any time of year. Be sure to bring a raincoat and an umbrella, as you’re certain to need them! Otherwise it’s best to pack a lot of light layers that you can put on or take off depending on the day. If you bring a mobile phone, laptop or other electrical device, you’ll need a convertor to use your plugs in the UK. The easiest way to do this is to buy a UK or world adaptor in the airport before you go.

Health.  You must always take travel insurance, but Australians do have a reciprocal agreement with the UK when it comes to health.  Australians travelling to the UK for less than three months who wish to seek treatment under the reciprocal agreement first need to contact the NHS  (telephone 0845 4647) to check whether they are eligible for treatment under the agreement.  For more information on our reciprocal arrangement, please go to the Australian Government Smart Traveller website.  In case of an emergency in the UK, dial 999.

Easily accessible London .  I love this website!  London has a great website for wheelchair-bound visitors and those wanting easy access to the city.  It provides information that will assist on arrival – public transport or car through to enjoying your stay in the iconic city – accommodation, restaurants, theatre and attractions.  It also notes features such as low-level counters, facilities for the visually impaired and hearing induction loops.  The site also provides fantastic maps that are specifically geared to assisting you enjoy the city with easy access.  It is not just for wheelchair travelers, but for those who just want to know how to get around a bit easier.  A great site. Accessible London.

London Pass.  For hassle free sight-seeing, I highly recommend the London Pass. Benefits include skipping the queue.  Trust me, to get into some of the more popular attractions, we are talking hours in the queue, particularly during Summer, genuine cost savings,all round convenience and a free travel guide.Click here and you will get a voucher for a further 5% off.

Transport.  The Senior Railcard entitles anyone over 60 to about one-third off most rail fares around Britain. It costs AUS$43 for a year and is available from. Once you have the card you are also entitled to range of discounts on things like concert tickets and hotel bookings, so it’s worth the investment even if you’re just visiting. Bus travel discounts only apply sporadically to international seniors depending on which council area you are visiting, so don’t be afraid to ask but be ready to pay the full rate where applicable. The National Express coach service, conversely, offers up to 50% off its tickets to anyone over 60. Similarly, most ferry companies will give international seniors a discount with proof of age. 

Britrail.  Australians receive great seniors travel discounts on Britrail and the Eurostar at Rail Europe Australia   You need to book and pay for these passes before you leave Australia.  They are only available to international tourists.

Ancestry Genealogy is a very popular hobby these days. If your ancestors are from the United Kingdom, you might like to look them up during your stay. You can search the genealogy records before you go at National Archives, and then make a visit to the National Archives in Kew, Surrey or the relevant local authority’s records department to get copies of your family’s birth, marriage or death records. While some of these can be ordered online, you still get the best results by being there in person.

Fun  There are plenty of different ways to have a great time during your stay in the UK, whether you’ve been there dozens of times or if it’s your first trip. There are more than 4,000 museums and galleries you can visit, for example, and many will either be free of charge for all or will offer a discount to seniors carrying proof of age. Check out http://www.culture24.org.uk to get the most complete listings of cultural sights, museums and activities. If you’re interested in walking, you can find out about the many rambling trails across the UK at http://www.ramblers.org.uk.

London Underground.  Plan your stay in London and download the London Underground maps before you leave home.

For ongoing great deals to the UK, please check out:

New Young Travel discounted travel websites.  We have done the research for you and the best sites on 1 page.

Escape Travel has terrific accommodation and land deals for the UK.  Starting at 3 nights for AUD249pp including breakfast. They are so cheap you cannot pay by credit card, you must pay cash or BPay. Being a part of Flight Centre means they have access to great airfares as well. Conditions apply.

Canada for Seniors Travel

Canada has a lot to offer any visitor, particularly those interested in seniors travel. Its expanse of natural beauty rivals that of any other nation, while its cosmopolitan cities offer a vibrant, modern, multicultural atmosphere we can all enjoy. Best of all, it’s lauded time and time again as the world’s most livable country, and that includes seniors. Here are our top tips on great discounts you can use to make the most of your next trip to Canada with great travel deals for seniors.

Fly in for cheap Air Canada gives a 10% discount to seniors on many of its fares. Jet Airways  gives senior discounts to all those over 65 on all of its flights, including to and from its Toronto hub. ID required.

Take in Canada’s best scenery The Parks Canada Agency , which operates all of the national parks, national historic sites and canals in the country, offers a great 25% discount for seniors on its entry fees. See individual sites for details.

See Canada by train and save Canada’s Via Rail  offers year-round 10% discounts for those 60 and over – just select their 60+ fare when booking on any journey. There’s also a 10% discount for seniors on two great travel passes – the 12-day Canrail pass, in which you can go coast to coast on one ticket; and the Corridor Pass, which gives you 10 days’ unlimited travel in southern Ontario and southern Quebec.

Save on car rental Thrifty Canada gives 5% off time and mileage to those over 55, with some date and other restrictions. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Hit the road the easy way Greyhound Canada carries millions of passengers across the country’s provinces and territories each year. There is a standing 5% discount for all those 62 and over – ID may be required. Additionally, many local bus and metro services offer senior discounts, but local residency or special IDs are required in some areas.

Save on your hotel room A number of hotel chains in Canada offer discounts to seniors – here are some of the best ones: Sandman Hotels offers a 25% discount through its 55Plus program at its 26 locations in western Canada all year round; Best Western give a minimum 10% discount to all those over 55 at its hotels around Canada (reservation required); the Radisson hotel chain offers senior discounts at many of its locations, including some holiday packages – check with the individual hotel; the Travelodge hotel chain offers a senior discount at its hotels around Canada, although some blackout dates apply.

Like Australia, every province and cityhas a visitor information centre.  You can email and ask local information centres to send discount books, area road maps, a list of festivals and special events. Tell them you are planning a cheap holiday and ask what there is to do for free.  Most of them can also send you coupon books with discounts to a wide range of attractions and local restaurants.  You can access these through the Tourism Canada site.  I found the official site quite difficult to navigate, but it does give you access to the individual town/provincial offical tourism sites. 

Ask and you may receive! Many other locations such as restaurants, pharmacies, movie theatres, fitness centres and beauty salons offer discounts to seniors, so it always pays to ask and to shop around.  Canada is a country that is very generous to its seniors.

France for Seniors Travel

There’s no doubt that France is one of the world’s most alluring travel destinations. It’s got everything from the beautiful streets of Paris to lush, green wine country to glamorous beaches to the snow-capped Alps to Disneyland and much, much more. France is also a great destination for seniors travel in particular, with all kinds of great discounts and cost-saving opportunities across the country. Here are our top tips for Seniors Travel in France.

Save on train travel. France has one of Europe’s most extensive rail networks – you can get from just about anywhere in the country to just about anywhere else. The SNCF (French State railway company)’s Carte Senior entitles those over 60 to discounts of 25-50% on all train journeys, even if you don’t book in advance, for AUS$88 for an entire year. The card also gets you a 30% discount on rail journeys in 22 other European countries. 

Better still, save more if you book and pay for your rail pass here in Australia.  You can choose only France or combine your rail travel with other countries. Rail Europe has special discounted passes available to seniors for travel on nearly all of the European rail network.

See all the great museums. A lot of France’s many museums and monuments will offer a discount for senior travellers, in some cases of up to 40%. Some sites begin the discount at age 65, but if you’re over 60 always remember to ask just in case, and do bring your passport or other ID in case they ask you to prove your age!  The Louvre  has a great €6 entry special on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.  Paris Pass is a great way to enjoy the city economically giving entry to over 60 Museums, Art Galleries, Monuments and Attractions.  For one low price, you also enjoy the benefits like:

• Free metro Travelcard*

• Skip the queues and save time - trust me this is well worth it!

• Loads of special offers and extra discounts

• You can save over €150

Bring a phrasebook. While most tourist sites, restaurants and hotels around Paris will have English-speaking staff, if you venture further afield in France you may run into some difficulty. But between a few basic phrases in French from you and at least some English language skills on the part of the local person, you should be able to muddle through.   I lived in regional France for a period and they love Australians.  Before I would say anything, I would speak in French “I’m sorry, I am from Australia, I don’t speak French”.  Learn to say this in French – they will love you for it.

Swap houses. It may not get much press, but savvy travellers have been saving tons of money by exchanging their house for one at their destination for decades. HomeExchange.com. has 29,000 homes worldwide, including France. You never know, you could end up with a chateau in Bordeaux for a song!

Watch the world go by. One of French people’s favourite activities is to sit outside a cafe and discuss the affairs of the day over coffee. Try this yourself, and you’re sure to get a great flavour of the local atmosphere no matter where you visit in France.  This is one of my favourite activities.  Choose a spot frequented by the locals and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Fly around France on the cheap. Air France offers seniors a 10% discount on internal flights around the country. The airline also gives a 10% discount to those over 62 on select international flights – be sure to ask when you book.

Stay safe. Users of the popular Tripadvisor website recently voted Paris as the fifth most common pickpocket city in the world, so watch your valuables in the City of Lights - unfortunately I can vouch for this first hand.

Touring By Car

As far as seniors travel goes, the freedom you have in retirement means that you can take road touring to the ultimate level.  There is something about the great Australian road-trip that has us all romanticising about embarking on an unknown adventure.  Our State tourist offices have set out terrific resources that help you with planning your dream driving holiday. Check out these websites that specifically cater to drive holidays.

Planning Your Road Tour Aound Australia? Your Guide To Travelling Australia is an  good resource if you are starting to plan the big trip.  Basic in some areas, but provides a wealth of information and links to help you plan your trip around Australia.  I like the check-lists and tips about travelling in the Outback.  It has sections on 4WD travel as well as RV’s, travelling with pets and kids.  You also receive a bonus camping guide.

For all the State Tourist Offices.  They all have good sections on driving.

Tourism NSW

Tourism Victoria

Tourism Queensland

Tourism Tasmania

Tourism South Australia

Northern Territory Tourist Commission

Tourism Australia has a fantastic interractive site that is easy to use and easy on the eye.

Car and campervan hire

Many car hire and campervan companies offer seniors discounts.  These discounts vary dependant on your needs and destination, so it is best to get in contact with the company’s reservation department when you are planning your trip.  When you call ensure you ask for the best price of the day as there are often better deals available than seniors travel deals.

Car Hire

Budget Rent a Car offers a 5% discount to Senior Card holders.

Europcar Despite the name, Europecar offers car hire all around the world.  They often have great deals like reduced liability on excess for Senior Card holders for Australian car hire.  International specials include value-add options like free GPS (very handy indeed) as well as great ad-hoc specials.

CarRentals.com is an American website that has great rates, particularly for the USA.  They do really good on-way drop off rates.  The other thing we like is that you don’t need to give your credit card number until you pick up the car in most instances.

Avis offers a further 5% off the best rate of the day to Seniors Card holders.

Senior Car Hire, hires cars out to those who are over 55 and seeking the best deal.  They work with several car hire companies looking to get the best price your trip

Webcarhire offers car hire in 52 countries.  Everything is booked and confirmed online with you paying a deposit to secure the car and the balance of the rental cost on pick-up.  Webcarhire is offering NewYoung Travellers an exclusive deal of 15% discount on all deposits.

Campervan Hire

Apollo Motorhome Holidays do not offer seniors discounts but do have hot deals available all year round.  Their relocation offers are posted on their website where they have great rates available to you if you can travel at short notice and relocate their vehicles.  They usually come with fuel allowances too.  There are conditions attached but if you can be flexible, it is a great  and cheap way to see Australia.

Britz Campervans, Maui Motorhome Rentals and Backpacker Campervan Rentals are all part of the same group – Tourism Holdings Ltd rentals.  They do not offer seniors discounts but have good deals from time to time displayed on their websites.  If you are able to travel at short notice, you can opt to be on their relocation database which means you get to relocate their vehicles from $5 a day.  There are conditions attached but it is a great deal.  They also throw in a fuel allowance.  You can join their driver database by email with your name, full address and telephone number.

Kea Campers do not offer seniors discounts but do have great deals from time to time.  They offer fantastic deals to relocate their motorhomes. They also have up to 40% rentals in off-peak months.

Top 10 Revolving Restaurants of the World

OK, this article is a little self indulgent. I am a fan of the revolving restaurant.  One of the first things I do in a city is seek out the revolving restaurant situation.  Tacky to some, but a great way to see the city.  A revolving restaurant is one that sits upon a platform, usually at the top of a tall tower or hotel, and rotates gently while the building itself stays in place. The first revolving restaurants were implemented in Germany in the 1950s, and the concept has since spread to tall towers the world over. Most revolving restaurants rotate at the near imperceptible rate of one to three times per hour, giving patrons a gentle 360° view of the surroundings below. Although many rotating restaurants are noted more for their views than their menus, here we’ve compiled a list of some of the best rotating restaurants for both excellent cuisine and stunning panoramas.

1. Top of the World Restaurant, Las Vegas, Nevada Who wouldn’t want to check out the lights of the Las Vegas Strip from on high? The Top of the World Restaurant is located in the top of the Stratosphere Tower at the eastern end of the Strip, some 240 metres above Las Vegas. Bright lights and great food in one of America’s top 10 gourmet restaurants.

2. The View, New York City,  New York is a city to see from above, and The View at the New York Marriott Marquis is the only revolving restaurant in Manhattan. Sitting between West 45th and 46th Streets, the hotel’s central location gives The View a prime pre-dinner theatre spot, with excellent vantages of Times Square, Broadway and downtown, all while enjoying the contemporary American stylings of Chef de Cuisine Ron Camillo.  I love this one!

3. Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls,  Enjoy a perfectly cooked salmon fillet or Surf ‘N’ Turf while the roaring cascades of Niagara Falls plummet below you. Wow, what a great location for a revolving restaurant! The food is tasty, the atmosphere is family friendly, and the view is totally exceptional.

4. Summit Restaurant, Australia Square Sydney  This restaurant is owned by celebrity chef, Michael Moore, who designed the menu around the harbourscape. The food is drawn from a range local Australian products, such as beef, wine and cheese, making it one of the best places to see and taste Sydney. I am a regular at this one.  You can also just go for cocktails.  A great sunset treat.

5. R66 Hong Kong  Talk about a stunning vista: the millions of twinkling lights that line Victoria Harbour cannot be missed from above. While most people head to Victoria Peak for views of Hong Kong, why not opt for climate-controlled comfort and international cuisine at the only revolving restaurant in Hong Kong, R66, which was named for the fact that it rotates every 66 minutes.

6. Grand Hyatt, Cairo  The Revolving Restaurant at the top of the Grand Hyatt Cairo is the highest restaurant in the Middle East. With French-inspired cuisine and outstanding views of the Great Pyramids at Giza and the Nile River, this is one revolving restaurant that has definitely got it right.

7. Olympiaturm, Munich  This somewhat pricey restaurant is located at the top of the Olympic Tower in Munich, with amazing views of the city and Olympic Hill and the Olympic Village. Reservations are highly recommended here, but the food and service are excellent, to match the high price tag.

8. Perlan, Iceland  This is perhaps one of the oddest-placed rotating restaurants on earth. Perlan, which means ‘pearl’ in Icelandic, sits atop a series of old water storage tanks, which have now been converted into a uniquely domed shopping mall. Overlooking Reykjavík, this spherical structure makes for a truly unusual dining experience.

9. The Sky, New Otani, Tokyo  The urban jungle of Tokyo is another vista that begs to be seen from on high. The Sky at the New Otani Hotel has received rave reviews for both its food and its 360° views of the skyscrapers that fill the Japanese capital. A concept kitchen, The Sky offers design-your-own meals, where you choose from a range of ingredients and pick your favourite cooking style for a perfect meal.

10. Top of Waikiki, Hawaii  Top of Waikiki is Hawaii’s only revolving restaurant and offers delightfully prepared Pacific fusion cuisine while overlooking Honolulu and Oahu. From Top of Waikiki, you can see three extinct volcanoes as the restaurant makes its once-an-hour rotation.

Ireland for Seniors Travel

For most of us, there’s no doubt that when thinking of Ireland we picture a small but magical island. Wide green fields, amazing historical castles and ruins, world-renowned writers and musicians, friendly people and great fun over a pint of stout.  The best part about this dream is that Ireland really has all of those great things and more. And there are plenty of special deals available just for seniors travel. Here are our top tips on getting the most out of your trip to Ireland.

Watch out for seniors travel discounts Even if it’s not advertised in advance, a wide range of venues and attractions will have a special discount for seniors. Look out for prices marked OAP (Old Age Pensioner) – these are rates for all those over 60.

See all the great museums Many of the capital’s great museums are free of charge, so you won’t have to worry about finding discounts. If that’s not enough, grab a Dublin Pass from www.dublinpass.ie to guarantee free entry to 31 top attractions as well as other exclusive benefits.

Save on car rentals Hiring a car in Ireland can be expensive, and some companies even refuse to rent to the over 70s. One agency is different – www.seniorcarrentalireland.com offers special deals for  seniors travel, the over 55s. Visit their website to book online or find out how to book by telephone on their lines located in Australia.

Get around on public transport Dublin Bus offers a special three-day ticket just for tourists which gives you three days’ unlimited travel on the bus, including the whole city bus network and the airport express bus for E25. Best of all, you can hop on and off the Dublin Bus Tour, where your driver will give you a special guide to extra discounts your ticket entitles you to at many top attractions.

Make the most of the home of golf While the sport was invented in nearby Scotland, there’s no doubt that Ireland is golf’s second home, and the country has literally dozens of world class courses to prove it. And if you want to experience three top courses at a discount rate, why not try a Dublin Golf Pass available from the Dublin Tourism Office – see http://www.visitdublin.com.

Save on gifts for your loved ones When it comes to luxury goods, prices don’t tend to be cheap in Europe, and Ireland is no exception. But if you’re coming from outside the EU, you don’t have to pay Value Added Tax (VAT). This means you’re entitled to 17% off your purchases of gift items you’re taking out of the country. Ask each store for a rebate form, and then hand them all in at the airport. Depending on the companies involved, you’ll get a refund in cash, on your credit card or by check in the mail.

Discount City Attraction Passes

For hassle free sightseeing, I have come across these great city passes, that are great for seniors travel available for: 

London Pass  And New Young Travel is giving you a further 5% off the pass.  Please quote special code londpas05 when you check out.

Paris

New York

Benefits include:

-  Skipping the queue.  For those who have never travelled to these cities before, I am talking HOURS, particularly in places like Paris for the famous museums like the Louvre.

-  Free or discounted public transport

-  Genuine cost savings

-  All round convenience

-  Free travel guide

I highly recommend these passes, they will save you so much time and hassle, especially in the busy periods.

Rhapsody of the Seas

I was invited this week by Royal Caribbean to spend the day on Rhapsody of the Seas – and what a lovely day it was.  She spends around 6 months of its year departing from Australia and the rest of her time in Alaska. Without having actually cruised on the ship, it had a lovely feel to it with the visual highlight definitely being the atrium. 

It is one of the older ships of the fleet, but sometimes I think this is not a bad thing.  It is not huge by shipping standards these days, but big enough to ensure you won’t feel crowded if it sails at maximum capacity.

People

So who sails on Rhapsody of the Seas?  You will find a nice mix of age groups with the average age of ship patron around 45 years.  This means you will get young singles, couples, families with small tots to teens and seniors who may be retired.   It means that the experience is not especially geared to seniors travel, but I don’t think that really matters on this ship. 

One of the cons is that it doesn’t have a singles program or gentlemen hosts.  However, they do have their fair share of singles patronage.

State rooms

I viewed all the options.  All the staterooms had at least a small sitting area and I thought even the low level cabins offered good value for money and didn’t feel cramped.  The accessible rooms were spacious for wheel-chairs.

Entertainment, food and activities

•    Great options and something for everyone.  From karaoke to your traditional piano bar man as well as your usual shows, you definitely won’t be board

•    All the usual ship entertainment options  mean that your every hour can be filled by something or you may simply choose to relax in one of the bars or bright airy spaces

•    Both formal and casual dining available with room service if you don’t or can’t go out for a meal

•    Plenty of vegetarian and fish options if you don’t eat meat.  I hear that the Indian kitchen staff will whip up a mean vegetarian curry if you ask nicely 

•    Healthy options available if you wish to avoid that feeling of scurvy toward the end.  I don’t know about you, but I always end up eating to excess when I cruise

•    It bothers me that I would have to pay for a cappuccino, but that is one of my personal gripes…

We like:

•    Great ship for getting a big family group together

•    Good mix of different age groups on the ship

•    Great for kids, grandkids from tots to teens.  I love what they do for teens.  A supervised nightclub open ‘till 2am with DJ’s and theme nights.  It is definitely not embarrassing to be with Nan and Pop or any member of your family if you are a teen on this cruise

•    Great value for money when you look at the specials for this ship

•    Decent wine packages that don’t cost the earth

•    Drinks and cocktails were very reasonably priced

•    Not pretentious, but relaxed and friendly atmosphere

I am thinking of going on it later in the year with the kids and Chris.  I would love to hear your views and comments on the ship if you have sailed with Rhapsody of the Seas.

Special Events

Tickets to fun stuff in the USA

Wouldn’t it be great to take in an American Superbowl game, basketball game or to go and see your musical idol?  There is a great site Razorgator that gives you access to all of the hard to get tickets in the USA.  When had a look through Razorgator, you could book to go and see Eric Clapton in London or New York  Mark Knopfler, George Strait and anything on Broadway.  It has all the sporting events as well.  You can search the city you are in, on a particular date and see what is on. RazorGator - Buy Hard-to-Get Tickets

Travel Related Products

Travel Books

Get free shipping on Lonely Planet books for purchases of over $40.  I have personally travelled the world with Lonely Planet and cannot recommend them highly enough.

Travel Accessories

Global Travel Products has a great range of over 200 travel accessories.  They are giving New Young Travellers up to 25% off the RRP.  Follow the link or use the code New Young. 

Luggage

Luggage Bazaar is a travel goods specialist, offering a wide range of luggage for business or pleasure.   They are offering NewYoung Travellers 15% off on all luggage.  Use web coupon code NYT if purchasing online.

Airlines

There are many airlines that regularly offer seniors fares.  They are not ongoing fares, but tend to be limited offers and specials. These can be quite generous and tend to apply to First and Business Class travel.  Your travel agent is the best contact for information on these fares .  Airlines also regularly advertise these deals in the press.  Online travel agencies do not generally sell these fares as it is very difficult to monitor i.e. proof of age upon booking, so seek your bricks and mortor agency for these fares.  Here are a few airlines that we do know of that offer seniors fares from time to time or regular hot deals:

Etihad regularly has seniors fares on offer.

Emirates regularly has seniors fares on offer.

Hawaiin Airlines regularly offers great deals to one of Australia’s favourite destinations.  Specials often include heavily discounted fares and bonus rountrip to one of the three neighbour islands - Maui, Kauai or Hawaii.  Hawaiian includes meals, drinks and a generous baggage allowance.

Malaysia Airlines has great deals available until March 2010.  These include Economy Plus for Business - enjoy the perks of a Business Class seat and services for the price of Economy.  There are also great Business Class companion fares available.

Air Mauritius often has specific fares for seniors and offers a wonderful alternative stopover opportunity for long-haul travel to Europe and Africa ex Melbourne and Perth.  They also have regular promotional fares that get dscounted to even lower levels.

 

 

Travel Downloads

Free Lonely Planet Chapter Downloads!  GuideGecko is the only website that offers free Lonely Planet downloads and it is all above board.  View all Lonely Planet PDFs at GuideGecko.com  (That’s sorted alphabetically, so don’t worry if the first book is Afghanistan...)

Apple has added a new Travel Guide section to the iTunes Store. Found on the right-hand side of the main iTunes storefront under “More In Music,” the Travel Guide page offers links to destination applications, podcasts, audiobooks, and music, language-oriented translation and learning apps, podcasts, and audiobooks. If you are curious, check out the China sample here.

Free Travel eBooks

Click on the link to download your free New Young Travel e-book as our gift to you.

 

Top 10 Melbourne

With most people, and especially schoolies, heading north for a holiday at this time of year, it’s a smart move to buck the trend and visit Melbourne. Here are 10 fun and interesting things to do in Melbourne (even if you live there).

1.    Ride the free city circle tram. It has been around for years, but it’s still one of the best ways to take in the Melbourne experience. Why not take the grandkids during their school holidays.

2.    Visit the new National Sports Museum at the MCG. While you’re there, tour the MCG and see the players’ change rooms and the Long Room, and walk the arena (subject to availability).

3.    Get lost in the backblocks and laneways of the city centre. Take an alfresco table at one of the many cafes and watch the world go by. It’s almost like being in Europe.

4.    Take a chocoholics tour and sample the city’s sweet delights.

5.    Take one of Melbourne’s many shopping tours. They’re your entree to a local secret: the great shopping finds in the basements and small laneways.

6.    Explore Melbourne’s coffee trail with Melbourne’s top barista. The tours are run by Maria, a well-known barista judge, barista trainer and coffee connoisseur. 

7.    Tour the historic Carlton United Brewery (CUB) and learn how some of Australia’s most popular beers, including Carlton Draught and VB, are made. You’ll even get to pull your own beer at the bar.

8.    Tour Melbourne Cemetery, the resting place of all manner of people who have helped make Melbourne what it is today – musicians, actors, scientists, preachers, con men, remarkable women…

9.    Stroll through a weekend Melbourne market. They’re in various locations and they cater to all tastes and interests, from old-fashioned trash ‘n’ treasure to the foodie delights of the farmers’ markets.

10.  Take a half-day tour guided by a local. The Melbourne Greeter Service is a free two to four-hour walking orientation of the city for visitors and tourists.

And check out this site:  Free Things To Do In Melbourne

Travel Books Reviewed

General Travel Guides

Lonley Planet.  What can I say?  I have travelled the world with these guide books and consider them a bible for each destination.  They come in country and city guides.  I cannot recommend them highly enough, no matter what your age.  These books give you a wonderful background and practical guide to many countries. Save 10% off your next purchase at Lonely Planet! Use coupon code: CJCOUPON10

Cruising

Intelligent Cruiser is an ebook written by an ex cruise director. He shares many secrets on how to save money on shopping, alcohol, shore excursions, water etc.  He also shares with the reader how easy it is to receive cabin upgrades, become a VIP and obtain a whole range of benefits and discounts.  I have personally read the book and gave it to my cruise addict girlfriends to look through (they would cruise around 3 times a year) and we all agree there are some great suggestions in here.  Even as seasoned travellers, we thought there were some great tips in the book. You just have to get past the crazy sales pitch. Bronwyn

Bali

As you may have read in the Sunday papers, Bali is going at bargain basement prices – even for Bali. As many thousands of Australians know already, Bali is great for a resort-style holiday with maximum relaxation. It has accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, and the resorts tend to have magnificent swimming pools (which is just as well because the beaches are not the idyllic white-sand kind and not the best for taking a dip).

The food is another attraction. A wide range of cuisines is available and a number of internationally recognised chefs have made Bali their home. You can indulge your ‘foodie’ inclinations at surprisingly low prices.

The hot accommodation option right now is the villa. Fancy self-contained lodgings, exquisitely appointed in lush gardens, with your own private pool? Get a few family and friends to chip in and you can get especially good value.  The villas also come with a maid to take care of the daily cleaning, and you can have your own chef, car and driver as well.  It’s terrific value, even if you take a villa on your own. Such an arrangement would be prohibitively expensive for most of us if it was in Australia, so why not indulge?

Various Balinese beaches and regional areas have reputations for offering certain types of experiences or holidays.

In particular:

·         Seminyak, with some of the more luxurious resorts and villas, surrounded by many of the island’s best restaurants.

·         The Kuta-Legian nightclub and bar area, which is generally where the younger crowd stays.

·         Sanur and Nusa Dua, with the quieter, more low-key beaches.

Sanur was Bali’s first beach resort. I have wonderful photos of my Nan and Grandad on Sanur beach back in the 1960’s, when it had only one hotel. They look rather hip in what was then an obscure exotic destination.

As with many too-good-to-be-true deals, there are trade-offs to consider. These deals are abounding because Bali’s tourism industry is hurting in the face of safety warnings for travellers.  Visit Smart Traveller for the current government warnings before you start paying deposits. You need to feel comfortable with the situation if you’re going to have a truly relaxing stay. 

Make sure you check out the latest Bali specials  on Zuji.com.au

USA

With the current state of the travel industry and the Australian dollar, there has never been a better time to look to the United States for a great value holiday. If it’s on your list of places to go, don’t miss this opportunity.

Increased competition among airlines flying between Australia and the US has driven down fares. At the same time, destinations such as Las Vegas are experiencing their worst tourist numbers ever, so you will never get a cheaper deal on some of those amazing hotels.

Consider paying for some of your accommodation and other non-airfare travel costs in US dollars.  Cruise addicts can access websites such as Cruise Direct cruisedirect.com, a very reputable cruise travel agency with incredible deals ex US ports. As a rule, accommodation and tours should also be cheaper. I’ve seen great bargains around for well-known tour operators.  And consider the money saved on shopping for bargains at the American mega-malls, many of which have senior discount days with additional savings.

Eating out can be quite cheap in the US at any time, and the state of the dollar has made it even better value than usual. Restaurants are among the places where discounts for seniors are most commonly found. While the discounts are readily available, they tend not to be advertised, so be sure to ask.

The Senior Discounts book National Discount Guide 2008–2009 is a fantastic resource with comprehensive details of a wide range of discounts in the US – restaurants, retail, gold clubs, entertainment and many travel suppliers. I have just bought the latest copy and it full of great savings ideas.

If you are planning to travel in the US independently, joining AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons) is a must. With 40 million members, it’s the largest organisation for people aged 50 and over. Members can access discounts on hotels and motels, car hire, entertainment and even pharmacy items. Luckily for us, non-US citizens can join at http://www.aarp.org I’ve listed a few websites here to get you started on your research. Good luck!

Zuji.com.au always has great flight and accommodation deals to the USA.  The have great USA accommodation rates at the moment, so make the most of it.

Lonely Planet Guidebooks.  What can I say?  I have been travelling with these for years and find the Lonely Planet a must have to flick through before I leave home.

cruisedirect.com is a great website that has fabulous cruise deals all around the world (including ex Australia).  They have terrific last minute rates on regular departures from the USA.

Senior Discounts National Discount Guide 2008-2009; National, Regional and Local Discounts for the Over 50 Community is a good resource to include for your planning.  It includes lots of ideas for saving money on your next trip to the USA.

Special Interest Tourism

Why not travel and incorporate your interests and hobbies?  Plenty of seniors are discovering the joy of travelling and incorporating their hobbies at the same time.  There are tours to suit all hobbies and budgets.  Travel independently or tour with like minded people: 

Special interest travel agencies

Guidepost Tours develop tours based around special interest.  These include religious, train, war history, garden and genealogical tours just to name a few.

Art and creative interests

Studio travel has regular departures incorporating the creative arts.  These include artists retreats and tours supporting design, music, fashion and film.  TEL:  0408 918 360

Education

Odyssey Travel is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in world-wide cultural and heritage travel, exclusively for the over 45’s.  Mention NewYoungTravel.com.au for one year’s free subscription, valued at $20.

Fishing

A’Lure Guided Fishing Trips, Mornington Peninsula offer guided fishing trips with maximum 2 people.   All gear is supplied with Seniors Card and DVA Card discounts avaialable. TEL 0410 771 388

Golf

Golf Explorer have a huge range of golf touring information catering to all budgets.  Very comprehensive website with a wide range of destinations.

Religious

Westminster Tours operates religous tours that are relaxed and off the beaten track. They tell us - no early starts, no name badges and decent accommodation. Lots of singles and couples. Gay and lesbian friendly. Call: (02) 9232 1711.

Volunteer Travel

i-to-i travel  offers unique travel experiences abroad whose programs are the perfect way to meet new people, immerse yourself in new cultures and make a difference abroad. Whether you fancy volunteering around the globe or want to get TEFL qualified and start your career teaching English as a second language, they will get you there.

Life Changing Travel sends more than 5000 people to volunteer projects across Africa, Asia and South America.  Why not immerse yourself in a foreign culture and make a positive contribution at the same time?

 

Independent singles

New waves of senior backpackers are travelling along side the traditional pre-university student. You can decide to travel solo or you may choose to meet a travel companion online at the NewYoungTravel.com.au travel forum.

As with touring, traveling as an independent single has its pros and cons:

Pros

1. The world is your oyster as far as flexibility goes – do what you want, when you want


2. You can be more open to meeting new people. You are more likely to strike up conversation or make an effort on getting to know others than if you travel with someone


3. You have the final say on your itinerary – 5 star, budget or a bit of both


4. Sleep in! No early starts if you don’t want them


5. The experience can often be quite empowering

Cons

1. Eating out alone the first few times may be a bit uncomfortable, but take a book. And don’t let travelling solo stop you from eating out


2. The dreaded single supplement. We can whine all we want, but it is unfortunately a fact of life


3. No-one to ‘wow’ with or share the experience when you see those Pyramids for the first time


4. Taking photos


5. It does get lonely sometimes on long trips

Top 10 travelling tips for singles

Whatever you do, do not let being single stop you from traveling and fulfilling your dreams!

1. Establish your comfort zone and your budget. Are you comfortable sharing a room with a stranger? The trade off being price and single supplements.


2. You are not the only single out there in your age bracket. There are numerous tour operators who conduct tours dedicated to the over 50’s travel market and in particular, singles.


3. Be willing to share with someone else the tour company can match you up with to avoid the single supplement. However, you must be fairly open minded and patient – you may not always get your perfect room mate. While it can be great, it can be disasterous so think long and hard if you are easy going enough to take this option…not matter what your age!


4. Get to know someone on the NewYoungTravel.com.au forum. The Internet provides the opportunity to meet likeminded seniors with similar interests with the added bonus of being able to get to know them before you commit to being travel companions.


5. One of the ways to avoid a single supplement is to look for accommodation that offers single rooms. These tend to be guesthouses and B & B style. Larger, flashier hotels tend not to offer single rooms so be prepared to look at 1 to 3 star accommodation.


6. Eating out can be one of the more worrisome aspects of traveling solo. To avoid feeling self conscious, take a book. If possible, take a table that allows for you to dine ‘alfresco’ to observe the passing parade. I assure you, you will never be bored.


7. Smile and you are automatically a people magnet. Be prepared to make an effort to strike up conversation.


8. If you are hopping on and off transport, pack accordingly. You need to assume that there will be no one to help you, although, people will more often than not offer to lend a hand. As a rule, if travelling on your, try to stick to hand luggage on wheels - yes, it can be done.


9. Trust your instincts, with people and all given situations. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Safety needs to be your utmost concern. Being a solo traveller can make you more of a target but keeping your wits about you and being sensible will help avoid undesirable situations.


10. Make the most of every moment.  Travelling on your own is truly liberating and free and in our view, a great way to enhance every aspect of your life. 

Destination Specialists

 

Africa

GAP Adventures offer Africa Adventure Tours. Expert, Local, Small Group Guides. Explore Africa on a Budget.  They have been operating in this region for many years and are a trusted brand in Adventure tourism. 

Asia

A1 Classic Holidays specialises in exciting destinations such as Bhutan, Cambodia, Vietnam as well as other Asian destinations.  They offer great ‘armchair’ tours and packages designed to allow travellers to experience uniqe and exotic destinations in style and safely.

Malaysia Holidays are the experts in travel to Malaysia and offer tours to exciting destinations such as Borneo and Sabah.  They have a full range of options from luxury resorts to soft adventure tours for seniors.

Saigon Star Travel specialises in independent travel and organised tours to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.  They also run special interest tours to the region including cooking, golf, rail and veteran tours.  They are giving New Young Travel subscribers 20% off insurance and travel accessories to 31Dec 2009. 

Lotussia Travel is a local Vietnamese tour company that offers a great range of tours both tailor-made private and group departures, very cost effective and great deals for seniors.  Cycling tours, golf, food and a great range of options are provided for you to chose from.  Why not combine Lotussia with one of the cheap fares to Vietnam at the moment? Book your full land package and mention NYT and receive a free day tour or massage.

Australia & New Zealand

A.N.Z Nature Tours offers tour packages to Australia and New Zealand.  They specialise in tailor-made special interest tourswith an emphasis on natural history.

Europe 

APT (Australian Pacific Touring) is the expert in European River Cruising, and has custom-designed and built their own fleet of river ships, signify the evolution of modern river cruising. From the intricate elegance of the interior appointments and the opulence of the suites to the wealth of recreational choice provided in the vessel’s public areas, these river ships are truly the finest on Europe’s waters.  I have personally sold APT for years, they are a very well respected brand.

Travelmarvel offers affordable touring and cruising of exceptional quality in Europe. Receive great value for money touring, as well as all the reassurances of travelling with a well respected and reliable tour operator.

Beyond Travel is a leading travel company offering tours specialising in Eastern Europe, Croatia and Russia.  They offer tours as well as independent travel options.

Well Connected Travel are specialists in Baltic, Nordic and Eastern European destinations.  They create their own tours based on customer feedback and their own in-depth knowledge and experience on destinations.

South America  

GAP Adventures are offer a great range in South America Travel. Expert South American Adventures. Small Group Tours Departing Weekly.  They have a variety of tours to suit all budgets and abilities.

Last minute

If you are a spontaneous senior, you may wish to check out one of the many websites available today that offer great deals at last minute, generally in the last 2 weeks. Often these websites offer heavily discounted room rates or value added options such as late check out, free newspapers, free parking or they may throw in breakfast. These websites are available to everyone (not just seniors). 

Accommodation sites

www.lastminute.com offers last minute accommodation deals all around the world.  I have used them several times over the last few years.

quickbeds.com AU is owned by Flight Centre, so you are getting the backing of a trusted Australian brand as well as the buying power.  They have competitive last minute accommodation rates.The site also offers lots of interesting things like suggestions for families (think Grandkids during school holidays) and all sorts of activities.

Wotif

www.ratestogo.com.au

www.needitnow.com.au

Tour Companies 

GAP Adventures is a well respected company that allows you to  Save up to 25% on Last Minute Adventure Travel Packages to destinations all around the world.

Travel Insurance

A1 Travel Insurance will give you up to 50% discount when you book online. A1 is underwritten by Allianz Click here for details.

Chartis.  When you’re travelling, small problems can land you in big trouble.  Unexpected medical bills, missing luggage and cancelled flights are some of the things that you just can’t plan for.

With Chartis, you can protect yourself-and your holiday-quickly, easily and at a great price. Chartis covers you against unwelcome surprises including overseas medical and hospital costs, stolen and lost luggage, trip cancellations, flight delays and more. You’ll also get 24 hour access to AIG Travel Assist™ emergency assistance, for expert help any time you need it. 

We’re also pleased to advise that as a member of New Young Travel, you are entitled to a savings of 40%* on your Chartis Travel Insurance.

Convict Tassie

Tasmania’s convict past was once considered a regrettable taint on the island’s early history. Today, the state’s convict sites are intriguing and valued relics of Tasmania’s fascinating colonial heritage.

The First Convicts

In 1803, the British in Sydney Town – fearful of the colonial ambitions of the French and aware of the whaling and timber resources in the south – claimed Van Diemen’s Land in the name of King George III. But the British had another use in mind for this remote and untamed island – as an antipodean repository for re-offending convicts.

The first ship of inmates arrived from England in 1812, however, convicts had been arriving in Van Diemen’s Land as early as 1803 when the Lady Nelson travelled from Sydney to old Hobart town with 21 convicts on board.

For the first ten years of British settlement in Van Diemen’s Land there were more convicts than free settlers. This meant that convicts, as well as doing hard labouring work such as digging new coalmines, had to fill positions of responsibility such as medical assistants or ‘trusties’ in the gaols. Many, especially the women, were assigned to settlers as servants.

‘The Worst Description of Convicts’

In 1822 a convict settlement was established at Sarah Island on the rugged west coast of Tasmania. Located within the vast Macquarie Harbour, the island is on the brink of a vast tract of mountainous wilderness, rendering the site totally isolated from the settled south-east of the island. Such a site was considered by Lt Governor Sorrell as suitable for ‘the worst description of convicts’. However, the impenetrable wilderness surrounding the island did not deter escapees – those that did not perish often became bushrangers. Despite gaining a reputation as Australia’s severest penal settlement, Sarah Island was also a centre of a successful boat-building industry: in its time, Sarah Island was the largest shipbuilding yard in Australia.

The penal experiment – Port Arthur

With the ‘success’ of the convict labour at Sarah Island, the colony expanded its penal operation to a new settlement at Port Arthur, on the south eastern peninsula, now known as Tasman Peninsula. The location was the ideal penitentiary as it is connected to mainland Tasmania by only a narrow isthmus.

The Port Arthur site was established in 1830 as a small timber station that made use of convict labour. The 1840s saw the consolidation of the industrial and penal nature of the settlement as the convict population surpassed 1100. In the late 1840s Port Arthur became an experiment in convict rehabilitation, where nineteenth-century ideas about criminality and immorality informed the decision to create a model Separate Prison where convicts were prevented from making any contact with other inmates.

From Bad to Mad

Not surprisingly, insanity became a common affliction in the isolated convicts and the population of the prison hospital swelled. In 1864 the Asylum was established to deal with the increasingly infirm and aged prison population.

Port Arthur historian, Professor Henry Reynolds, reflects on the Tasmanian convict experience: "The thing about the convict system … was that in the early period up to 1840, it was an open prison. Convicts were everywhere and convicts made up part of every household practically. The Port Arthur experience is quite atypical of what you would say was the real convict Tasmanian experience. And on the whole it was a story of redemption, not a story of brutality and degeneration."

This model for redemption is evident in the system of probation devised for convicts that had served their terms. Upon release from one of the penal settlements, a convict was given a paid job for a set period with one of the colony’s public works. At the end of this, he could get a paid job as a servant to a settler. But the colony’s public departments, denied extra funds by the British government, could not pay wages. And the settlers, not accustomed to paying their servants, were reluctant to cooperate with this new system. So jobs for the convicts did not materialise and probation stations became overcrowded. Crime, fighting and escapes increased. Escapees who were not recaptured survived by bushranging – living in the bush and robbing farmers and travellers.

Eventually the British government admitted that transportation and probation, far from solving a problem, were creating one. In 1853, after about 74,000 convicts had been transported to Van Diemen’s Land, the system ended and the colony’s name was officially changed to Tasmania, a name that had been used unofficially for some time.

Sarah Island – The ruins of the once notorious Sarah Island penal settlement (1822-1833) can be experienced by cruise from the fishing port of Strahan on Macquarie Harbour. The island is a part of a vast tract of Tasmanian wilderness protected under World Heritage status.

Port Arthur Historic Site - The Port Arthur Historic Site (on 125 hectares/309 acres) today is a world-class tourist attraction, with an interactive visitor centre and more than 30 historic buildings and ruins, set within beautiful gardens and native surroundings.

Tasman Peninsula Convict Trail – takes in seven locations in an area where Tasmania’s convict history is most concentrated. They include: Eaglehawk Neck, site of the famed Dog Line; the Coal Mines; Saltwater River and Wedge Bay. The Trail includes spectacular land formations along the coastline of the Tasman National Park. Read about the Tasman Peninsula’s convict past.

The Female Factory, Hobart – considered the female equivalent to Port Arthur: hundreds of women and children were gaoled there from 1828-1877, with many dying from poor hygiene, inadequate nutrition and backbreaking work. Female Factory Website.

Richmond – the majority of this historic town appears much as it would have done in the mid-nineteenth century, when convict labour was derigetour. The gaol, built in 1825, housed prisoners, including bushranger Martin Cash. Although tiny compared with Port Arthur’s immense scale, the gaol at Richmond is unique as the buildings and cells are intact and eerily reminiscent of their torturous past. Richmond has Australia’s oldest road bridge, built by convict labour in 1823.

Holidays with Pets

Don’t fancy leaving pooch at home? More accommodation providers are welcoming our furry friends:

 

Love Me Love My Dog is a great website with the in best pet friendly accommodation, Australia-wide.

Stayz holiday website has a pet friendly holiday section.

Tourism NSW has released a list of pet friendly holidays in Sydney and NSW.

General travel advice

There are many websites available to assist in making your travel plans run as smooth as possible, from safety to general destination advice.

smartraveller.gov.au is a government service that allows you to register your trip.  It is there to assist you being found in the case of an emergency.  This is a great service that gives you and your family peace of mind on those exotic journeys.  They have a great brochure for you to download called Travelling Seniors.

Trains

Train travel offers one of the safest and most relaxing ways to explore Australia and beyond for seniors travel.

CountryLink offers hoders of Centrelink pensioner card or government issued seniors card a 50% concession on the full adult fare.  In addition to providing transport, CountryLink also offers great value holiday packages.

Great Southern Rail (GSR) offers seniors a variety of travel discounts on iconic train journeys such as The Ghan, Indian Pacific and The Overland.

Europe

Rail Europe Australia offers fantastic deals on senior rail passes for UK/Europe.

About.com has a great article about discounts available to seniors for train travel in Europe looking at each country (they all differ).

Road Touring for Singles

There are still ways you can enjoy road touring as a single traveller. Whether you travel by car or motorhome, there are options available:

The Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia has a travelling solo chapter that encourages single members to get together and enjoy the fun, friendship, and camaraderie of touring with other singles. They have regular rally departures and convoys for singles.

Travel Publications and Subscriptions

Take a look at our great member deals:

$20 Discount on Get Up and Go Magazine Discount : Get Up and Go is Australia’s leading travel and lifestyle magazine for grown-ups, 50+.  The magazine covers the very best of Australian and International travel destinations.  Either way, the magazine will inspire your next trip or provide a momentary escape to keep on your bedside table.  Our friends at Get Up and Go have offered New Young Travel friends a great discounted offer.  Sign up for 12 months or 2 years.You must type in the promotion code nyt2012 to get the deal. Valid till 31 July 2012 Click here for more.

Cruise Passenger is Australia’s number one cruise publication, providing the latest cruise news and definitive ship reviews.  With its exhaustive coverage of ships, ports and destinations, Cruise Passenger magazine provides you with everything you need to make an informed decision about your next ocean voyage or river jourey.  Subscribe now and receive 50% off the normal subscription price exclusive to NewYoungTravel members. 

Odyssey Travel is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in world-wide cultural and heritage travel for the over 45’s.  Mention NewYoungTravel.com.au for one year’s free subscription.

Tours for Senior Travel

We feature tour operators with a variety of experiences to suit all tastes, budgets and senses of advenure.  Many of them offer great senior travel deals and discounts:

Adventure

GAP Adventures offer Up to 25% Off Adventure Travel Deals for a variety of reasons.  Last minute specials, multiple tour booking specialse and groups specials.  They also consistently offer limited deals on a range of their excellent tours.  They are one of the best known and well respected adventure tour specialists.

Intrepid Tours regularly offer great last minute discounts to fill their seats.  They also offer regular specials on tours that look to be selling slowly so make sure you check the site regularly.

Chimu Adventures cater well to destinations that are hot on many agendas at the moment - Antarctica and South America.  They consistently offer special deals and discounts, so check out their website for the most up-to-date specials. 

Australian Domestic Tours

Australian Eco Adventures run a number of small groups (max 16) tours all over Australia, visiting off the beaten track destinations.  They have their own purpose built vehicles offering complete luxury for guests.  They offer New Young Travel subscribers a 10% discount on their tours.

Tristate Safaris offer 4WD Australian outback tours for small groups and specialises in Broken Hill. Tri State Safaris insist on having fun.  New Young Travel has personally experienced their tours and we can definatly vouch for them first hand.  You will have a great time with your hosts Jo and Mick.  They are giving New Young Travel subscribers a 10% discount on their tours.

Wilderness Wanders operates 4WD and walking tours ex Port Lincoln to some of the most beautiful national parks in Australia surrounding the town.  They will also arrange dog sitting if you would like to take one of their tours and your are travelling with your dog.  They are giving New Young Travel subscribers 10% discount on tours and a dvd slide show if you book direct.

General Tour Operators

Evergreen Tours specialises in premium touring providing quality tours with unbeatable value.  They give plenty of time on their tours for you to explore on your own.  Evergreen often have great specials including great deals for single travellers.  Check out their website regularly for details.

Odyssey Travel is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in world-wide cultural and heritage travel, exclusively for the over 45’s.  Mention New Young Travel and recieve one year’s free subscription (valued at $20)

Luxury

Tauck Tours have been a leading luxury tour operator for 80 years.  With Tauck, it is 5 star all the way.  They offer luxury tours in a wide range of destinations.  While not the cheapest, you will certainly receive great value with no stone unturned.  They have regular specials inclulding great deals for singles.

 

 

Travel Agents

Here we list travel agents that you can trust to be +50 senior travel friendly. They may offer you a discount and/or exceptional service by specialising in +50 seniors travel:

Online Australia wide travel agencies

Concierge Travel Group were awarded best retail travel agency for 2009.  They specialise in premium holidays and exotic adventures like freighter expeditions.

Holiday Special Packages are so confident of their package prices that if you find the same accommodation and the same inclusions for the same dates at a better rate then we will beat the price by $1 and give you a $100 voucher for use on your next booking.

Sage Travel specialises in senior over 50’s travel.  They offer relaxed fully inclusive tours with minimum 5 nights in each city.  In many instances they offer single ensuite rooms at no extra cost. 

Seniors Holiday Travel is an online agency with 75, 000 club members.  They offer discounts, incentives, specials and exclusive deals to seniors.  It is free to join the club.  TEL:  1800 300 999

Mobile Travel Agencies

MTA Mobile Travel agents is an Australian owned and operated company with mobile consultants Australia-wide.

Travel Counsellors is an international fanchise of independent travel agents nearly all of whom work from a home office - they come to you, home or work.

NSW Travel Agencies

Allen’s Travel, Collaroy is an award winning, family agency and has been servicing the Northern Beaches for 25 years.  TEL: 9982 6677 

Handpicked Holidays, Brighton-le-Sands specialise in selling Back-Roads touring.  They are small group specialists and pride themselves as senior, experienced travel consultants. TEL:  1300 30 85 16

Harvey World Travel Parramatta Award winning agency with an experienced team.  Offer 25% off travel insurance for seniors. TEL:  9635 6433

Oasis Travel  Paddington, specialise in planning and advice on cultural and wildlife tours to SE Asia.  They give very thorough quotes and itineraries.  TEL:  1300 720 443

Travelscene Tweed Valley personally escorts tours all over the world.  They have a great local travel club, The Tweed Valley Travellers with over 200 members, mostly retirees - singles and couples.  Tours are designed for those who have always wanted to travel, but for some reason or another haven’t.  They run a variety of departures throughout the year.  TEL:  02 6672 5368

Winners World Travel, Canterbury specialise in premium fully inclusive tours.  WWT are also Bali specialists.  TEL 02 9705 7863

QLD Travel Agencies

Harvey World Travel, The Gap Harvey World Travel, Ashgrove and Harvey World Travel Keperra offers New Young Travellers a free limo transfer to or from the airport with every booking over $5000 per person.  You must live within 30km of the airport.

Harvey World Travel, North Lakes specialise in group travel and offer seniors discounts.  They also offer mobile phone contact with you while you are away.  TEL:  3886 0588

MTA - Charlene Darvell is a mobile travel agent servicing the Brisbane area, including Redlands and Gold Coast.  She services many retirement villages in the area.  TEL 1300 365 688

Select World Travel. in Surfers Paradise and Carrara offer 5% discount with your seniors card.  TEL: 1800 242 373

WA Travel Agencies

STA Booragoon promotes ‘Senior’s Tuesday’s’, where anyone over 60 will receive a $100 land voucher.  You must book and pay for an airfare on a Tuesday.  TEL 9364 9047

VIC Travel Agencies

Award Travel Group is an experienced agency specialising in Africa and Asian tours.  They will give New Young Travel subscribers 5% off the land portion of international packages and 25% off travel insurance to most travellers up to 69 years (conditions apply). TEL 03 9857 8948

Signature Travel, Ringwood tailor make itineraries according to your budget.  TEL 1300 885 805

 

 

 

 

 

State Tourist Organisations

Each State is responsible for providing information available for potential travellers.  Their sites provide great information to assist you in planning your next trip.

Australian Capital Tourism

South Australian Tourist Commission

Tourism Northern Territory

Tourism New South Wales

Tourism Queensland

Tourism Tasmania

Tourism Victoria

Tourism Western Australia