Deciding where to go next year can be a daunting task, especially for boomer travelers. With an abundance of destinations, cruises, tour companies, and road trip routes to choose from, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. We share our own experience with planning a boomer trip, including when and why to consider certain options. For Alan and me, the key is to keep track of our lists of desired destinations and activities. We each have written lists that we update periodically, while mine are more mentally stored – maybe I should write them down next time! Reviewing our separate lists together helps us choose two or three big trips that appeal to both of us for the upcoming year's adventures. By weighing current interests against destination news and events, we can make informed decisions about when and where to travel. One of the most important factors in deciding where to go is knowing when to go. Current events, time of year, budget, health, family matters – many factors come into play when considering a trip. As boomer travelers, Alan and I tend to avoid crowded destinations during peak summer months, opting for off-season travel instead. This strategy works well for us because we rarely take big trips during the summer. However, it's essential to consider alternative options if a destination is extremely popular. For instance, Iceland is currently too popular, especially in August – but I'm considering an Iceland winter trip as a way to explore this beautiful country without the crowds. Staying informed about what's happening in the world and keeping up with travel trends can also help us decide where to go next year. Inspiration often comes from various sources, such as magazines, books, movies, or television shows – and of course, the internet is filled with more travel ideas than you could possibly accomplish in ten lifetimes! Online research is crucial when deciding where to travel. I like to take a look at official visitor websites, which usually provide an overview that includes suggestions for activities, accommodations, and dining options. From there, I often read reviews on Trip Advisor, looking for the truth in the middle rather than just the extremes. Another valuable resource is blogs about first-hand travel experiences – we need to understand the blogger's travel philosophy before deciding if it aligns with our own preferences. Cruise Critic forums are also a great place to ask questions and get insider information on cruise ships, ports, and cruising in general. Boomer travelers often have different priorities when it comes to travel styles. For Alan, a slow pace and off-the-beaten-path destinations are essential – while I prefer a mix of luxury travel and adventure. We also prioritize avoiding crowded areas and opting for smaller ship cruise itineraries that include plenty of sea days. When it comes to international travel, we look for itineraries that depart or return on an ocean cruise – and if possible, avoid long flights altogether. Group tours can be a great option too, especially when they offer unique experiences with excellent lodging. However, we prefer to stick to smaller group sizes. Budgeting is also crucial in planning a boomer trip. We keep track of our top three travel ideas and only commit to them if the costs are feasible. In addition to this approach, we use various strategies to save money – such as contributing to a travel fund on a monthly basis, using cash-back credit cards, and signing up for loyalty programs. Ultimately, deciding where to go next year requires careful consideration of our priorities, budget, and preferences. By staying informed, weighing our options carefully, and planning ahead, we can create an unforgettable boomer travel adventure that suits us perfectly. Before making any final decisions, it's essential to set realistic expectations about what we can accomplish on our trip. As boomer travelers, Alan and I face unique challenges – such as my fear of heights or his skin cancer concerns. By acknowledging these limitations and choosing destinations accordingly, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Finally, we prioritize balancing our love for travel with the enjoyment of home life. We're making an effort to space out our trips and make time for relaxation at home – which means that active trips are currently a top priority for us. By being mindful of our priorities and pacing ourselves, we can create a fulfilling boomer travel experience that meets our needs.
