Stories about traveling women focus on the cool exploits of 20 something adventurers. They scuba, they parasail, they hike up mountains. They wear size nothing leggings and technical shoes.
Where are we older women in these stories? The answer is no where. We are not considered cool; yet we are very much so.
Older women have money and once retired we have lower expenses. We begin to fly Business class. We shop for finer items. We tip nicely. Cruises have 20% solos, mainly female. We do not appear in cruise brochures as if we are hidden in a nursing home.
Older women, 80+ can and do travel. Because an area seems exotic, does not mean it is hard to visit. Because it is out of Western Europe, does not mean it is unsafe for us oldies. One warning: renting a car when you are over 80 might be impossible.
Examples on our site which are easy for oldies, are Saudi Arabia, a rich country with strong infrastructure and much spoken English. Hotels are modern with up to date bathrooms. Elevators work. Food will be familiar if you have eaten Lebanese cuisine at home. Yes the flight is long.
A few things for older women to consider when visiting non European countries. Drinking water is one. After a long flight, one must drink a lot of water. Older women are more susceptible to dehydration related medical issues. In some areas, drinking water though potable, will be desalinated. The high mineral content might bother Western stomachs or at the least taste awful. Distilled or bottled water is a must. Hotels include some in your room, we include more on the bus. Budget for even more water; you will likely need it.
Spoken English is important to us oldies. If we need help, if we cannot read a street sign, if we feel sick….if unfortunately we need a doctor… English is a must. Do not hesitate to ask for help from your guide.
Understanding medical labeling overseas is critical. Overseas, prescriptions can only be read in the generic; US brands are not always sold in other countries. Brands can have other names locally Our brand might be dispensed in different amounts or in pills that have to be cut. Keep your medicines in their original containers.
Seeing your doctor before a trip is smart. Having your doctor in direct telephone contacts is a good idea. In a pinch, you will not fumble around looking for a number. We recently received a cancellation from one woman whose pre trip exam revealed she could not go to Mexico City, because of the altitude.
For older women, a fall is a disaster. What can we do? Get your balance with exercise, we all know that. Clearly wear good walking shoes you are used to. Pay attention to the street and sidewalk, even if you miss a photo op or cannot chat. Leave heavy bags in the hotel room. Water can also be heavy; carry less than the full bottle and buy more the instant you feel light headed.
Masking continues to be a concern. We go by country rules. These local rules do not mean you cannot mask if you feel more comfortable with protection. Again walking with a mask can be less sturdy than without. Count to ten after you don the mask, tell yourself to be extra extra careful. Now enjoy.
Travel Tips from www.thewomenstravelgroup.com Need more help? Call us at 646 309 5607
(Warning, insurance can be exorbitant for older travelers).
