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More and more people who have entered the third age are going on vacations and traveling the world – from Greece to Paris, through Japan, India, Australia and Antarctica, age is no longer a factor. Here are 5 tips to help you prepare your next trip so that you’re ready to enjoy everything the world has to offer, even at 80 / By Nava Marton 5 tips for third age travelers

01 Choosing your destination. It’s important to choose a destination that’s adapted to your needs, be it in terms of interest, or in vacation type. Cruises are particularly well suited to third age travelers, due to all the facilities available aboard cruise ships. Vacationing in the countryside remains a favored option by some, though it’s paramount you find out how challenging walking trails are and if they suit your pace and needs. 02 Alone or with a group. Organized tours have their pros and their cons. Their main advantage is that you won’t be on your own and someone will be nearby in case you’re in need of anything. Also, tour organizers know the destination city well and will have prepared a detailed travel plan adapted to your needs. The disadvantage is in fact precisely the same thing, that you won’t be alone and rather dependent on others. Traveling solo might not be the most recommendable way to travel when you’re 80+ years of age, but perhaps if you travel as a couple or with a small group, and your travel plan is adapted to your pace and needs, you can make do without an organized tour. 03 Packing. Opt for light items and reduce baggage weight to a minimum. Make sure your

suitcase is stable and easy to carry and wheel about. Telescopic walking sticks are highly recommended. Pack an extra two days’ worth of any medication you require and keep it with you in your carry-on. Complete any medical tests you require, before your trip, and pack a first-aid kit with you, as well as absorbent products, hygiene products, an extra pair of glasses, compression socks for the flight, etc. 04 Safety. Choose a hotel that’s central and easily accessible. Some hotels offer shuttle services to the city’s main sites and attractions. Check that the room you’re booking is adapted to your needs – for instance that it has not only a bathtub but also a separate shower cubicle. If you’re good at using a smartphone, download apps

for language translation, maps, and currency conversion – it’ll help you navigate your trip with more ease. Let your family know what your travel plan is and whenever you plan on being unreachable by phone. And of course, make sure to get adequate travel insurance. 05 Public transport. In big cities, using public transport is a great way to move around. Many places have Hop on Hop off buses that allow you to visit all the city’s main sites and attractions with minimum effort. Guided tours are also a great way to get to know new places and meet new people and are highly recommendable. Tips courtesy of the staff and residents of the “Ahuzat Zahala” assisted living facility in Tel Aviv

12 ATMOSPHERE JUNE 2024