Introductory Thoughts
Like many seniors, I enjoy travelling, but that enjoyment can easily be spoiled by the hassle and stress of peak times. It made me stop and wonder why I was travelling when everyone else was, especially now that I’m no longer tied to work or family schedules. I began to realise that travelling outside the busiest periods can make a big difference to how a trip feels, particularly if you enjoy quieter streets and a more relaxed pace. That line of thinking led me to an article about off-season travel that I thought others might find interesting too.
Curated Summary
The article explores what off-season and shoulder-season travel means and why many people find it appealing. It explains that off-season refers to times when a destination has fewer tourists, which can lead to a calmer travel experience and shorter lines at popular sights. The piece also highlights that travel costs — from flights to accommodation — are often lower outside of peak periods, which can make travel more affordable.
It discusses how cooler or less predictable weather in off-season periods can be enjoyable for exploring at a relaxed pace, rather than dealing with intense heat or crowds. The author reflects on personal experiences of seeing well-known places with far fewer visitors, giving a richer sense of the location. The article doesn’t shy away from noting that some services may be reduced in quieter months, but overall it frames off-season travel as an opportunity to experience destinations with more space, authenticity, and often significant savings.
Takeaway for Seniors
For many older adults, travel is not just about ticking boxes or seeing as much as possible in a short time. It’s about comfort, calm, and feeling a real connection with a place. Off-season travel naturally supports that approach. When you avoid peak holiday times, you’re less likely to encounter crowded streets or long queues, and you can explore at your own pace rather than rushing to keep up with schedules.
Lower travel costs during quieter periods can also help stretch a retirement travel budget further, making it easier to enjoy longer stays, more comfortable accommodation, or even a few extra trips during the year. And while the weather may be a little more changeable outside of peak season, many seniors find that milder temperatures and quieter attractions suit their style of travel perfectly. In short, off-season travel can turn a trip into something more gentle, authentic, and enjoyable, which is exactly the kind of experience many of us look for after 60.
On a personal note, I also find that if where you live is cold in winter, spending some time somewhere warmer can lift your mood for the rest of the season. It even has the small added benefit of saving on home heating while you’re away.
Source
This curated post is based on the Travel Bug Tonic article: Off season travel makes me happy
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