Most seniors and retirees have travel at the very top of their to-do-list. When planned and executed correctly, regular travel is also said to be quite beneficial for the elderly.
Winter can become quite gloomy for seniors, especially as the excitement of the holiday period dies down and the temperatures continue to dip as we cross over into January.
However, this can be the perfect time for the elderly to travel as they are free and many popular travel destinations are less crowded.
If you are planning a winter trip for your elderly loved one, here is a list of the best winter getaways for seniors.
1. Williamsburg, Virginia
A popular travel destination among seniors and retirees, Williamsburg, Virginia, is known for its great weather, rich history, and a long list of interesting things to do.
Here, you can have a great time while also learning more about the country’s rich history. During winter, the city has great weather, with average temperatures of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
As one of the oldest cities in the US, Williamsburg – a popular destination for history buffs – is littered with interesting historical attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg.
Together with Yorktown and Jamestown, they form the “Historic Triangle.”
The city is also home to a wide selection of shopping options thanks to its many shopping districts, like the Williamsburg Antique Mall and Merchants Square.
Williamsburg also has its fair share of golf courses, great for those who would rather enjoy the great weather while playing a round of golf.
2. Savannah, Georgia
If you long for a generous offering of great weather and some rich southern charm this winter, you need to head over to Savannah, Georgia.
Average temperatures here range between the 50s and 60s during winter, meaning that seniors don’t have to wear heavy coats when exploring this amazing city.
To get a true sense of what this city is all about, it’s recommended that you check out its oak tree-shaded parks or ride a horse-drawn carriage as you take in the city’s beautiful antebellum architecture.
You can also enjoy some enticing local cuisine, live music, and shopping during your winter getaway in Savannah, Georgia.
3. Palm Springs, California
If you want to escape the cold winter weather by traveling to a warm place where you can relax and be pampered, consider heading to Palm Springs.
Widely known for its numerous spas, golf courses, impressive architecture, and shopping amenities, Palm Springs, which is located in the Sonoran Desert in Southern California, has everything seniors would want in a winter getaway.
If you want to explore the outdoors while enjoying the awesome weather, you can head to the nearby beach or hike along the local trails.
4. Key West, Florida
For seniors who would like to engage in some sailing or just about any other water sport during their winter getaway, Key West, Florida, is the place to be.
While here, be sure to enjoy the unforgettable sunsets, characteristic of this part of the country. This can be done from Mallory Square or aboard a sunset sailing cruise.
One of the biggest draws for seniors in Key West comes from the variable pace of life. This destination is great for those in pursuit of an active vacation and those who enjoy a slower pace of life.
5. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is widely known for its rich history, vibrant arts, and cultural scene. In fact, when visiting Santa Fe – the oldest state capital in the United States – your itinerary will be full of fun things to do.
History buffs can check out the many museums in the city that capture various regional American traditions. Art lovers will also be spoilt for choice, given the vast array of galleries in the city.
Nature lovers looking to explore the city’s natural surroundings can pick up the numerous hiking and walking trails in the nearby mountains.
Seniors with arthritis will appreciate the warm and dry winter weather and a compact and walkable downtown area make Santa Fe a great winter destination for seniors.
6. The Caribbean
Nothing beats what the Caribbean has to offer when it comes to warm winter destinations. The endless sunshine, numerous scenic white sandy beaches, and warm tropical temperatures make this a top destination for seniors as well.
Whether you are looking for a popular destination or one that is less traveled and hence not as crowded, the Caribbean’s numerous islands have something for you!
To make things even better, seniors with mobility issues can still enjoy everything that the Caribbean offers by simply taking a cruise that also features inland excursions.
7. Alaska Tour
While most seniors may not consider traveling northwards during the cold of winter, let alone visiting Alaska, you will find that there’s a lot to look forward to.
Alaska is home to a wide variety of marine life, glaciers, and polar bears. Visiting Alaska between the months of August and April also allows you to take in amazing views of the Northern Lights.
The promise of the great Alaskan wilderness is tantalizing for the adventurous at heart.
To ensure that you are safe when exploring this interesting part of the country, check out our winter safety tips for seniors and then schedule an Alaskan cruise or train tour.
This way, you won’t be forced to drive in freezing temperatures over slippery icy ice surfaces.
8. Douro River Cruise, Portugal
Europe is home to various iconic rivers flowing through some of the most popular tourist destinations on the continent. One such river is the Douro River in Portugal.
The river cruises give you a picturesque view of this beautiful country, including two of its major cities, Lisbon and Porto.
You can enjoy splendid views of elegant bridges and vineyards during the trip. You will also get to explore ancient monasteries, baroque mansions, and impressive castles as the boat you are traveling on makes stops along the way.
Portugal’s warm winter weather, which includes clear blue skies, and a long list of attractions, make it a great winter travel destination for seniors. It is, however, worth noting that night-time temperatures tend to be much colder.
9. South Africa
If you want to take glimpses of a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and many others, in their natural habitat, then an African safari is exactly what you need.
One of the main reasons why a safari is great for seniors is that it is done in an all-terrain vehicle. This means that even those with mobility issues can take this trip.
In addition to wildlife safaris, there are many other things to do in South Africa, including visiting Table Mountain, vineyards, and the country’s exceptional beaches.
Video Guide
Audio Article
Infographic: Winter Getaways for Seniors and the Elderly
Share on Your Site With This Code:
<a href="https://www.grayingwithgrace.com/best-winter-getaways-for-seniors/"><img style="width:100%;" src="https://www.grayingwithgrace.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Winter-Getaways-for-Seniors-infographic.jpg"></a><br>Design by: <a href="https://www.grayingwithgrace.com">Graying With Grace</a>Conclusion
A well-planned and executed winter getaway can help seniors avoid the doom and gloom of a cold and dull winter.
To ensure that seniors get to enjoy their winter getaway to the fullest, it is essential that you choose a suitable destination that caters to their physical abilities and personal interests.
With the above list of the best winter getaways for seniors in mind, choosing the right destination for your elderly loved one should be a piece of cake.
