A while ago, here at Silver we undertook some research, delving into our readers’ travel habits, amongst many other things. And whilst the only option to achieve a 100 per cent score was ‘I holiday in the UK’, (no wonder our retreats are a hit!), a very close second for those over 50 was adventure travel.

The box they ticked said ‘Jump on a plane and work it out when we get there.’ You crazy kids! Our respondents were keener on adventure travel than cruising, all-inclusive holidays, or the increasingly-popular 3G (multigenerational) travel. All of which came up closely behind.

This survey was undertaken in 2021-22, hot on the heels of numerous lockdowns. So perhaps it was to be expected that people would want to get out there and do something wild. But is that still the case? I was keen to explore this further, so I went to the ABTA Adventure Travel conference in London last week, to see whether people still felt the same way. Spoiler, they do. But here are some of the takeaways.

Firstly, solo travel is HUGE

More than one speaker reported that solo travel is up. And it’s important to highlight that this is a lifestyle trend generally. Living alone is also up, and marriage is down. Going solo is something we’re doing more of across the board.

With regard to our own age group, solo travel is a particularly big focus for women. But travelling as a ‘solo’ in a group is also a thing on the increase. So you travel ‘alone’, in small groups, making new friends, and effectively beating the supplement issues that can make travelling alone so stupidly expensive. Interestingly but perhaps unsurprisingly, over 50s and over 60s dominate solo travel search terms online.

Climate issues and sustainability inclusions

I don’t just mean that travellers are looking for holidays that tick the sustainability box. There is a concern that traditional destinations may become less popular because of the heat/weather conditions. Already it’s six degrees hotter than usual for this time of year in places around the Mediterranean. And people are concerned about fires, droughts, floods, and other weather-related issues.

Expect to see increased holiday and travel options opening up in areas like Scandinavia, and also to see different dynamics in terms of activities. As part of the adventure travel options, you’ll now find a lot of walking, engaging with unspoilt destinations, committing to activities that support destination environments and so on.

…travel is an extractive industry. Operators are essentially selling someone else’s home as an experience, and things are vanishing, like Venice.

But we need to be careful about how this is undertaken. During a panel discussion, Thomas Power, CEO at Pura Aventura, urged the industry delegates to remember that travel is an extractive industry. Operators are essentially selling someone else’s home as an experience, and things are vanishing, like Venice.

Adventure travel needs to be accountable, and not add to historically destructive travel. Engage travellers with the destination ahead of arrival so they understand the impact of their visit, he said. Holidays are hedonistic and travellers don’t want to think! We need to make being sustainable on holiday feel luxurious and effortless.

Shockingly, travellers recycle less when they’re not ‘at home’, because they perceive it as not being their problem. So tour operators and travel companies need to plan on their behalf, make the decisions for them. Try flying them there and training them back. Spend longer in the destination to reduce the carbon intensity, and give back to the destination. Flying for short breaks are the worst for carbon footprint.

Read more: sustainable travel, walking the tea trails in Sri Lanka

A few stats about travellers…

From the UN Tourism, Market Intelligence, Policy and Competitiveness Department:

76% want more sustainable options
43% will pay more for accommodation with a sustainability certification
75% seek authentic experiences that are representative of the local culture

Other takeouts

• People do want comfort even though they won’t say so. So although they say they want to go wild and adventurous, they wouldn’t admit it but they mean as long as it’s got a comfy bed, probably a swimming pool or beach, and some home comforts.
• Long haul is the growth market. People are looking to really get away, not just pop to Europe for a week or ten days.
• There is a much higher demand for holidays generally, post 2020. No shock there, but projected figures for 2025 see the growth outstrip previous performance in 2019 and earlier. An adventure travel boom is coming.
• Short lead times. People are booking impulsively; there is far less booking for a year, two years ahead.
• ‘Teenager Experience Demand’. Families with older kids are heading for adventurous holidays, with the destinations often chosen by their teenagers or adult children. This is particularly true where the Bank of Mum and Dad, or Granny and Grandad, is footing the bill.
• ‘Expedition cruises’ is a growing market, where you can visit really far-flung places like the Arctic. Frankly I truly doubt seals and orcas need this sort of human intrusion, but apparently no corner of the planet is safe from human travellers.

Overall message

Acknowledged by almost every speaker at the conference is that there’s a crucial need to protect the destination environment or there won’t be a destination to go to. So whilst a travel boom is expected across all travel sectors, not just the adventure products, it’s incumbent upon the operators to ensure that destinations and habitats are protected.

Because although the consumer wants sustainable options, they don’t want to have to think about it for themselves.

To see full details about all the speakers at this event, click here

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post Adventure travel – how those over 50 are leading the way appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Planning some solo travelling? The concept of solo travelling has significantly evolved and appeals to a broad demographic. With over a third of Brits expressing a preference for solo travel, the trend has witnessed a remarkable surge. Emphasising the desire for independence, adventure, and self-discovery among older adults.

Solo travel offers a unique opportunity to reboot lives and explore new interests. And enrich the lives of mature travellers, who often have more time available, offering experiences that could only be dreamed of.

In this article, we’ll be providing a little guide on planning your first solo travelling adventure.

Planning your solo adventure

The first step towards embarking on a solo journey involves meticulous planning. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or historical exploration, the planning process should be tailored to your personal preferences.

The rise in solo travelling among GenX and older has prompted a variety of accommodations and experiences catering to this demographic. From luxurious hotels in Madrid to holistic wellness stays in the Swiss Alps, the choices are abundant and designed to meet every conceivable need and desire.

Safety first

Safety remains a paramount concern, particularly for older people venturing into solo travel. Practical tips such as obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, carrying medications in carry-on luggage, and opting for accommodations that prioritise safety can mitigate risks.

It’s also advisable to stay connected with loved ones, updating them with your whereabouts and sharing your location. You should also be cautious with personal belongings and mindful of who you’re sharing personal information with.

Embracing new experiences

Solo travel opens up a plethora of opportunities for travellers to immerse themselves in new cultures, hobbies, and social settings.
From exploring the historical battlegrounds of Europe to embarking on scenic walking holidays across the UK’s picturesque landscapes, the experiences are as diverse as they are enriching.

The allure of cruises

Cruises often offer a particularly appealing option for solo travellers, combining the ease of accessible facilities with the opportunity for social interaction. With many cruise liners, such as P&O cruises, now offering solo cabins and activities designed for single travellers, cruising has become a more inclusive and enjoyable experience.

Personal growth

Beyond the thrill of adventure and the enjoyment of new experiences, solo travel is a profound journey of personal growth and self-discovery.

It allows for a reflection on life’s journey. Forging new friendships, and the embracing of a lifestyle that defies the conventional boundaries of age.

Solo travel is not just about the destinations visited, but the journey towards greater self-understanding, confidence, and the joy of living life to the fullest. With the right preparation and mindset, the world opens up with endless possibilities for adventure, learning, and personal growth

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The post Planning solo travelling? Tips for heading out alone appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Stephen ‘Paynie’ Payne talks about how he threw caution to the wind – quite literally – by impulse-buying a boat, setting sail on a European adventure, and completely changing his life in the process. Proving you’re never too old to learn new things. Either that, or hurrah for a brilliant midlife adventure/crisis!

[All images provided by Stephen Payne]

Stephen Payne

To be honest, I’m not doing well with this whole ‘silver’ thing. Not long ago, I got an email inviting me to join the AARP. For those who don’t know, that’s the American Association of Retired Persons – worst of all, I’m not even American.

And the other day, a damn teenager offered me their seat on a bus. This does not make me happy. In my mind, I’m still 38. But if I write this, I guess there’s no going back and I’ll be officially old. Excuse me while I shake my stick in the air.

My impulse purchase

In January 2020, I was relatively unhappy with UK politics. I’m not one to sit on my laurels and fret, so I bought a boat. Before I took this action, my knowledge of boating could be written on a relatively small postcard, but on 7 January 2020, I made a silly offer on a boat and, lo and behold, it was accepted.

Before I took this action, my knowledge of boating could be written on a relatively small postcard

By “boat”, I don’t mean a real boat. I mean a boat with motors. No stick. No rag. But you can’t really sail on the River Thames anyway, so it fitted my needs well. Then it occurred to me that I needed to take the boat somewhere that wasn’t England. France was only 21 miles away.

Bray Marina, UK

So, I started the process of gaining the documentation and knowledge required to exit the UK, cross the channel, and traverse France all the way to the Mediterranean. You need appropriate insurance, an International Certificate of Competence, which is attained by passing the CEVNI test (that stands for Code Europeen des Voies de Navigation Interieure, in case you’re interested). And a resounding belief that anything is possible. Simples.

So… I’m doing the impossible…

At 2:30pm on Saturday 26 June, I exited Ramsgate Marina for the last time. My adventure had officially commenced. Four hours later, I was in France. I paused in the lovely town of Calais for a few days to get my bearings, before setting off south towards Paris. On the boat.

Crossing to Calais

Crossing to Calais

My adventure was paused slightly in the city of St Omer because a large lock gate was being replaced, so I took the opportunity to get to know France better. I bought a bicycle and explored the local hood. A major problem with France is that the bread and baguettes are so delicious that it’s tempting to just eat them instead of actual meals. But I have almost infinite willpower and ate some other foodstuffs as well.

While I was there, I shot a music video for one of my neighbours. And that ended up paying for my entire stay and a full tank of diesel.

St Omer

On Thursday 19 August 2021, I arrived in Paris. My intention was to spend one week there, but it was so nice, I stayed for six weeks. My home base was the Paris Arsenal Marina, just south of the Bastille. It costs about €45 a night, but considering my location, that seemed relatively inexpensive. While I was there, I shot a music video for one of my neighbours. And that ended up paying for my entire stay and a full tank of diesel.

Before embarking on this adventure, I tuned up my filmmaking skills and created a YouTube channel. I did this because I like making little films. And I like to encourage people to do stuff out of their comfort zone. No one ever died thinking they should have been less adventurous. Well, maybe a couple of people, but they’re probably not with us anymore, and at least they died happy(ish).

Just north of Paris

The high point of Paris was a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower. I’ve been to Paris many times before, but never made it up there. It’s mind-blowingly beautiful.

You’ve probably heard that the French are not as friendly as they could be. Let me dispel that myth right away. The French people were amazingly friendly and helpful. I never came across one bad attitude the whole time I was there. However, the thing about journeys is you have to keep moving. By the end of September, it was time to leave my new favourite city and continue the voyage south.

Time to leave Paris…

I paused in Chartrettes in the Île-de-France region, waiting for my friend Beanie to join me, then we headed south again. You do not need two people on board to negotiate French waterways, but a second pair of hands is useful when transiting through locks. Useful, but not essential.

I became quite adept at manoeuvring through locks solo. I’d probably only negotiated four or five locks before I hit France. I scooted my way through 216 of them before I got to the Mediterranean.

Central France

Another pause was taken in Montargis in the Centre-Val de Loire Région because of bridge maintenance. We nabbed a great mooring spot in the middle of town. Someone from the VNF, France’s navigation authority, popped by to let me know I could stay as long as I needed and they would provide free power and water. To use French waterways, you need a vignette that costs €126 per month. Total bargain.

Montargis

Many people have asked me how much I spent on diesel and the answer is that I really don’t know. I never kept track of it because what would be the point? It’s not like I could do it cheaper, so I saved time by not bothering to work it out. If I had to guess, I probably used less than one litre per kilometre. If there was some distance between locks, I turned off one motor. It really didn’t need much throttle to stick to the four-knot speed limit.

Finally hitting the sea down South…

Other notable stops along the way were Briare, Nevers, Chalon-sur-Saone, Lyon and Viviers. France is a wonderful country and I highly recommend it, especially by boat. Don’t worry if, like me, your initial boating skills could be written on a postcard. It’s quite easy to rent a boat and spend a week on the water learning a new skill.

It took me a year to reach salty water again. It could’ve taken less time to reach the Mediterranean, but I didn’t buy a boat to get places fast. I might be a little old, but I’m not dead yet and have more skills to learn. Maybe I’ll try BASE jumping. Maybe not.

Despite my earlier remarks, I might not actually have unlimited willpower. It might be safer to stick to boating, filmmaking, and photography…

Photography: Paynie.net

Stephen Payne

Stephen J Payne was born in Torquay Devon, quite a long time ago. He got out of there fast and moved to London, becoming a photographer for the music papers and the London Evening Standard. Retaining his love of music, he directed many music videos and live concert films, eventually moving to Los Angeles in 1991. He returned to Blighty in 2018, and after drinking too much coffee, or cocktails, he bought a boat.

The post You’re never too old, and it’s never too late appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Taking a guided tour of a given part of the country avoids the stress and complexity that can often accompany holidaymaking. Not only that, it means your expert guides can ensure you see the best of a place. So what are the best tour destinations in England? 

Certain destinations are naturally suited to this form of holidaymaking. Here are four that we love…

London

For older travellers, London is a city whose appeal is endless. There’s the famous Tower of London, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the Natural History Museum, the National Gallery, and Westminster – and that’s just scratching the surface. Cramming all of these experiences into a single trip can often require a tightly-crafted itinerary – or the right guided tour. 

Getting into London via train is easy – with St. Pancras being a popular end destination. 

Looking for somewhere to eat in the city? See Sam Harrington-Lowe’s afternoon tea review at Great Scotland Yard Hotel

Cornwall

Cornwall’s geography has helped to shape its culture, which stands apart from that of the wider South of England. There’s a strong connection to Roman history here, and you’ll get a strong sense of that history if you take a stroll along the coastline, examining the various shrines, monuments and miniature museums. Of course, no trip to Cornwall is complete without sampling a pasty or two – seek out the best ones, and don’t neglect the rest of the county’s amazing cuisine.

Somerset

Just up the road from Cornwall we find Somerset, which is home to a number of unmissable towns and cities. Bath, in particular, is incredibly well-preserved, thanks to its unique planning restrictions. Wells, with its magnificent cathedral and cobblestone-paved streets, benefits from a similar approach. 

If you’d like to get out into nature, then a trip to the famous Cheddar Gorge, and the nearby village of the same name, is sure to appeal. The latter is home to an impressive assortment of quality tearooms. 

Lake District

For those looking for a picturesque landscape to hike through, the Lake District makes the perfect getaway. There are countless lakeside walks to enjoy, as well as picturesque little villages and soaring hilltops. Plan your trip well, and you’ll be able to cram plenty of walks into your Lake District trip. Or, you could take the leisurely approach and potter around the villages and shops. 

There’s also a distillery, which sits just beside Bassenthwaite Lake, and is open for much of the year. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

See more travel inspo – Exploring the perfect holiday desinations

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The weather is mild, school holidays are over, and the days are still long. A September city break is the perfect short trip to satisfy your travel cravings. These extraordinary European capitals are easy to get to, and full of rich culture to fill a weekend.

Read more: Four of the best destinations for your must-see list

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Just 250 miles from the UK coastline, Amsterdam is one of the most convenient options for a European city break. You can reach Amsterdam via cruises from Southampton and by ferry from the east coast, or flights run frequently from most UK airports.

With a reasonably small centre, Amsterdam is easily explored during a long weekend. Cycling is a popular mode of transport here, or you can sail your way around the city on the iconic canal network. There is a variety of museums and galleries to visit including Anne Frank’s house and the Van Gogh Museum, while just outside of the centre you will find idyllic windmill-dotted countryside. 

Paris, France

Also easily reached is Paris. Flights and ferries are again an option, or Londoners can take advantage of the Eurostar train from St. Pancras which reaches Paris in just 2.5 hours.

France’s capital is utterly magnificent, from the grandiose buildings that lines the wide boulevards, to the exquisite cuisine that is praised the world over. Climbing to the top of the Eiffel Tower is a must for your itinerary, as is a trip to the Louvre and the city’s other world-class art galleries. Break up your sightseeing with strolls in the picturesque city parks, and a delicious cake at an authentic patisserie.

Budapest, Hungary

Slightly further afield but well-worth the flight is Budapest, capital of Hungary. This destination has risen in popularity in recent years and has benefitted greatly from the influx of tourists.

The city is divided down the middle by a broad river, with ‘Buda’ on one side and ‘Pest’ on the other. Elaborate bridges connect one to the other, and you can even stand between them by visiting the tranquil Margaret Island. Highlights of a city break in Budapest include the majestic architecture, notably the parliament building and St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the huge Szechenyi thermal baths.

Lisbon, Portugal

Seeking the catch the last of the summer sunshine? Get on a plane to Lisbon which enjoys temperatures up to the mid-twenties all the way into October. 

Portugal’s coastal capital is another destination that has seen a spike in visitors in recent years. Its sheer beauty attracts tourists of all ages, although older travellers may find the hilly terrain tiring. The riverside region of Belém is a favourite spot because of its laidback atmosphere and historic highlights such as the gothic Jerónimos Monastery. Make sure to stop off for a traditional Portuguese custard tart at the popular Pastéis de Belém.

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Until very recently, there was something I had to address as a single woman. Whilst I was happy to go to the cinema solo, take in an exhibition on my own, or eat out at a table for one, I’d never found myself taking a holiday alone.

Since the demise of my long marriage, I have discovered that I quite like the single life. Not having to explain myself, or answer to anyone. Doing exactly what I like, when I like, and with whom I like. I’ve made new friends, taken up new interests and, I suppose you’d say, reinvented myself. Maybe not quite to the heights of a phoenix rising from the ashes. But I’m definitely in the fledgling category. 

I’m happy with all this, but the possibility of time away – a singleton holiday, if you will – remained on my ‘to do’ list. So, I decided it was time to do something about this. 

Where shall I go?!

It was already July but I didn’t want to hang about. I wanted to go soon. But before I did, I made another list of what exactly I was looking for. 

A short break in Europe, I reckoned, was the way to go for this first solo outing. I wanted to go somewhere warm but not too hot. A destination that combined a bit of beach life with a side helping of culture and history. And an aura of old-school glamour would not go amiss, either. Plus, the kind of destination where I might even try something else way out of my comfort zone. A new activity of the sporting kind, perhaps?

A short break in Europe, I reckoned, was the way to go for this first solo outing

While browsing on the internet for the place that would hopefully tick most of my boxes, I happened to chance upon the Portuguese coastal town of Cascais. Only half an hour from the capital, Lisbon, I gleaned that this picturesque former fishing village appeared to retain much of its maritime charm while combined with fabulous beaches. And also a noble, almost aristocratic feel, as befitted the go-to destination of many dethroned European monarchies during the first half of the 20th century. 

Cascais

It sounded right up my ‘rua’. When I read on one site that ‘It is not necessary to bring company to explore the wonders of this unique resort’, I felt myself warming to the idea of a short break in Cascais. And then when I noticed that one of my musical heroes, Van Morrison, just happened to be headlining at the Cool Jazz festival the very same weekend I planned to take off, well, it was pretty much a done deal. A triple-day trip, I reckoned, would be just the ticket. Three days would be just about right, with Van-the-Man playing on my final night. 

Getting there

Taking the early afternoon TAP Airways flight from Heathrow to Lisbon, I was excited yet apprehensive. I had never done anything like this before. What if I hated being on my own when everyone else seemed coupled (and loved) up? What if I felt like the ultimate Billie No-Mates? What if I felt unsafe at any point? What if my voice-box seized up due to lack of use? What if? What if? What if? 

I told the mad voice in my head to shut the f**k up. It. Was. Three. Days. That’s all. Three days was nothing. If the worst came to the worst, I could treat the break as a silent retreat. Or plot out the novel I’d always promised myself I would write. Or even read all the novels I’d downloaded onto my kindle.

I told the mad voice in my head to shut the f**k up. It. Was. Three. Days. That’s all.

Plus, I had my own bespoke tour guide. I had written myself a fairly detailed itinerary before setting off. I reasoned it would be good to have a set schedule so that I wouldn’t, at any time, find my mind wandering as I people watched, causing me to think, ‘Look at all those couples and happy families seemingly having the best time’ (even if they’re really not). 

I was picked up at the airport, having already arranged a transfer with my hotel, the almost-on-the beach Vila Gale. Something of a last-minute booking, the four-star hotel was a good choice being just a matter of seconds from the marina, just 10 minutes-walk from the historic centre of Cascais and also close to the Marechal Carmona Park where the Cool Jazz festival was taking place. I was delighted with my spacious third floor room and balcony. 

Exploring the locale

Cascais Marina

Strolling into town for dinner was a feast for the eyes as I passed the marina with its resident fleet of swish-looking yachts, the imposing 16th century citadel, and the literally-on-the-beach, fairy tale castle-like Condes de Castro Guimaraes Palace.

Never once did I feel unsafe as a lone woman. I had pre-booked to eat at the Lota da Esquina, a restaurant housed in the former fish auction house. 

Read more: are retreats calling you?

Condes de Castro Guimaraes Palace

The setting was stunning – as was the repast. The tomato and strawberry gazpacho, tuna ceviche, and sauteed fresher-than-fresh fish will remain in my memory food bank for a long time. 

…never once did I feel unsafe as a lone woman

As for the dining solo thing; or ‘comendo sozinho’ as they say in Portugal? Well, I’ll admit to feeling quite self-conscious when my fellow diners were made up of mostly two, three, and foursomes but I found that a couple of stiff G&Ts pre-dinner made this dissipate in a rather dreamy kind of way. Besides, the waiting staff were lovely and chatty, and didn’t once look at me with pity! 

And I had company. Not my ubiquitous smartphone – I purposely left that in my bag – but a book. 28 Portuguese Poets: A Bilingual Anthology, which I’d ordered online before travelling. A tad pretentious? Perhaps, but just the thought of that made me laugh. The poems were generally absorbing, and turning the pages between forkfuls of delicious food made me feel like the lead in a moody foreign movie.

Day two – heading out

Day two of my solo short break was spent in Sintra, a historic, Unesco World Heritage site about 45 minutes-drive from Cascais. As per my bespoke itinerary, I had pre-booked an organised tour of this magical kingdom – think fairy tale, pastel-coloured-palaces set amongst lush, undulating emerald forests in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, with Shortcuts Tourism. 

Did I arrange to meet up any with my lunch companions again? Er, no. While I’d had fun in their company, when you know, you know

A good choice, even if I do say so myself. We were a group of six in all and our guide Andre was everything you could wish for in a tour guide. Full of information, very funny, and his English was probably better than mine. The fantastical Monserrate Palace was a particular highlight. Beloved by romantic poet Lord Byron and featured in his poem Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage, this Taj Mahal-like edifice in miniature, combines gothic, Indian, and Moorish influences. While the gardens are spectacular, and home to species of trees and plants from all over the world. 

Sintra, Cascais – Pena Palace Turismo

We ended up in the very picturesque if rather touristy town of Sintra itself. Where we, as a group, sat down for a light lunch at a café by the main town square. It was nice to chat to the other members of the group – although it was the hugely entertaining guide Andre who did most of the talking. Did I arrange to meet up any with my lunch companions again? Er, no. While I’d had fun in their company, when you know, you know. And I felt extremely OK about dining solo again that evening.

Monserrate Palace

Returning to by mid-afternoon, I spent a couple of hours on the beach, braving a dip in the bracing but not overly rough Atlantic, before eating that evening at sublime seafood restaurant Marisco na Praca at Cascais Marina. 

Meeting new friends

It was here that I happened to get chatting to a group of uber-friendly women on the table next to me who were in the area on a golfing trip. I don’t know if it was because I’d already chatted to strangers earlier in the day – or because the Sangria I was drinking gave me a bit of Dutch courage – but I had no qualms about starting the conversation off. 

Tiger Woods I most definitely wasn’t but I did enjoy the experience

The woman sat nearest to me was wearing a lovely necklace which I complimented her on. Within minutes, they’d asked me to join them for a nightcap. My meeting with this group of girls led me in turn to decide on just what my aforementioned sporting activity would be – a category left blank on my itinerary. Why not take a shot at the game my late father had been obsessed with? 

The next morning saw me on the driving range of the nearby Quinta da Marinha Golf Resort, taking an hour-long ’taster’ lesson, alongside another single lady. Tiger Woods I most definitely wasn’t but I did enjoy the experience. Especially when our teaching pro informed us that golf was as beneficial to the body as Pilates.

Time for Van Morrison

After an afternoon people-watching and sunning myself by the hotel pool, it was time for Van the Man at the Cool Jazz festival in the park. I’ve done some festivals in my time, but I can honestly say I have never attended a gig in such a stunning setting. We’re talking palm trees, grassy knolls, evening sunshine and an altogether languid vibe. This was cool with a capital C. 

Van Morrison playing at Cascais – photo: Alison James

I’d spoiled myself with a VIP ticket which included wine and delicious canapes – such a treat but I am worth it, I’d decided. As was Van himself. At an amazing 77-years-old, he sounded as good as ever – even if he hardly said a word between numbers and didn’t perform any of his hits! Not that I’d really expected him to. He is, by all accounts, famous for this. 

I was happy just to watch him perform but I found myself chatting to a group of Portuguese fans, who looked a good decade younger than me. No matter about, that, though. Experience and a growing confidence that maybe only comes with age – in addition to surviving a ruined marriage – has taught me that if you are open and interested in people, it’s not hard to get talking to them. My night ended at the festival’s 80s disco with me and the Portuguese 40-somethings getting into the groove. 

So how do I look back on this foray of stepping out on foreign soil for the first time on my own? 

I can honestly say it was one of the best short breaks I’d ever had. In a relatively short time, I’d done so much. I travelled solo, but I never felt lonely; I also felt a massive sense of achievement. 

Taking a break after a break-up? Intrigued by the idea of a solo trip? Just do it. Pack an open mind and a spirit of adventure in addition to a micro-holiday wardrobe. You have nothing to fear, and only exciting new experiences to look forward to. 

Alison James

The post My first time taking a holiday alone appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Going on a journey is often associated with either teenagers on their gap year, backpacking across Europe or Asia, or retirees who are cross-country road tripping. 

While these are both perfect opportunities to travel, there’s no reason why travelling pre-retirement, during your 50s and 60s, isn’t equally as good an opportunity.

Waiting until retirement to tick off places on the travel bucket list can mean you miss out on the benefits of travelling in your 50s and 60s. 

Gain new perspectives

Travelling is a fantastic way to expand your horizons. Deep in the nine to five lifestyle, it may have been a while since you tried new things or saw life from a fresh perspective. 

Visiting a different country allows you to experience a new culture first-hand. This can offer alternative ways of living and provide you with a renewed excitement for life.

Exercise mindfulness

Daily life can be stressful at any age, but during your 50s and 60s it’s likely that you have a whole host of responsibilities which need to be managed. From caring for family, to work commitments. We all need a break at times so we can rediscover our best selves. 

A few nights away from home may be enough for you to wind down. However, if you find you’re after something more structured, there are plenty of options out there. 

You could book a walking holiday for singles or check into a wellness retreat. 

Benefits to your health

Improve your physical health with an active holiday; like hiking, swimming, or skiing. 

Or, if you are highly active in your everyday life, opting for a slower holiday allows your body to relax and recoup.

When it comes to mental health, travelling can help to relieve stress, boost your creativity, and provide opportunities to socialise with new people.

It’ll also afford you time to focus on yourself. Which could help you identify areas in your life where you may want to make changes for the better. 

Build confidence 

After years in the same job and living in the same home, it’s easy to sit firmly inside our comfort zone. Pushing yourself occasionally allows you to grow as a person and try new things.

By travelling alone, or somewhere new, you’ll push the boundaries of your comfort zone and build confidence. 

This newfound confidence can benefit you when you get back home in plenty of areas in your life. Whether it’s making new friends, setting boundaries at work or in your personal life, you’ll feel the benefits of your redefined comfort zone.

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