Travel guide for the older traveller

In the 21st century age is no barrier at all to travel. In fact, the advantages for older travellers can now be greater than for younger people.

Many senior citizens have time and money in abundance - two extremely beneficial attributes for a traveller. If you are retired you also have no job to worry about, nor do you have to concern yourself with school holidays.

In fact, for the older traveller, the benefits of travelling out of the peak season are considerable. It's cooler, it's less crowded and it's much cheaper than at peak times - a combination that should certainly appeal to senior travellers as it opens up a wealth of opportunity.

There are very few areas of the world that are not available to travellers and, with time on your side, you could line up the holiday of a lifetime to take in places you had only ever dreamed of before.

Older travellers are often more adventurous and, providing that you feel you can cope with the stresses and strains of intercontinental travel, there is little that can be assigned as off limits. By breaking up a long trip with frequent stopovers and relaxing breaks, South America and South East Asia will not appear so daunting.

A few simple precautions can also help minimise any medical risks. Make sure you see your GP well in advance of travelling. They will be able to prescribe any medicines that you need as well as advising about vaccinations necessary for your intended destinations. Make sure you also check out medical cover with any travel insurance that you intend to purchase.

A few simple luxuries can also ensure that your trip is easier to cope with. Use luggage with wheels and spread your belongings across several bags. On long flights it is always a good idea to walk around every hour or so. Avoid alcohol and take plenty of soft drinks with you to make your journey and trip easier to handle.

Ensure your passport is up-to-date and that you have attained visas for any countries requiring them that you intend to visit. Work out your itinerary in advance and make sure you leave a copy of it with close family or friends while you are away. If you intend to take a mobile phone with you contact your provider to enable international roaming. Be warned that you will pay for receiving calls as well as making them abroad - your provider will be able to give you a copy of the international call tariffs.