Amanda PhillipsThe over-55s retirees are getting a sense of adventure! ‘Greycationers’ are choosing to backpack in Burma rather than sunbathe in Spain, causing a boom in this area of the holiday market.
Retirees: Adventure over Alicante
More free time and a disposable income mean the over-55s want to get away, and they’re looking for adventure with something that takes them off the beaten track.
In years gone by this age group has been fond of sunning themselves on Mediterranean beaches, but now destinations such as Cambodia, Burma, Vietnam and New Zealand are booming in popularity, where go-getting grannies and plucky papas can feel the thrill of adventure by camel riding, climbing, hiking and backpacking. This change in holiday habits is evident here at Barrhead Travel, where we’ve seen a rise in bookings to South America, Chile and Africa by those aged over 55 in the past few years.
Singles trips are also gaining popularity. These holidays, where a group of strangers travel and stay together, are being booked by the older generation looking for friendship…or love. Even happily-marrieds who want to try out new travel experiences with like-minded folk are booking these, if their partners don’t share their taste for adventure travelling. Many a new friendship has been struck up by sharing the special experiences that being on holiday brings.
Let’s face it, there are increasing numbers of pretty cool older celebs out there, doing their bit for the reputation of the older generation. Mick Jagger, aged 71, has been rocking as a Rolling Stone for over 50 years, Joanna Lumley is 68 and loved by everyone for her quirky humour, and Sex and the City’s Kim Cattrall is 57 and looks incredible. Life experience has never been so cool.
Looking for an adventure trip of a lifetime? Contact Barrhead Travel on 0800 804 8666 and we’ll help you organise an adrenaline rush on your next holiday!