Getting around isn’t always easy when you’re a senior. That can create a lot of fear, especially when it comes to planning a vacation. It isn’t uncommon for seniors to skip taking trips simply because they worry how they’re going to get around in a new city that they are unfamiliar with.
Don’t let the fear of getting from point A to point B keep you from enjoying a little rest and relaxation away from home! There are ways that you can get around at nearly any destination that will be comfortable for you.
Rent a Car
One of the most convenient ways to get around when you’re on vacation is to drive a car. You can drive your own car to your destination, but if you’re traveling far from home, it’s a much better idea to fly on a plane and then rent a car when you get there.
Just make sure you choose a safe vehicle. That includes choosing a vehicle that has safety features, like a backup camera, and giving yourself plenty of time to get acquainted with the vehicle before you hit the road. That way, you aren’t stuck looking for the windshield wipers when you should be focusing on the road while it’s raining.
Surprisingly, it also means choosing the right rental car color. Always choose a white car over a black car. Dark colored cars are up to 47 percent more likely to be involved in an accident!
Take Advantage of Ride Programs at Hotels
Although there are more options than ever when choosing a place to stay on vacation, if you’re a traveling senior, you should stick with a hotel. That’s because a hotel can provide you with a wide variety of services that you may not be aware of, including rides.
Many hotels happily provide their patrons with rides to and from the airport, which can be a huge relief for tired seniors. There’s also a chance that you may be able to get the concierge to find someone to give you a ride, as long as you provide payment and a tip upfront. If they can’t provide you with a ride, they can call a ride for you.
Get a Bus Pass
It’s true that learning how to use the bus or subway system on vacation can be a little bit of a challenge, but once you’ve got the schedule and the route, it can make getting around a lot easier. Although many routes can be found online, most transit systems still have paper maps, if you’re more comfortable figuring out your route the old-fashioned way.
It’s even better if you get a transit pass. That way, you don’t have to wait in line or figure out what kind of ticket you need for where you’re going. Simply scan your pass and you can get on the bus and go anywhere.
Stay Where the Action Is
If getting around is a challenge for you, regardless of the reason, you don’t want to spend your time in a large, sprawling city with poor transit systems. Instead, you should choose smaller cities, cities with established subway systems, and choose a hotel that’s right in the middle of where the action is. That way, it’s just a short walk or cab ride to any destination on your list.
Some of the best cities to visit where getting around is a little easier include:
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- Boston, Massachusetts
- New York City, New York
- Chicago, Illinois
- Washington, D.C.
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Bring a Walking Aid
No matter where you are going or where you are staying, you are likely to find yourself on your feet at least some of the time. If standing for long periods of time or walking relatively long distances is hard for you, consider having a walking aid by your side.
There are many different kinds of walking aids to choose from. A cane can be a good choice, especially if you find one with a fold-down seat. Don’t feel ashamed if you need a walker or if you would like to use a motorized scooter. What matters is that you can get around all day long as comfortably as possible.
Your mobility may cause you to shy away from doing the traveling you’ve always wanted to do, but it shouldn’t! Whether you struggle with walking or you don’t feel safe getting behind the wheel of the car, there are many options available that will help you get around efficiently and comfortably.
We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.
