Many people have the goal of traveling in retirement. Once they have time on their hands, they plan to see the world and go places they have never been. On the other hand, retirees are also more susceptible to age-related medical conditions that can put limitations on your mobility.
If you have limited mobility, you do not have to give up your plans to travel the world. Many companies involved in the travel, hospitality, and leisure industries understand your limitations and have worked to make vacations accessible to you. While you can go almost anywhere in the world with limited mobility, you may get more out of some destinations than others.
Florida and the Caribbean
Whether as a vacation spot or a residence, Florida has been popular with retirees for years because of the nice weather. There are plenty of beaches for soaking up the sun, as well as restaurants and shopping.
However, the Sunshine State need not be your final destination. It can be your jumping-off point for Caribbean cruises from Florida. Cruise ships themselves can accommodate people with mobility issues, and when it comes to shore excursions, cruise companies offer options designed specifically to be accessible.
Hawaii
Hawaii is one of the most unique and fascinating travel destinations there is. Visitors to Hawaii appreciate learning about an important moment in American history at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor and enjoying the active volcanoes and other natural wonders. If this all sounds a little overwhelming, don’t worry, you can see the best of the islands at a gentle pace with special senior tours.
Branson, Missouri
Along with Las Vegas, Branson is one of the live entertainment capitals of the United States. Branson has the reputation for being a little more wholesome and family-friendly, and the Midwestern city embraces this as a way to differentiate itself from its cousin to the west. Branson offers tons of activities for visitors of all ages.
Another reason to visit Branson is that, compared to Vegas, it is much easier to get around, which is important when you have limited mobility. It is also more affordable and quieter, while still offering an array of entertainment options including live music and stage shows, museums, shopping, and golf.
Niagara Falls
While there are waterfalls that are larger, few attractions in the United States or Canada have captured the collective imagination the way that Niagara Falls has. You needn’t let mobility limitations prevent you from experiencing the falls from up close. The Cave of the Winds Tour takes you 175 feet down into Niagara Gorge on an elevator and then back up again. If you don’t mind getting wet, the Maid of the Mist is a boat tour that takes you right to the base of the falls. You get a complimentary poncho to keep as a souvenir of what many tourists describe as the highlight of the entire trip.
Colonial Williamsburg
During the 18th century, Williamsburg, Virginia, was frequented by historic figures such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Patrick Henry. When Virginia was established as a British colony, Williamsburg was the capital. Today, Colonial Williamsburg offers museums explaining to visitors what life was like back before and during the American Revolution, but the real draw is the re-creations that allow you to see how people lived firsthand.
Alaska
Many people imagine Alaska as a cold, barren wilderness, but nothing could be further from the truth. Of the 20 highest mountain peaks in the United States, 17 are located in Alaska, which is teeming with wildlife and home to over 20,000 glaciers. The scenery in Alaska is unsurpassed, making for an unforgettable travel experience. There are many different ways to get to Alaska as well, but the best ways to see it as a retiree with limited mobility may be either by rail tour or cruise.
Limited mobility should not force you to put away your bucket list. There are still ways to travel and see and do what you want, even if you have to do it slightly differently than you expected.