8 senior-friendly travel destinations to bring your family
Have you ever planned a family trip and worry about how some places are not suitable for your aging parents?
Have you ever planned a family trip and worried about how some places may not be suitable for your ageing parents with mobility issues? Or perhaps you are concerned whether the elderly in your family will be bored by the activities you planned?
When it comes to choosing senior-friendly travel destinations to bring your family, it's important to pick places that offer a relaxed and accessible environment, with various activities suitable for different age groups.
Below are some senior-friendly travel destinations to consider for your next family travel. But don’t forget to consider the preferences and needs of your elderly family members when choosing a destination!
1. Cruise Destinations
Cruises are a popular option for multi-generational trips because they offer a variety of activities, dining options, and entertainment onboard. Plus, they typically visit multiple destinations, so everyone can find something they enjoy. Accessibility won’t be an issue, too, with lifts catering to every deck.
Genting Dream Destination Cruises by Resorts World Cruises
Spectrum of the Seas Cruise by Royal Caribbean International
2. Beach Resorts
Many beach resorts offer accessible facilities and a tranquil environment. Consider destinations with gentle beaches and warm waters, like the Caribbean, Hawaii, or parts of the Mediterranean. Bali also makes a good option with its vibrant cultural experiences, such as traditional dance performances and temples.
Read more about the things you can do in the different parts of Bali: Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu.
Related: Potato Head Studio in Seminyak, Bali review: Not simply a party property
Uluwatu Temple Sunset and Kecak Fire Dance Tour
Ubud All-Inclusive Private Day Tour
Related: 6 must-do activities in Ubud, Bali in 2023
3. European Cities
Many European cities are walkable and have good public transportation systems. Consider destinations like Italy, Paris, Barcelona, or Amsterdam, which offer historical sites, cultural attractions, and plenty of places to rest.
Rome Colosseum Ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill access
Venice Gondola Ride
4. New Zealand
With its diverse landscapes, well-maintained attractions and laidback setting, New Zealand is a great travel destination for the elderly. You can go on scenic drives, relax in geothermal hot springs, and experience Maori cultural activities.
Hell's Gate Geothermal Park Ticket with Optional Spa in Rotorua
Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village Tour
Related:
Air New Zealand review and all the upgrades you can expect come 2024
The best cycling trails in New Zealand for spring and autumn
24 June is Māori New Year; good day for some New Zealand travel inspiration!
Attractions to inspire your family vacation to New Zealand
Tips to make your flying experience better, from a cabin crew
5. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a serene destination with well-preserved historic sites, gardens, and temples that is bound to keep the elderly in your family entertained. The city’s efficient public transportation system makes it accessible for all ages. Besides, cherry blossoms in spring and colourful foliage in autumn add to the charm.
Read more about the things to do in Kyoto.
Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Kyoto: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More
Kyoto Arashiyama & Sagano Train & Sanzenin Temple Day Tour丨Osaka/Kyoto Departure
6. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Located in a mountainous region, Chiang Mai offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to bustling Bangkok. It has accessible attractions like the famous Buddhist temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the various temples in Chiang Mai’s Old City—Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Sri Suphan, just to name a few. If the elderly in your family prefer shopping and trying local cuisine, you can also head to the Night Bazaar.
Doi Suthep and Wat Umong Night Tour
Chiang Mai Old City & Temples Guided Walking Tour - 2 Hours
7. Jeju Island, South Korea
Known for its natural beauty, the peaceful Jeju Island offers easy trails and captivating seaside views. The Jeju Folk Village and Jeju Teddy Bear Museum are attractions that can be enjoyed by different generations. The Seogwipo Olle Market is also great for leisurely strolls, shopping, and trying local cuisine.
Eastern Jeju Discovery
Western Island Exploration
8. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is a well-developed city with an efficient transportation system that often has priority seating and designated areas for elderly passengers. Attractions like the Taipei 101 observatory and cultural museums like the National Palace Museum are equipped with ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features to cater to visitors with mobility challenges. Taipei's famous night markets, like Shilin Night Market and Raohe Night Market, also offer a wide range of street food, shopping, and entertainment, that can be enjoyed leisurely.
Read more about the things to do in Taipei.
Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket
National Palace Museum Ticket in Taipei
Check airfare here: Skyscanner | Trip.com | Expedia
Book accommodations and activities here: Agoda | Booking.com | Klook | KKday | HotelsCombined | LuxuryEscapes
Save big, get the all-inclusive pass & explore your destination in-depth: GoCity
General info here: Tripadvisor
Affordable data plans here
And while you are at it, get your travel insurance with Alliance Assistance | Income | Prudential!
