I’ve been wrestling with this mental block about aging and travelling. The truth is, I don’t think I’m the type to grow old gracefully. I want to fight it—kicking, screaming, and clinging to every last adventure. But lately, I’ve noticed this quiet shift in the people around me, especially those who’ve hit their 80s. It’s like the world starts to shrink for them. Travel becomes harder and more complicated; sometimes, it stops altogether.
For my parents, it was a mixture of two things. First is the need to stay close to home in a medical emergency. Second, the sheer physical toll of travelling—especially flying—became too much, particularly for my mum. I remember the last trip I took with her. It wasn’t some grand adventure, just a simple day trip from Kingston across the border to Watertown. We managed a cruise from New York to Bermuda a few years before. But even then, the logistics were tricky. My dad had to drive us to Syracuse to catch a short flight to New York, where we were met and taken directly to the ship. On the way back, we did the same in reverse.
My mom loved to travel, especially on cruises. But on that Bermuda trip, she only got off the ship once. We’d hired a driver to take us around, but she stayed in the car the whole time—it was just too hot, and the air conditioning was her refuge. I think she enjoyed the trip, but knew deep down that it would be her last big journey. That realization must’ve been bittersweet for her. It certainly was for me.
Even my brother, who’s just four years older than me, has started to feel the weight of it. He’s not as keen on those long road trips he used to love. These days, he prefers trains, and honestly, I get it. Last fall, he and I crossed the border into the U.S. and took the Vermonter train to Washington, D.C. We stayed for two nights and then made the 12-hour journey back. It was long, but there’s something about the rhythm of a train that feels gentler, more forgiving.
And here’s where my mental block comes in. I have this nagging feeling that I only have seven good years of travel left. Seven years before the world started to feel smaller for me, too. That thought makes me want to cram it all in now, to see and do everything while I still can. But, of course, finances have a way of keeping me grounded. Not that it stops me as much as it probably should.
So, as I edge closer to those years, I know I need to be more mindful. I need to stay as fit as possible to give myself the best chance at aging with a little more grace than I’d like to admit. Maybe I can’t fight time forever, but I can at least meet it halfway.
Aging is a journey all its own, isn’t it? It’s this mix of reflection, growth, and—if you’re lucky—a touch of adventure. But let’s be real: it’s not always smooth sailing. The body starts to slow down, and the mind can feel foggy. Sometimes, it feels like the world is moving faster than I can. Even so, I truly believe aging well is possible. For someone like me, who loves to travel and stay curious about life, it’s all about making thoughtful adjustments along the way.
I’ve learned that embracing this stage of life with grace, energy, and a sense of wonder isn’t just about the big adventures—it’s about how I approach every day. Whether I’m planning my next trip or just navigating the little moments, there’s always room for discovery. And that’s what keeps me going.
Lighten the Load: Managing Stress
Stress is like an overpacked suitcase—it weighs you down and makes the journey harder than it needs to be. As we age, stress affects our mood and health. So, take a moment to unpack.
What’s causing the most stress in your life? Is it a strained relationship, financial worries, or even the pressure to keep up with others? Identifying the source is the first step. Once you know what’s weighing you down, you can start to lighten the load. Maybe it’s setting boundaries with that one friend who always seems to drain your energy or learning to say “no” to commitments that don’t bring you joy.
And here’s the thing: stress doesn’t just age your mind—it ages your body, too. So, let it go. You’ll feel lighter, freer, and more ready to embrace the adventures ahead.
Keep Your Mind on the Move
Your brain needs regular use to stay sharp. One of the best ways to age well is to keep your mind active and curious. Think of it as mental exercise—just as important as physical activity.
Try a new hobby or dive into something you’ve always wanted to learn. Maybe it’s mastering a new language for that dream trip to Italy or experimenting with Thai recipes in your kitchen. Crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or even a good mystery novel can also do wonders for keeping your brain engaged.
The key is to stay curious. When you’re learning, you’re living.
Move Your Body, Move Your Life
Speaking of exercise, let’s talk about the importance of staying active. You don’t have to run marathons or lift heavy weights (unless you want to), but regular physical activity is essential for staying healthy and happy as you age.
Walking is a fantastic option—whether it’s a stroll through your neighbourhood or a hike in a national park. Yoga or tai chi can help with flexibility and balance, while swimming is gentle on the joints. The benefits go beyond the physical: exercise boosts your mood, sharpens your mind, and helps you stay independent longer.
Think of it this way: the stronger and more flexible your body is, the more easily you can navigate cobblestone streets in Europe, climb into a safari jeep, or simply keep up with the grandkids.
Stay Curious About the World
One of the greatest joys of aging is having the time to explore—whether travelling to far-off places or simply discovering something new in your backyard.
If you’re lucky enough to have the means to travel, go for it. But if your budget or health keeps you closer to home, don’t let that stop you from exploring. Take a class on a culture you’ve always been curious about, visit a local museum, or converse with someone from a different background. The world is full of stories waiting to be discovered; you don’t need a plane ticket to find them.
Stay Connected
Loneliness is one of the biggest challenges of aging, but it doesn’t have to be your story. Staying socially engaged is just as important as staying physically active. Seek out local activities on your trips. The connections you build will enrich your life and keep you feeling vibrant and engaged.
If you're not travelling, make an effort to connect with others, whether it’s through family gatherings, community events, or online groups. Host a potluck, join a book club, or volunteer for a cause you care about.
Shift Your Perspective
Aging is as much about mindset as it is about anything else. Yes, it comes with its share of losses and challenges, but it also brings opportunities for growth, learning, and reinvention.
How you view aging can make all the difference. Instead of focusing on what you can’t do anymore, think about what you can do—and what you’ve gained with age. Wisdom, patience, and a deeper appreciation for life’s simple pleasures are gifts that only come with time. Even if your travels become limited, they're not necessarily over completely.
Final Observations
Aging doesn’t mean the end of adventure, joy, or discovery—not for me. I see it as a new chapter that can be just as rich and fulfilling as the ones I’ve already lived. Sure, it might look a little different, but with some care for my body, mind, and spirit, I know I can keep exploring the world in all its forms—whether through travel, learning something new, or deepening my connections with the people around me.
So, I remind myself to pack light, stay curious, and keep moving forward. After all, the best journeys are the ones where we embrace the unexpected, enjoy the moment, and never stop exploring—no matter how many candles are on the cake.
