If you’ve ever wanted to see evolution in action, the Galápagos is the place. We arrived at the end of our South American trip in the spring of 2024, carrying all the usual expectations and a healthy dose of curiosity. Still, nothing prepares you for how these islands quietly shift your perspective. The Galápagos isn’t just another stop on the map—it’s a reminder of how unpredictable and remarkable the natural world can be. The first thing that struck me was how unbothered the wildlife seemed by our presence. Sea lions lounged on the sand like they owned the place (and,…
Category: Lessons Learned
I’ll never become a minimalist
Well, I’ve written some blog articles on how to move towards minimalism as a traveller, and while I admire the principles behind it, I doubt it’s for me. As I grow older, I am aware of the clutter around me and how downsizing and eliminating things makes more sense for everybody, particularly those who will have to deal with my state after I’m gone. But let’s face it. It’s easier said than done. After returning from living overseas for 15 years, it took us 4 1/2 years to downsize from three lockers 10 x 15‘. I can’t believe how much…
Paris Without the Wait: My Tips From 6 years
Let’s start by being completely honest. There is no way to avoid lines in Paris. Having lived there for six years, I can vouch that the French bureaucracy always guarantees long lines for the public, which also seems to extend to tourist attractions. However, I must say that like any tourist city, everywhere is bound to have long lines, not just Paris. But I am here to show you how to minimize your line wait time. I’ve been saying this for years and years. Always book a ticket to an event online beforehand. Purchasing a museum pass may give the…
Is Minimalism For You?
Minimalism and simplicity are commonly used terms today. Are they the same thing? There are varying degrees of minimalism. Many view minimalism as the modern equivalent of living in a cave and eating berries by a fire, but that isn’t necessarily the case. I am all for simplifying and getting rid of things you no longer need. When we came home from living overseas for 15 years, we had to unpack three storage units. We sold some, threw out lots of crap and gave a lot, and I mean a lot, to charities. It took us three years to downsize. …
Chronic Health Management While Traveling
Traveling with a chronic health condition requires thorough preparation and vigilant management, but it doesn’t have to limit your ability to enjoy your trip. By consulting with your healthcare provider, organizing your medications and supplies, maintaining your routine, and being prepared for emergencies, you can effectively manage your condition and have a safe and fulfilling travel experience. With the proper precautions, traveling with a health condition can still be a wonderful experience. I am fortunate that I do not have any chronic issues, but I do have little health issues like arthritis that need consideration. Here are some suggestions that…
The Benefits of Carrying a Zero-Balance Credit Card on Your Trip
My partner and I always carried one different bank credit card each whenever we travelled. Before we became partners, we had two from our previous bank, so we were all set. We used only one of the cards, and I kept the other in case the first didn’t work. I can’t tell you how many times either our debit cards or our credit cards didn’t work. We have discovered that credit cards may work well in stores, but rarely to get cash from bank machines. In Cinque Terre, we didn’t find an ATM at a bank that worked for us…
Beyond Geneva: The 7 Best Day Trips for Every Traveller
It’s hard to believe it’s been almost 20 years since I moved to Geneva, Switzerland. We lived there for five years when our boys were younger, and it was the perfect place to raise a family. Needless to say, I wasn’t quite a senior then. I don’t find as much to do in Geneva as claimed. How often can you visit The Jet, The Jardin Anglais or the Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle (Museum of Natural History)? I’m not saying this to be funny or as a metaphor, but this is true. When you drive into Switzerland for France, Austria, Italy or…
Preventing and Managing Motion Sickness While Traveling
My partner suffers from motion sickness, which almost prevented us from ever taking cruises. She tried gravel, but it made her sleepy. Those wristband pressure points didn’t seem to help, either. But she found the perfect solution. Ondansetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. It turns out that it is perfect for motion sickness. She never experiences drowsiness after taking it; it seems to last a long time. We have experienced very few situations where it didn’t help completely, but that was on a four-hour speedboat. As long as she could…
How To Explore A New City with Tips
Exploring a new city is an exciting adventure at any age, but it can be an enriching experience for seniors. Whether travelling solo, with a partner, or in a group, discovering a new destination offers opportunities to learn, connect, and create lasting memories. However, it’s important to plan thoughtfully to ensure the experience is enjoyable, safe, and stress-free. Don’t forget to check out my free checklists for planning. Here’s a guide to help seniors make the most of exploring a new city. 1. Plan, But Stay Flexible Before you arrive, research the city’s highlights, culture, and transportation options. Look for senior-friendly…
Essential First Steps Upon Entering Your Hotel Room
Discover the crucial steps to take the moment you enter your hotel room to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay. From cleanliness checks to safety measures, learn what to prioritize for a hassle-free experience. Checking into a hotel can be a highlight of your travels, offering a chance to relax in a new environment. However, the first few minutes in your hotel room are crucial for setting the tone for a comfortable and secure stay. Here are the essential steps to take as soon as you enter your hotel room. Get Your Complete “Hotel Room Arrival Checklist” here Checking…