Many of our clients here at Mexpat Realtors are American’s and Canadian’s buying houses for sale in Puerto Vallarta and condos for sale in Puerto Vallarta. We have had some great conversations with our clients about their traveling tips.
Forget rigid itineraries and jam-packed schedules! Seasoned retired travelers know the key to unforgettable adventures lies in embracing flexibility and learning from experience. Here are some gems gleaned from a group of retirees who’ve turned their golden years into a travel odyssey:
Travel Savvy, Not Overbooked: Unlike their younger counterparts, these explorers prioritize quality over quantity. They savor destinations, opting for fewer, longer trips.
Comfort is King (and Queen): Gone are the days of cramped hotel rooms! Retirees have learned to prioritize comfort, seeking spacious accommodations that allow them to settle in and unwind.
Acclimatization Matters: Forget the stress of whirlwind tours right after arrival. These seasoned travelers give themselves time to adjust to a new destination before diving into activities.
Embrace the Unexpected: Travel hiccups are inevitable, but these pros know the real adventure lies in how you handle them. Be prepared for things to go sideways and embrace the chance to discover hidden gems or create unexpected memories.
Lessons Learned: A lifetime of travel experiences has taught them valuable tricks. From avoiding specific types of accommodations to understanding cultural nuances, these retirees travel smarter, not harder.
Location, Location, Location: Claire Guarniere (art dealer based in Puerto Vallarta) knows the value of a strategic home base. She opts for mid-sized hotels (around 200 rooms) in central locations. This ensures easy access to must-see sights and avoids the impersonal feel of large resorts. Remember, it’s about exploring the city, not just your hotel room.
These are just a few secrets gleaned from these travel veterans. As you embark on your own retirement adventures, remember: the best journeys are often those that surprise you, so stay flexible, embrace the unexpected, and travel with the wisdom of a seasoned explorer!
Explore Smart with Hop-On Hop-Off Tours:
Derrick Sorles, a seasoned traveler who embarks on multiple trips a year, swears by hop-on, hop-off bus tours in new cities.
Planning Powerhouse: These tours provide a fantastic introduction to a city’s layout and key attractions. It’s the perfect “lay of the land” primer for building your itinerary.
Insider Tips: Tour guides and fellow travelers can offer valuable recommendations, from hidden gems to must-see sights.
Social Butterfly Booster: Derrick, with a background in sales and a love for conversation, uses these tours to connect with other travelers and build connections.
While hop-on, hop-off tours are great, here are some additional tips for savvy exploration:
Skip the Tourist Traps: Do your research to avoid overpriced, inauthentic experiences.
Beat the Heat (or Cold): Plan activities for appropriate times of day to avoid discomfort and maximize enjoyment.
Safety First: Be cautious when hailing taxis, especially in unfamiliar areas. Research safe transportation options beforehand.
By combining Derrick’s hop-on, hop-off bus tip with these extra pointers, you can explore new cities like a pro, maximizing your experience and avoiding common pitfalls.
Forget the frantic race to see every “must-see” sight. Savvy senior travelers like Peter and Susan Miller (75 and 74) prioritize experiences over exhaustion. Here’s their wisdom:
Dodge the Crowds (and Pickpockets): Research off-peak seasons and times to visit popular attractions. This can help you avoid crowds, long lines, and even petty theft (remember Susan’s unfortunate encounter in Venice?).
Embrace Spontaneity: Don’t cram your days with rigid schedules. Take a cue from Diego Lopez, a retired police officer. Leave room for serendipity! You might stumble upon hidden gems or create unforgettable memories that wouldn’t have fit into a pre-planned itinerary.
Pack Light, Travel Free: Packing for a trip shouldn’t feel like a weight-lifting competition. Learn from travel veterans Nancy Reynolds (70) and Jenna Jones (72) who’ve mastered the art of light packing:
The Travel Uniform: Develop a capsule wardrobe of versatile pieces in neutral colors like black. This allows for easy mixing and matching, reducing the amount you need to pack.
Wash and Wear: Pack quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant fabrics and plan to handwash undergarments as needed. This keeps your luggage light and manageable, especially when navigating public transportation or changing cities.
By following these tips from experienced travelers, you can explore the world with confidence, avoiding common pitfalls and maximizing your enjoyment. Remember, travel is a journey, not a race. Embrace the unexpected, pack smart, and focus on creating lasting memories.
Written by Mexpat Realtors – May, 2024
For matters pertaining to Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Houses for Sale in Puerto Vallarta, Condos for Sale in Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita Real Estate, Zona Romantica Puerto Vallarta or the surrounding areas of Bahia de Banderas, Property Management Puerto Vallarta, or Puerto Vallarta Rentals, Mexpat Realtors is a great resource. Call or contact us online at www.mexpatrealtors.com
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