Cruises: the best type of holiday for over-60s
Thinking about a cruise holiday? Over60 community member, Val Brown, says, “Go for it”! A seasoned cruise holiday-goer herself, here she shares the reasons why a holiday on the open seas is ideal for over-60s.
Cruising has been recognised as the most accepted form of holiday for the over-60s age group. For very good reasons, here are some of them:
Unpack once – plenty of storage for folded and hanging clothes, shoes, etc. [Sometimes a butler to help, if required].
All-inclusive price – accommodation, fares, meals, and sometimes, shore excursions.
Don’t need cash on-board – everything you buy including souvenirs, clothes, jewellery, photos, small items, or services are charged to your cabin and you pay everything together at the end – but check the bill before paying! (You can get a printout every few days).
Meet other people (some like-minded) – you can sit at a dining table with however many people you choose – two, four, six, eight, 10 – and if you don’t wish to sit with the same group again, for whatever reason, ask to be moved. Don’t feel bad!
Safe, secure – a very good choice for single travellers, too. Modern ships have stabilizers that keep them steady. We’ve never experienced seasickness, even though we have sailed through heavy seas!
Variety of evening entertainment – shows, theatrical performances, contests, themed parties, casino, and nightclubs are all available on board.
Fun – do things you never do at home, either on-board, or on excursions, as you travel from port to port. See new places; eat as the locals do; experience local customs and traditions.
Service can be exceptional – even entry-level fares include good service.
If you’re new to cruising, perhaps try a 10-12 day cruise to begin with, close to home, to get the feel of things.