A new survey has revealed that adventurous over-50s are putting travel top of their post-retirement itinerary … and many of them are hitching up the van to take the Big Lap.
According to a study by insurance company, Apia, nearly 80% of over 50s say travel is important to them, and 70% have a ‘bucket list’ of places they would like to visit before it’s too late.
While the big overseas adventure is still the most popular dream for mature-aged people, driving holidays and trips to the Outback aren’t far behind. When interviewees were asked which domestic destination they would like to visit, the five most popular choices were:
1. Tasmania
2. Broome
3. Kakadu
4. Far North Queensland
5. Uluru
The Great Barrier Reef and the Great Ocean Road were equal sixth in the desirable domestic destination table.
“Older Aussies are an adventurous bunch. Simply turning 50, 60 or 70 doesn’t necessarily mean they are relegated to pottering in the garden or doing needlepoint,” said Grant Taylor, Executive Manager of Apia. “They have the time for a long trip … but they are absolutely conscious of the cost of travelling.”
The Life Begins at 50 study revealed that while more than 60% of over 50s are interested in a driving holiday, only 37% were interested in a luxury holiday.
“Travel provides older adults the opportunity to keep busy and to connect and engage with others,” said Professor Kaarin Anstey from the Ageing Research Unit at ANU. “The mental stimulation of new environments and the associated physical and social activity that travel encompasses provides an important avenue for improving one’s quality of life.”
Ain’t that the truth!
