Fall Travel Saves Money for Seniors & Caregivers
Reduced Attraction Fees & Cooler Weather Ideal for Elderly Tourists
Sep 6, 2009
The arrival of fall brings cooler weather to most regions across the U.S. Caregivers responsible for elderly family members see fall as a great time to make travel plans. The tourists have gone home, school is back in session, and the lines are shorter at many popular parks, resorts, and exhibits. Residents now have a chance to get out for short trips and enjoy the attractions within their own states.
Caregivers are advised to consider more than just the weather, however. Most senior travelers qualify for reduced travel expenses. Places that don't advertise obvious discounts for the elderly will often lower fees and prices if the traveler asks. And don't forget the advantages if one belongs to an automobile club or some other affiliation that offers travel discounts. Senior travel discounts are usually above and beyond the average seasonal and residence discounts.
Fall Vacationing Means Cheaper Prices for the Elderly
Prices drop at some of the most popular resorts in the country after Labor Day. Savings on hotels and restaurants are just as appealing. Gas prices seem to be holding steady for the time being, and the roads are less crowded as families settle back into school and work routines. Even year 'round vacation states like Florida offer lower prices on many hot spots attractive to local senior residents. Orlando getaways, for example, feature travel packages at reduced prices for seniors. Caregivers can enjoy slower-paced activities that suit aging family members.
The American Automobile Association is one of many sources that have information on what each state has to offer for fall travel. The official AAA magazine, Going Places, (September/October 2009, page 33), features information about central Florida theme parks in the article, "Seniors – Fall Into Savings!" Author David Monforton tells readers that Orlando getaways are better than ever: "Fall's the perfect time to visit Orlando, as festivals, concerts and cultural events kick into high gear. Antique stores and malls abound for treasure hunters." Travelers will want to participate in the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, too. Don't forget the lines and prices at Disney World are reduced with added incentives to draw in the senior crowd and their families. Universal Studios and Sea World have attractive offers, as well.
But Florida is only the beginning and vacation prices are falling everywhere as autumn colors splash the country with breathtaking color, especially in the northeast. It's still too early for winter activities, so a lot of mid-western states and attractions in the northwest are preparing for fall crowds. Many resorts, hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transportation carriers, and other travel providers offer special travel discounts for older travelers.
Where to Look for Fall Travel Discounts for Senior Citizens
Check with a local visitor's bureau or even a travel agency to see what's in store for elderly travelers and their caregivers. Travel agency services are free and travel consultants know where all the good deals are found. Many places even extend senior discounts to include a companion – or caregiver – no matter what the age.
Check magazines for elderly persons, such as AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) including the magazine websites. The AARP website has an entire section devoted to senior travel, offering travel package deals for local travelers as well as those venturing beyond the state line. Caregiver support groups, senior groups, and friends are also good information sources for senior travel ideas. Online travel companies may not offer the best deals specific to seniors, so be sure to do a lot of research before making any commitment.
Fall is a great time of year for caregivers and elderly loved ones to take a break from the home routine. Not only is the weather right, but big discounts can add up on everything from hotels to restaurants to popular attractions. Planning ahead and doing homework will save extra cash, too. Senior discounts are usually extended to caregivers and may even extend to entire families. One only needs to speak up and ask if there is no obvious advertising for elderly patron discounts.
Shorter lines, cooler temperatures, and saving money are all great travel incentives, but there are health benefits to traveling, too. Caregivers and elderly family members need a break and a change of scenery before the weather turns cold. Getting out is stimulating, and even in autumn one can gain a sense of renewal. Whether the trip lasts one day or a week (or more) fall is the time for caregivers and older loved ones to get away for a pleasant travel experience.
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