Solo Travel: How to Plan a Month-Long Learning Adventure

Become the Ultimate Travel Planner

Planning long-stay vacations for seniors requires careful planning and preparation, especially when going solo. There are several essential tips to keep in mind to ensure not only a memorable travel experience but a safe one, too. Ready to become the ultimate travel planner and create your month-long vacation itinerary? Here are the steps to help get you started:

1. Choose the right destination: There are so many exciting places to explore around the world, from the bustling cities across Asia to the stunning scenery of South America and the historic streets of Europe. The hardest part of beginning your solo travel journey might be narrowing down where you’d like to visit. To choose the right destination, consider what interests you most. Are you eager to learn about the history and traditions of the region you’re visiting through museum visits and guided city tours? Or do you prefer a nature-filled adventure that consists of hiking through forests and spotting unique wildlife? It’s also important to consider destinations with senior-friendly infrastructure and public transportation, such as accessible public transportation, a high safety rating and mobility-friendly accommodations.

2. Plan your itinerary with balance in mind: While you may be eager to do and see as much as you can when you touch down in your destination, remember you have an entire month to explore. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the ones you don’t plan for — consider a local giving you a recommendation for an off-the-beaten-path attraction or perhaps walking by a sign that piques your interest. With that said, prioritize must-see visits but offer some wiggle room for spontaneous exploration and downtime to rest and recharge.

3. Book accommodations: Make sure to book your lodging well in advance. When it comes to long-stay vacations for senior travel, it’s important to prioritize stays that are within close walking distance to public transportation, accessible and safe. This way, you can have a comfortable home base for your entire month of travel.​

4. Pack smart and light: One of the most challenging parts of solo travel for an extended vacation is knowing how to pack for a month-long trip. Choose versatile clothing that layers well for different climates and temperatures. This way, you can dress up or down throughout the days and weeks as temperatures fluctuate without having to pack your entire wardrobe. Additionally, make sure to use lightweight luggage with wheels and easy-access compartments to make transporting your necessities throughout the month easy. Essential items along with your clothes include comfortable walking shoes, a power bank, a money belt, travel documents, toiletries and any other travel necessities you may need.

5. Budget: When traveling for a month-long vacation, budgeting is key. First, make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid them freezing your accounts. It’s also worth looking into a travel credit card that might come with certain perks, such as no foreign transaction fees on purchases. Many attractions also offer discounts for seniors, offering affordable options for learning and discovery. Planning your trip well in advance will grant you time to save and budget accordingly.

6. Prioritize health and wellness: Before departure, make sure to visit your primary health care provider to get a regular check-up and inform them of your travel plans and whether certain activities might not be safe. It’s also recommended to look into the required vaccinations, depending on the region of the world you’re visiting, and to choose activities that align with your fitness level and preferred pace.

7. Embrace the solo travel experience: Once you arrive at your destination, make the most of your solo travel experience. With an entire month to explore, you can fully immerse yourself in the region’s culture. Join cooking classes, attend lectures, visit museums and partake in cultural experiences. Along the way, you’ll meet new people and maybe even make an unexpected friend.

Best Vacation Spots for Longer Trips

Wondering what the best vacation spots for month-long trips are? Browse longer-duration trips you can find right here at Road Scholar, such as:

• Ocean voyages: At Road Scholar, we have several ocean voyages that allow you to learn at sea. Dock at famous ports around the world, from Cape Town to Sydney and beyond, on iconic vessels like the legendary Queen Anne.
• France: There’s so much to see and do in France, and a month-long vacation may still seem too short. Walk the famous cobblestone streets of the City of Love and visit the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame before venturing to the Loire Valley to discover medieval castles nestled in the countryside. You’ll also have time to learn the solemn history along the beaches of Normandy and spend time relaxing on the Mediterranean Coast in areas like Nice and Saint Tropez.
• Australia: Take an adventure to the Land Down Under, where you can spend a month immersing yourself in nature like the Australian Outback or Great Barrier Reef. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy lively cities like Sydney and Melbourne and even take a short flight to neighboring New Zealand.

Benefits of Choosing a Tour Guide for Your Holiday

Join a tour-guided group on your solo travel adventure to make the most of your holiday. By joining a tour group that specializes in long-stay vacations for seniors, you’ll have time to adventure on your own with the ability to connect and share experiences with travel peers. One of the top benefits of joining a tour guide on a month-long travel tour is the ability to gain expert insights into local history, geography and culture from our professional local guides, which offers a more immersive and memorable travel experience. You’ll also be able to join a diverse cohort of like-minded travelers where, together, you’ll be able to discover new attractions and enjoy meaningful conversations. If you’re ready to explore some of the best vacation spots, browse our collection of experiential learning programs today to find a tour group for you.