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Retirement is about enjoying the fruits of your labor, if you can afford it. But don't worry, that's not all retirement pleasure It's for the rich; there are lots of exciting places to visit and still money left over to live comfortably.
Here are eight travel destinations for baby boomers on a budget.
Also see more affordable airlines for baby boomers.
Road Trip in the United States
Cassie Sheets, data journalist at To make surehighlighted three states that stood out for their affordability and appeal to the baby boomer generation: Oklahoma, Arkansas and Mississippi.
“Many retirees have had to change their lifestyles because of inflation,” she said. “If you’re on a fixed income, road trips to affordable states are a budget-friendly vacation, a way to enjoy your retirement without adding financial stress.”
“Oklahoma, Arkansas and Mississippi are full of natural attractions and historic sites that travelers can enjoy for little or no cost,” Sheets continues. “Low gas prices in these states also leave extra money for dining out or a nice hotel. Plus, the roads tend to be less congested than in popular coastal vacation destinations.”
She advised boomers who travel by car to consider adding roadside assistance to their insurance policy if they don't already have it. Roadside assistance includes towing, jump-starts or tire changes so you don't get stranded during your trip.
Italy
Joe Cronin, President of Insurance for international citizenshighlighted the appeal of Italy: “Italy is a fascinating country that particularly appeals to baby boomer tourists. With its renowned cuisine, breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, it offers a variety of experiences tailored to the interests of this group.”
On the budget front, Cronin said, “A trip to Italy should cost no more than $1,900 per person for a week. Boomer travelers can explore cultural attractions, stay in comfortable accommodations, sample local cuisine and easily get around cities using public transportation at a lower cost.”
Cronin particularly recommended Tuscany: “Tuscan destinations like Florence and Siena are particularly popular with baby boomers. The quaint cobblestone streets and laid-back lifestyle of these cities foster a warm welcome that invites leisurely exploration and appreciation of the local way of life.”
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He advised baby boomers to take out comprehensive travel insurance. While the country's healthcare system is excellent, foreign visitors may find it expensive. Emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, trip cancellation and any planned adventure or sporting activities should all be covered by travel insurance.
Mexico
Cronin also recommended Mexico as an attractive destination for baby boomers.
“This place offers a unique mix of things to do for exploration and relaxation, from relaxing on the beach to learning about the rich cultural history of the area,” he said.
He explained that it was possible to visit Mexico for a week for about $850 per person. “With that budget, they can go to colonial cities like San Miguel de Allende or Mérida, which are very attractive because of their tranquility and rich culture.”
For beach lovers, Cronin said, “Baby boomers looking for a more laid-back vacation can relax and soak up the sun on Mexico’s beaches. Everyone can find a beach that suits them, from the beautiful beaches of the Riviera Maya to the vibrant nightlife of Cabo San Lucas.”
On safety and insurance, he added: “Baby boomer travelers planning to visit Mexico should purchase comprehensive travel insurance. For visitors from other countries, health care costs can be high and the quality of care can vary. When traveling, your insurance should cover things like medical emergencies, medical evacuation, theft protection and trip cancellation.”
Hawaii
Scott Lieberman, the founder of Touchdown money who ran a travel website, noted that Hawaii was a popular destination.
“The Hawaiian Islands have options for everyone, whether you’re a fan of shopping, beaches, mountains and stunning plants or weekly fireworks,” he said. “Each island has its own personality. Nature lovers may want to visit Kauai or the Big Island, while those looking for great restaurants may want to head to Oahu. Prices can be steep, however, as hotels can cost around $250 a night and food adds up quickly.”
Charleston, South Carolina
For a more family-friendly option, Lieberman suggested Charleston. “This old city is incredibly walkable and has a great climate year-round. It’s one of the most historic sites in the country and a foodie’s paradise.”
He said Charleston “can be difficult to get to,” but lodging outside the city typically costs between $75 and $100 a night.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Lieberman recommended a unique destination: Mackinac Island.
“How about a car-free destination? Mackinac Island in Michigan sits at the confluence of three Great Lakes, giving you beautiful views and ocean breezes,” he said. “The caramel on Mackinac Island is an experience all its own, and the horse-drawn carriage rides are always fun. Try to avoid the summer crowds, as hotels can cost more than $300 per night from Memorial Day to Labor Day.”
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