Pack them bags - it's travel time!

Ah, the joys of travelling! 

The excitement of planning, exploring new places, immersing oneself in different cultures, and creating lifelong memories. 

Nothing quite like it.

 In truth, I think life is always better when you know there is a travel plan in the drawer. 

 But let's face it, planning a trip abroad in our 60s is a whole different ball game compared to our carefree and spontaneous adventures in our younger days.

 I remember quite clearly the days of carefree tossing of two pairs of shorts and three tank tops ,two pairs of underwear and flip flops and away we go! 

 Now, with a newfound appreciation for comfortable shoes and elasticized waistbands, this blog post is here to guide you through the hilarious and oh-so-relatable differences of planning a trip abroad as a mature woman. 

Our bodies may have acquired a few creaky bones, an achy joint here or there, and a reliance on panty liners and extra panties for when a laugh or a sneeze has newfound consequences. 

Medications, be they for our hormones, our lack of hormones, our sleep or our lack of sleep - need to go in the bag.

 Embracing the Comfortable Shoe Revolution:

 Remember the days of those elegant fashionable shoes? In every conceivable colour and heel height? 

Gone are those days my friends, of squeezing our feet into gorgeous, yet agonisingly painful footwear. 

Say hello to the era of comfort! 

Planning a trip abroad now involves extensive research on orthopaedic shoes, arch support, and cushioned soles. We've become experts in finding footwear that provides both comfort and style, ensuring our feet stay happy throughout our adventures without our toes being squished into the space that sardines would complain about. 

Nope, now is the time for Very Wide and Very Comfy . 

Bonus tip: Don't forget to pack a few pairs of cozy socks for those chilly nights in quaint European streets! 

 Elasticized Waistbands: Our New Best Friends: 

Ah, the nostalgia of the times when we could indulge in delicious local cuisine without giving it a second thought? Well, those days might still be here, but our metabolism is no longer quite as forgiving. 

Planning a trip abroad now means navigating culinary delights with a bit more caution. 

Well - fear not! Elasticized waistbands have become our trusted allies, allowing us to enjoy the local delicacies while accommodating our body's changing needs. 

So, let's embrace the magic of stretchy pants and savor every bite without a hint of guilt! 

 Meticulous Research and Planning:

 Gone are the days of impulsive decisions and last-minute adventures. As seasoned travellers, we've honed our planning skills to perfection. Researching accommodations with accessible facilities ( including bathroom breaks for that damn bladder), organising transportation options, and mapping out suitable itineraries have become second nature to us. 

We've become pros at finding the best travel insurance options and ensuring we have contingency plans for unforeseen circumstances. Our trips may be more structured now, but hey, a little planning never hurt anyone! 

 Embracing Self-Care:

 Travelling can be exhausting, regardless of age. But as mature women, we've learned the importance of self-care and prioritising our well-being. We've become connoisseurs of relaxation, seeking out spas, wellness retreats, and soothing activities to pamper our bodies and minds during our travels. 

So, while we may take more breaks to rest, pee and rejuvenate, we're masters at finding the perfect balance between exploration and self-indulgence.

 Celebrating Life's Little Victories:

 As we age, we've come to appreciate the little things in life. Planning a trip abroad at this stage is not just about ticking off destinations from our bucket list but celebrating the triumphs that come with it. 

Climbing that steep staircase in a centuries-old castle? Check. 

Walking for hours without complaint? Check. 

Managing to fit all our essentials in one perfectly organised suitcase? Check!

 We've become our own cheerleaders, applauding ourselves for every step we take, both literally and figuratively.

 While planning a trip abroad as a woman in her 60s might have its fair share of challenges and adjustments, it also brings an abundance of laughter, joy, and newfound wisdom. We've embraced our creaky bones, aching joints, comfortable shoes, and elasticized waistbands, all while cultivating a deep appreciation for the beauty of the journey. 

So, my fellow fabulous ladies, let's embark on our adventures with a twinkle in our eyes, a skip in our step, and a spirit that defies age, because the world is waiting for us to explore it! Bon voyage!