Markets

Insider Trading

Hedge Funds

Retirement

Opinion

18 Best Vacations for Retired Couples

This article takes a look at the 18 best vacations for retired couples. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis on the golden gap year, you may go to 5 Best Vacations for Retired Couples.

Golden Gap Year

If you think gap years are exclusive only to the youth, think again. According to research by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH), 37% of Baby Boomers have decided to embark on a life-changing journey in their golden period. Tripadvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ:TRIP) reaffirms this by stating that 55% of people are planning longer trips and are willing to spend more on travel than they did in 2022.

Baby boomers, in particular, are looking forward to spending extended periods on vacation, also known as the “golden gap year.” Experiencing the most substantial surge in both traveler numbers and the overall travel insurance market during Q1 and Q2 of 2022 compared to the previous year, the baby boomer generation is redefining the concept of adventure and exploration in their later years.

The reason this generational cohort is witnessing the largest travel resurgence is because, first, the number of baby boomers across the USA is significantly high. The US Census Bureau reports that there are an estimated 76.4 million baby boomers in the USA. More importantly, the older generation has more purchasing power than others. This generation is the wealthiest of all, holding 70% of the disposable income in the USA. They also spend over $548 billion a year across all categories and boast plenty more to spend on travel.

Such is the extent of travel hype amongst these seniors that travel experts expect a “grey tsunami” next year, representing a surge in baby boomer travel. Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG), one of the largest travel companies in the world, notes in their research that 78% of respondents travel because they believe that they are “alive” when they are on vacation. With more time, convenience, and money on their hands, the boomers are seeking more adventurous travel options than their predecessors, aiming to feel more “alive” and to make the most of their golden years.

Technology Adoption and Slow Tourism

Baby boomers have demonstrated an unprecedented adoption of technology, further fueling their travel enthusiasm. As many as 84% of this generation have booked some part of their travel accommodations online. Online reviews and forums have further made it easier for seniors to choose the right travel experiences for themselves. Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) conducted a study involving 27,000 travelers across 33 countries and territories, unveiling various travel predictions for 2024. One notable forecast by the company is the rise of AI, as exemplified by Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG)’s AI Trip Planner App.

A third of baby boomers (38%) have already said to surrender to this application for making travel plans for the next year. Baby-boomer-aged travelers have their own set of travel-related resources available easily on the internet too. Blogs, such as those by Tripadvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ:TRIP), are especially curated for this cohort to help them plan travel adventures on their own.

Many of these travelers, including boomers, wish to take things slowly during this travel and engage and immerse themselves in the local culture, hence the explainable golden gap year. Tripadvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ:TRIP) talks about this slow tourism trend, stating that hotel owners can initiate various packages and plans that cater to such slow travelers. These sorts of packages are likely to attract more customers, including the baby boomer cohort.

S-F/Shutterstock.com

Methodology

To compile our list of best vacations for retired couples, we gathered information from reputable sources such as Frommer’s, Budget Your Trip, Travel + Leisure, forums, and other sources. We then applied a scoring system based on three primary factors: attractions, affordability, and accessibility. Each destination received a total score out of 30, and rankings were determined by these scores, from lowest to highest. This approach ensured a comprehensive and well-considered selection of vacation destinations tailored to the needs and interests of retired couples.

18. Hawaii, USA

Insider Monkey Score: 19

For those seeking an idyllic vacation, Hawaii is undoubtedly one of the best vacations for retired couples in the USA. From exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Big Island and hiking through the jungles of Kauai to witnessing a romantic sunset at Waikiki Beach, every day in Hawaii seems like a new adventure. Couples can also make the most of enticing cruise deals offered by companies such as Expedia Group in collaboration with renowned cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH) and Princess. Many cruise lines such as AIDA Cruises also offer some of the best vacations for seniors with limited mobility, offering a wealth of amenities, dedicated onboard assistance, and the convenience of unpacking once.

17. Canadian Rockies, Canada

Insider Monkey Score: 19

The Canadian Rockies appeal to all nature-loving retirees who wouldn’t mind a little bit of adventure. This mountain range spans the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta in Canada, featuring alpine lakes, ice-capped peaks, diverse wildlife, and plenty of recreational sites. Retired couples can enjoy leisurely walks along its scenic trails, engage in adventurous pursuits such as hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting, or even unwind at the many natural hot springs such as Radium Hot Springs and the Banff Upper Hot Springs. The Rocky Mountaineer, a rail-tour company, also offers luxurious train travel journeys along its old and new routes for the adventure of a lifetime.

16. Bangkok, Thailand

Insider Monkey Score: 20

One of the best vacations for retired couples is in Bangkok, Thailand. Couples can relish top-class amenities and recreational opportunities in Bangkok at an affordable cost compared to regions like the USA and Europe. A two-week vacation in Bangkok can cost around $2,000 for an individual, and $4,000 for couples. From spas and wellness retreats to vibrant markets and world-class entertainment, retirees are surely going to have a unique experience vacationing here. Damnoen Saduak, the city’s floating market, is a fun way to shop for handmade crafts and local produce. Retirees can also take a river cruise along the Chao Phraya River, exploring Bangkok landmarks and engaging in sightseeing.

15. Paris, France

Insider Monkey Score: 21

Paris, drawing around 35 million visitors each year, is a quintessential romantic travel destination. Retired couples who wish to relive their honeymoon memories can take a stroll hand in hand along the Seine River, embrace beneath the Eiffel Tower, or savor French cuisine in charming bistros and patisseries. Train trips for seniors over 60 even offer 25-50% discount on journeys through SNCF, the French State Railway Company.

14. Tuscany, Italy

Insider Monkey Score: 21.5

One of the best vacations for retired couples in the world is Tuscany, Italy. The charming countryside landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque vineyards serve as the perfect escapade from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The region is also home to delectable cuisine, boasting the finest Italian dishes and wine. Couples can explore the many wine regions such as Chianti and Montepulciano, devouring the tastings, wine tours, and vineyard visits. Experts recommend looking for senior discounts on trains, using pre-paid cards, and using short-term rentals when visiting the region.

13. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Insider Monkey Score: 22

Those looking to experience the charm of Venice can opt for a vacation in Amsterdam, Netherlands instead. The city’s intricate canal system is a major attraction for tourists, enticing them to embark on canal cruises for a fun exploration of the historic center and the enjoyment of scenic vistas.

Seniors have a wealth of exhilarating opportunities to explore, such as participating in a private flower auction excursion, embarking on an exclusive culinary adventure, and savoring a diverse range of delights from Gouda cheese to delectable fries and chocolate. Alternatively, they can opt for a semi-private tour that winds through charming countryside villages, many of whom are starting at just $70.

12. Costa Rica

Insider Monkey Score: 23

Several tour operators, such as Tour Radar and Zicasso, offer personalized vacation packages to Costa Rica that are tailored to the specific interests and requirements of senior travelers. Retirees get to unwind at some of the most luxurious five-star hotel accommodations, bask in the sun at Costa Rica’s pristine white sand beaches, experience the beauty of Puerto Limon through a cruise by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH), and engage in exclusive tours of its lush rain forest. Retired couples can enjoy many activities together such as white water rafting, zip-lining, snorkeling, and even surfing.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Insider Monkey Score: 23.5

Another excellent vacation spot for retired couples is Barcelona, Spain. Retirees can begin by checking in to senior-friendly hotels in Barcelona such as Barcelona Princess and Negresco Princess, enjoying amenities such as pools and buffet breakfasts to Mediterranean cuisine. Couples can even go for long strolls up to the beach, which is close by. The many restaurants and tapas bars are a delight to try, followed by the many cultural events such as music festivals and theater performances. Keep an eye out for senior-friendly discounts on public transportation and attractions alike.

10. Crete, Greece

Insider Monkey Score: 24

The perfect romantic getaway for retired couples in Greece. An avid senior traveler recommends older couples to choose Crete when going to Greece. The Greek island is ideal for senior couples because it offers direct flights, offers excellent hotels with no steps, boasts amazing beaches, and also important archaeological sites to explore. While the majority favors Santorini; Crete is an ideal trip for seniors over 70 that boasts senior-friendly infrastructure to cater to them.

9. Cape Town, South Africa

Insider Monkey Score: 24

When in South Africa, retired couples can also get a chance to embark on some of the best African safaris. Visiting Cape Town is an absolute must during this adventure as it is known to have the best of culture, culinary experiences, and city life. Beautiful beaches, Table Mountain, and the iconic Cape Peninsula offer some of the best views, sunsets, and recreational activities. Nature enthusiasts can also visit some of the many wildlife reserves in the city, seeing the Big Five and other animals in their natural habitat. Packages to Cape Town start as low as $1,000.

8. Seychelles

Insider Monkey Score: 24.5

Seychelles is a top vacation for retired couples looking for the right blend of pristine beaches, serene ambiance, and natural beauty. Retirees can enjoy glass-bottom boat tours or explore the underwater world brimming with colorful fish and other species. There are many upscale resorts and villas available for a romantic getaway, as well as exquisite cuisine marked by fresh seafood and exotic fruits. Visiting nature reserves can be a wonderful experience as well.

7. Marrakech, Morocco

Insider Monkey Score: 24.5

Best to be visited during May and September, Marrakech can serve as a distinctive North African experience for retirees. Known for its beautiful gardens such as Majorelle and Menara, retirees can indulge in leisurely walks, shop at the souks in the medina, lodge at the historical Moroccan houses called riads, and explore historical landmarks such as Koutoubia Mosque and the Saadian Tombs. Couples can also take day trips to the Atlas Mountains or nearby towns such as Essaouira. Lastly, the delicious cuisine, especially tagine and couscous, makes the trip to Marrakech especially memorable.

6. Bali, Indonesia

Insider Monkey Score: 25

Known to be a senior-friendly vacation destination, Bali is one of the best vacations for retired couples. Seniors get to relax and connect with nature as the region is home to some of the most serene jungles, volcanic mountains, beautiful beaches, and lush rice terraces. Numerous spas and wellness retreats are the perfect way to rejuvenate, while luxurious beachfront resorts and villas can provide a memorable place to stay. An ideal place to stay in Bali is Sanur, a calm area with a pristine beach and plenty to do. Diverse and delicious, some of the many delicacies to try in Bali include nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles).

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Vacations for Retired Couples.

Suggested Articles:

Disclosure: none. 18 Best Vacations for Retired Couples is originally published on Insider Monkey.

AI, Tariffs, Nuclear Power: One Undervalued Stock Connects ALL the Dots (Before It Explodes!)

Artificial intelligence is the greatest investment opportunity of our lifetime. The time to invest in groundbreaking AI is now, and this stock is a steal!

AI is eating the world—and the machines behind it are ravenous.

Each ChatGPT query, each model update, each robotic breakthrough consumes massive amounts of energy. In fact, AI is already pushing global power grids to the brink.

Wall Street is pouring hundreds of billions into artificial intelligence—training smarter chatbots, automating industries, and building the digital future. But there’s one urgent question few are asking:

Where will all of that energy come from?

AI is the most electricity-hungry technology ever invented. Each data center powering large language models like ChatGPT consumes as much energy as a small city. And it’s about to get worse.

Even Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, issued a stark warning:

“The future of AI depends on an energy breakthrough.”

Elon Musk was even more blunt:

“AI will run out of electricity by next year.”

As the world chases faster, smarter machines, a hidden crisis is emerging behind the scenes. Power grids are strained. Electricity prices are rising. Utilities are scrambling to expand capacity.

And that’s where the real opportunity lies…

One little-known company—almost entirely overlooked by most AI investors—could be the ultimate backdoor play. It’s not a chipmaker. It’s not a cloud platform. But it might be the most important AI stock in the US owns critical energy infrastructure assets positioned to feed the coming AI energy spike.

As demand from AI data centers explodes, this company is gearing up to profit from the most valuable commodity in the digital age: electricity.

The “Toll Booth” Operator of the AI Energy Boom

  • It owns critical nuclear energy infrastructure assets, positioning it at the heart of America’s next-generation power strategy.
  • It’s one of the only global companies capable of executing large-scale, complex EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) projects across oil, gas, renewable fuels, and industrial infrastructure.
  • It plays a pivotal role in U.S. LNG exportation—a sector about to explode under President Trump’s renewed “America First” energy doctrine.

Trump has made it clear: Europe and U.S. allies must buy American LNG.

And our company sits in the toll booth—collecting fees on every drop exported.

But that’s not all…

As Trump’s proposed tariffs push American manufacturers to bring their operations back home, this company will be first in line to rebuild, retrofit, and reengineer those facilities.

AI. Energy. Tariffs. Onshoring. This One Company Ties It All Together.

While the world is distracted by flashy AI tickers, a few smart investors are quietly scooping up shares of the one company powering it all from behind the scenes.

AI needs energy. Energy needs infrastructure.

And infrastructure needs a builder with experience, scale, and execution.

This company has its finger in every pie—and Wall Street is just starting to notice.

Wall Street is noticing this company also because it is quietly riding all of these tailwinds—without the sky-high valuation.

While most energy and utility firms are buried under mountains of debt and coughing up hefty interest payments just to appease bondholders…

This company is completely debt-free.

In fact, it’s sitting on a war chest of cash—equal to nearly one-third of its entire market cap.

It also owns a huge equity stake in another red-hot AI play, giving investors indirect exposure to multiple AI growth engines without paying a premium.

And here’s what the smart money has started whispering…

The Hedge Fund Secret That’s Starting to Leak Out

This stock is so off-the-radar, so absurdly undervalued, that some of the most secretive hedge fund managers in the world have begun pitching it at closed-door investment summits.

They’re sharing it quietly, away from the cameras, to rooms full of ultra-wealthy clients.

Why? Because excluding cash and investments, this company is trading at less than 7 times earnings.

And that’s for a business tied to:

  • The AI infrastructure supercycle
  • The onshoring boom driven by Trump-era tariffs
  • A surge in U.S. LNG exports
  • And a unique footprint in nuclear energy—the future of clean, reliable power

You simply won’t find another AI and energy stock this cheap… with this much upside.

This isn’t a hype stock. It’s not riding on hope.

It’s delivering real cash flows, owns critical infrastructure, and holds stakes in other major growth stories.

This is your chance to get in before the rockets take off!

Disruption is the New Name of the Game: Let’s face it, complacency breeds stagnation.

AI is the ultimate disruptor, and it’s shaking the foundations of traditional industries.

The companies that embrace AI will thrive, while the dinosaurs clinging to outdated methods will be left in the dust.

As an investor, you want to be on the side of the winners, and AI is the winning ticket.

The Talent Pool is Overflowing: The world’s brightest minds are flocking to AI.

From computer scientists to mathematicians, the next generation of innovators is pouring its energy into this field.

This influx of talent guarantees a constant stream of groundbreaking ideas and rapid advancements.

By investing in AI, you’re essentially backing the future.

The future is powered by artificial intelligence, and the time to invest is NOW.

Don’t be a spectator in this technological revolution.

Dive into the AI gold rush and watch your portfolio soar alongside the brightest minds of our generation.

This isn’t just about making money – it’s about being part of the future.

So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your investment life!

Act Now and Unlock a Potential 100+% Return within 12 to 24 months.

We’re now offering month-to-month subscriptions with no commitments.

For a ridiculously low price of just $9.99 per month, you can unlock our in-depth investment research and exclusive insights – that’s less than a single fast food meal!

Space is Limited! Only 1000 spots are available for this exclusive offer. Don’t let this chance slip away – subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter today and unlock the potential for a life-changing investment.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Head over to our website and subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter for just $9.99.

2. Enjoy a month of ad-free browsing, exclusive access to our in-depth report on the Trump tariff and nuclear energy company as well as the revolutionary AI-robotics company, and the upcoming issues of our Premium Readership Newsletter.

3. Sit back, relax, and know that you’re backed by our ironclad 30-day money-back guarantee.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Subscribe now and take control of your AI investment future!


No worries about auto-renewals! Our 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee applies whether you’re joining us for the first time or renewing your subscription a month later!

A New Dawn is Coming to U.S. Stocks

I work for one of the largest independent financial publishers in the world – representing over 1 million people in 148 countries.

We’re independently funding today’s broadcast to address something on the mind of every investor in America right now…

Should I put my money in Artificial Intelligence?

Here to answer that for us… and give away his No. 1 free AI recommendation… is 50-year Wall Street titan, Marc Chaikin.

Marc’s been a trader, stockbroker, and analyst. He was the head of the options department at a major brokerage firm and is a sought-after expert for CNBC, Fox Business, Barron’s, and Yahoo! Finance…

But what Marc’s most known for is his award-winning stock-rating system. Which determines whether a stock could shoot sky-high in the next three to six months… or come crashing down.

That’s why Marc’s work appears in every Bloomberg and Reuters terminal on the planet…

And is still used by hundreds of banks, hedge funds, and brokerages to track the billions of dollars flowing in and out of stocks each day.

He’s used this system to survive nine bear markets… create three new indices for the Nasdaq… and even predict the brutal bear market of 2022, 90 days in advance.

Click to continue reading…