Sometimes I’m asked how I plan travel. No expert here, but one picks up tidbits and ideas along the way. While I’ve had a memorable trip with National Geographic and two outstanding ones with Sarett Nature Center, most of my travel has been independent with a companion.
My husband was my main travel companion. Eventually, arthritis, back problems and a heart condition changed what he could do. We didn’t stop, we adapted.
Checking expected walking distances was routine. Could we get a room close to the elevator? Splurging for a larger room with a view in case going out wasn’t an option allowed enjoyment of the destination while staying put. Staying in a destination for a couple of days rather than pushing forward allowed relaxation and a better glimpse into local life.
When mobility became tougher, he researched and found a travel scooter that lifted apart easily to go into the trunk of a car or taxi, could be checked planeside, and folded out of way in restaurants or other buildings. He could walk, but the scooter allowed new freedom. Now we could explore paved or well-groomed trails, boardwalks, and leisurely poke around a town. I was grateful.
Now that I travel alone or with other companions, additional tips have added to my own spirit of adventure and safety.
For example, building in extra time between travel segments helps. A segment on a recent trip required both a flight and bus to a destination. The flight arrived at 4:00 p.m., but rather than book a later bus, I took a hotel, spent the evening exploring and took the bus the next morning. This created a carefree pace, and a fudge factor should something go awry.
In more obscure destinations or where I don’t speak the language, I ask either the person I’m visiting or the place I’m staying if they have a trusted contact I can use for transport, then I contact that person. This usually results in someone expecting you, holding a sign with your name and transporting you like an old friend. Quite spoiling.
Nowadays the free app Google Translate is helpful. You pick the language needed, text or speak what you want to say in English, and it translates immediately. You can read or listen to the pronunciation. Once you know what to say, you can learn by reversing the language, repeating the word or phrase in the foreign language to see if the English translation comes out right. If it does, you said it right.
Sometimes you’re in a destination where you need or wish you had a guide and don’t want to join a large group. Most destinations have a cottage industry of sorts with local people certified as private guides, usually traveling in private vehicles. This allows flexibility and feels like you’re traveling with a friend.
Going to somewhere where there’s unrest or other concerns? This year I learned about STEP: the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Available free to U.S. citizens through U.S. Embassies throughout the world. It’s so helpful.
You can enroll at two levels by giving your passport information as credential. First, if you’re interested in going to a country or specific location, you can sign up to receive texts and emails on current status, as well as subsequent updates. Ratings are provided as to whether travel is advisable.
Second, if you have a trip planned and are going, you provide your itinerary and key locations where you can be reached if necessary. More specific alerts for your area are provided, as well as an emergency number you can call if you need help. Great peace of mind.
Got wings on your feet? Sarett has openings left for a trip to Australia in November. Call 269-927-4832 soon.
Heading out independently? AARP offers additional safety tips and promising ideas for cost savings. Go for it.
Lynn Kellogg is former CEO of Region IV Area Agency on Aging in Southwest Michigan. Questions on age or independence services? Call the Info-Line for Aging & Disability at 800-6542810 or visit areaagencyonaging. org. The Generations column appears each weekend in The Herald-Palladium.