Retirement is a good time to travel and see more of the world. Reasons for travelling vary according to the interests of the traveller. Many tourists are content to be shipped or driven on cruises or tours with a set schedule and accept whatever is arranged for them. For them, travel is more an escape from familiar surroundings and routine chores, and the destinations and activities are of lesser importance. This is epitomised by the old joke of the tourist looking out of the window of the coach and asking what day it is. When told it is Tuesday, she/he says ‘Oh, this must be Rome’. However, tourism is unlikely to produce lasting memories, perhaps only photographs and videos which, unless they are given captions soon after the trip, quickly lose value.
If you travel, rather than tour, you are more likely to create meaning out of the experience. Go with an aim in mind. For example: to befriend people and understand other cultures; learn their histories; create unique personal souvenirs – sketches, paintings, audio recordings, writing, poetry; practice speaking another language; learn to cook different dishes; explore areas off the tourist routes; visit local schools and villages, or learn local crafts.
Of course, travelling involves more risk than touring, but most worthwhile experiences in retirement will require you to step out of your comfort circle.
Renaissance not Retirement 