I am a mid-age (50s) woman planning travel to South Asia

by Jordan
(Livingston, MT)

I'm interested in other women's experiences as to how age impacts travel in various other countries/continents. I have not traveled outside of America much since I was "young" and know it will be different!

Answer:

Jordan, I'm not sure whether this is a question but I'm assuming you're asking whether other women travelers have had age-related issues or experiences while traveling. Just a quick answer to that: I've traveled since I was 15, and continue to travel solo in my 50s. In some countries, age is highly respected, for example in parts of Asia, so you should have no problems at all. On the contrary, being younger would probably attract far greater attention. Stick with the women in that region - use women's accommodation where you can or women's transportation (carriages, taxi services and the like) and you should be fine. If anyone else can share experience about age and travel in South Asia, please do!

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I am a mid-age (50s) woman planning travel to South Asia

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Go, go, go
by: Gwen McCauley

Hi Jordan

I'm a bit delayed in responding. Been busy getting a house ready for the market - and sold. Yay.

I'm into my 60s and don't find that age is any kind of barrier to travel, whether alone or in groups. I do find that I have greater expectations as a traveler at this age than I did when I was younger. I want nice hotels, restaurants with great food, activities that are age appropriate (without limiting me).

For example, if I'm planning on a hike or walking trip I check to see what the terrain is like, the pace that is possible, the duration. I find I go slower than I used to and take more frequent breathing stops. But I'm a pretty independent cuss so whenever possible I go on my own, not with groups. That way I can set the pace.

I think you'll find that more and more you'll be running into other women in a similar situation, regardless of the part of the world you are in. I offer retreats, etc. in Portugal for 'women of a certain age'. Many are traveling on their own for the first time. It is such a delight for me to see them discover just how resourceful, smart and savvy they are.

So I encourage you to go forth and have a fabulous time. All the usual caveats about traveling safe apply as they would for younger women but you might want to allow a bit of extra time here and there for the body to adjust to things.

And one rule I've always traveled by is this: if I can't carry my own bag, stuff doesn't come with me. I may become bored with a certain wardrobe, but it looks different to the locals since they likely didn't see me the day or two before.

Cheers

Gwen McCauley

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