Why Travel is the Best Medicine for the 50+ Crowd

Travel instead of taking pills

Traveling is not only the best university but also medicine.

I have been traveling since the 1980s, which has changed my life in many ways.

More and more people are discovering the benefits of traveling and finding new countries and ways of living. 

In this newsletter, I will explore the mind and body benefits of traveling and share some stories from the globetrotters.

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Body Boost: Your Physical Health Ally

Travel isn´t just usual fun and seeing new places. 

It is a fitness boost in disguise. How? Sightseeing is sneaky cardio. The average traveler makes 10 K steps per day. 

New terrains challenge your balance, and as a result, you improve your posture and strengthen bones. But it doesn´t stop there. 

Fresh air and activity equals sleeping like a baby. And there is nothing more rejuvenating than a quality sleep. 

A quick tip: Pack comfy shoes. Your feet are your best tour guides. 

Sharpen Your Brain on the Go

Travel is not just a trip - it is a brain gym. 

Once you start planning your trip and packing your bag, your mood naturally boosts, thanks to the perspective of seeing new sights. Almost all travelers feel stress relief within days. 

Exploring new places requires a cognitive workout. Learning a few words in a local language will contribute to your neuroplasticity (ability to grow and reorganize your brain). 

People who do the same things daily have no chance for growth and improvement. 

Traveling will put you in new situations, and the ability to face them will boost your confidence. As a result, you will develop ¨” I can do anything ¨ attitude. 

Pro tip: Try something new each trip. Tango in Buenos Aires or samba in Brazil. 

Social Butterfly: Connect Across Cultures

Who says that making friends is more difficult with age? 

Traveling lets you put yourself before a brand-new crowd and make instant travel buddies. This may lead to great lifelong connections or even meeting a new partner. 

When you travel with your family, that contributes to strengthening your bonds and having new experiences together. Couples who travel together usually stay together. 

Traveling always gives you a fresh perspective and ideas on life. I have never met exciting people at the office, but I met them during my travels or through my solopreneurship. 

A quick tip: Stay in hostels and B&Bs to start conversations with new people. 

Real Talk: 50+ Travelers Spill the Beans

Don´t take just my word for it. 

Here are the opinions of other explorers I met:

Jim, 55: "Learned to scuba dive in Thailand. Now I'm planning underwater photography trips!"

Linda, 70: "Solo trip to Japan. Made friends from 3 continents. Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?"

Tom, 63: "Started traveling after retirement. Haven't needed antidepressants since."

People over 50 often say that their trips make them feel better mentally and physically and give them new energy.

Conclusion: Your Ticket to Vitality

Traveling is not just about seeing and experiencing new places and cultures. 

It offers many health benefits and opens one's eyes to new ways of living and opportunities. 

Keep in mind: 

• Travel is your natural remedy for  health 

• Age is just a number – adventure has no expiry date

• Every trip is a chance to grow, learn, and thrive

I would love to hear your stories. 

How has traveling impacted your life? 

Comment below and subscribe for more stories about thriving in the 50s and beyond.