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CLassiC QuEstioN “My parents want to go on a vacation by themselves, but we are worried about their health and safety on the trip. Can you suggest some holiday options for senior citizens?”
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RAtnA ChADhA DEEp KAlRA
CEO, TIRUN Travel Marketing Founder and CEO, MakeMyTrip Founder, The Active Holiday Company “I would suggest a group guided hiking trip, since logistics such as baggage transfers would be looked after and there would be access to assistance at all times. The picture-postcard region of salzkammergut (www. salzkammergut.at) in austria offers the opportunity to explore the countryside alongside its mountains and lakes, with a dash of adventure. Highlights of the trip include visits to st Gilgen and Bad Ischl, the summer residence of former emperor Franz Josef I, a hike along the oldest brine pipeline trail of the world to Bad Goisern and a visit
GAuRi JAyARAM
our experts this issuE
to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hallstatt-Dachstein, which is home to salt mines that date back to Celtic times. Throughout the trip, there will be plenty of time to enjoy thermal spa treatments and picnics alongside lakes.”
Top, from left: View of a town and port on the Greek island of Mykonos; a visitor to the island
“A cruise holiday is the most hassle-free method of travelling to multiple destinations. royal Caribbean’s (www.royalcaribbean. com) five-night Spice of Southeast Asia cruise from singapore has ports of call including Kuala lumpur, penang and phuket. RCI ships offer wheelchairfriendly atriums and reduced prices on selected sailings for seniors. Celebrity Cruises’ (www. celebritycruises.com) 11-night eastern Mediterranean trip from rome (stopping in santorini, Istanbul, ephesus, Mykonos, athens and Naples) is also ideal, offering enriching wine tastings, art auctions and dance classes.”
“A week’s holiday in portugal is strongly recommended for senior citizens. The good part is that most of the interesting spots can be covered while being stationed in lisbon. Overall, it is a beautiful trip with unique experiences, without being too hectic. High points include a visit to the estoril Coast, a drive through sintra village and passing the picturesque Boca do Inferno cliffs. Malaysia is another great option. A short holiday to Kuala lumpur, combined with a two-day trip to taman Negara (www.tamannegara.com) national park, is ideal for seniors. Activities here include canoe rides, treks and walks.”
photographs: JAMES BEDFORD
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aug-sept 2013 Condé nast traveller 183