Travel Well
Travel, whether it is to a destination within the United States or a bucket-list wish to another country, is life-enriching. It provides special benefits to seniors with the goal of aging well. Exploring the world keeps individuals physically active, builds social connections and maintains mental engagement. However, planning for a dream vacation can be daunting, especially for an overseas location. Grand Global Vacations gets to know its clients on a personal level and is dedicated to easing stress and worry every step of the way.
Grand Global Vacations offers a range of travel options that appeal to clients in all seasons of life. Among its specialties are cruise vacations and bespoke travel, which many seniors find appealing. Travel adviser Tammy Murray, owner of Grand Global Vacations, has extensive experience and knowledge in planning trips tailored to meet specific needs and desires.
“Ocean cruises and river cruises are good for senior travel. The boats are like a floating hotel; there is no packing and unpacking,” Murray says. “Ocean cruises are great for 50th wedding anniversaries or when grandparents want to take the whole family to Alaska. They appeal to multigenerational groups since there are activities for all ages. These big ships usually dock far from a city center, while a river cruise brings people into the heart of a city.
“There are a lot more players for river cruising than just Viking. Which line someone chooses depends on their personality. Some have bikes on the ship and offer hiking excursions. Others might include more elevated immersion experiences, such as access to a private viewing of an orchestra or a special wine-tasting experience,” Murray says.
Murray values getting to know what is important to her clients, as well as what they are anxious about. When planning multifamily custom trips overseas, she has trusted contacts and partners she relies on. She handles logistics such as rail transfers and luggage transport. Murray consolidates all details into an itinerary builder that is viewable on a phone.
“People’s lives get so busy that it’s easy to let some things be forgotten. With the itinerary builder, clients know all things are covered. Anyone can Google and plan a trip, but a travel adviser can be a sounding board and answer questions. It takes away worry and stress about packing, shot requirements and navigating around,” Murray says.
Murray cautions that airlines can be an aspect that trips travelers up. She advises people not to look solely at the dollar amount of a flight but to also ensure there is adequate time to make connections. A buffer is needed in case unexpected delays occur.
“It’s important to put together a five-year travel plan of bucket-list trips. People aren’t used to thinking that far ahead, but certain destinations are better at some times of the year than others. Often, individuals pay more for last-minute plans,”Murray says.
“I specialize in clients, not just destinations. It is enjoyable to get to know them, and we communicate often by phone or text. So much is done online now, but there is still value in talking with someone and having them guide you through. Travel is a chance to hit the pause button and reconnect with those who are important. I feel blessed that I have been able to help people do that,” Murray adds.
For more information, visit grandglobalvacations.com or view Grand Global Vacations on Facebook and Instagram. You can also call 317-800-5654 or email tammy@grandglobalvacations.com.
