STORY BY PAUL HUGHES, 2023 - THE DRAGON BRIDGE IN VIETNAM IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF OTHER CULTURES
Over 50s are now one of the most important tourist markets in the world, so spending the kids' inheritance has become the new norm!
As world populations age, the travel industry is seeing a surge in interest from older travelers, with researchers for Visa now valuing the world Over 50s travel market at more than $US1 trillion (that is around $AUD1.4 trillion)
According to the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons, which has 38 million members), Over 50s are the largest demographic in terms of travel spending and are seeking unique experiences and adventures that cater to their specific needs or wishes.
AARP says Americans who are Over 50 spend an estimated $125 billion on travel each year and this trend is mirrored in many other parts of the world.
As world populations age, the travel industry is seeing a surge in interest from older travelers, with researchers for Visa now valuing the world Over 50s travel market at more than $US1 trillion (that is around $AUD1.4 trillion)
According to the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons, which has 38 million members), Over 50s are the largest demographic in terms of travel spending and are seeking unique experiences and adventures that cater to their specific needs or wishes.
AARP says Americans who are Over 50 spend an estimated $125 billion on travel each year and this trend is mirrored in many other parts of the world.
|
Tourism Research Australia (TRA) found that the Over 50s market accounted for 40% of all domestic overnight travel in Australia (around 54 million trips), which increased significantly after P-Day (pandemic day).
It also found Over 50s travellers contributed $37.7 billion to the Australian economy, which represented around 43% of the total domestic overnight tourism expenditure. |
Communities around the world are giving Over 50s travelers increased recognition and attention because we can have a significant impact on local communities, as older travelers tend to spend more on activities, accommodation and meals compared with younger travelers.
This means we inject significant revenue into local economies, support small businesses and contribute to job creation.
Over 50s are also more likely to:
This means we inject significant revenue into local economies, support small businesses and contribute to job creation.
Over 50s are also more likely to:
|
|
- Take tours and, rather than flocking to crowded theme parks, enjoy activities such as wineries, coffee shops and wellness facilities such as local spas.
- Many Over 50s are retired and don't have to rush back to work after a few days away, so they often spend more time in the region.
COUNTLESS WAYS TO GET AROUND - IMAGE BY JOHANNES HOFMAN
|
STAYING FIT ON TOUR - IMAGE BY ANUPAM MAHAPATRA
|
In Australia, Over 50s travelers have an even greater impact in regional areas, with the TRA report showing we accounted for 56% of domestic overnight tourism expenditure in regional areas, contributing $22.7 billion to those economies in 2019.
Travel offers many benefits to older people, including the opportunity to learn new things, meet new people and experience new cultures.
Travel also has significant health benefits, including improved mental health, reduced stress and increased physical activity. Older adults dealing with a sense of loss or loneliness often find travel provides an opportunity to connect with others and make new friendships.
Travel offers many benefits to older people, including the opportunity to learn new things, meet new people and experience new cultures.
Travel also has significant health benefits, including improved mental health, reduced stress and increased physical activity. Older adults dealing with a sense of loss or loneliness often find travel provides an opportunity to connect with others and make new friendships.
SENIORS TAKE MORE TOURS - IMAGE OF 'THE HAND' SCULPTURE IN THE ATACAMA DESERT IN CHILE BY TREVOR MCKINNON
Apart from the exhilaration of experiencing new cultures and destinations, travel can provide a sense of purpose and help combat feelings of isolation and depression.
As more and more people enter this demographic, Over 50s travel will continue to grow, meaning businesses and destinations will create even more opportunities to meet our demands.
Other stories relating to Over 50s travelers include:
Benefits of Traveling Solo Over 50. Read
Planning Your Over 50s Travel. Read
Over 50s Top Holiday Choice. Read
Seven Trips to take in Your 50s. Read
Safe Travel Guide for Seniors. Read
Back to the Home Page
As more and more people enter this demographic, Over 50s travel will continue to grow, meaning businesses and destinations will create even more opportunities to meet our demands.
Other stories relating to Over 50s travelers include:
Benefits of Traveling Solo Over 50. Read
Planning Your Over 50s Travel. Read
Over 50s Top Holiday Choice. Read
Seven Trips to take in Your 50s. Read
Safe Travel Guide for Seniors. Read
Back to the Home Page
OLDER FRIENDS ENJOYING BURGERS AT THE BEACH WHILE ON HOLIDAYS - IMAGE BY FREEPIX
