When post-pandemic revenge travel fever was burning at its brightest, travellers across the world were spending big on bucket list trips – as in, ticking dream destinations and activities off their wish lists, no matter the cost.
The logic, especially for those with a limited number of healthy years left in their legs, was simple – there was no telling when borders might close again, so why leave things to chance? Seize the day and secure that Northern Lights tour, even if it costs you, a sizable chunk of your kids’ future inheritance.
Well, that was two years ago. Times are different now. Most travellers have worn out their airlegs and returned to business as usual – meaning that anyone who had the restraint to wait out the post-pandemic travel enthusiasm can now look forward to shorter queues and cheaper flights.
In other words, even bucket list trips to the furthest and most wondrous corners of the world are now cheaper and more accessible to those on a budget. As a bonus, crowds would most likely have abated too – especially if you pop by during the shoulder seasons.
It seems revenge (travel) really is a dish best served cold. Read on for eight bucket list trips that are both physically and financially realistic for all seniors to complete.
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Bucket List Trips
1. Chasing the Northern Lights
The elusive Northern Lights can be seen in places like Norway, Sweden, Alaska, Iceland and Canada, which means that you’ve actually got quite a lot of options when it comes to ticking this item off your bucket list.
You only have to steel yourself for two things – a lot of cold (these locations often dip into the negatives during peak aurora season) and a lot of waiting, as there isn’t really a way to guarantee that the Northern Lights will turn up when you’re there.
Some operators, like this Singaporean family who moved to Canada in search of a better life for their autistic son, offer an accessible trip right outside of town, while others go for a grander experience complete with dog sledding and the chance to try reindeer meat.
2. Catching cherry blossoms in Japan
Speaking of elusive, catching Sakura (cherry blossom) season in Japan is notoriously difficult, as the pastel-pink blooms mature at different times across the country depending on the weather every year.
While this is usually a problem for time-strapped travellers, seniors who can afford to commit to a longer trip have a far better chance of catching the cherry blossoms at peak pink. (Psst: Once you’ve ticked that mission off your bucket list, you can move on to other flower-driven travel destinations around the world.)
3. Trekking to Machu Picchu
For the adventurers among us, the multi-day trek across the highlands of the Andes to the stunning citadel ruins of Machu Picchu would surely rank pretty highly on many of your bucket lists.
While there is indeed no better way to immerse yourself in the misty mountains of the forgotten Incan Empire (a guide will run you upwards of S$800), you could just as well opt for an easier circuit – or hop on a comfortable train to arrive there in the lap of luxury (look here for more secret tips on Machu Picchu).
4. Going on an African safari
There’s only one place in the world where you can see wild animals like lions, zebras, giraffes and elephants in their natural habitat, and that’s Africa. The good news is that there are plenty of safari operators in popular spots like Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya offering guided tours from the relative safety and comfort of a jeep.
The bad news – these bucket list trips quickly go from cheap and affordable to pricey when you opt for creature comforts out in the field, or if you head into private sanctuaries with the promise of a better chance at spotting rarer beasts.
5. Cruising Antarctica
Antarctica, the frozen, southernmost continent in the world, is the final frontier for most travellers’ bucket lists (unless they’re willing to fork out millions to hop on a spaceship to the upper atmosphere with Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk).
Thankfully, it’s no longer the life-threatening expedition it once was, as most of us can get up close and personal with the icebergs and wildlife in the cosy comfort of a luxury cruise — nor is it all that expensive, as Celebrity Cruises offers 14-night trips starting from Buenos Aires, Argentina, at an affordable starting rate of around S$3,250.
5. Going on a river cruise along the Amazon River
Another top bucket list destination for explorers and naturalists alike is the Amazon Rainforest, home to one of the richest collections of flora and fauna in the entire world.
Now, tackling the continent-spanning river on a raft or speedboat isn’t realistic for most tourists, but we can always do the next best thing – hopping on a luxury river cruise for plunge pools, air-conditioning and room service, while still being able to spot endemic wildlife like pink dolphins, caimans and anacondas during guided excursions.
Expect to fork out upwards of S$5,000 for just a three- to four-night cruise alone.
6. All aboard the Orient Express (and other similar luxury trains)
Sometimes, bucket list trips aren’t only about the destination, but the journey too. Luxury trains offer a nostalgic glimpse into the dream vacations of yesteryear, with iconic rail operators like the Orient Express and the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express (now just called Golden Eagle Luxury Trains) wending their way across idyllic landscapes.
These trains offer an almost-forgotten form of slow travel, where you have all the time in the world to soak in the views at panoramic viewing carriages while indulging in lively onboard entertainment, world-class cuisine (remember to bring your tux) and all-day Champagne service.
7. Visiting the historical city of Petra, Jordan…
History buffs – or anyone who’s a fan of Indiana Jones – probably have the UNESCO-recognised ancient city of Petra on their bucket list.
The architectural marvel is carved directly into pink sandstone cliffs near the town of Wadi Musa, which you can reach by bus or more flexibly, within three hours by rented car. Get ready for plenty of moderate walking, as the area has deliberately been kept au naturel for historical authenticity.
8. … or any of the other wonders and icons of the world
Honestly though, there are countless iconic places to tick off your bucket lists around the world. As many of them are hot tourist destinations, they’re often well-connected and easily accessible for most, even those with lower mobility and budgets. Here are some to keep in mind:
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The Taj Mahal in Agra, India:
Even a royal treatment in the city of Agra, home of the world's most magnificent mausoleum, should be affordable and accessible for seniors. -
The Sistine Chapel in The Vatican City:
While Italy as a whole is decently priced for Europe, the Sistine Chapel is famous for its incredibly oppressive crowds. Not for the faint of heart. -
The Eiffel Tower in Paris, France:
If you aren’t willing to take on the snaking lines to ascend the renowned metal structure, just snag a spot in the beautiful garden beside it and wait for night to fall. Voila! -
The Great Wall of China:
Skip the steps and hop onto a cable car at the Wall’s popular Badaling Section (located about 90 minutes by car away from Beijing) to get all the views without the endless steps.
