The Takeaway
- Older Americans, especially women, are increasingly exploring the world alone
- Long stays in one place offer deeper experiences and better value
- Popular destinations include Mexico, Portugal, Thailand, and Ecuador
- Safety, insurance, and health access are key things to consider
- Solo travel can be empowering, affordable, and life-changing
Who says your solo travel days have to be behind you? Not the growing number of older adults hopping on planes and heading out into the world with nothing but a carry-on and a curious mind. Seniors — especially women over 60 — are embracing the solo traveler lifestyle like never before. And it’s not just a week in Paris. Many are staying a month (or more) in places they’ve dreamed about for years.
So, who’s doing this?
In short, people just like you.
According to a recent AARP study, nearly half of older adults say they’d consider a solo trip. And travel companies are seeing it, too. Overseas Adventure Travel reports that about 85% of its solo travelers are women over 50. Women, in particular, seem to be saying, “Why wait for someone to go with me when I can go myself?”
Men are going, too, but they tend to travel differently — often renting a car, exploring at their own pace, or chasing hobbies like photography or fishing. Women, on the other hand, often focus on cultural experiences, community, and wellness.
Why solo travel can be a great thing
Traveling alone gives you complete control over your time and energy. Want to sleep until 10 a.m.? Do it. Want to eat gelato for dinner? Go for it. You get to create your own story, not tag along in someone else’s.
It also builds confidence. Seniors say traveling alone reminds them they're still capable, curious, and connected to the world.
And let's not forget: many places cater to long-term visitors. That means you can unpack your suitcase once, learn the local rhythm, make friends, and actually live somewhere for a while — all without breaking the bank.
What’s it like to stay a whole month?
Think about it: one month in the U.S. might buy you a few motel nights and dinners out. But a month in a walkable neighborhood of Lisbon or Chiang Mai might cost you less than your utility bill back home.
Staying longer allows you to really settle in. You might take a language class, find a favorite café, or get to know your neighbors. It’s the difference between sightseeing and belonging.
Where are older Americans going?
Here are some top picks with large U.S. expat communities and big solo travel appeal:
- Mexico (especially San Miguel de Allende and Mérida) – Close, friendly, affordable, and great healthcare
- Portugal (Lisbon, Porto, Algarve region) – Safe, welcoming, walkable, and mild weather
- Thailand (Chiang Mai, Hua Hin) – Incredibly affordable and popular with digital nomads
- Ecuador (Cuenca, Vilcabamba) – Laid-back living, low cost, and a mild climate
- Panama (Boquete, Panama City) – A top retirement destination with lots of English spoken
Not into tourist traps?
Try these lesser-known gems where you won’t be overrun by selfie sticks:
- Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay – Quiet and colonial, with river views and wine country nearby
- Hoi An, Vietnam – Stunning and slower-paced than Hanoi or Saigon
- Lecce, Italy – A beautiful, baroque city in the “heel” of Italy’s boot with fewer tourists than Rome or Florence
- Kotor, Montenegro – A medieval town on the bay with breathtaking views and a fraction of Dubrovnik’s crowds
- La Paz, Mexico – Beaches, whale watching, and sunsets without the Cabo party scene
Bang-for-the-buck destinations
If you’re watching your budget (and who isn’t?), these spots deliver major value:
- Portugal – Transportation and healthcare are cheap, and many restaurants offer full meals under $15
- Vietnam – Lodging, food, and even massages are extremely affordable
- Ecuador – Many expats live comfortably here on $1,500/month or less
- Colombia (Medellín) – Modern and mild, with strong public transport and low living costs
- Indonesia (Bali) – Spiritual, serene, and surprisingly senior-friendly
A few cautions before you go
- Health Insurance: Medicare doesn’t travel with you. Get a good travel health plan and ask if it covers COVID-related care.
- Safety: Stick to well-reviewed neighborhoods. Use local Facebook expat groups to get tips.
- Mobility: Think twice about cobblestone streets or steep hills if you have joint issues.
- Connectivity: Make sure your phone plan works internationally or get a local SIM card.
- Scams: Be wary of people who seem a little too helpful. And always trust your gut.
Final Thoughts
The world is wide open for older adults who are ready to explore it — even solo. You don’t need a tour group or a travel partner. Just a little planning, some curiosity, and the belief that your best travel stories might still be ahead of you.
And who knows? That one-month stay might turn into something more permanent.
