What are the best vacation spots for baby boomers?

By: Emilie Sennebogen
Person surfing outdoors on vacation in summer.
Whether surfing in the sun or skiing on the slopes, there's no limit to where baby boomers can party!
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Per the U.S. Census Bureau, baby boomers are the generation of Americans that was born during the period immediately following World War II. Depending on whom you ask, the post-war baby boom took place sometime between 1943 and 1964. That means that baby boomers in 2011 are between the ages of 47 and 68.

People around those ages might also identify with the baby boomer generation as well because the term has grown to mean more than a birth year. It's also taken on a cultural meaning, as baby boomers are commonly associated with a change in traditional values, and a loosening of the strict moral attitudes their parents were known for.

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Both the age and the spirit of the boomer is something to consider when planning a vacation. But considering the late middle age to early senior range, the vacation spots are likely to be a bit less adventurous than they might have been in the past. Then again, you can't discount the boomer who has a yen for bungee jumping and scuba diving. All in all, a baby boomer is probably looking for a destination with great local cuisine, interesting sights and an opportunity to relax.

Baby Boomers Are Headed Here

African safari
Maybe a safari is calling your name.
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So, you're a baby boomer and you're looking for the perfect vacation spot. If you want to keep things on American soil and you have an appreciation for things past, you can plan a road trip along historic Route 66. The classic highway is still drivable in many parts and is a great way to see the country. You can even rent an RV and the take a hotel on the road.

Napa Valley wine country in Northern California has proven to be a very popular vacation spot for the boomer set, with many people making the scenic drive up Highway 1 from Los Angeles for the full effect.

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If golf is your thing, think about a couples golf tour through Florida, home to some of the top courses in the country.

Cruises are another great option if you're looking for a little bit of adventure and relaxation coupled with plenty to eat and drink. If you're a solo traveler, then a singles cruise to an exotic locale might be in order. There are even senior singles cruises for the people on the late end of the boomer range.

You might have a sense of adventure and an appreciation for great food and spirits. If this is the case, it may be time to leave the United States and see a part of the world you've never been to. Europe, Asia, Australia, you name it -- you can get as adventurous as you want to be or play it safe and enjoy the benefits of traveling abroad. Think about a low-key adventure tour in a foreign land, or a laid-back wine and food excursion.

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Lots More Information

Related Articles

  • Lichtenstein, Grace. "Top Ten Active Baby-Boomer Vacations." gorp.com, 2011.http://www.gorp.com/parks-guide/travel-ta-archaeology-mesa-verde-national-park-ashley-national-forest-chaco-culture-national-historical-park-sidawtg_426244.html
  • "RV Vacation Spots." cafebabyboomers.com, 2011.http://www.cafebabyboomers.com/travel-leisure/RV-Vacation-Spots.php
  • Sebastian, Eisla. "Top Travel Spots For Single Boomers." lifewhile.com, September 17, 2008.http://www.lifewhile.com/travel/17497038/detail.html
  • "Top 10 places to travel for Memorial Day." boomersurvive-thriveguide.typepad.com, 2011. http://boomersurvive-thriveguide.typepad.com/the_survive_and_thrive_bo/2010/05/top-10-places-to-travel-for-memorial-day.html

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