Please upgrade your web browserYou’re using a browser that we don’t support. To get the best experience using our site, we recommend you upgrade to a newer browser – please see our supported browsers list.
  • Sign in / uponeworld
    Please upgrade your web browserYou’re using a browser that we don’t support. To get the best experience using our site, we recommend you upgrade to a newer browser – please see our supported browsers list.
    Cathay Pacific

    6 trips – and tips - for senior travellers

    Accessible destinations and wellness tips for travelling in your golden years
    Older adult wearing a coat and scarf, smiling in an open field on a sunny day
    Credit: RUNSTUDIO/Getty Images
    Find the best fares to
    Global destinations

    Travelling later in life can be just as rewarding as when you’re young – if not more so. After all, you get to explore the world equipped with the wisdom and experience that only comes with age. There’s never been a better time to start making the most of your golden years. 

    Read on to discover our favourite senior-friendly holiday destinations along with some helpful travel tips.  

    A street view of London featuring a double decker bus picking up passengers on a sunny day
    A wide view of Millenium Bridge in London, in the evening after sunset

    Journey to London 

    London is a city steeped in history while being at the forefront of the world’s dining, entertainment and hospitality scenes. Exceptional hotels abound, while must-visit shows across the West End’s vibrant theatre scene, a wealth of museums and spots like Kew Gardens ensure your itinerary will be packed to the brim. The city’s fantastic transport links to the rest of the UK also provide an opportunity to escape to Austen-esque pastoral England, or to charming towns full of character like Brighton. 

    An older man smiling and drinking hot tea in a cafe at daytime

    Credit: sot/Getty Images

    An older couple relaxing in a Japanese outdoor hot spring during daytime

    Credit: sot/Getty Images

    Take it slow in Kyoto

    While we know it’s important to stay active as we get older, there are numerous benefits to slow travel too. In Kyoto, you can take things at your own pace, whether you're looking for traditional experiences, new food discoveries or simply want to relax in a Japanese onsen. The city's attractions are near each other, which makes exploring on foot easy, while a reliable transportation system means you can put your feet up when needed. 

    An older man reading a book and drinking coffee in an open air cabana cafe

    Credit: Marc Romanelli/Getty Images

    Older women relaxing in swimming pool underneath dragon fountains

    Credit: Bicho Raro/Getty Images

    Embrace wellness in Bali

    Nothing says relaxation quite like a wellness retreat on the Island of the Gods. Bali is known for its luxury properties offering holistic treatments, such as Balinese massage and yoga, designed to reduce stress and revitalise the mind and body. Surrounded by lush, forested landscapes, serene beaches and vibrant Balinese culture, you’re guaranteed to leave Bali feeling rejuvenated – and perhaps a few years younger. 

    A bird’s eye view of Barcelona gothic quarter in the middle of the city during daytime

    Credit: Vunav V/Getty Images

    A view of the colourful Park Güell walls in Barcelona during daytime

    Admire stunning art in Barcelona

    If mobility is a key consideration for you when deciding where to travel, you can safely put Barcelona at the top of your list. Not only it a very walkable city, but Barcelona has also earned a reputation for being incredibly wheelchair-friendly. Effortlessly explore its many mesmerising neighbourhoods, from the Gothic Quarter to Gràcia district, and immerse yourself in the city’s architectural marvels like the Sagrada Familia. 

     A bird’s eye view of Lake Brienz in Zurich during daytime
    A landscape view of Lagh de Calvaresc hills and river in Zurich during daytime

    Take in scenery in Zurich

    While Switzerland might be known for its rugged alpine mountains, the country's largest city is reassuringly easy to get around, and well-connected to the surrounding natural wonders. Those looking for a senior-friendly active holiday will find a host of accessible tours that allow them to tap into their inner adventurer, from barrier-free hikes along picturesque lakes to scenic train rides across mountains.  

    An elephant and a tour cart in the wild during a wildlife safari in South Africa

    Credit: Mongkolchon Akesin/Getty Images

    Join a safari tour in South Africa

    Studies show that travelling as an older adult is as much about forming meaningful connections as it is about discovering new destinations. And what better way to forge friendships while seeing more of the world’s wonders than by embarking on a group wildlife safari in South Africa? By sharing this unique experience with others, you can make memories that are truly worth cherishing.

    Plan wisely 

    Take the stress out of senior travel by preparing in advance. Here are some travel tips to consider when planning for a senior-friendly trip.  

    A woman working at the receptionist smiling and answering a call

    Credit: PixelsEffect/Getty Images

    1. Hire a travel concierge

    Planning a holiday for senior travellers can involve challenging logistics. Consider hiring bespoke travel concierges to help you iron out the finer details, from booking accessible hotels to contacting airport assistance, so you can just sit back and enjoy your trip.  

    An older couple on holiday smiling in a hotel room with luggage

    Credit: Lane Oatey/Blue Jean Images/Getty Images

    2. Choose a hotel that meets your needs

    Most hotels today are senior-friendly and barrier-free. However, it’s best to contact your hotel ahead of your arrival to make sure that they can cater to your specific needs, such as offering lifts, wheelchair ramps and low beds.  

    An older couple packing essentials for holiday

    Credit: Edwin Tan/Getty Images

    3. Pack your medication in your carry-on

    Keep any prescription medication in your carry-on for easy access. When flying with Cathay Pacific, we ask you to contact customer support at least 48 hours ahead of your flight to inform us of any special medical requirements you may have, including travelling with any medical equipment.  

    An older woman packing light for holiday

    Credit: nuiiko/Getty Images

    4. Pack light

    Pack only the essentials for a lighter, easier journey. This includes comfortable clothing and footwear, a charger for your main mobile device and any necessary medical items. Opting for clothing that can be layered makes it easier to adapt to temperature changes, including during your flight. 

     A person sitting on a rented Cathay Pacific wheelchair
    Cathay Pacific staff assisting an older man at the Hong Kong International Airport

    5. Take advantage of your seniority

    Senior travellers can take advantage of faster check-in at Hong Kong International Airport by using Cathay Pacific's special check-in counter in Area C of the Check-in Hall. If you need assistance with wheelchairs or have special travel requirements, you can contact customer support 72 to 48 hours before your departure so that we can accommodate your needs. In other destinations, you can reach out to our ground staff for check-in assistance. 

    A person sleeping comfortably on a long-haul flight at night

    6. Choose direct flights

    Flying long distance can be challenging for older adults. Plan for direct flights and time your departure wisely to avoid long wait times. If possible, choose an aisle seat on the plane to enable you to get up and move around more easily. 

    More inspiration

    Find the best fares to
    Global destinations