According to recent surveys, “empty nesters” or parents whose kids have moved out of the house, often prioritize travel.
Going on vacations with a whole family can be tricky and costly. Traveling without kids can be cheaper. It can also open up new opportunities like wine tours that aren’t possible with minors tagging along.
“It was something I could certainly relate to, going into that period in my life,” says Barbara Movelle, owner of Empty Nest Travel, a service that caters to these travelers. “Our kids had left the nest and my husband and I started to talk about travel and wanting to do it.”
There is an increasing number of travel agencies like Empty Nest Travel, which cater to empty nester tourists. These travelers often prefer going somewhere off the beaten path. They’ve forsaken all-inclusive packages, large cruise ships, and other vacations designed to offer as much variety to the family as possible.
Travel ranks among the highest priorities for empty nesters, along with starting a new hobby or having a more active sex life.
Peregrine Adventures, an agency that offers tours primarily to those over age 45, said they found that 54 percent of empty nesters were excited to spend more time on vacation. Thirty-six percent of respondents looked forward to eating at more sophisticated restaurants. Twenty-eight percent also wanted to learn more about the history and culture of the places they visit.
This isn’t to say that empty nesters don’t want to go on “family friendly” vacations, but that they want to embrace the freedom of not having to bring the kids along.
With children in college or in their own places with their own jobs, many people finally have the time to go on vacation.
What about you? Are you an empty nester looking forward to a special trip? Where would you like to go? Tell us in the comments.