So often, we tell ourselves, "One day, I’ll make that trip." But somehow, that day never seems to arrive.
We keep putting off the adventures we’ve longed for, shelving the dreams that are close to our hearts.
Life, as beautiful and messy as it is, has a way of getting in the way.
And before we know it, we’re facing changes in our health, or we’ve lost loved ones…
Those precious dreams to explore new places, to experience the thrill of solo travel, get left behind.
But here’s the truth...
Our one real regret in life is often not having done more—it's wishing we’d lived our lives a little bolder, a little fuller.
This may be the sign you've been waiting for if you’re reading this and feeling that same tug on your heart.
Maybe it’s time to ask, If not now, when?
I had a powerful reminder this past couple of weeks that NOW IS THE WHEN, no if’s just NOW.
I received the news that an aunt had passed away and a dear friend had also passed.
I am so grateful that I made all those trips back to New Zealand my birth country and when I did made the effort to go visit my aunt.
I am so grateful for my friend that after a horrific messy divorce she took her long loved trip to Tanzania on Safari. Something she had always dreamed of.
Little did she know that the next year she would be diagnosed with a particularly brutal cancer that would take her life in 3 years.
Or the friend whose husband was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's and her 30-year-old son suffered a serious psychotic break resulting in a life going forward of full-on Schizophrenia.
It’s easy to understand why we put things off.
We have responsibilities, routines, and roles that often take priority over our personal joys.
Plus, there are all kinds of reasons (some very valid) to wait—maybe family commitments, or maybe even the fear of venturing into the unknown alone.
But if we’re honest, one of the biggest reasons we keep pushing travel off is the cost.
Questions like...
Do I really have the money for this?
or,
Shouldn’t I save for something more practical?
pop up, holding us back from the experiences we’ve dreamed of.
But can I say this with love ladies?
Investing in memories, growth, and fulfillment is as important as any other investment.
Traveling is an investment in YOU…
So, let’s explore a few ways you can make that trip happen now, rather than waiting for the elusive “perfect time.”
Think of It as a Gift to Yourself
We often feel guilty spending on ourselves, but think of this as more than a trip; it’s a gift of joy, confidence, and fulfillment.
It’s a gift that says, “I deserve to live fully and experience the world.”
Reframe your travel costs as an investment in your happiness, well-being, and growth.
Don’t Do What Your Parents Did…
It’s not surprising that we might follow what are parents did…
They worked hard at one job and waited for the magical day of retirement to take that BIG trip.
But ladies we live in a different world today…
So don’t fall into the trap of how your parents or anyone else are did things.
You do you BOO!
The world is a lot more accessible today than it was in our parents era.
A weekend trip to London from the US or Canada would have been unthinkable in our parents day but… now it is totally doable.
Start Small As An Option
If the idea of a big trip feels overwhelming, start with a smaller journey—a weekend getaway or a quick solo trip nearby.
Every experience adds up, building your confidence and reminding you that you can do this.
Sometimes, taking that first step close to home is just what we need to feel ready to venture farther.
Embrace Travel Hacks and Budgeting
Travel doesn’t have to be about luxury hotels or first-class flights.
There are incredible deals out there, from discounted flights to affordable accommodations.
Look for travel packages that cater to solo travelers, or consider staying in a charming B&B or a boutique guesthouse.
Being flexible with your travel dates and open to different experiences can lead to both adventure and savings.
Check this blog out for some ideas... You can find it by clicking >>> 👉HERE
Create A Travel Fund
Start by putting aside a small amount each month. It doesn’t have to be grand—just a little each week or month can add up.
Creating a travel fund isn’t about finding money…
It’s about reallocating money you already have.
If you were planning on carpeting the basement this year… delay it and create amazing memories of a lifetime.
Think about what you can truly go without for a year or even two years.
All those Starbuck runs and mani/pedis add up fast to that next trip.
Knowing you’re building toward your dream will keep the excitement alive and make it feel more achievable.
Plus, seeing even a modest travel fund grow is an empowering reminder that you’re serious about putting yourself first.
As we get older, it’s natural to pause and ask ourselves…
What do I want the rest of my life to look like?
Isn’t it true that for most of us we long for experiences, memories, and moments that make us feel truly alive and…
To feel like we are growing and learning not just standing still to the point of stagnating.
Picture yourself five, ten, or even twenty years from now.
What do you want to remember about this time?
Will you look back and feel that you seized the opportunities, or will you be left wondering…
“What if?”
Imagine looking at photos of beautiful places, remembering the people you met, and feeling the joy of having done something for you.
Life isn’t just about what we should do…
It’s about what makes us feel whole, fulfilled, and connected to something larger than ourselves.
If you have traveled, think back…
Was there ever a travel trip you wished you had not taken?
Even some of the craziest, chaotic and travel disaster events only make our lives richer and fuller in our life story.
The world is waiting, and there’s so much out there to experience. Give yourself permission to explore it and live fully, starting now.
If there’s anything we’ve learned, it’s that life is unpredictable.
Circumstances change, and sometimes they change when we least expect it. Don’t let the clock keep ticking while your dreams gather dust.
Make today the day you say…
“Heck YES, I’m going to make it happen.”
The trip of a lifetime doesn’t have to wait—because you’re worth it now!
So, if not now, when? The world is out there waiting, and I promise, you won’t regret embracing it.
You can’t help but grow and feel alive when you travel.
Interested in more, check out my YouTube Channel
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Female Travelers Over 50 By Raewyn Crist: @FemaleTravelers50Plus
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So cheers to wheels up to winging your way to your long dreamed of destination.
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