4 Bucket List Vacation Ideas To Kick Off Retirement

One of the funniest things about retiring is that you will probably be busier than when you worked. As soon as friends and family hear you now have extra time on your hands, they'll start asking for help and favours. Even if you don't mind this intrusion into your well-deserved rest, there will be times when you want to step away and relax. That makes these four bucket list vacations a great way to kick off your retirement.

Cruise Around the World

An around-the-world cruise is a true bucket list adventure. Look for itineraries that let you experience various ports of call to make the most of this extravagant trip. A huge advantage to cruising is that everything you need is already included in the price of travel. However, you should plan to be at sea for several months at the least, which means you'll need to make arrangements for someone to keep up with your house.

If you want to see the sights without committing to months at sea, consider a relaxing Mediterranean cruise with stops at ports including Rome, Istanbul, Venice, and Barcelona. You'll still experience varied cultures and sights, but you can return home within a few weeks.

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Drive From Coast to Coast

There is no shortage of places to visit when driving across the U.S. For example, you can hit major historical sights and the big cities on the east coast and then cruise along historic Route 66 for the western portion of this trip to take in some fantastic and fun sights. If you prefer the outdoors, make it a national park trip by driving from one to the next. There are very few ways to better experience the country's natural diversity.

A cross-country U.S. road trip will take a good chunk of time unless you rush through it. Since this is about relaxing and making the most of your personal time, you don't want to do that. If a month or more on the road seems like a little too much travelling for you, consider shorter, more focused car adventures. For example, a week is plenty of time for driving the historic (and beautiful) Blue Ridge Parkway with stops at some of the most picturesque points of interest.

Walk the Great Wall of China

Stretching for thousands of miles across China's northern border, the Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and arguably one of the most impressive man-made wonders of the world. Some sections of the wall date back more than 2,000 years, with the most popular and frequently photographed section constructed in the Ming Dynasty (1368 and 1644).

It is estimated that some 10 million people visit China's Great Wall each year.If you are planning a trip to walk on a section of the wall, consider months other than April and October (the busiest times) to avoid crowds. The winter is a great time to take advantage of discounts but be prepared for cold, snowy weather.

Marvel at Africa's Wildlife

Grab your pith hat and hit the savannah on an African safari. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure will get you up close and personal with zebras, wildebeests, elephants, and many other less-familiar creatures. However, don't limit yourself to watching animals. A safari is also a great chance to learn more about Africa's indigenous cultures while taking in some of the most breathtaking scenery you'll ever come across.

A safari can mean vastly different things to different people. For example, accommodations range from luxury lodges to tents, with travel by foot, 4x4s, and foot all possible. It's a good idea to work with a travel professional to ensure you find a trip that fits your travel and comfort preferences. There are even some great tours designed specifically for retirees.

Kick off your retirement with a bucket-list trip you won't soon forget. The Great Wall of China, an extended cruise, an African safari, or a cross-country road trip are just a few of the many ideas to consider when planning your adventure.