In Your 40s and Traveling Abroad for the First Time? Here’s Why It’s the Perfect Idea!

International travel is a formative experience. You get to explore an entirely new culture, see a part of the world you’ve never been to, and learn an awful lot about yourself along the way. And while some people like to hit the road in their late teens and early 20s, others don’t try international travel until they hit their 30s or even their 40s. That’s not a bad thing, in fact, traveling in your 40s and choosing to go abroad for the first time can be an excellent move. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider international travel, even after you’ve passed your 40th birthday.

You Can Afford to Splurge

If you’re considering international travel in your 40s, odds are that you have a steady job and some solid disposable income — which means you can invest in first class flights, amazing hotel options, and even elaborate travel packages. Look for an all-inclusive vacation that covers every aspect of your trip; they’ll tell you where to go, where to eat, and make sure you don’t miss out on any amazing sights or experiences. All you’ll have to do is show up and have the time of your life! Or if you prefer to run the show yourself, pick a location or event and craft a dream vacation around it. With more resources at your disposal on average than your younger counterparts you’ll find that the perfect trip is a lot easier to put together.

You Appreciate a Break

Twenty-somethings may run the show when it comes to travel selfies, and parents in their thirties are pros at planning family vacations, but it takes a forty-something to truly appreciate taking the time to stop and smell the roses. It’s widely believed that your 40s are the most stressful decade of your life, so when you decide to unwind and invest in an international vacation, you’ll truly appreciate every second. Whether you’re taking pictures of exotic wildlife on the Serengeti or soaking up the sun on a beach in Thailand, you’ll cherish every moment away from your hectic life, and return restored and rejuvenated.

You Know What You Like

By your 40s, you usually have a pretty solid idea of who you are and what’s important to you. This counts for vacations as well, making it easier than ever to plan an international excursion. You won’t feel obligated to visit spots that don’t strike your interest and can instead tailor a trip that’s suited to your exact needs and desires. Want to explore old bookshops in London? Fancy checking out the fashion in Tokyo? With a clear idea of what makes an ideal vacation, all you have to do is look for cheap plane tickets and you can start planning the international trip of your dreams… and create an adventure that’s as unique as you are.

You Can Make New Friends

Looking to get out and meet people on your international vacation? Then you’re in luck; there are virtually endless tours and excursions designed exclusively to cater to people in their 40s — and they often focus on the social as well as the cultural side of travel. If you’re exploring the world solo, you can join up with a singles group for your journey. As you sample the food and culture of a locale, you’ll have a built-in network of people to explore with, and plenty of opportunities to make new friends along the way. It’s a wonderful way to push your boundaries, meet new people, and travel on your own while still staying safe. Whether you’re considering rock climbing, studying old churches, or simply traveling somewhere new and different, you’ll be sure to find a group of like-minded individuals that will turn your trip into a memorable one.

Traveling in your 40s can pose some challenges, but if you’re thinking about going abroad for the first time, then you don’t have to think twice — you CAN make it an unforgettable experience!