Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they explore "retirement moons" - celebratory trips marking life's next chapter. Learn essential planning tips and discover top destinations for your dream retirement adventure.

What is a Retirement Moon?

A celebratory trip taken at retirement time, growing in popularity as retirees are more active and healthy. It's a reward for decades of work and kickoff to a new lifestyle.

Timing: Plan for a few months after retirement to decompress and handle life transitions.

Budgeting: Decide between splurge vs. sustainable spending. Use retirement gifts, bonuses, and extra time for cost-effective options.

Trip Style: Choose solo, couple, or group travel. Consider adventure vs. relaxation focus.

Health & Insurance: Essential travel insurance and medical prep for international trips.

Length & Pacing: Take advantage of unlimited time off for slower, extended stays.

International

• Italy: Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Lake Como - perfect for slow-paced cultural immersion
• New Zealand & Australia: Extended stays justify long travel times
• European River Cruises: Stress-free, all-inclusive travel
• Japan: Unique culture and culinary experiences
• South Africa: Multi-week safaris and wine country

Domestic US

• Alaska: Land tours and cruises with extended exploration
• National Parks: Multi-park road trip adventures
• Napa/Sonoma: Wine country relaxation and indulgence
• Florida Keys & Charleston/Savannah: Laid-back Southern charm

Expert Planning Tips

1. Book Early: Start planning 1-2 years ahead for best options
2. Use Travel Advisors: Professional planning for seamless, personalized trips
3. Add Personal Touches: Special dinners, photography sessions, surprise upgrades
4. Avoid Over-Planning: Balance structure with flexibility for spontaneous discoveries

Featured: Quincy, Massachusetts

Visit the United States Naval Ship Building Museum and explore the greater Boston area.

Contact Wonder and Beyond Travel

Website: WonderandBeyondTravel.com

Ready to plan your retirement moon? Contact Ryan and Julie for personalized travel planning services.

Keywords: retirement travel, retirement moon, senior travel, Alaska cruises, European river cruises, Italy travel, National Parks road trips, travel planning for retirees

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Join travel experts Ryan and Julie as they explore America's Last Frontier in this comprehensive guide to Alaska travel. Whether you're considering an Alaska cruise, land-based adventure, or combination trip, this episode covers everything you need to know to plan your dream Alaska vacation.

1. Land-Based Alaska Vacations
   • Starting points: Anchorage and Fairbanks
   • Transportation options: Alaska Railroad, rental cars, guided tours
   • Deeper immersion into wilderness and local culture
   • Access to interior Alaska destinations like Denali National Park
   • Custom itineraries for specific interests (fishing, photography, wildlife)
   • Best for: Active travelers, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts
2. Alaska Cruises
   • Inside Passage routes from Seattle or Vancouver
   • Hassle-free travel with scenic coastal views
   • Popular ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Seward
   • Limited time in each destination
   • Best for: Cruise lovers, multi-generational travelers, comfort seekers
3. Alaska Cruise Tours (Land + Sea Combination)
   • Pre or post-cruise land extensions (3-7 days)
   • Most popular add-on: Denali National Park
   • Best of both experiences: coastal views and interior exploration
   • Convenient planning through cruise lines
   • Best for: Travelers wanting comprehensive Alaska experience

Best Time to Visit

• Late May through early September
• Optimal weather conditions
• Peak whale watching season
• Most ports and attractions open

Packing Essentials

• Layer for all weather types
• Waterproof clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Prepare for temperature variations in single day

Physical Considerations

• Assess mobility and activity levels
• Some excursions require physical fitness
• Age restrictions on certain activities
• Wide variety of adventure levels available

Booking Strategy

• Book early due to limited travel season
• Reserve excursions after booking main trip
• Consider cruise and tour package deals
• Plan around port schedules and timing

Connect with All Things Travel

• Website: WonderAndBeyondTravel.com
• Email the hosts for personalized travel planning
• Specializing in family travel, cruises, and destination expertise

Next Episode Preview

Join us next week as we explore the new travel trend of "retirement moons" - a growing vacation concept for retirees.

Want to cruise with Ryan and Julie in July 2025? Join our cruise with friends of the podcast (yes, that's you as a listener)!
Check out the details: https://forms.gle/Jpikq82XPQS63v5N8

Visit our website, allthingstravelpodcast.com, for freebies and more podcast info!



Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress!

Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation"

Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page!

• Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show!
• Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie share crucial advice on what NOT to do on your next cruise vacation. From booking to disembarkation, they cover the common mistakes that can ruin your cruise experience. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this episode provides valuable tips to ensure smooth sailing on your next ocean adventure.

Pre-Cruise Mistakes to Avoid

• Booking flights on embarkation day: The hosts share a cautionary tale of a bride and groom who missed their entire cruise wedding
• Not having valid travel documents: Why passports are strongly recommended even when not strictly required
• Ignoring medical restrictions: Important rules for pregnant women (24-week cutoff) and infants (minimum 6 months)
• Failing to monitor price changes: How prices fluctuate and why checking for drops could save you money
• Skipping travel insurance: Real-world scenarios where insurance is crucial, especially for medical care in foreign ports
• Selecting cabins at random: Why location matters and how working with a travel advisor helps you make informed choices

During Your Cruise Mistakes

• Taking only ship-affiliated shore excursions: Why independent options might offer better experiences with smaller crowds
• Waiting until the last minute to book extras: Why shore excursions, dining packages, and transfers often sell out
• Overpacking your carry-on: The reality of lugging bags around until your stateroom is ready
• Forgetting to put your phone on airplane mode: How to avoid shocking international roaming charges
• Arriving late at port after excursions: The captain will wave goodbye as you're left behind
• Assuming everything is included: Understanding what costs extra on your specific cruise line
• Overindulging with drink packages: Finding the balance between enjoyment and overindulgence
• Not drinking enough water: Staying hydrated is essential for enjoying your vacation

Post-Cruise Mistakes

• Waiting to book your next cruise: Missing out on onboard booking di

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Want to cruise with Ryan and Julie in July 2025? Join our cruise with friends of the podcast (yes, that's you as a listener)!
Check out the details: https://forms.gle/Jpikq82XPQS63v5N8

Visit our website, allthingstravelpodcast.com, for freebies and more podcast info!



Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress!

Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation"

Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page!

• Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show!
• Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!