Trip planning & decisions
The practical side of travelling
Packing lists, travel docs, itineraries, health hacks and money tips – the essential stuff that can make or break a trip. Don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Think of this page as your pre-adventure sidekick: keeping you organised, sane and a little smug that you remembered your passport. From “Did I really pack enough socks?” to “Do I need travel insurance for a camel safari?” – we’ve got you covered.
It’s like a toolkit for grown-up adventurers – minus the hammer and the confusing instructions. Because the best adventures start when you’re prepared, not panicking.
PLANNING THE TRIP
Where to stay, what activities to book, what to consider before booking
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5 Bangkok day trips that are genuinely worth the effort.
From floating markets to historic temples, these 5 easy day trips from Bangkok offer culture, comfort, and zero stress. Ideal for a smooth, memorable escape from the city.
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Cape Town day trips without a car: 20 easy and scenic options
Not everyone wants to self-drive in South Africa. These guided day trips from Cape Town make it easy to explore the Cape Peninsula, Winelands, and beyond without getting behind the wheel.
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Planning a South Africa safari: what’s actually comfortable, realistic and worth it
Planning a South Africa safari at 55+? This practical guide covers self-drive vs guided safari, lodges, packing, comfort, and planning advice
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How to plan a travel itinerary without cramming too much in
If your ideal trip somehow keeps turning into an exhausting obstacle course, this is for you. Here’s how to plan a travel itinerary that feels realistic, flexible, and much more enjoyable in real life.
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Self-drive safari in Kruger National Park: sample itineraries
Plan a stress-free Kruger safari for 55+ travelers with sample itineraries and region overviews: how to plan your self-drive.
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Kruger self-drive safari: routes, safety tips and what to expect
Planning a Kruger National Park self-drive safari? Discover practical tips, routes, and safety advice for 55+ explorers seeking a relaxed African adventure.
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Falling for a pretty courtyard? Read this before booking a riad in Marrakech
Discover the best riads in Marrakech for 55+ travelers. Find comfort, charm, accessibility, and tips for an unforgettable Moroccan stay
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How to choose the right Iceland tour at 55+
How to choose an iceland tour at 55+ that truly suits you. Practical tips on pace, comfort, and fitness, with a free downloadable spreadsheet.
PACKING AND GEAR
What to bring and what not to bring
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What to pack for Iceland in Winter: a practical packing list
Travelling to Iceland in winter and not sure what to bring? We’ve got you covered!
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Safari packing made easy: what you really need
Safari packing made easy for 55+ explorers
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Things to consider if you prefer to see sights, not the inside of a police station or a hospital.
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A guide to massages in Thailand (or how not to get folded into the shape of a deckchair)
I expected to love Thailand’s temples, food and beaches. I didn’t expect foot massages to become one of my favourite travel experiences. Here’s what to expect, how much massages cost, and which type might be right for you.
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Where to stay in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban: safer areas and hotel picks
55+ and wondering where to stay in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban? Find the best areas and hotel picks for a safer, easier South Africa trip.
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Is South Africa safe for tourists? A practical safety guide (2026)
Is South Africa safe for 55+ travellers? Safety, driving, accommodation and practical tips for planning a confident trip to South Africa.
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Your first Moroccan hammam: what it’s really like
Wondering what happens in a Moroccan hammam? Here’s what to expect, how much it costs, and whether it’s actually embarrassing. (Spoiler: not at all)
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10 Morocco travel mistakes to avoid (learn from our trip)
Visiting Morocco over 55? Discover the 10 most common travel mistakes, including pacing, cultural faux pas, transport, and Ramadan surprises, to make your trip smooth and memorable
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Common travel scams: how to spot and avoid them
Love travelling and prefer to spend your time seeing the sights, not hanging out at a police station, or at the consulate trying to replace your passport? Learn to recognise and avoid common travel scams.
MONEY AND LOGISTICS
To make sure you don’t get stuck at an airport without the proper documentation, and other avoidable mishaps.
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South Africa trip cost: how much you’ll really spend in 3 weeks
Wondering how much a South Africa trip really costs? Here’s what our 3-week itinerary could cost at budget, mid-range and luxury levels, plus where I’d save, where I’d splurge, and what we actually did.
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How to plan a trip without the chaos (a simple travel planning system)
Organising your trip feels easier with a simple travel planning system. Here is how I track bookings, ideas, and important details.
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How to plan a travel budget you’ll actually stick to (without missing out)
A practical guide for 55+ active travellers: plan your trip costs, track spending while traveling, and enjoy your adventures without stress.
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Is Morocco expensive? A realistic travel budget based on my trip
Plan your Morocco adventure without selling a kidney for a camel ride. This guide breaks down realistic costs for 55+ travellers — riads, desert camps, tours, and daily expenses — so you can enjoy the sights without shocking your wallet
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Iceland travel budget: what it really costs (and how to save).
Travelling to Iceland and prefer to have some money left in your bank account when you come back? Here’s how we approached it.
