Did you realize that when you research a senior trip - looking into the right modes of senior transportation, senior travel deals, etc. – you are looking into many of the same things that travel writers look into? As a retiree you might be thinking of working something to supplement your retirement income. What could be more amazing then getting paid to travel and write on places you experience on senior trips as a travel writer? The funny thing is that when you are going on your senior vacation you are dealing with the same frustrations and joys as travel writers do: remembering to bring medications, travel packages, purchasing senior travel insurance, finding the best travel deals, paying the baggage fees. Because travel writers are just like any other traveler, they put together a list of top travel secrets they’ve encountered that they want to share with fellow travelers! IndependentTraveler.com asked 35 writers and bloggers to share their wisdom from life on the road (in the air, on a boat…) and these are the top pieces of senior travel advice they came up with:

• "Trying to get into a sold-out hotel? Find out when cancellation penalties set in for the date you want to arrive, then call the property on the morning of that day. You can scoop up rooms made available by people who've just canceled." -- Wendy Perrin, Perrin Post
• "You should always carry a copy of your passport when you travel, but more important is keeping that copy safe. In the event your bags are lost or stolen, what are you going to do if your passport is in the bag? Keep a copy of your passport in the sole of your shoe. -- Melanie Nayer, MelanieNayer.com
• "Always pack zip-lock bags. They are ideal for packing things tighter, separating wet from dry and managing small items like batteries." -- JoAnna Haugen, Kaleidoscopic Wandering
• "Connect with locals living in your destination via Facebook, Twitter or blogs, and make a point to meet them for coffee or even couch surf with some of them. You'll find yourself getting deeper under the skin of the country, and understanding a bit more about local culture and lifestyle than you usually would." -- Nellie Huang, Wild Junket
• "Question charges like resort fees or valet parking at hotels. Often they will be removed from your bill if you question them at check-out." -- Kathy A. McDonald, Eastside Eye
• "You'll always get more in-depth information in the guidebook with the narrowest scope. If you're going to Rome, the Rome book will be better than the Italy book, and that will be better than the Europe book. Consider bringing only one or two travel guides and photocopying pages out of the rest, which you can toss when you move on to the next destination or head home." -- Erica Silverstein, Cruise Critic
• "Saving money on a rental car has to be the most mundane and least thrilling secret I could offer, but there's nothing dull about saving a dozen to a few hundred dollars every time you travel." -- Ed Hewitt, Traveler's Ed
• "Before you start your trip, take a photo of your luggage. Put yourself into the pic, standing next to the bag. (This will give a good idea of the bag's size.) Keep the shot in your camera, and also print out a copy. When your bag goes missing, hand over the copy (or show the in-cam shot) to the baggage folks at the airport. This can really help with finding your luggage. I did this on a recent trip to Kiev and the baggage folks there thought this was a dandy idea." -- Susan Farlow, FarWriter
• "Divide each person's belongings amongst all luggages - that way no one is SOL if one bag is lost." -- Corinne McDermott, Have Baby Will Travel
• "Book your accommodations directly on the hotel's own Web site. Join the hotel's mailing list and reward program. You'll get the guaranteed lowest rates without booking fees and burdensome cancellation polices." -- Pamela Jones, Travel Site Critic
• "Book your flight on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. Most of the airlines roll out their online sales in the beginning of the work week -- especially the domestic discount.” -- Caroline Costello, IndependentTraveler.com
• "Do away with bringing loads of money on European trips and simply pack your debit card. ATM machines are all over the place in major cities and work the same way as they do here in America.” -- Andrew Hickey, The Brooklyn Nomad
• "When we look back on a trip, our lasting memories are rarely of the many famous attractions we've visited or the places we've rushed through to snap a picture of that well-known monument. We are far more likely to remember that uncomfortable and scary journey across the mountains or the strangers we met in the one-horse town who became our good friends. So take the time to get to know the little places you visit and don't worry if you don't get to every place in the guidebook. We've learned this the hard way, and our itineraries now contain less than half of the stops that they did several years ago." -- Andy Jarosz, 501 Places
• "Low-cost airlines aren't always the cheapest. The ticket price may appear to be a bargain, but take a minute to tally the additional expenses. These include items such as booking fees, check-in baggage fees, advance seat reservation fees, and food and drinks on board." -- Keith Jenkins, Velvet Escape
• "Never forget that it's your vacation and there's no wrong way to do it. There's no such thing as a must-see attraction. If you want to travel all the way to Paris and order room service, that's your business. Do what feels fun to you." -- Jamie Pearson, Travel Savvy Mom

Have you ever wanted to enjoy the southern sun, while sipping on a delicious mint julep during one of the biggest sporting events of the year? The first race of the Triple Crown, The Kentucky Derby, is May 7^th, with thousands flocking to Louisville to see the pack of three-year-old Thoroughbred horses run for two minutes in an oval. A perfect vacation for seniors, the festivities last the full two weeks leading up to the event, with the largest fireworks display in North America, The Derby Marathon, and the Great Balloon Race. While you are in town, be sure to add these to your itinerary for your senior vacation:

• Get a Hot Brown from The Brown Hotel - http://www.brownhotel.com/dining-hot-brown.htm
• Attend Thunder Over Louisville
• Enjoy the Pegasus Parade
• Sip on a mint julep
• Sit in the grandstand on Derby Day
• Wear a big hat to the race

In his book, 100 Places To Go Before They Disappear, Desmond Tutu goes through 100 places around the globe in danger of disappearing. From ocean towns to whole countries, the book outlines what may happen due to global warming. Try to see at least a couple of these before they disappear for your next senior vacation or group travel, especially with the added benefit of senior air travel making it cheap to do so. The whole book is available May 1^st. Get out and see one of these on your next senior vacation, before they are gone forever!

1. Mississippi River Delta
2. Olympia, Greece
3. The Wadden Sea (southeastern part of the North Sea, touches Germany and the Netherlands)
4. The Battery, New York
5. Venice, Italy
6. Siberia, Russia
7. 7. Tuvalu – the whole nation could disappear!
8. Monteverde Could Forest, Costa Rica
9. The Thames, London
10. Big Sur, California

Tokyo is an amazing city that no trip through Asia should be without. The combination of natural beauty and an amazing history creates a never-sleeping nucleus for the world economy. With attractions for every senior trip, ranging from temples and shrines to corporate showrooms, this guide to Tokyo’s best freebies will have you traveling the city without spending more than it costs for the train ride there!

Parks… not gardens

• Kitanomaru-kōen new the Imperial Palace
• Yoyogi-kōen near Harajuku
• Ueno-kōen near Ginza

Temples, Shrines and Galleries

• Sensō-ji in Asakusa
• Meiji-jingū

Places to Enjoy…

• The world’s largest fish market: Tsukiji Central Fish Market
• Company showrooms, AKA mini-museums, like the Toyota Mega Web in Odaiba and the Sony Building in Ginza
• Bookstores! In Japan the art of yomitachi (a standing read) is normal – no one objects to going to a bookstore and reading the books or magazines for hours.

Just because a senior trip isn't in a different continent doesn’t mean your senior vacations are any less adventurous! You can even travel to another country while still traveling by car! Canada offers beautiful senior vacation destinations during the summer months. No humidity, a new culture to explore, and reasonably priced? Count me in! Taking our senior travel advice is completely up to you, but the following is a list of top cities throughout the US and Canada that offer families and seniors a range of activities, from white-water rafting to learning about our countries history and trekking up mountains to laying on the beach.

1. Portland, Oregon
   1. Average Summer temperature: 66°
   2. Reasons to go: terrific food, art-centric, farmers markets, breathtaking city views, water outings like fishing, cruises, tours, etc.
2. Denver, Colorado
   1. Average Summer temperature: 71°
   2. Reasons to go: fantastic parks offering bike trails, walking trails and beautiful landscapes for picnics;
3. Seattle, Washington
   1. Average Summer temperature: 64°
   2. Reasons to go:  Voted America’s #1 city for farmers markets, and fourth for parks, sailing, water sports,
4. San Diego, California
   1. Average Summer temperature: 70°
   2. Reasons to go: famers markets, open parks, terrific weather, world-renowned San Diego Zoo, Sea World,
5. Montréal, Canada
   1. Average Summer temperature: 70°
   2. Reasons to go:  Old Montreal; multi-cultural; Montreal Botanical Gardens; Museum of Fine Art; history
6. Minneapolis/St. Paul (Twin Cities), Minnesota
   1. Average Summer temperature: 71°
   2. Reasons to go: terrific live music venues; museums, sports centers (with a passionate hometown fan following);  theater
7. Providence, Rhode Island
   1. Average Summer temperature: 71°
   2. Reasons to go: the Providence Children’s Museum; School of Design Museum of Art; immense arts community; street shops; whale-watching trips
8. Williamsburg, Virginia
   1. Average Summer temperature: 75°
   2. Reasons to go:  Bush Gardens amusement park; historic interactions with a town filled with period-actors and re-enactments; close to Washington, D.C.
9. San Francisco, California
   1. Average Summer temperature: 61°
   2. Reasons to go: San Francisco Cable Car Museum; Aquarium of the Bay; Pier 39 open-air festival on Fisherman’s Wharf; San Francisco Bay tourism
10. Chicago, Illinois
    1. Average Summer temperature: 71°
    2. Reasons to go: The Navy Pier; cruises across Lake Michigan, water-side lounging on the many beach areas; Sears Tower; Shed Aquarium
11. Honolulu, Hawaii
    1. Average Summer temperature: 81°
    2. Reasons to go: amazing beaches, distinct culture, friendly natives, exciting outdoor adventures including helicopter rides, walks through the jungle and luaus, amazing water activities like renting a fishing boat, swimming, snorkeling, surfing and lounging!
12. Vancouver, Canada
    1. Average Summer temperature: 77°
    2. Reasons to go: in a word – scenery! The mountains and beaches offer outdoor fun for families of all interests
13. Boston, Massachusetts
    1. Average Summer temperature: 71°
    2. Reasons to go:  historic walks through the city like the Freedom Trail; Newberry Street, where there are countless shops and restaurants; Bunker Hill;
14. Las Vegas, Nevada
    1. Average Summer temperature: 89°
    2. Reasons to go: tons of family-themed adventures, as well as parents-only outings; water parks at hotel pools;
15. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
    1. Average Summer temperature: 75°
    2. Reasons to go: The Liberty Bell; Constitution Hall; National Constitution Center (perfect for kids with life-sized, interactive displays); Philadelphia Zoo,
16. Montauk, New York
    1. Average Summer temperature: 77°
    2. Reasons to go: cheaper, less crowded, and just as (if not more) breathtakingly beautiful than the Hamptons; surf; delicious food; waterfront
17. Anchorage, Alaska
    1. Average Summer temperature: 55°
    2. Reasons to go:  offers both city attractions and outdoor adventures

Unless you’ve been avoiding the media as much as possible during the last few months (and honestly, who could blame you if you did) you’ve been made aware that the charming second-in-line to the British thrown is getting hitched this spring. Prince William and fiancée Kate Middelton will be wed on Friday, April 29^th. Needless to say, London is being bombarded with those excited to see the couple, be in the presence of the queen, and partake in the festivities of the weekend. Westminster Abbey has housed the weddings of the British royals for centuries, and will be home to the most recent as well. If you are in the area and looking for hot tourist spots, look no further. Here are 10 senior trip destinations in London, taken from the DK Top London guide:

1. Tate Modern
2. London Eye
3. Houses of Parliament
4. Tate Britain Downing Street
5. Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum
6. Southbank Centre
7. Shakespeare's Globe
8. Imperial War Museum
9. Westminster Abbey

Looking for a weekend senior trip?  Bed and breakfasts are the way to receive an at-home and personalized feel, along with warm hospitality and conveniences a regular hotel offer.  Many have lavish estates while also offering a small neighborhood feel. One of the greatest draws of B&B’s are that they can be found in almost every nook and cranny of the United States, offering their services wherever you need them! Home cooked meals, and the personality of innkeepers are major advantages to choosing the alternative to a hotel stay.  Most B&B’s are individually owned, so you’ll rarely find two B&B’s alike.  Below is a list of bed and breakfast locations throughout the country that will help you make a vacation to remember. Devonfield Country Inn- Lee, Massachusetts: Set on a 32-acre meadow, this 2000-year old historic estate offers comfort with sophistication. Enjoy the delicate gardens with a full state of relaxation. Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about the Devonfield Country Inn at TripAdvisor. Rancho De La Osa Guest Ranch- Sasabe, Arizona:  A perfect location to take in the brilliant sunsets and mountain views.  This 200-year old ranch provides comfort surrounded by the great outdoors, while providing rest and relaxation for its guests.  Enjoy meal times focused on food and wine, and outdoor activities to compliment the breathtaking scenery. Find the best deals or make a reservation at the Rancho De La Osa Guest Ranch here. Coombs House Inn- Apalachicola, Florida:  An antique beauty set close to the beaches of St. George's Island.  Enjoy relaxing on the porch swings and rocking chairs, or take a trip through the town with free use of the Inn's bicycles. Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor. Touchstone Inn, Spa and Gallery- Taos, New Mexico: Considered to be located on medicine land by native peoples, this quaint location provides exquisite views.  USA Today says, "The Place to stay in Taos." With lush gardens, romantic commons, and cozy fireplaces, this inn is among the best the Southwest has to offer. Compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Touchstone Inn, Spa and Gallery at TripAdvisor. Milton House Inn Bed & Breakfast – Shenandoah Valley, Virginia: The Milton House Inn is a Southern colonial home from 1913 nestled between the Massanuten and Blue Ridge Mountains.  With local antique shops, vineyards, fishing, and hiking, a long weekend trip can be easily entertained. Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor. The St. Mary’s Inn- Colorado Springs, Colorado: A classic Queen Ann Mansion built in 1895; it is fully renovated for the perfect romantic getaway.  With a home away from home personality, this inn will go beyond expectations.  Enjoy a great night sleep to awake with a gourmet breakfast by Chef Conchita, the perfect start to any day. To make a reservation at the St. Mary's Inn click here.

When you plan a senior trip the first question to ask is: where should I go? No matter if you are participating in group travel or going solo, your destination creates the overarching mood for the entire trip. The National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Dozen Distinctive Destination program has recognized cities and towns throughout the US that offer an authentic visitor experience. This program uses multiple factors of a locations character to determine how well preserved a retirement destination spot is. Some of the measurement metrics include:

• Dynamic downtown life
• Cultural diversity
• Attractive architecture
• Cultural landscapes
• Strong commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization

• Alexandria, Virginia
• Chapel Hill, North Carolina
• Colorado Springs, Colorado
• Dandridge, Tennessee
• Eureka, California
• Muskogee, Oklahoma
• New Bedford, Massachusetts
• Paducah, Kentucky
• Saint Paul, Minnesota
• San Angelo, Texas

Ireland is an amazing senior vacation destination, filled with rolling green countryside, friendly locals, and thriving, entertaining metropolitan areas.  Although the city is completely westernized, the culture of the Irish people has lasted through the ages and can be seen and felt throughout the land. Dublin is one of the most popular travel destinations for seniors and families alike. Although Dublin is a relatively affordable European city, there are always ways to save a buck and stretch your Euros by visiting these free travel attractions throughout Dublin.

Museums

• The National Museum of Ireland
• Hugh Lane Municipal Gallery of Modern Art

Where to Get Away….

• St. Stephen’s Green
• Garden of Remembrance

Historical Structures

• Trinity College
• Leinster House

TripAdvisor.com, with the help of its users, put together a Top 10 Great Places to Discover in the United States in 2011 list. Although the list was geared towards families, we also think these places would make great senior trip destinations. All of these locations have great senior travel deals when it comes to hotel and senior transportation as well as activities suitable for independent travel, a couple’s getaway, or a family trip with the grandchildren.

1. Williamsburg, Virginia
2. Virginia Beach, Virginia
3. Lake George Region, New York
4. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
5. Branson, Missouri
6. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
7. Corpus Christi, Texas
8. Port Aransas, Texas
9. Daytona Beach, Florida
10. Destin, Florida