Traveling is an excellent hobby that many people find comfort and delight in—it keeps people healthy, open-minded, and happy. Travel also promotes exercise, one of many leisure activities for seniors who finally have enough time and money on their hands to explore the wonders of the world. 

Nevertheless, traveling should be carefully planned, especially when people of the golden age are involved. Thorough preparation of the trip is needed to make sure that they are comfortable and safe throughout. This article will give you the necessary details to keep in mind for seniors who want to travel—may it be with someone else or by themselves.

Photo by Vidar Nordli-Mathisen on Unsplash

What’s the Importance of Traveling for Seniors?

There are many things to gain from this activity, and the following are a few reasons why seniors should engage in traveling:

It works as a Mood Booster.

People who have upcoming trips tend to feel excited about the future. There are positive feelings associated with the thought of experiencing something new and visiting places or countries they have always wanted to visit. Just thinking about traveling and planned activities help boost the overall mood, filling travelers with enthusiasm and happiness. 

It Spices Up Their Life.

For years, people might have worked the same job, lived in the same city, and done the same things every day. Most seniors want a change from their routines, which will bring more excitement to their life. Travel provides exposure to new places, food, and cultures, helping them escape dull 9-5 routines.

It Enhances Both The Body And Mind.

Part of the secret of looking younger includes happiness and being active—both of which travel will give to anyone. Seniors can remain active without undergoing extreme exercise programs. Walking while exploring places is already a form of activity, and they will not even think of it as exercise.

Senior adults will enrich their minds through stories and facts they will discover from different places. Through traveling, seniors can engage in physical and mental activities that will surely make them happy and healthy in their mind, body, and soul.

Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash

Tips When Traveling With Seniors

As mentioned earlier, traveling with seniors comes with a few challenges, but nothing that can’t be worked with. There might be a couple of adjustments needed to ensure that everything they need is available and they’ll remain comfortable throughout the journey.

Here are several tips that’ll help improve the experience of traveling with seniors:

Go over their Bucket List.

When traveling with seniors, you have to consider what they want instead of enforcing what you wish for them to do or visit. Have a friendly talk about traveling and the places they want to go to make sure they are interested in the itinerary.

Ask them if they’re going to travel alone or if they would prefer company. Make their needs and wants a priority—this time, you will be the one to fulfill their dreams.

Find Appropriate Travel Services.

Maybe the destination is incredible, but the journey matters a whole lot as well. You need to consider the means of transport, be it air or land transportation, to get the most direct and shortest travel time.

Make Sure Elderly Accommodation Is Available.

It is no secret that plane seats can be uncomfortable. For seniors who might need help, you need to request airline assistance in advance. 

If the senior needs a wheelchair, make sure to ask for it. For meal services onboard, don’t forget to inform the airline of any dietary needs. If the senior is traveling alone, ensure that they will have assistance from the check-in counter, through security, gate, embarking, and disembarking.

Secure Important Documents.

Aside from passports and plane tickets, confirm that you have enough copies of prescriptions and statements of medical conditions from physicians or medical centers.

Medicare and other insurance cards, itineraries, boarding passes, and medication names should be part of the document package. If you can, allow the companion (if there’s one) and someone at home to keep copies of the essential documents.

Ensure Efficient Packing.

Avoid packing too much that it ends up being a struggle to carry or transport luggage, especially if the person is traveling alone. Prioritize ergonomic backpacks and luggage that are lightweight and easy to travel with.

Photo by Arnel Hasanovic on Unsplash

Safety Precautions When Traveling with Seniors

Safety should always be at the top of the list when talking about senior travel. Seniors can be more prone to accidents and hospital stays. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when traveling:

Utilize Medical Alert Systems

Personal emergency response systems or medical alert systems are a quick and easy way for people to ask for help during an emergency. 

Medical alert systems are designed to signal an emergency to call urgent attention for medical personnel. This tool is very beneficial and almost imperative when the senior is traveling independently. The device will help the wearer call for help or assistance quickly without having to remember a phone number or have a phone nearby.

Medical alert systems providers offer a wide range of devices, features, options, and service plans to guarantee ease of use for seniors. All your senior family member or friend needs to do is press a button to contact the medical alert provider’s call center, and trained operators will respond 24/7, ready to send assistance as soon as possible.

Some medical alert systems have additional features, including fall detection sensors, GPS, caregiver tools, and environmental monitoring to ensure that the seniors are safe and sound wherever they are.

Get Travel Insurance.

Insurance is something everyone, regardless of age, should consider investing in. To read more about Travel Insurance for Seniors, click here. 

Track Eating Habits and Medication.

With traveling comes new experiences, and that includes food. With the variety of dishes and specialties available worldwide, it will not be surprising when travelers wish to taste every food on sight.

However, the older we get, the slower the digestion and the more sensitive a stomach can get. Seniors and companions must not forget about the diet restrictions they need to follow when traveling to ensure that they will not obtain undesirable events. 

Beware of heavy, spicy, or fatty dishes and food that could interact with medications. Consult with a doctor before going on a trip to be more informed about what food is and isn’t recommended. 

Final Thoughts

Remember the important things and stay safe throughout the whole trip, but do not forget to enjoy it to the fullest. Seniors should have the time of their lives going out of their comfort zones and relishing in the numerous beautiful offers of the world.

This article was written by a guest contributor.

The post The Why’s and How’s of Traveling with Seniors appeared first on Golden Age Trips.

Shell Tree at Shell Key Preserve

Shell Key is an undeveloped barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and the perfect getaway for those looking for a secluded beach, fishing opportunities, and bird watching. It is also where Shell Key Preserve is located, as the name suggests.

The Preserve on Shell Key is home to many species of migrating birds and also an important nesting area, not only for birds but also for turtles. Its access is only possible through water vessels, and camping is allowed (with permits), but keep in mind there are no facilities of any type (that means no bathrooms).

Please remember to follow all navigation and camping rules when visiting Shell Key. This is imperative to avoid disturbing the environment as much as possible. If you’re not familiar with Leave No Trace concepts, take a few minutes and take a look at this online awareness course.

Where in Florida is Shell Key Preserve?

Shell Key Preserve Location in Google Maps

How to get to Shell Key Preserve?

As mentioned earlier, the only way to reach Shell Key Preserve is in a water vessel.

If you own or are renting a boat, I’m probably not the best person to give you advice on how to navigate a boat around Shell Key, but the Friends of Shell Key wrote a helpful post about it. Click Here to Read ‘Navigating A Boat Around Shell Key.’

If you don’t own a water vessel, don’t fret, there are still ways you can get to Shell Key. The first one is the Ferry that leaves from the Fort De Soto Boat Ramp.

Fort De Soto

First things first, be aware that you’ll have to go through a few bridge tolls to get to Fort De Soto Park. The number of tolls will depend on where you’re coming from, so make sure your SunPass has money in it, or that you have cash on hand. Then, add a fee of $5.00 (at the moment of this publication), which you’ll pay at the entrance station or in pay stations located through the park.

For more information about what is there to see and do in Fort De Soto, take a look at ‘Visiting St. Petersburg’s Fort De Soto Park’. In this post, however, I’ll mainly focus on the ferry service from Fort De Soto to Shell Key Preserve.

Tampa Bay Ferry runs from and to the Fort De Soto Boat Ramp to Shell Key and Egmont Key. Times vary with the season, and I’ll recommend visiting the official website for official times and also for booking your tickets in advance.

Kayaking through mangroves at Shell Key Preserve

Another way you can reach Shell Key Preserve is with a kayak. If you own or rent a kayak, there are a few places from where you can launch it, but one of the most popular spots is the Pinellas Bayway Kayak & SUP Launch.

Various companies provide guided kayak tours, and you can find them all with a quick search on your favorite search engine of  ‘Shell Key Preserve Kayak Tours.’

The company I used is called Get Up and Go Kayaking, and I have no complaints. Their launching spot is directly on Shell Key waters, and their guides were helpful and also knowledgeable about the area. Another plus is that the company kayaks are clear, and you never know what you’re going to see on your tour.

Things to do in Shell Key Preserve

• Boating
• Fishing
• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Shelling
• Swimming
• Camping
• Bird watching

Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

Additional Resources to help you plan your visit to Shell Key Preserve in Tierra Verde, FL (USA)

Not a fan of camping? Check out Airbnb options close to Fort De Soto and get $40.00 Off on Your First Booking.

Book a stay at the Residence Inn St. Petersburg Tierra Verde (8 min. from Fort De Soto). 

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Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first. This hotel stay was not sponsored. 

Location

Location of the Moxy Boston Downtown hotel. Please note: price will vary with different search parameters.

The location of the Moxy Boston Downtown is on the Boston Theater District. For the exact location in Google Maps, click here. 

The Boston Theater District encompasses buildings such as the Boston Opera House, the Modern Theatre, and the Paramount Theatre. The previously mentioned structures also form part of the Washington Street Theater District, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. 

When here, you’re less than five walking minutes away from Chinatown. Additionally, if walking, seven minutes is all you need to reach Boston Common, America’s oldest city park. 

If you are not renting a car or using a ridesharing service to get you from the airport to the hotel, there are public transit options that’ll take you to the Boston Theater District. 

Parking

Moxy Boston Downtown – Valet Parking

The options for parking at the Moxy Boston Downtown are the following:

Valet Parking – $58.00 USD (price subject to change) per night with in-and-out privileges.

Parking Reservation Service – I have seen more and more people, especially from big cities, recommend apps such as Spot Hero to reserve parking in downtown areas. However, as it happens with ridesharing services, prices fluctuate depending on demand. 

For more information about How and Where to Park in Downtown Boston click here.

I have not written a guide about Downtown Boston (yet), but for now, I’ll recommend visiting the following places which are at walking/public transit distance from the Moxy Boston Downtown:

Filete a la Plantxa from Toro Boston

Massachusetts State House

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Boston Public Market

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Stops on the Freedom Trail 

Cambridge, Massachusets

Places to eat:

Modern Pastry

Toro Boston

Mamma Maria

Rooms

Hotel Rooms in large cities are not known for being spacious. However, at the Moxy Boston Downtown, they’re doing all they can to maximize space and efficiency (at least in the Center Stage room where I stayed).

For example, the rooms have a small desk, a peg wall where you can hang your coat and accessories, and a chair near a Queen bed with a floor to ceiling window behind it. Yet, what I appreciated the most was the decent sized shower and bathroom. 

Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a place with a functional kitchen or microwaves and mini-fridges, this hotel is not for you. Also, the hotel iron is shared with rooms on the same floor as you—something to keep in mind. 

Facilities & Customer Service

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sheila Berrios | Travel Writer (@goldenagetrips) on Nov 19, 2019 at 10:10am PST

After entering the hotel doors, you’ll notice this is not your typical hotel. There are ‘instagrammable’ spots everywhere, from colorful walls to the stylish hotel lobby. 

When checking in, with your key, you get a voucher to use at the bar for a complimentary drink. The Moxy Hotels website states: “we don’t take ourselves too seriously.”; nonetheless, every employee I interacted with appeared to be enjoying its work but also taking their functions seriously. 

In Summary

Moxy Downtown Boston Lobby

Pros:

• The Moxy Boston Downtown hotel is in an excellent location. It is close to many touristy spots, and also not far from MBTA Stations and Stops.
• For two people, the room and bathroom are a nice size, and I can only see the room size being an issue with bigger parties. 
• The decoration in the rooms and through the hotel is stylish and modern.
• Because of the hotel’s height, there are some fabulous views of the Boston skyline from some of the rooms. 
• The customer service was excellent. 

Cons:

• If you’re taking your own or renting a car, the parking fees will add up.
• No mini-fridge or microwave.
• No free breakfast.

Book Moxy Boston Downtown Here.

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Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

Woodford Reserve Visitor’s Center Whiskey Display

We arrived at noon on a Friday, after an almost two-hour flight from Tampa International Airport. The plan was to rent a car from Friday to Saturday and stay in Frankfort, Kentucky’s capital, for the night. 

Then, on Saturday afternoon, we were going to return the vehicle and use a ridesharing service to get to Downtown Louisville. From here, we were going to depart on Monday. 

At first, three nights and four days appeared to be sufficient to explore Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail. The truth is, to keep ourselves relatively sober, and to be able to explore something else than distilleries in Louisville, we only visited four of the 18 distilleries on the bourbon trail. 

We also visited two distilleries that aren’t listed on the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail, but that in no way are less in any sense than those that are. 

The following is a recap (avoiding to regurgitate the tour) of those distilleries visited, what makes them unique, what you need to know before you go, and where to stay and eat if exploring Frankfort and Louisville, KY. 

But before, a quick introduction to what can be called bourbon:

• It has to be aged in new and charred white oak containers. 
• The mash bill has to contain more than 51% of corn. 
• It has to be made in the United States.

Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY)

Rickhouse at Buffalo Trace Distillery

The first distillery we visited was Buffalo Trace Distillery, which surprisingly is not part of the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Buffalo Trace Distillery also happens to be the oldest distillery of those visited. 

We took part in The Trace Tour, a one-hour complimentary tour offered seven days a week (always check the official distilleries websites for the most accurate information regarding dates and hours). 

Here, Alice (our guide) took our group for a walk and talked about the history and products of Buffalo Trace. She also mentioned how the facility is undergoing an expansion of 1.2 Billion Dollars pledged by Sazerac, its parent company.

Under a bright but chilly day and the smell of cooked mash, Alice also explained to the tough crowd the differences between the warehouses (known as rickhouses because they are aging Whiskey). Additionally, we had the opportunity to visit one of the rickhouses where humidity and the smell of Whiskey teems. 

To end our tour, we tasted four of the Buffalo Trace distillery products: White Dog, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, and Bourbon Cream. 

Woodford Reserve Distillery (Versailles, KY)

Charred white oak barrels at Woodford Reserve Distillery

On a Saturday morning, right after breakfast, we drove to the Woodford Reserve Distillery. A quick but lovely ride through Kentucky’s horse country. 

This was the drive to the @WoodfordReserve Distillery in Versailles, KY. Wasn’t it nice? pic.twitter.com/oAydH5z1zt

— Sheila Berrios (@goldenagetrips) February 20, 2020

We arrived at the Welcome Center to check-in for the tour, which I recommend you reserve in advance. Then, after being called by the guide, we hopped on a shuttle bus to cross the street and go to the actual distillery. 

Here, guests appeared to be in a better mood than in Buffalo Trace, if I have to guess why the difference, probably because of the milder weather. 

An overpowering corn smell hit our nose after getting out of the shuttle bus and entering the first building. In this structure, there were vats with mash at different stages of fermentation that we were allowed to taste. 

Then, came the gasps. We had entered the still room. One of the most impressive still rooms I have seen in the United States, with its three larger than life copper stills flanking one of the room sides. I haven’t been that impressed about a still room since visiting the Jameson Distillery in Midleton Ireland. 

Furthermore, it is interesting to know that according to our guide, it wasn’t until the Bourbon Boom of the 90’s that the facilities of Woodford Reserve Distillery started to get upgraded. In her words, the place was “rundown.” 

There was also a visit to one of the rickhouses, where a strong bourbon smell and the clickity-clack of the pipes envelope the white oak barrels until they are ready. 

Before getting back on the shuttle bus, the tour guide stated (the only distillery that did) how we cannot forget the enslaved people that are also part of the history of American Whiskey. Much information was not provided, except that at some point, there were enslaved people working the property. However, to learn more, the article Slavery in American Whiskey by Fred Minnick is a good start. 

To finish the tour, we tasted samples of Woodford Reserve, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon Whiskey (Hector’s, my husband, favorite bourbon of the trip), and Woodford Reserve Rye Whiskey. And then, to Louisville. 

Angel’s Envy Distillery (Louisville, KY)

Angel’s Envy Distillery Tasting Room 

Already in Downtown Louisville, in the street known as Whiskey Row, we checked in for our Inside the Barrel tour. This tour includes the Signature Tour basics but focuses on the secondary barrels and the finishing process of the product. 

First, you’ll learn that Angel’s Envy Distillery is a family enterprise. With the son, and three grandsons of Lincoln Henderson (its founder) working on the distillery. 

Then you’ll see that by produced volume, it is almost a craft distillery. Its size is considerably smaller compared with other distilleries such as Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve. Nonetheless, it is still larger than expected when you remember you are in Downtown Louisville. 

There are no rickhouses because that would be a fire hazard. But they do the second finishing on-site. It was interesting to see the Port and Rum Barrels, which looked straight out of a Pirate Ship. 

The samples offered at the end of the tour were Angel’s Envy Bourbon Finished in Port Casks, Angel’s Envy Rye Finished in Rum Barrels, and Unfinished Rye straight from the barrel. 

Most tours include a bourbon ball with their whiskey samples, but the best chocolate pairing hands down was the one provided at the Angel’s Envy Distillery. Here, they had two chocolates from Art Eatables, and the chocolate orange Chimeres were not only outstanding by themselves, but also with the Whiskey. 

Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery (Louisville, KY)

The Boulevardier (A Negroni, but substitute Gin with Bourbon) at The Bar at Fort Nelson

Unfortunately, tours were sold out for Sunday at the Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery. Yet, we were able to visit ‘The Bar at Fort Nelson,’ and buy a flight of the Michter’s US 1 Whiskeys. The whiskey flight included the US 1 Kentucky Straight Rye, US 1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon, US 1 American Whiskey, and US 1 Sour Mash. 

Evan Williams Experience (Louisville, KY)

Barrel Strenght Evan Williams Bourbon at the Evan Williams Speakeasy Tasting Experience

At the Evan Williams Experience, we chose to do the Speakeasy Tasting Experience. This experience does not include a tour through production or bottling, and as you can guess by the name, a speakeasy is involved.

I don’t want to spoil the experience for you if you decide to go, but I can tell you that it was entertaining, informative, and fun. It also includes a souvenir. 

Here, aside from Evan Williams Bourbon (including barrel strength), we sampled the Evan Williams 12-year Bourbon, which can only be purchased at the Kentucky gift shop or Japan. People in Kentucky say the best bourbon is the one you like the most, and I had to say for me this was it. 

Peerless Distilling (Louisville, KY)

Peerless Distilling Single Barrel Tasting Selection

Our flight was leaving Monday afternoon, so we were able to squeeze one more distillery on Monday morning. This distillery was craft distillery Peerless Distilling. 

Peerless Distillery history starts in Henderson County, Kentucky, and you’ll learn in the tour how history is being made in Downtown Louisville. 

You’ll also discover how the distillery carries and proudly displays the DSP-KY-50 (Distilled Spirits Plant Number) number when the distillery opened in 2015. 

At this place, everyone seems to be enjoying what they do. They’re also more than willing to answer your questions and show you things you don’t typically see in other distilleries tour.

I’ll never forget seeing our tour guide opening and dumping a barrel that’ll be sold as “Single Barrel Bourbon.” It is also not every day that a Master Distiller (Caleb Kilburn) stops to asks us how we like the tour and engaging and answering questions from the group. 

Barrel Dump @kypeerless. First time I’ve seen one! Thanks for letting our tour group be part of it. pic.twitter.com/n4w1t9BUr3

— Sheila Berrios (@goldenagetrips) February 21, 2020

The samples offered at the end of the tour were from Single Barrel Bourbons and Single Barrel Rye (which Hector says is the best rye he has tasted) that are only available at the distillery.

Before you go

• Most distilleries won’t allow you to go on a tour if you’re wearing high heels or open-toed shoes.
• Because most distilleries are also production and packing facilities, make sure to follow instructions and respect rules. 
• Not all distilleries offer tours every day. Plan accordingly and reserve in advance when possible. 
• If going during the Summer, keep in mind some areas might be hot and humid. If going during the Winter, there might be a chance of snow and ice on the roads and walking paths. 

Where to Eat

Butchertown Grocery Bakery Detroit Style Pepperoni Pizza

Frankfort, KY

In Downtown Frankfort, check out Capital Cellars. This store combines a restaurant, bar, and liquor store, and does it effortlessly. Frequented by many locals and the occasional tourist, here you can get lunch or dinner and pair it with an Old Fashioned made with your favorite bourbon.

If undecided on what to eat, the Bourbon Bacon Jam Sandwich and the Bourbon Pimento Cheese are both delicious. Just remember, if you’re planning to drink, do not drive. 

Two other restaurants in Frankfort that were recommended by locals, but we couldn’t try were The Stave and Gibby’s. 

Louisville, KY

In Louisville, for breakfast or lunch, consider going to Butchertown Grocery Bakery, where we enjoyed a crispy, cheesy, and savory Detroit Style Pizza. There are also sandwiches, pastries, salads, and coffee. Another breakfast/lunch option is Biscuit Belly. The “Damn Good Biscuits” tagline is not an exaggeration, and both The Rockwell and Mama’s Boys passed with excellent marks. 

Please note that if you go during a weekend (especially after 9:00 am), prepare yourself to wait in line for 10-15 minutes or more. 

For dinner, if you like Mexican food, don’t hesitate to make a reservation at The Mayan Cafe. Some of the items on the menu that I can recommend are the Yucatec Sabultes, Cochinita Pibil, and the Mayan Burger. 

Another restaurant we enjoyed during our visit was Butchertown Grocery. Yes, it is ‘related’ to the bakery. Here, the standouts were the Bourbon Barrel Smoked Pork Belly, Gnocchi, Hanger Steak, and Beignets. 

Where to Stay

Frankfort, KY

In Frankfort, the Home2 Suites by Hilton Frankfort is on a strategic location between many distilleries, including the Woodford Reserve Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery. Parking and breakfast are complimentary, and the rooms are spacious. Aside from its proximity to distilleries, it is not far (about 12 minutes) from Downtown Frankfort. There are also numerous fast food joints near the hotel. Book it Here. 

Louisville, KY

In Louisville, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown is not only walking distance to a few attractions such as the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, but it is also close to the Frazier History Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. Parking is not free, but in our experience, walking and using rideshare services was the way to go. Your hotel stay includes breakfast, and if you stay during weekdays, it also includes an evening reception. Book it Here.

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Palmer Ranch Station Trailhead Marker at the Legacy Trail in Sarasota County

“It’s not poisonous,” I muttered to myself for reassurance while speeding up my walk and holding my breath.

Thankfully, in only a few steps, we arrived at the Palmer Ranch Station to a paved and open road where I could exhale and forget, at least for now, about the snake rhyme. Nonetheless, I began to understand why the Legacy Trail seems to be more popular with bikers than with walkers. 

The Legacy Trail in Sarasota County spans (for now) almost 11 miles, and according to the Friends of the Legacy Trail, where the trail today is, a stretch of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad used to be in function between the 1910s and the early 1990s. 

During these nine decades, these rails were transported from produce to minerals to vacationers to cadets. The tracks were also an essential part of the Barnum & Bailey Circus and its winter operations. 

I only became aware of its existence because there was a citizen-amendment for a nine-mile extension on the November 2018 ballot. It passed by an overwhelming majority of 70.6% (which seldom happens), and I was intrigued. 

Catfish Creek Bridge

I had seen a few pictures online, but in person, it looked even better. A mostly even and flat surface, flanked by wildflowers, palms, and the occasional swamp. I had planned to walk, yet I felt the pavement was daring me to run. “This place is great for a run,” Héctor said. I was not the only one being tempted. 

But, we did not run. We wanted to walk at least five or six miles, and we decided to save our energy. For the most part, the walk was quiet and positively uneventful. At times we would hear a cycling bell from a bicycle or only its spinning wheels. Even fewer were the times we heard or saw people walking or running. Only once we saw a group of what appeared to be Boy Scouts in one of the rest stops. 

As clichéd as it sounds, walking along the trail makes it easy to be alone with your thoughts and also alone with nature. 

The only times you are “thrown” on the busy Florida streets and at the noise that accompanies them is when you have to cross a street. Contrary to what’s typical in the area, there are marked crosswalks with warning light systems. Still, look both ways before crossing. 

Crosswalk

“We should probably head back.” I reluctantly said when we reached the trailhead at the Oscar Scherer State Park. There were mixed feelings. I would have liked to see more of the trail, but I knew I had to walk back the same distance I had already walked. 

We were accompanied in our walk by an old guy with a cassette player on our way back. I would lie if I said I was not curious about what he was listening to. Whatever it was, it seems it was motivating him. The more we walked, the more difficult it was getting for us to keep up with him. 

At one point, we stopped trying to play catch up, and that’s when I saw it — “a bald eagle!”. Not caring that thanks to conservation efforts, it has gotten more common to see them in the Sarasota area, I still get as excited watching the United States national bird as the first time I saw one. Sadly, I didn’t have my camera with me, and there are only sad attempts for pictures. 

Aside from a few birds of the heron family, the southern black racer, and the bald eagle, the only other animal we spotted was a Florida box turtle.

The bird spotting gave us the energy we needed to get back to where we started. Now, I had to conquer my fears on the small path between the Legacy Trail and the parking. Though, this time the southern black racer was not going to catch me by surprise. “It’s not poisonous,” I muttered to myself while speeding up the walk. 

References: 

The Legacy Trail|Sarasota County, FL Official Website

Wikipedia contributors. (2020, January 29). Seaboard Air Line Railroad. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 03:02, February 5, 2020, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Seaboard_Air_Line_Railroad&oldid=938111976

Rodriguez, N. (2018, November 7). Sarasota referendums pass, what does that mean? Herald Tribune. Retrieved from https://www.heraldtribune.com/news/20181107/sarasota-referendums-pass-what-does-that-mean

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Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

Peacock at the Jungle Prada Site.

As it frequently happens, I was wondering where to go during the weekend. A place that wasn’t too far from Lakewood Ranch/Sarasota, too expensive, and that wouldn’t consume all day. Groupon and its ‘Things to Do’ came to the rescue, and I ventured to go to a place I have never heard before, the Prada Jungle Site in St. Petersburg, Florida. 

If you’re familiar with the city of St. Petersburg, you may have heard about the Jungle Prada de Narváez Park. The Prada Jungle Site is nearby the park, but unlike the park, the site is not public and can only be accessed through a private guided tour. The site also has a small museum and shop, a well-preserved American Indian mound, and the guide’s knowledge that only years of research can provide.

Booking the tour was as easy as buying the Groupon and then making a call to the phone number on the voucher to reserve a spot. But, on the Jungle Prada Site Tour website, there’s a SignUp link where you can also book your space online. 

Greenhouse/museum interior. Jungle Prada Tour starts here.

On the day of the tour, we arrived a bit early. Nonetheless, we were granted access to the site about half an hour before our scheduled visit. The extra time allowed us for a sneak peek of the grounds and a few photos on its picturesque locations.

After thirty minutes, we gathered on the site’s greenhouse for a short video, and an introduction by our guide, David. Here David talked about what to expect during the tour, and about those that had called this 3-acre waterfront their home before his family did. 

Some of its known ex-residents include the Tocobaga Indians and members of an expedition led by Spanish conquistador Pánfilo de Narváez in 1528. The archaeological evidence on the site consists of what has been called the “best-preserved American Indian mound in the Tampa Bay area” left by the Tocobaga Indians. 

Walking the Prada Jungle site gardens.

This Indian mound appears to be ceremonial, and not necessarily a burial mound. In actuality, it is known as the Anderson-Narváez Mound. Anderson because of the family that has owned and preserved the property for more than fifty years. Narváez because of the suspected landing of Pánfilo de Narváez in the area.

From the greenhouse, we parted to tour the grounds. Peacocks (and peahens), live oaks, cedars, cacti, and stones from all the United States are some of the fauna, flora, and features you’ll see on the Jungle Prada Site. 

The view to Boca Ciega Bay, an aquatic preserve is guaranteed to stop you in your tracks. All of this, while David talks to you about not only the history of the site but the plants (his specialty), helps you spot the peacocks and answers questions you might have. 

Boca Ciega (Blind Mouth) Bay View from Jungle Prada grounds.

One of the final stops of the tour is the Anderson-Narváez Mound. Here you understand why this Tocobaga Indian Mound has the reputation of being well preserved, and you’ll be surprised by the number of artifacts on display. It is important to note that this is the only part of the tour that’s not wheelchair accessible, but you still can appreciate it from a short distance if needed. 

Anderson-Narváez Mound,  one of the best-preserved Tocobaga Indian Mounds in the Tampa Bay Area.

To conclude the tour, David takes you back to the greenhouse/museum to finish a story he started in the introduction (I won’t spoil it for you). It’s the grand finale of a tour that I booked mostly for the peacocks, but where I stayed for the history.

For tour times, prices, and special events, visit the Jungle Prada Site Tour website.

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Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

Choose a color palette. 

Colormind Desktop Screenshot – After generating a color palette, I locked two colors that I liked for my travel-themed Halloween party, and kept ‘generating’ a palette until I was satisfied with the results.

If you can’t come up with colors you’ll like to use in your travel-themed Halloween party, use a color scheme generator. My favorite is Colormind because it not only generates random color palettes, but you can also lock colors and upload images. Colormind will take this image and extract the colors that complement each other best to generate a color palette.

Set a theme.

After setting down on the color palette, it is now time to set a theme. Yes, it’s a travel-themed Halloween party. But don’t be too general. Some ideas to help narrow it down are:

Another interactive option is to let your guests brag about where they have traveled with this Scratch Off World Map Poster. You could even give out a special prize to the person that has traveled the most, and one to the person that has traveled less.

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Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

Location in Florida (USA) of Loaded Cannon Distillery

I’ve been glancing at the building that houses Loaded Cannon Distillery for the past months. Is on the way of two places I often visit, the gym and the neighborhood brewery. Because of this, you can imagine my happiness when I found out the distillery was finally open to the public, and ready to offer tasting tours. Not a week went by, and a Saturday afternoon in July I went to see and taste what had been distilling while I’ve been driving past it.

Getting to and Parking 

Lucky for me, I get out of ‘my suburb’ and drive straight. The official address says Bradenton, but it is on Lakewood Ranch grounds. When around the area, use this list of 20 Things to Do in Lakewood Ranch, Florida as your unofficial guide.

If you’re not from around, here is the direct Google Maps link to Loaded Cannon Distillery. You can also use a ridesharing service if you’re planning to drink more than the samples.

Regarding parking, the distillery is located in a Business/Industrial park, and plenty of parking is available.

Booking a Tour

Treasure chests at the entrance of Loaded Cannon Distillery

Reservations are encouraged by the distillery, and I recommend them too. The day of our visit, most tours were almost full, which meant some people had to wait between half an hour and an hour for the next tour if they didn’t have reservations.

You can call in advance, and book a timeslot, so you don’t have to wait until a next tour (if there’s space). Please visit the official website for more information regarding tour times & prices.

Loaded Cannon Distillery Tour & Tasting

Tasting Room area. You don’t need to go on a tour to purchase one of the Loaded Cannon spirits or get some sweet merch.

We were lucky to have Steve, owner/founder/distillation engineer/ as our tour guide. There’s no better person to tell you the stories of Loaded Cannon and its spirits than him. I won’t spoil the stories for you, but they all involve pirates and the high seas.

Steve also goes into detail about what it takes to make the different spirits at the facility. There’s gin, vodka, rum (white, spiced, and toasted coconut), whiskey, and bourbon. Some are ready to go with you, some are still in production, but you won’t leave disappointed.

To finish the tour, Michelle, who oversees many things, from special events, marketing, brand management to the tasting room shared with us a few samples from the array of spirits the distillery has produced. My personal favorites: the gin (Margoza’s Gin) and the toasted coconut rum (PYRACY toasted coconut).

As a gin person, I can say it’s an all-around great American Gin. The citrus and hibiscus flavors and aromas pair wonderful and give this gin a clean yet bold taste.

The toasted coconut rum it’s also something special. You have to smell and taste it to believe it. If you ever had toasted coconut rum, it probably had an extract added to the base. Here at Loaded Cannon, they use real coconuts.

As a former Analytical Chemist and Quality Manager in the food industry, I commend them for their efforts. Having to distill, test, and validate this rum is no easy feat because of the presence of oils and sugar.

However, at Loaded Cannon, they’re not going for easy. They’re going for unique, and I can tell you they’re on the right path.

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Atlanta’s Buckhead

Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

How to get to Atlanta, GA?

Driving – The major Interstate Highways that’ll take you to Atlanta are Interstate 85 (I-85) and Interstate 75 (I-75). I-85 is a Northeast-Southwest route that runs across Alabama up to Virginia. I-75 is a North-South route that goes from Florida to Michigan.

As long as there are no traffic incidents, these are your best options. However, I recommend not driving during peak hours because traffic can get extremely congested.

As always, we recommend downloading an offline version of the map of where you are traveling. Having an offline ‘copy’ of the map will come in handy in situations where you don’t have cellular coverage or data for any reason. Google explains here how to do it.

By Train – The closest Amtrak Station is Peachtree Station. From there, you can connect with MARTA, the city’s rapid transit system. You can also use a ridesharing app, or catch a cab to move around the city.

By Bus – Atlanta is serviced by Greyhound, and here is a link with the address of its bus station location. From there, you can connect with MARTA, the city’s rapid transit system. You can also use a ridesharing app, or catch a cab to move around the city.

By Plane – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Aiport (ATL) is one, if not the most, world’s busiest airport. The upside to it is that there are a vast amount of flights to and from Atlanta at decent prices. Here you can pick up a rental car, connect with MARTA, call a cab, or use a ridesharing app.

Should I book a car for Atlanta, GA?

I’m going to say yes if you’re planning to go somewhere else than the Downtown/Midtown areas. I’m going to say no if you’re not used to driving in busy cities and only exploring the Downtown.

Renting a car in Atlanta doesn’t have to be expensive, and sometimes it can help you save money. Hotels in Downtown ATL can get pricy,  and staying in the outskirts of the city can help stretch your budget.

CheapOair typically has Exclusive Car Deals. Take up to $10.00 off their fees with Promo Code CAR10 and Book Now!

How many days to spend in Atlanta, GA?

After you finish reading this article, you’ll realize there are lots to do. The minimum recommended stay for you to experience at least a bit of everything would be a three day/two-night stay.

Where to stay in Atlanta, GA?

 

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View from a corner room at The Westin – Buckhead.

Before you make a choice, make sure to read ‘How to Avoid a Disastrous Stay at a Hotel.’ The following Atlanta hotels are my preferred choices, and those that I can recommend based on me having stayed in them, or someone I trust.

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center: It would be difficult to find a better location than the one this hotel has. Almost every major attraction in Downtown Atlanta is at walking distance, or a short Uber or Lyft ride away.

The Westin – Buckhead: A beautiful, clean hotel in a lovely location. The Lennox Mall is right beside it. I felt spoiled by the hotel when I visited after they assigned me a corner suite. The views were unbelievable, and the room was spacious.

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead: This hotel used to be Atlanta’s Mandarin Oriental, but not anymore. However, it is still a 5-star hotel, and if it is in your budget, it has exceptional spa facilities. It is located on Peachtree Street in the prestigious Buckhead neighborhood.

Emory Conference Center Hotel:  A hotel designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Located in a gorgeous forest preserve where I slept like a baby. I have found the rates to be similar (and even cheaper) than those in Downtown Atlanta on many occasions. It does book fast, so don’t wait until the last minute.

Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Perimeter Dunwoody:  This Hampton is 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta, but it still has excellent amenities and is close to many shops and restaurants. It also includes free breakfast and parking, which is not easy to find in city center hotels.

Another option is to stay on an Airbnb. Click here to receive $40 off your first trip of $75 or more after signing up.

What to pack for Atlanta, GA?

Weather in Atlanta fluctuates from ‘balmy’ during Early Spring and Late Fall, to warm and incredibly hot during the summer. During ‘winter’ there are rare occasions where it snows but is never the norm.

Because of this never forget sunblock, mosquito repellent, sunglasses, and ‘hot weather appropriate clothes.’ Also, if you’re going out for dinner don’t think people will be in flip-flops, tank tops, and shorts. Locals and visitors alike tend to put a bit of effort into how they look when going out, so don’t forget about that when packing clothes.

Regarding makeup, I made a list for Florida, but that also applies to anywhere where it’s warm and humid. Click here to read ‘The Only Makeup You Need for a Florida Vacation.’

Where to eat/drink in Atlanta, GA?

Atlanta’s Buttermilk Kitchen

If there’s something not lacking in Atlanta, its excellent food. The tricky thing with recommending places to eat is that what I think is tasty, might not be your cup of tea. But, I’ll highlight two places where I always (and I mean always) stop when I visit ATL.

Buttermilk Kitchen – I’ll dare you to not add the Buttermilk Kitchen to your ‘Top Something Breakfast Places in the USA’ list after visiting. I’m not sure if it is the fresh and local ingredients, the talented chefs, the exceptional service, its rustic decoration, or all of the above, but this place is special. You will not be disappointed ordering any of the following: Pimento Omelet, Chicken Biscuit, Pimento Grits, Housemade Jelly, House Blend Coffee, and probably the rest of the menu.

Bonus Tip: The Buttermilk Kitchen does not accept reservations. I had no issues visiting on Fridays (at the most a 10-min wait), but during the weekend you need to be prepared to wait longer. 

The Vortex Bar & Grill – The Vortex has two locations. I have only visited the one in Little Five Points, and because of how consistently good the food is I haven’t felt the need to betray it. If you enjoy burgers, this is an obligated stop. I’ll always go for the Classic Bypass and the Dixie Wrecked Taters with their homemade white sausage gravy. The Vortex House Beer is also a crowd pleaser.

Bonus Tip: The Vortex Bar & Grill is, as the name says it, a bar. Because of this, you will only be able to enter if you’re over 21+ Years Old. 

Martin Luther King, Jr. & Coretta Scott King Resting Place

What attractions are a must on a visit to Atlanta, GA?

• World of Coca-Cola
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Center for Civil and Human Rights

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The good news is, as a Medicare beneficiary you will be entitled to some foreign benefits in the case of an emergency. But as expected, the foreign coverage is not as comprehensive as you would expect here in the states. Keep reading to find out all you need to know about traveling outside the USA with Medicare.

Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

Original Medicare Foreign Coverage

With Original Medicare coverage alone, the situations in which you will be covered abroad are quite situational.

For a nationalized system like Medicare, the tight foreign regulations are understandable as it could become quite a headache to create a synchronized health coverage system that worked no matter where beneficiaries were in the world.

Here are the situations in which you can count on Medicare to cover you outside of the United States:

• If you have a medical emergency requiring medical attention, on your way to or from Alaska by way of Canada – Medicare will cover your treatment in a Canadian facility.  
• In the case you have a medical emergency or non-emergency situation while in the U.S. or its’ territories, and the nearest hospital is in another country. It typically applies to Canada or Mexico, and you would be covered by Medicare at the nearest hospital.
• If you are on a cruise ship and 6 hours away from a U.S. port, Medicare will cover your medical services at the nearest facility.

To summarize, if you are near the United States or in a border area, Medicare may cover in an emergency at the closest hospital in proximity to you.

How Medicare Works Outside of the USA?

Since you will be in a foreign facility, Medicare may not cover services in the same way as they do in the United States. Additionally, foreign facilities may not accept Medicare or be willing to bill Medicare for your treatment.

Foreign providers and hospitals are not required to submit your claim to Medicare, though some will have a process in place to do so. If you find yourself in a situation where a foreign hospital or provider will not coordinate with Medicare, you will need to pay out-of-pocket.

If you end up covering your medical bills on your own, be sure to save every bill and receipt to submit for Medicare reimbursement when you return to the U.S.

In the same way, billing may be different abroad. Also, the way Medicare will cover services is different. For example, Medicare Part B will only cover non-emergency services if your inpatient hospital stay is covered.

Additional Medicare Coverage Options Abroad

We’ve looked at how Original Medicare will cover you abroad. Now let’s look at how Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans will work while you’re out of the country.

Medicare Advantage outside the USA

Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are federally regulated private plans. Since these plans are offered through private insurance companies, there are thousands of options available with varying coverage.

With so many available options, your out-of-network benefits can vary. However, you can count on every Medicare Advantage plan having foreign emergency travel coverage. Review your Summary of Benefits to know exactly what kind of coverage your Medicare Advantage plan has and what your share of any emergency costs may be.

Medicare Supplement outside the USA

Medicare supplement plans are an add-on option to Original Medicare plans that fill in the out-of-pocket gaps. These plans are popular among many beneficiaries for their comprehensive coverage.

The great thing is, there are six Medicare supplement plans available that cover up to 80 percent of expenses in the case of a foreign emergency, with a lifetime limit of $50,000. The emergency must occur within 60 days of you leaving the United States, so it’s not a benefit that was intended for long-term travel.

Just like in the states, a Medicare supplement plan will only cover services that Medicare also approves and will pay after Medicare covers their portion.

In Conclusion

Medicare will travel with you as you travel abroad, but not as comprehensively as you would count on it to do at home. It is best to have a supplemental option in addition to Medicare as well as a short-term travel policy.

You can never be overprepared when it comes to your health coverage while traveling outside of the country.

Guest contributor Danielle Kunkle has written the previous article. Danielle specializes in writing content that helps people understand Medicare – what it is, which part covers what, etc. She’s also on the Forbes finance council as their Medicare expert. 

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