Forget Rocking Chairs! Boomers Are Rocking and Rolling in Retirement

Not too long ago, retirement was a time of relaxation and “aging gracefully.” Well, if playing golf, knitting and reading in your rocking chair is your idea of a good time, more power to you. But, taking it easy is no longer your only option. As we reach retirement age, more boomers than ever are saying no to rocking chairs and yes to rocking and rolling around the world.

Today, I read a story about a couple who decided to travel the world in retirement. Over the last 600 days, Debbie and Michael Campbell have visited 69 cities in 29 countries. To have authentic cultural experiences, they decided to stay in Airbnb homes, rather than expensive hotels.

There are two things that I love about the Campbell’s story. First, I respect the fact that they were willing to go after their “next big adventure,” rather than staying with what was comfortable. Second, the fact that they used Airbnb to save money and have genuine local experiences shows that our generation is more than willing to embrace new technologies when we have a reason to.

I’m completely aware that not everyone in the community has the financial resources to plan a trip like this. That’s not the point. The point is that we don’t know what is possible until we open our minds. Take travel, for example. There are even cheaper options than Airbnb, if you are willing to step out of your comfort zone. Couchsurfing, house sitting, hostels, and even monasteries, all offer cheap accommodation.

You don’t have to wait until retirement age to start chasing your dreams. If you take the time to research your options, I’m sure that you will find that you can explore the world for much less than you imagined. When you do, please share your experiences with all of us.

Have you ever used Airbnb, Couchsurfing? Have you tried house sitting, staying at a youth hostel or sleeping at a monastery? What was your experience? Please join the discussion.