Retirement holidays: 5 once-in-a-lifetime adventures that are perfect for a retirement trip

Sarra Gray
Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:43:39 +0000

Retirement deserves to be celebrated, and what better way than by booking a once-in-a-lifetime holiday?

For those not sure where to go, a travel expert shared five must-try holiday experiences and the destinations where you will find them.

Retirement travel has seen a spike in interest, with searches up 138 per cent in the past quarter alone. With no time restrictions, Britons can head further afield and for longer, and the flexibility allows them to avoid peak times and even save money.

Travel expert at cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel, Will Sarson, shared his top recommendations for those newly retired.

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He said: “Retirement is an exciting new chapter, and there’s no better way of celebrating the milestone than going on an unforgettable holiday. Whether it’s witnessing wildlife with your own eyes or relaxing on a tropical beach, there’s a holiday for every retiree.”

Kenya for a once-in-a-lifetime African safari

Africa offers a truly unique experience, home to incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. Consider an African safari to truly immerse yourself in this.

Sarson said: "Africa is home to landscapes and wildlife like no other. Witness life like never before with a trip to Kenya that promises a breathtaking experience. A holiday to Kenya is perfect for stepping away from everyday life and getting engrossed in a different culture that’s truly magnificent.

"Kenya’s majestic beauty and diverse wildlife must be experienced in person, and of course, a trip to this African location isn’t complete without going on a true safari experience.

“Visit Kenya’s iconic national parks and reserves and witness wildlife in its purest form. Explore Maasai Mara, home of Kenya's famous big cats; lions, cheetahs, spotted hyenas and jackals can all be sighted here. I also recommend visiting Buffalo Springs Reserve in search of the Samburu Special Five: reticulated giraffe, Grévy's zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and beisa oryx. It’s incredible to see these up close."

China to experience a different world

China is home to incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites, diverse landscapes, must-try foods and lots of history and culture. Sarson added: "For any retirees, I urge them to take a long-haul trip to corners of the world they’ve never seen before. Visit a place steeped in history and uncover the fascinating story of China.

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"From ancient sites like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army, to modern landmarks like the Shanghai Skyline and the Bund, this sizable country offers something for everyone.

"Stepping into this foreign land is an unforgettable experience as you soak up its vibrant culture, incredible landscapes, and delicious cuisine. This trip is perfect for anyone interested in Chinese culture and history and has a longing for adventure. A visit to China is bound to leave you feeling inspired.”

Alaska for a remote adventure

Britons can discover some truly impressive scenery and unique wildlife when visiting the American state. Sarson said: “For the adventure seekers looking to get out of their comfort zone, I recommend a trip to Alaska. This American state has picturesque landscapes and an abundance of opportunities to enjoy some outdoor activities.

"Soak up the incredible Alaskan mountains and admire the state’s diverse wildlife of bears, moose, caribou, and more. For thrill-seeking retirees, an exhilarating sledge ride pulled by a team of Alaskan huskies is an amazing experience.

“One of the most incredible scenes in Alaska is the landscape overlooked by Glacier Bay, which was completely covered by a 20-mile-wide glacier just 200 years ago. The scenery in Alaska really is out of this world.”

Costa Rica for ultimate relaxation

Retirees looking for something a bit different on their next beach holiday should consider Costa Rica.

The expert continued: “While retirement is a chance to invest in your interests, it’s also a great time to spend time unwinding and savouring the quiet moments. That’s why I recommend that new retirees embark on a relaxing holiday as a way to transition from a busy working life to a slower-paced one. Costa Rica is an excellent choice for a tranquil holiday with exquisite natural beauty.

“This Central American country practises a 'Pura Vida' lifestyle, with wellness at the forefront of both daily life and vacationing. Those seeking to rest and be present will enjoy a trip to Costa Rica. This nature-centric destination has plenty of protected reserves and national parks where you’re bound to spot some wildlife.

“For adventure lovers with a passion for a natural phenomenon, make your way to the tree canopy of Arenal Volcano National Park on hanging bridges - you can even zipline through the dry tropical forest of Rincon De Vieja National Park. And for those looking to relax, head to one of Guanacaste’s tropical beaches. “From lush rainforests filled with wildlife to still-simmering volcanoes, Costa Rica is packed with remarkable charm.”

France for natural beauty

For something closer to home, France is a brilliant choice. There is plenty to explore, including lesser-known regions. Sarson recommended: “Nature is beautiful, and this planet has an abundance of spectacular gardens and other green spaces to prove it. Use your retirement as a way to fall in love with nature and develop a new hobby for gardening. This activity has proven physical and mental benefits, so a nature-inspired holiday is indeed self-care.

“France - especially the Burgundy and Provence regions - has magnificent green spaces, with field after field of floral displays that are impossible not to fall in love with.

“Burgundy’s vine-clad slopes are a wine-lover’s paradise, while Provence’s rainbow-coloured floral displays and fragrant lavender fields are an anthophile’s dream. A sail across the river Rhône is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the region.”