Over-50s are ditching traditional holidays in favour of once-in-a-lifetime trips

This is according to new research from Emirates, who found half of older adults are planning a "Golden Gap Year" to tick off bucket-list adventures.

With time and spending power on their side, it is a great chance to see somewhere new and enjoy a long-haul holiday, with Dubai, Australia, Thailand, Mauritius and the Maldives proving particularly popular.

Respondents most want to see the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland (38%), the Big Five in South Africa (41%), go whale or dolphin watching in Australia (39%) or explore rainforests in Thailand (22%).

They hope to create meaningful memories, with the majority wanting to travel with their partners.

Emirates divisional vice president UK, Jabr Al Azeeby, said: "We’re seeing a real behavioural shift amongst our UK-based over 50s passengers who are no longer just ticking off destinations, but planning trips that fulfil lifelong dreams - seeking comfort without compromising on adventure.

"From the world’s great natural wonders to chasing winter sun in tropical climes, the spirit of curiosity is as strong as ever, and many are embracing what we now call the ‘Golden Gap Year’ with confidence and style.”

Nostalgia also plays a part, as 60 per cent would ditch a traditional sunny holiday to revisit somewhere they travelled to when younger. Over-50s stated they want to recreate fond memories or see how destinations have changed.

Also, they would like to revisit their favourite places in more comfort and flexibility than when they were younger. While most people want to travel with their partner, 19 per cent of Britons said they would travel with friends, and 17 per cent want to embrace their independence and go alone.

To mark this growing trend, Emirates is launching The Golden Gap Year campaign later this year to celebrate travellers who see age as an opportunity to explore the world anew.

This comes as a study found over-55s are choosing once-in-a-lifetime holidays over leaving a larger inheritance in 2026.

British holidaymakers are willing to spend more on their next getaway, according to new figures, particularly among older travellers.

In fact, 55 per cent would rather spend their money on experience holidays than leave a larger inheritance, with many feeling guilt-free about doing so.