Adventure for the Mature Traveler
You are never too old for adventure. What adventure travel means to me.
Talitha Soldera
7/27/20264 min read
Is Adventure Travel Right for Mature Travelers?
Adventure sounds exciting — and sometimes a little intimidating. As I mentioned in my first post, my focus is on travel for mature adventurers, and I truly believe that everyone can have an adventure, regardless of age.
What “Adventure Travel” Actually Means
Adventure means different things to different people. Merriam‑Webster defines adventure as “an undertaking usually involving danger and unknown risks; the encountering of risks; an exciting or remarkable experience…”
The Adventure Travel Trade Association expands on this, saying that “Adventure travel is not just about adrenaline or extreme sports; it is about exploring new environments, learning about local cultures, and connecting deeply with nature while engaging in physical or mentally challenging activities.”
Looking at these definitions, I believe adventure is accessible to everyone. As a mature traveler myself, I continually seek out adventure — with comfort most of the time. (Although I did stay in a small tent with a chemical toilet for a few days on an African safari… I can sacrifice comfort for the right experience!)
Why Mature Travelers Are Perfect for Adventure Travel
The older I get, the more I understand myself. I know what I like, what I don’t, what comforts I can’t live without, and what experiences will enrich my life. Life experience brings confidence and perspective, and that makes adventure travel even more rewarding.
Travel also teaches me about people and cultures, shaping my views and helping me grow. And yes — it always influences my eating habits. I love food, and I often come home with new recipes, spices, or dishes I’ve never tried before. So yummy!
With life and travel experience, I make more intentional choices and appreciate the journey more deeply. My mom recently told me she has never regretted a trip — she has enjoyed every adventure. I can say the same. Even when certain aspects weren’t my favourite, I learned from them and can plan differently next time. Too bad we can’t eliminate long flights. I’m still waiting for teleportation!
Concerns About Adventure Travel
Many people get nervous when they hear “adventure travel.” But what is life without a little nervousness? Good planning helps address the main concerns: pacing, accessibility, safety, and comfort.
Pacing: Adventure doesn’t have to be fast‑paced. I always make sure I have time to unwind at the end of the day — but not so much that I get bored.
Accessibility: My mom frequently travels with me and has low vision. We choose activities that work for her: daytime tours with good lighting, walking routes with sidewalks instead of forest trails with roots she could trip on.
Safety: I’ve visited many countries marked “yellow” by the federal government, meaning a high degree of caution is advised. The first time, I was nervous. But preparation makes a huge difference and helps you feel confident and safe.
Comfort: I’m past the age of hostels — I like a comfy bed! Fortunately, adventure travel doesn’t require sacrificing comfort. Many destinations offer immersive experiences with excellent accommodations.
Choosing the Right Adventure Trip
With the right trip, anyone can have the adventure of a lifetime. I always recommend starting by calling my brother and I or visiting our website at soldera.thetravelagentnextdoor.com. We’ll ask about your likes and dislikes, what adventure means to you, the activities you enjoy, and any mobility or comfort concerns. Together, we’ll decide whether independent travel with organized excursions or a guided tour, or something in between is the best fit.
If booking a tour, we’ll look at reputable operators with strong safety records, group sizes, guide expertise, accessibility, and itineraries that match your travel style. There are so many options — each designed for different goals.
Here are a few examples from my own travels:
Newfoundland: A rental car, a map, and pre‑booked VRBO stays let us explore at our own pace. When we spotted a moose on the highway, we simply turned around and watched him munch on a tree.
Italy: A small‑group coach tour took us up one side of the boot and down the other — something I never could have done on my own.
Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam: We joined an organized trip where my party of four were the only participants, with a few others joining us for a cruise in Halong Bay.
The Azores: A centrally located cabin and a preplanned self‑drive itinerary gave us flexibility while ensuring we always knew where to go and what to see.
I always choose the style of travel that best meets my goals for each destination. For example, I would never do a self‑drive trip in Egypt — the driving is chaotic, and I would miss out on the rich history shared by expert guides.
Choosing the right adventure depends on where you’re going — and sometimes on who’s coming with you.
On a Personal Note
I think of every trip as an adventure. I immerse myself in the culture: attending local celebrations, visiting shops, eating local food, and learning customs.
I started 2026 with a tiger safari in India — an incredible adventure that may become a future blog post. We stayed in beautifully appointed permanent tents that rivaled five‑star hotels, went on morning and evening safaris, attended a cooking demonstration, visited temples, and learned about the region’s history.
In June, I joined a guided tour of the Imperial Cities. While there was no wildlife or adrenaline‑pumping activities, it was still an adventure. Mom and I walked an average of 17,000 steps a day and learned something new in every country — including how to make strudel!
I hope I’ve shown that adventure is for everyone and well within your reach. Next, I’m heading to the Amazon River and then to Machu Picchu — in comfort, of course. Follow along over the next few weeks as I prepare for this journey and get inspired for your next adventure.
