The Best Vacations for Single Senior Citizens

Travel helps senior citizens live longer, University of Arkansas’ geriatrician and author Dr. David Lipschitz told "The Dallas Morning News." He also cites intimate relationships as another ingredient in the longevity recipe. Although seniors who find themselves suddenly single might be afraid to journey solo, some travel organizations have special programs designed for single seniors.

Your personal style of meeting people determines your best options for a senior singles vacation. Some people opt for specially designated singles vacations. Others prefer cultural and sport vacations designed for seniors. If a particular subject of study or activity sparks your passion, you are more likely to meet someone who shares your interests on a theme-oriented vacation. Companies such as Road Scholar offer international and domestic educational vacations for seniors. Both singles and couples attend these events. Even if you don't meet the love of your life, you come away with a fascinating experience.

Mixed senior singles and couples trips have one distinct disadvantage. It's impossible to predict the number of singles vs. couples. If meeting someone is your primary goal, a singles-only trip offers better odds than a couples and singles trip. Shy seniors, or those who have spent time away from the dating scene, benefit from social directors, who help participants break the ice. The cruise line Holland America, for example, holds a Solo Travelers party for single travelers.

Some senior-oriented travel organizations will arrange for a roommate for solo travelers, but others might charge a single supplement. Check these options before you book your trip. The ratio of men to women and singles to couples also plays a key role in choosing a vacation. Women live five to 10 years longer than men, Tom Perls, founder of the New England Centenarian Study at Boston University told "Time" magazine, so they might outnumber men at singles events. Most organizations keep a record of participant statistics, so ask questions before you sign the credit slip.

Unlike their parents and grandparents, today's baby boomers started exercising during the 1970s and are still going strong. This group of fit seniors does not need an escorted bus tour with minimal physical activity. Fortunately, several travel companies cater to active seniors of a certain age. Adventurous seniors looking for a like-minded soul-mate should join Eldertreks. Vacationers choose between five activity levels, but even the easiest hikes require the ability to hike for at least one hour. Level five trips require eight to 10 hours of hiking. Eldertrek specializes in exotic destinations such as Mongolia, Ethiopia, Africa and Antarctica. If you're traveling solo, Eldertrek arranges a roommate.

Vantage Deluxe World Travel dates back to 1983. The company offers discounted international vacations for mature travelers. All packages include airfare, most meals, lodging and sightseeing. The solo travel benefit draws many single journeyers to these trips. On each trip, Vantage gives away one free single supplement for a cruise cabin or hotel room. The chances of winning this freebie depend on how early you sign up. If you're not one of the lucky winners, the company offers discounted single supplement rates.