It is more common than ever for the 50-plus generation to use travel and holidaying across the world as a way to keep them young at heart. And why on Earth not. The adventure, and the joy of discovering new places, is believed to get more rewarding as you get older, so it’s no surprise that many are swapping the stereotypical European beach-break or coach tour for something a little more exciting and further afield.

Here’s our top 5 choices for those of you with a lust for life, perhaps now free from career stress and mortgage payments, and with a desire to see somewhere new:

Holidays for jaded city-breakers and bored beach-lovers

If you think you’ve done all the usual city-breaks, or your bored of spending the same summers on the same European beaches, but don’t fancy stepping TOO far out of your comfort-zone, perhaps southern Malaysia is for you.

Spending time in Singapore, the island city complete with Universal Studios and world-renowned zoos and gardens, should satisfy the curiosity of the most jaded city-visitors. Visit Orchard Street for shopping and dining, check out street art in Haji Lane, and stop to smell the roses in the Gardens by the Bay.

Then, head over to the outstanding Langkawi Islands for a few days of white-sand beaches and blissful relaxation. Explore paddy fields and the jungle, ride a cable-car to the top of Mount Mat Cincang, cross the Sky Bridge… or don’t. Why not just sit on the beach and enjoy swaying palms and coconut trees as you take it all in.

Speak to one of our team about booking a Singapore & Langkawi combined break now!

Holidays for culture buffs

What about heading to China for two weeks of exploration? Joining a group tour will assist those deterred by China’s complexity and size, or go solo and experience the thrill of the unknown.

An exciting mix of ancient and modern culture, this is no more apparent than in Shanghai. Visit the Bund for futuristic skylines and technology before heading to the nearby Yuyuan Gardens, complete with koi ponds and breath-taking greenery. Head to Beijing’s Forbidden City for the best preserved ancient buildings and palace complex, or the Great Wall for unique Ming dynasty fortresses. Xian houses the Terracotta Warriors, the 8th Wonder of the World. If you’re after unique memories and a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, China is the ultimate choice.

Get in touch, and ask our team about travelling China as part of a group tour, or alone.

Beach Holidays for water babies

If snorkelling, diving and island-hopping is your idea of paradise, then the beautiful Seychelles is for you.

A tropical island covered in white sands, palm-fringed jungles, unique wildlife and aqua waters, there are all sorts of holidays and tours available – such as a 12 day sail and snorkel package where you can cruise the remote Indian Ocean archipelago for close up encounters of the reefs and marine life. Sunbathe on Moyenne Island, explore the Vallee de Mai nature reserve – known as the Garden of Eden, or walk the Anse Source D’Argent – the world’s most filmed beach location. Expect drop-dead-gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean.

Ask our team about visiting the Seychelles, or touring them as part of package.

Wine Holidays for those that like a tipple

How about raising a glass of vino on a trip to the Napa Valley in San Francisco? Just be ready to leave a piece of your heart there.

There’s plenty to do in this famous North American city, which you can discover yourself or as part of a tour or package. Head to Alcatraz Island by boat, shop Union Square, or cross the Golden Gate Bridge. There are walking tours for foodies, and sampling-tours in the world-famous wine-producing region of Napa Valley. Climb Telegraph Hill for some exercise afterwards, or chill out in the wonderful town of Sonoma. For romance, try the Garden of Shakespeare’s Flowers.

Let one of our team know you’re interested in exploring San Francisco, and we’ll help you find the right holiday for you.

Cuba Holidays for dancing and passion

For white-sand and crystal waters, panoramic scenery and plenty of rum, the profoundly romantic city of Havana on the Caribbean Island of Cuba will wow and amaze.

Take in world-famous monuments, art deco colonial buildings and endless mojito bars. Learn the sensual and fast-paced Latin American dance-style that is Salsa, then grab an ice-cream at The Coppelia in the upscale Vedado neighbourhood. Head to the waterfalls of Sierra del Rosario village, visit a bodega, stroll the tobacco fields or relax on one of many excellent beaches.

However you want to experience Cuba, we have a tour or package for you. Just get in touch!

As an independent travel agent, we can offer you unbiased advice and the widest choice of tour operators. Local yet long-established, not only are we ABTA protected (for your security) we also reinvest some of our profits back into the community (last year, at the rate of 30p in every £1 you spent with us). We really are the best choice for those in Essex booking a holiday.