How to Arrange a Trip to Hawaii for Seniors

Planning a Hawaiian vacation for an older couple can get somewhat involved. Before they can see the Hawaiian volcanoes, the Hawaiian blue waters and the Hawaiian sunsets, some prep is needed. There may be health issues, concerns about travel inexperience and maybe a physical challenge to deal with. With proper preparation however, it can turn out be their hassle-free Hawaiian trip of a lifetime. Here's how...

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Online capability
• Phone
• Travel Agent

1. 
    
   Get Everyone Involved

   Start the planning process at least 6 months ahead because early reservations give you more options and there will be some inevitable bugs to work out. Forget the big surprise - you must leave time for the folks to make their own preparations too. They'll need to schedule their appointments accordingly and also to educate themselves on what they can expect. Do bring them in on the fun of the planning process. Mayhem would ensue if you were to announce that their plane leaves in the morning at the anniversary dinner. What if someone says, "I ain't going."?

2. 
    
   Travel Agent/Lifesaver

   Absolutely do get a travel agent. Yes, anyone can get online and make reservations but some information may be incomplete or outdated. Online resources won't know if a hotel is being noisily renovated but travel agents keeps their ear to the ground for such information. They know when places will be crowded, where bargains may be found and what's located near what. They also have access to special deals with suppliers that may save you money. Most importantly, if there's a problem, they're available to go to bat for you. The best Hawaii tip - make your plans with the help of a professional travel agent who has been there.

3. 
    
   Hawaian Cultural Center

   Do some basic research on the different islands and decide if it would be best for the folks to stay at one or two of them, or maybe a cruise would be more to their liking since they could see more islands.
   Find out which attractions they are interested in and where they are located. The islands are all quite different from tranquil Kauai to crowded and lively Oahu. Some helpful web sites are listed below.

4. 
    
   Mostly Easy Access Everywhere

   If a disability is a concern, there is a travel agency that specializes in travel services for the disabled community. It's called Access Aloha Travel and contact info is below. There may be others - check online.
   Hawaii is easily accessible for most seniors, although some places are rather steep. Wheel chairs, etc. are routinely rented by visitors and your hotel can help you arrange for one. Your travel agent can provide details.

5. 
    
   Exploring by Car

   Rental cars are readily available almost everywhere and they can be reserved for any amount of time. Alternatively, you can usually walk into an agency and get one on the spot. Parking can be scarce but taxis are plentiful. Roads are scenic but can be windy and crowded. Driving conditions are similar to the mainland, or worse. If a rental car is used, fairly good driving skills will be needed. Buses are slow but the ride can be breathtaking.
   Air service between islands is regular and efficient. Inter island boat service is slower but more fun for some. Most forms of transportation are accessible to anyone who is physically challenged - with sufficient notice, hand operated rental cars can usually be provided.

6. 
    
   This'll do...

   Lodging is available in anything from a 5 star hotel to a guest cottage. A kitchenette is handy but since all food is very expensive, the savings will be minimal. If the folks are staying in one place, a house may be rented for less than the cost of a good hotel. Travel agents don't usually handle house rentals so you'll probably have to arrange that on your own.

7. 
    
   Some Things are Pricey

   Hawaii is expensive. Plan for $200 per day in spending in addition to transportation and lodging. Make sure they have $50 per day in cash plus 2 different credit cards. Before the trip call the credit card company to notify them of them of your plans, so the cards don't get frozen for unusual expenditure activity. Tell the folks to ship gifts rather than trying to carry them home with them.

8. 
    
   When to Tip?

   Brush the happy couple up on the rules and procedures for airline travel, packing, baggage checking, hotel safety, personal safety (yes, there are some crooks in paradise), tipping conventions, etc. Notify the airlines if they'll be needing any special assistance.
   Give them a phone contact list and arrange a folder for them with all their paperwork in logical order. Be sure to include a copy of all their prescriptions and a tipping list also.
   If they're unfamiliar with cell phones, get them one ahead of time and be sure they can use it. Likewise, they'll need a camera that they can operate.
   Now the only problem you'll have left will be getting them to come home.
   Aloha!

Tips & Warnings

• Hawaii has a large retiree population so services for seniors are plentiful.
• If your folks haven't traveled in awhile, consider a hotel with a concierge. It may put them at ease knowing they have one central place to get information on everything.
• Hawaii can sometimes be hot for anyone sensitive to heat. If that's a problem, check to see if tourist destinations are air conditioned. (Many are not). Always bring water.
• Don't forget that the sun is strong year round so protection is a must.
• Don't book during the last week of April until mid May - things will be crowded and expensive because it's a major Japanese holiday.
• Don't plan too strenuous a schedule. Leave time for them to add some activities if they like, or just to relax.
• Don't forget that the ocean may have strong waves and currents. Swimming in a pool might be a better option.

Resources

• Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau
• Travel Agency for the Physically Challenged
• Official State Website w/Visitors Info

[roseanne09]

on 9/30/2009 This is a wonderful and thoughtful article. Thanks for sharing. 5*