Retirement feels like the first time in decades when life slows down enough for you to think about yourself. For many Indians, this stage arrives after years spent managing jobs, families and responsibilities, leaving little space for leisurely travel.

Retirement feels like the first time in decades when life slows down enough for you to think about yourself. For many Indians, this stage arrives after years spent managing jobs, families and responsibilities, leaving little space for leisurely travel. With more time in hand and a growing desire to see the world, international holidays begin to feel both exciting and achievable. The reassuring news is that global travel does not have to empty your savings, especially if you look at destinations that offer comfort, safety and meaningful experiences at reasonable costs. Whether you enjoy quiet lanes, blue coastlines, lively markets or serene countryside views, many countries suit the pace and comfort of senior travellers. Here are six affordable international destinations that bring together culture, nature and ease, making them excellent choices for your post-retirement years.

6 International Destinations You Must Visit After Retirement:

1. Vietnam

Why retirees love it: Vietnam appeals to seniors who enjoy a relaxed rhythm and warm interactions. Cities like Hanoi and Hoi An feel lively without feeling rushed, and Indian travellers often appreciate how locals treat older visitors with genuine respect.

Budget and stay: Vietnam remains one of the most affordable choices for Indian tourists, with reasonable stays and friendly guesthouses.

Ease of travel: Public transport is steady, taxis are inexpensive and walking routes are comfortable for most seniors.

Local food: Pho, banh mi and gentle flavoured broths suit travellers who prefer simple meals.

As you move from Vietnam to Europe in this list, the focus remains on countries that offer cultural comfort and scenic calm without overwhelming your schedule.

2. Portugal

Why retirees love it: Portugal offers slow mornings, pastel houses, gentle hills and a peaceful pace that many Indian travellers find soothing. Lisbon and Porto feel vibrant but never chaotic.

Budget and stay: Portugal is one of the more affordable countries in Europe, especially outside peak months.

Ease of travel: Trams, buses and trains are easy to navigate, and English is widely spoken.

Local food: Fresh bread, seafood and simple desserts are widely available, with vegetarian alternatives in most neighbourhoods.

Moving from Portugal to Thailand takes you back to Asia, where affordability and warm interactions make travel even smoother for seniors.

3. Thailand

Why retirees love it: Thailand suits travellers who enjoy colourful markets and calm beaches. It is familiar to many Indians, which removes the anxiety of navigating new places late in life.

Budget and stay: Accommodation is reasonably priced across cities and islands, which makes longer stays possible.

Ease of travel: Thailand remains highly senior friendly, with good transport options and polite taxi services.

Local food: Mild curries, rice bowls and fresh fruit work well for travellers who prefer lighter meals.

From Thailand, the list returns closer to home with Sri Lanka, which offers scenic comfort without long flights.

4. Sri Lanka

Why retirees love it: Sri Lanka balances beaches, hills and historic sites in a compact radius, which means less travel fatigue for seniors. Its warm cultural atmosphere often feels familiar to Indian guests.

Budget and stay: Costs remain reasonable, and homestays offer personalised care that seniors appreciate.

Ease of travel: Distances are short, and local drivers are known for patience and politeness.

Local food: String hoppers, coconut dishes and mild curries suit many Indian palates.

From Sri Lanka, the journey shifts to a vibrant long haul option for seniors who enjoy culture, colour and slow travel.

5. Mexico

Why retirees love it: Mexico offers historic charm, friendly locals and scenic coastal towns that suit slow paced holidays. Merida and Oaxaca are especially popular with older travellers who seek culture over crowds.

Budget and stay: Hotels and local transport remain affordable outside the main tourist corridors.

Ease of travel: Many areas are walkable, and guided tours help seniors navigate comfortably.

Local food: Soft tortillas, mild stews and roasted vegetables are widely available.

The list closes with Greece, a Mediterranean favourite that feels calm, scenic and comfortable for seniors.

6. Greece

Why retirees love it: Greece balances history, clean beaches and relaxed towns in a way that feels soothing for retired travellers. Islands like Crete and Naxos offer gentle landscapes and quiet days.

Budget and stay: Costs remain manageable during off season months.

Ease of travel: Ferries, buses and local taxis support easy mobility.

Local food: Fresh salads, olives and warm breads are easy to find, with many vegetarian choices.

Tips to Remember

• Travel during the off-season to save on flights and accommodation.
• Compare hotel and homestay prices for the best deals.
• Keep your medical documents and travel insurance handy.
• Choose destinations with good public transportation for easy mobility.
• Take regular breaks during sightseeing to avoid exhaustion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are these destinations safe for senior travellers?

Yes, all the listed places are generally safe. However, staying in well reviewed accommodations and avoiding isolated areas at night is recommended.

2. Which destination is best for budget travel?

Vietnam and Thailand are among the most affordable, offering excellent value for accommodation, food and transport.

3. Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Travel insurance is essential for retirees, as it ensures medical support and financial protection during emergencies.

4. Which season is best for travelling after retirement?

Off season or shoulder seasons are ideal because they offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds and cheaper prices.

Discover the world’s 10 most beautiful airport landings, ranked through a global eye-tracking study by travel insights platform All Clear. From Australia to Nepal, explore the most breathtaking runways that make every landing feel unforgettable.

There are few travel moments more unforgettable than those final minutes before touchdown—when your airplane dips beneath the clouds and a jaw-dropping panorama opens beneath you. Whether it’s glittering oceans, majestic mountains or iconic skylines, some runways turn the simple act of landing into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To uncover which of these dramatic descents are truly the most captivating, travel insights platform All Clear analysed 32 scenic airports around the world using a fascinating global eye-tracking study. One hundred participants were shown images of the world’s most scenic runways, while researchers measured two things: how fast each landing grabbed their attention, and how long the view held their gaze. Using a weighted formula that combined both metrics, the world’s 10 most beautiful airport landings have finally been revealed. So buckle up and get ready to discover the runways that will make you fall in love with flying all over again.

1. Lord Howe Island Airport, Australia — The Most Beautiful Landing on Earth

Tucked inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lord Howe Island Airport claims the top spot with an eye-catching score of 85/100. With only 400 visitors allowed at a time and access possible solely by air, landing here feels like entering a protected paradise. Participants spent longer gazing at this image than any other—2.64 seconds on average—mesmerised by its turquoise waters, emerald peaks and serene isolation.

2. Queenstown Airport, New Zealand — A Dramatic Descent

With a score of 79/100, Queenstown delivers one of the world’s most spectacular approaches. Aircraft must navigate a steep, narrow descent between jagged alpine ranges, a manoeuvre so challenging that pilots need special training. For passengers, the payoff is enormous: snow-dusted mountains, glacial rivers and the iconic Lake Wakatipu shimmering below.

3. Madeira Airport, Portugal — Beauty Framed by Cliffs

Madeira’s approach is legendary among aviation lovers. Set against rugged sea cliffs, emerald mountains and the deep blue Atlantic, it’s no surprise this runway recorded one of the longest gaze times (2.53 seconds) in the entire study. The descent is thrilling, the views are cinematic, and the landing feels like gliding into an island of pure adventure.

4. Pitkin County Airport, USA — A Rocky Mountain Welcome

Also tying for the third spot with a score of 77/100, Aspen’s Pitkin County Airport offers a winter wonderland view that few destinations can match. Surrounded by soaring peaks, the airport has just one approach and one departure route, making every landing a dramatic slide between snow-capped giants.

5. Rio de Janeiro–Santos Dumont Airport, Brazil — The Fastest Attention-Grabber

Capturing attention in just 0.69 seconds, this Rio runway is the most instantly eye-catching in the entire study. As you descend, you’ll see Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana, Ipanema and the glistening Guanabara Bay. It’s impossible not to feel the pulse of Brazil’s vibrant spirit even before you land.

5. London City Airport, United Kingdom — A Skyline Lover’s Dream

Scoring 76/100, London City Airport delivers a postcard-perfect view of the British capital. As your plane glides low over the River Thames, you’ll spot The Shard, the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge and the London Eye—all from one jaw-dropping angle. It’s one of the most visually rich urban landings in Europe.

7. Innsbruck Airport, Austria — Mountains in Every Direction

Nestled between the snow-draped Austrian Alps, Innsbruck’s runway is a beauty in every season. In summer, golden sunsets brighten the valleys and villages; in winter, the city becomes a snowy wonderland. It’s the kind of approach that feels like flying into a fairytale.

8. Paro Airport, Bhutan — A Himalayan Gem

With an eye-catching score of 72/100, Paro is widely considered one of the world’s most scenic—and most challenging—airport approaches. Only a handful of trained pilots can land here due to the mountainous terrain. The reward? Spellbinding Himalayan peaks and a peaceful Buddhist valley waiting below.

9. Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, Caribbean Netherlands — The World’s Shortest Runway

Measuring just 400 metres, this cliff-edge runway on Saba Island is as thrilling as it is beautiful. Approaching planes skim above electric-blue Caribbean waters, rugged cliffs and lush green hills. It’s equal parts heart-pounding and breathtaking.

10. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, USA — Touching Down Over the Ocean

Hawaii’s main airport offers an unforgettable ocean-first landing. The final descent takes you over endless Pacific waters—so close you feel like you’re about to land on the sea. It’s a dreamy introduction to the islands’ tropical charm.

10. Lukla Airport, Nepal — Gateway to Everest

Sharing the 10th spot with a score of 68/100, Lukla Airport is world-famous for its tiny runway and its position among the planet’s highest peaks. For adventurers flying in en route to Everest Base Camp, the first glimpse of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse makes the heart race.

The holidays are all about food, friends and family. But if you’re hitting the road or hopping on a long flight, your back may not be celebrating.

“Traveling puts your body in positions it wasn’t designed for — long periods of sitting still with awkward posture,” says Mark Hornyak, MD, spine surgeon with Hartford HealthCare’s Ayer Neuroscience Institute. “That combination can really aggravate your neck and back if you’re not careful.”

Whether you’re flying across the country or driving to Grandma’s, try these tips to avoid back pain while traveling and keep your spine happy through the holidays.

1. Pack light

We’ve all been there – packing six outfits for each day of your trip, just to be safe. But dragging overstuffed luggage through airports is a recipe for disaster.

“Use rolling suitcases when you can, distribute weight evenly between bags and avoid carrying anything too heavy on just one side,” says Dr. Hornyak. “If you do need to lift, bend at your knees, not your waist.”

Planning ahead, like shipping gifts directly instead of cramming them into your suitcase, can do wonders for your spine – not to mention your headache.

2. Find supportive seating

Cars and planes are notoriously bad for your back, but bringing your own pillow can be a game changer.

“Bring a small pillow, travel cushion or even just a rolled-up sweater to support your lower back,” Dr. Hornyak suggests. “Always try to maintain your spine’s natural curve.”

Adjust your seat angle too — a slightly reclined position often feels better for long rides than sitting upright.

3. Don’t forget to stretchv

Think of travel like a workout for your spine — it needs a warm-up and cool-down. Skipping those steps makes it easier for stiffness to settle in.

“Take a few minutes to stretch your hamstrings, hips and back before you go, and again when you arrive,” says Dr. Hornyak. “These large muscle groups tend to tighten up when you’re sitting for a long time.”

Gentle yoga poses, like child’s pose or a seated twist, can help release tension.

4. Take movement breaks

Sitting for hours is one of the worst things for your back.

“On long drives, stop every hour or two to get out, walk around and stretch. On planes, stand in the aisle and move around when it’s safe,” Dr. Hornyak suggests.

If getting up isn’t possible, try seated exercises: roll your shoulders, flex and point your feet, or rotate your ankles to keep blood flowing. This can help prevent stiffness, reduce back pain while traveling, and make the rest of your journey more comfortable.

5. Watch your posture

Slouching might feel good, but it adds strain on your lower back and neck. Screens make this even worse – especially if you’re hunched over your phone to watch Netflix on a flight.

“Keep your shoulders back, feet flat and avoid craning your neck forward,” says Dr. Hornyak. “If you’re using a screen, hold it at eye level instead of looking down.”

Even making small adjustments — like shifting positions every so often — is one of the simplest ways to prevent back pain while traveling.

6. Stay hydrated

Water might be the last thing you think to pack for a long trip, but proper hydration makes a big difference.

“Dehydration can stiffen muscles and joints, making back pain worse,” Dr. Hornyak notes. “It also increases your risk of blood clots on long flights.”

Pack a refillable water bottle, and don’t rely on coffee or soda for hydration.

7. Get moving

Collapsing on the couch as soon as you arrive might be tempting — but it won’t help your spine.

“Stretch, walk around or do some light movement before you settle in,” says Dr. Hornyak. “Your body needs to shake off the stiffness from hours of sitting.”

Even five to ten minutes of activity can help reset your muscles and prevent soreness from lingering into the next day.

4 travel hacks for a happier spine

The holidays are stressful enough without back pain tagging along. Follow these easy steps to make your trip a little more comfortable.

1. Pack strategically. Instead of one heavy bag, split your belongings into two smaller, lighter ones.
2. Change your posture often. Don’t lock into one position — shift your weight, adjust your seat angle, and avoid crossing your legs for too long.
3. Choose the right snacks. Salty, processed snacks can lead to bloating and inflammation, which may make back pain worse. Bring fruit, nuts, or cut veggies instead.
4. Unwind when you land. A gentle walk or a few yoga stretches can help your spine recover from hours of sitting.

With a little planning, your trip can leave you with happy memories instead of an aching back.

Remember, small changes — like better posture, regular movement and light packing — go a long way to prevent back pain while traveling this holiday season.

Which country has the most islands in the world? Sweden leads with over 221,800 islands. Keep reading more about the largest islands in Sweden and the largest island on Earth.

Country With the most islands: Sweden has the most islands in the world, with more than 221,800 islands recorded. This is the highest number for any country on Earth. Most of these islands are uninhabited, but they shape Sweden’s coastline, tourism economy, and natural environment.

Country With Most Islands in the World

Sweden has 221,800+ islands, confirmed through detailed national mapping surveys. These include rocky islets, forest-covered islands, and long coastal chains. Sweden’s island distribution stretches from the Gulf of Bothnia to the Baltic Sea. The country’s archipelagos support fishing, transport routes, conservation zones, and recreational boating.

Why Does Sweden Have So Many Islands?

The islands formed due to glacial retreat at the end of the Ice Age. As glaciers melted, they carved the land into thousands of small fragments. Sweden’s long, indented coastline created natural archipelagos. Shallow coastal waters allowed even tiny islets to be counted. This geological history makes Sweden distinct in global island geography.

Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago contains around 30,000 islands and is one of Europe’s largest archipelagos. The west coast features the Gothenburg Archipelago, known for fishing communities and marine reserves. Northern regions have rugged island clusters shaped by colder climates. These archipelagos are key travel destinations, wildlife habitats, and cultural zones.

Countries With High Island Counts

Finland ranks second with over 188,000 islands across coastal and lake regions. Norway has thousands of fjord islands created by dramatic glacial erosion. Canada features Arctic islands, lake islands, and large landmasses such as Baffin Island. These nations share similar cold-region glacial landscapes that produce extensive island systems.

Largest Islands in Sweden

Gotland is Sweden’s largest island, known for limestone formations, medieval sites, and agriculture. Öland comes next, linked to the mainland by a bridge and known for grasslands and UNESCO sites. Orust is another major island, supporting fishing industries and small towns. These islands have permanent populations and strong regional economies.

Interesting Facts About Islands

1. Sweden Has the Highest Island Count

Sweden’s 221,800+ islands make it the global leader. Data comes from precise geographic surveys that map even tiny landforms. These islands form natural barriers, tourist spots, and protected marine areas.

2. Most Swedish Islands Are Uninhabited

Fewer than 1,000 islands have residents. The rest remain natural landscapes with forests, rocks, and wildlife. This creates vast untouched coastlines that attract eco-tourism and research.

3. Finland Follows Closely in Island Numbers

Finland has more than 188,000 islands spread across lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. This makes it the second-highest country globally. Many islands lie in the Finnish Lakeland, a region with thousands of waterbodies.

4. Glaciers Created Most Northern Hemisphere Islands

Cold-region islands in Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Canada formed due to glacial erosion. This process shaped coastlines into narrow channels, bays, and island clusters. These glacial landscapes remain stable but constantly change with rising sea levels.

5. Largest Island on Earth

Greenland is the world’s largest island. It is surrounded by the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Its ice sheet influences global climate systems, ocean currents, and sea-level patterns. Greenland is larger than most countries and remains sparsely populated.

Sweden has the most islands in the world, with more than 221,800 islands identified. These islands developed through glacial processes, forming one of the world’s richest archipelago systems. Keep reading for more topics like this.