Two of the key factors for longevity or as Masterpiece Living would term “successful aging” are health and happiness. Travel can foster both. Travel changes the routine and keeps the mind sharp. Traveling has increased opportunities for walking and other exercise such as dancing, golfing, or excursions that helps older adults stay fit. Travel creates the opportunity to make new friends. In summary, travel can increase longevity by keeping travelers mentally sharp, physically fit, and emotionally connected.

A year ago University Village partnered with Advantage Cruises and Tours to offer residents more convenient travel options tailored to their interests. Mrs. Miskuf, a ten year University Village resident, explained the benefits of utilizing this company, “They take care of all of the transportation, arrangements, and details. This has allowed my husband and me to enjoy traveling again. We have been on several trips already and have more travel planned for this fall and the spring of 2010.”

Advantage Cruises and Tours have enhanced the meeting agendas of the University Village Travel Club held from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm on the third Tuesday of each month. Residents and guests are treated to a travel log DVD and/or guest speakers plus receive information and brochures about upcoming travel opportunities. Residents can use their meal plan for the chef prepared University Village lunch which follows. Guests are charged a nominal lunch fee of five dollars.

Residents have participated in Advantage Cruises and Tours bus trips, cruises, and air travel. A few of the destinations have included Helen, Georgia for Oktoberfest; eastern Caribbean cruising aboard Holland America; Branson, Missouri for days filled with entertainment and shows; Saint Augustine for the December holiday celebrations and Washington, DC to enjoy the spring cherry blossoms. If you have a particular destination in mind, they can create a custom itinerary. So, choose your destination, pack, and leave the rest to Advantage Cruises and Tours!

For more information, call (800) 524-5020 today and join us for our next Travel Club luncheon. Or, as residents would say, “Join the Village Vagabonds and see the world!”