Beyond the Brochure: Navigating the Risks of Travel After 50 in 2025–2026

by Lawson Brooks

There’s nothing like the joy of discovering a new destination—tasting unfamiliar cuisine, standing before historic ruins, or soaking in the rhythms of a place far from home. But for travelers over 50, the remainder of 2025 and the coming year may require a bit more discernment than usual. Global uncertainty, evolving health guidelines, economic fluctuations, and even generational travel trends are reshaping how, where, and why we go.

Here’s what you should be watching for and how to stay ahead of the turbulence.

🦠 1. A New Wave of Health Vulnerabilities

COVID may no longer dominate headlines, but its legacy lingers, particularly in countries with overstretched healthcare systems or lower vaccination rates. Respiratory viruses, new influenza strains, and even heat-related illnesses are on the rise, particularly in Europe, Southeast Asia, and certain regions of the American South.

What to Do:

• Always travel with a personal health kit and a list of medications.
• Research destination-specific vaccines (like yellow fever or dengue) months in advance.
• Purchase travel insurance with robust medical evacuation coverage—and read the fine print.

🌍 2. Geopolitical Flashpoints and Sudden Instability

Conflicts in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa are generating ripple effects globally. In some cases, protests or civil unrest can spring up overnight—even in previously “safe” locales.

What to Do:

• Regularly check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories.
• Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for added security and convenience.
• Be flexible with your itinerary and avoid high-profile political events, parades, or demonstrations.

💳 3. Currency Shocks and Rising Costs

A strong U.S. dollar has been a blessing in some parts of the world—but not everywhere. Inflation remains sticky in places like Argentina, Turkey, and even Japan. Seniors on fixed incomes may feel the pinch more acutely, particularly when local prices fluctuate unpredictably.

What to Do:

• Use multi-currency wallets or apps like Wise or Revolut to monitor real-time rates.
• Travel during shoulder seasons to avoid peak pricing.
• Book accommodations with flexible cancellation policies in case prices plummet elsewhere.

💻 4. Cybersecurity and Identity Theft on the Go

Older adults are increasingly being targeted by sophisticated scams—especially when traveling. Fake booking platforms, airport Wi-Fi hacks, and ATM skimming have all surged.

What to Do:

• Use a VPN whenever possible.
• Avoid clicking unknown links in travel emails or texts.
• Stick to verified platforms for bookings (like the hotel’s own site or trusted aggregators).

🌡️ 5. Extreme Weather and Climate Surprises

What to Do:

• Check not only the forecast but also seasonal climate trends before booking.
• If traveling during summer, look for destinations with cooler microclimates (like mountain towns or coastal regions).
• Schedule outdoor excursions early in the day and prioritize rest breaks.

✈️ Bonus Tip: Don’t Let Fear Steal the Journey

Yes, there are risks—but awareness is the first step to resilience. The world hasn’t stopped turning, and neither should you. Being 50+ means you’ve gained the one travel asset money can’t buy: perspective.

Make that work in your favor. Be selective, strategic, and soul-centered in how you travel. And remember, at Fit2Journey, we’re committed to keeping you informed, empowered, and excited to explore—on your terms.

Destination of the Week

🕌 Fez, Morocco: History in Every Step

For travelers over 50 seeking an authentic experience that marries the past with purposeful, present-day wanderlust, Fez is a destination that surprises, educates, and heals—without the crowds or chaos found in more publicized hotspots. While the glitter of Marrakech often dominates Morocco’s tourist narrative, Fez offers an even more compelling—and less commercialized—portal into the country’s rich cultural fabric.

With France and other parts of Europe still facing intermittent protests, high prices, and large tourist volumes, this is the season to reconsider alternatives that deliver beauty and serenity with every step.

🧭 Why Fez Works Right Now

Once Morocco’s capital and long considered its cultural soul, Fez (or Fès) offers the deeply textured experience of ancient architecture, spiritual history, and artistic tradition—minus the tourist throngs of its better-known cousin, Marrakech.

The political calm following Morocco’s 2023 earthquake recovery efforts, particularly in quieter northern cities like Fez, makes it a safe and accessible entry point for travelers craving depth, not drama. It’s an ideal destination for curious, culturally engaged adults, especially those who prefer reflective travel over Instagram-fueled itineraries.

🏛️ Highlights: What to See & Do

1. The Fez el-Bali Medina
Step into one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited medieval cities. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts over 9,000 alleys, many too narrow for cars, where donkeys still deliver goods and artisans craft everything from brass lanterns to hand-dyed leather.

2. Artisanal Markets
Skip the made-for-export souvenirs. Fez’s souks remain largely local and traditional, offering a chance to witness genuine craftsmanship: zellige tilework, pottery, wood carving, and the famed Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest leather tanning operations in the world.

3. Rooftop Cafés
Relax above the medina with a cup of fresh mint tea as the call to prayer echoes through the valley. Many rooftop cafés and riads (traditional Moroccan guesthouses) offer stunning views, ideal for photography or reflection.

4. Historic Tours & Sacred Spaces
Join a guided tour of Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in 859 AD and considered the world’s oldest. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, where tilework and calligraphy offer a glimpse into centuries-old spiritual devotion and design.

💆 Wellness Angle: Rest for the Body and Soul

Traditional Hammams
Fez’s ancient public baths offer more than a spa experience—they’re a ritual. Many are now restored and tailored for foreign visitors seeking deep exfoliation, muscle relief, and detoxification in an atmospheric, lantern-lit setting.

Slow Travel Experiences
Time moves differently here. From multi-day cooking classes to Sufi music performances, Fez rewards travelers who opt to stay longer and dig deeper. Fewer crowds mean less sensory overload, making it easier to connect with locals, learn the language, and fall into a contemplative rhythm.

✅ Smart Travel Tip

Unlike Marrakech or Casablanca, Fez has remained quieter and safer following the 2023 earthquake. It’s also far less likely to overwhelm first-time travelers to North Africa. Pairing Fez with short train journeys to Meknès or Chefchaouen can broaden the experience while maintaining a manageable pace.

Bonus Tip: While Moroccan Arabic is widely spoken, many residents of Fez also speak French. Download a translation app—or join one of the walking tours led by university students for added insight and better cultural exchange.

🧳 Final Thought

Fez isn’t just a place—it’s a pace. It teaches you to unlearn speed, to appreciate the artistry in daily life, and to marvel at how civilizations rise and endure. For travelers over 50 seeking inspiration instead of spectacle, Fez may be the kind of transformative journey that lingers long after the last suitcase is unpacked.

🚩Red Flag Destination

🇪🇬 Egypt – Proceed with Caution

Tagline: Where ancient wonders meet modern warning signs

🌍 Overview

Egypt remains one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations—home to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and the bustling bazaars of Cairo. But for travelers over 50, particularly those who value health, safety, and smooth logistics, the reality on the ground in 2025 and heading into 2026 is more complex than many tourism ads let on.

While tour companies continue to promote Nile cruises and temple tours, recent regional instability, infrastructure concerns, and accessibility gaps make Egypt a destination to reconsider or approach with serious caution.

⚠️ What Makes It a Red Flag

1. Geopolitical Volatility

Tensions remain high across the Middle East and North Africa, particularly given Egypt’s proximity to Gaza, Sudan, and Israel. Border skirmishes and increased military checkpoints—even if far from main tourist areas—can affect airspace, delay travel, or increase risk perception.

The U.S. State Department currently ranks much of Egypt at a Level 3 (“Reconsider Travel”), with parts of the Sinai Peninsula and Western Desert at Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) due to terrorism and kidnapping risks. While most resort areas remain relatively calm, the situation can shift quickly.

2. Infrastructure and Safety Concerns

Older travelers may find Egypt’s inconsistent infrastructure challenging. Uneven walkways, lack of reliable rail or road signage, and minimal ADA-style accessibility make mobility difficult for those with joint, vision, or respiratory issues. Hospital quality varies significantly between urban and rural regions, and emergency medical care can be limited outside Cairo or Alexandria.

3. Scams and Tourist Targeting

Tourists are often viewed as walking wallets, and scams can feel relentless—from aggressive street vendors to “official” guides who overcharge or steer visitors into overpriced shops. These encounters can be exhausting and unsettling, especially for solo or first-time travelers.

4. Weather Extremes

Egypt is notoriously hot—temperatures from May through September often exceed 100°F (38°C), creating serious heat stroke risks. Older travelers should be especially mindful of dehydration, exhaustion, and the need for constant sun protection. Winter is better—but still not without environmental challenges like sandstorms and high pollution levels in Cairo.

5. Cultural Sensitivities and Restrictions

While Egypt is relatively moderate compared to neighboring nations, it’s still a conservative country with strict laws around public behavior, LGBTQ+ rights, and criticism of the government. Some travelers may feel constrained or anxious navigating these cultural expectations, especially women and queer travelers.

🧳 Better Alternatives for 2025–2026

If you’re craving ancient ruins, desert landscapes, or cultural richness without the same level of risk, consider:

• Jordan – Explore Petra and Wadi Rum with more stable governance and strong hospitality infrastructure.
• Greece – Combines historic sites, Mediterranean vibes, and accessible accommodations.
• Fez, Morocco – A calmer, safer alternative with traditional culture and deep history.
• Portugal – Known for affordability, safety, and rich architectural and culinary history.

🐫 Final Thought

Egypt may still be on your travel bucket list—and with good reason. But unless you’re part of a well-organized group tour with 24/7 on-the-ground support, this might be a destination better saved for later. When it comes to security, health, and traveler ease, too many red flags are waving at once.

Stay adventurous, but stay safe.

Egypt may still be on your travel bucket list—and with good reason. But unless you’re part of a well-organized group tour with 24/7 on-the-ground support, this might be a destination better saved for later. When it comes to security, health, and traveler ease, too many red flags are waving at once.

Stay adventurous, but stay safe.