Redefining “retirement age” – senior travelers look to “ageless” adventures

Retirement was once seen as a time to slow down and relax, but now the Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, are redefining the concept with a desire to live life to the fullest and experience the full experience. According to research by online travel platform Booking.com*, up to 50% of Vietnamese travelers of this generation expressed interest in physical activities such as horse riding, and 37% were willing to spend money on a trip of a lifetime by 2025 instead of leaving an inheritance to the next generation.

These figures show the Baby Boomer generation’s desire to enjoy life to the fullest. No longer satisfied with peaceful vacations, this generation is looking for journeys that awaken their inner youthful energy and push them beyond predictable routines. In line with this “ageless adventure” spirit, from North to South, Booking.com has compiled a list of bold and adventurous experiences across Vietnam for travelers who love to explore and are not afraid to challenge themselves.

Tái định nghĩa “tuổi nghỉ hưu”- du khách cao tuổi hướng tới những chuyến phiêu lưu “không tuổi” - Ảnh 1. — Paragliding experience in Yen Bai

Gliding over the green fields in Yen Bai

For those who crave heights, paragliding in Yen Bai offers a rare combination of adventure and tranquility. Under the colorful canopy of paragliding, visitors can glide over terraced fields, winding rivers and misty mountain peaks. The feeling of excitement and satisfaction will take visitors to discover a different beauty of Northern Vietnam compared to the familiar tourist route. Visitors can start this experience at Mebayluon Paragliding Clubhouse in Pu Chu Chay - a charming homestay that can be booked on Booking.com. Not only does it offer a "one-of-a-kind" sightseeing experience, this sport is also an invitation for the Baby Boomer generation to "spread their wings" to explore and prove that "the older the forest, the spicier it is". After an emotional flight, guests can relax by the pool, stroll in the lush green garden or enjoy the panoramic view from their private balcony in this homestay.

Tái định nghĩa “tuổi nghỉ hưu”- du khách cao tuổi hướng tới những chuyến phiêu lưu “không tuổi” - Ảnh 2. — Mebayluon Paragliding Clubhouse

Sandboarding adventure in Quang Binh

At Quang Phu sand dunes, where the smooth white sand blends with the lush green vegetation, sandboarding becomes a relaxing and stimulating experience. With 31%* of Vietnamese tourists belonging to the Baby Boomer generation looking for "must-try once-in-a-lifetime" experiences such as sandboarding, the gentle slope of the sand dunes here creates ideal conditions for tourists in their "late afternoon" years to confidently and comfortably experience. Quang Phu is also one of the most beautiful sand dunes in the Central region of Vietnam, famous for its picturesque beauty when the entire sand dune turns yellow and red under the sunset after summer rains.

Tái định nghĩa “tuổi nghỉ hưu”- du khách cao tuổi hướng tới những chuyến phiêu lưu “không tuổi” - Ảnh 3. — Nha Trang

Fly freely with the sea and sky of Nha Trang

With 24%* of Vietnamese Baby Boomer travelers wanting to try skydiving, Nha Trang is the ideal destination to enjoy the feeling of freedom on one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the country. This experience takes visitors soaring over the turquoise waters and tree-lined hills before landing on the white sands of the vibrant coastal city. The tandem jumps are guided and accompanied by professional instructors, ensuring safety and an unforgettable experience for even those experiencing the thrill of parasailing for the first time. In addition, Nha Trang also offers countless other exploration experiences, from island tours by yacht to fresh seafood parties along the coast. Of course, for those who crave the feeling of "the top of the top", the sky is always waiting for you to explore.

Green tourism - a sustainable connection between agriculture and rural tourism
"Awakening" Southern river tourism

Camping under the stars at Tri An Lake (Dong Nai)

Coming to Tri An Lake (Dong Nai), the camping model (glamping) will bring the Baby Boomer generation a gentler adventure experience, with the feeling of being immersed in nature while still being comfortable and convenient. Here, the tents by the lake, the early morning mist and the gentle breeze across the water seem to bring visitors closer to nature, creating a perfect balance between comfort and discovery experience. Visitors can enjoy a gentle journey with activities such as archery, dart throwing or fishing by the lake. When night falls, the magic really begins. With 74% of Vietnamese tourists wanting to go to the night sky to watch the stars, the quiet corner at Tri An Lake brings visitors away from the city lights, closer to the vast and magical universe. Lying on a hammock, watching the sparkling constellations in the sky, the connection with nature suddenly becomes deeper, more peaceful and private than ever.

Tái định nghĩa “tuổi nghỉ hưu”- du khách cao tuổi hướng tới những chuyến phiêu lưu “không tuổi” - Ảnh 5. — Sightseeing at Tri An Lake

Explore Ben Tre by sail and motorbike

It doesn’t have to be a thrill-seeking adventure; the journey can also start with a trip along winding trails or drifting along the peaceful rivers of the Mekong Delta. A half-day motorbike and sailboat tour of Ben Tre – available on Booking.com – will offer Baby Boomer travellers a completely different kind of adventure: slow, emotional and full of unexpected joy. You can glide through coconut-lined villages on a motorbike, occasionally stopping to watch people weaving mats or try fruits at a local market. The next journey on a small wooden boat or sampan is even more relaxing, taking you along a branch of the Mekong River, where everyday moments, the sounds of children playing, and scenes of farmers harvesting, pass by like a vivid postcard. This trip to explore the West not only offers a rich cultural experience but also depicts an authentic Vietnam, perfect for those who seek adventure and excitement from simple things instead of thrills.

Tái định nghĩa “tuổi nghỉ hưu”- du khách cao tuổi hướng tới những chuyến phiêu lưu “không tuổi” - Ảnh 6. — Explore Ben Tre by sailboat

Rowing boat in Phu Quoc paradise

Some of the best adventures happen right on the sea. At tranquil Sao Beach, kayaking immerses you in the sounds of nature. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sands and a horizon dotted with swaying coconut trees, every stroke is relaxing. The island’s temperate climate and gentle waves are ideal for those who love gentle adventures, such as walking on the seabed to see coral “gardens”, diving to explore the colorful ocean or floating on a basket boat. It’s both an adventure and a complete “body-mind-spirit” experience, perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the land and sky, where each breath slows down and the wonders of the ocean gradually reveal themselves in the silence.