The Ultimate Vacation to Take in Every Decade of Your Life

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Dream vacations differ for everyone, but no matter how you define it, each decade brings the opportunity for a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime trip. As we age, our travel preferences shift — what thrills us in our 20s may not be the same in our 40s or beyond. To help you plan the perfect getaway at every stage of life, here’s a guide to your ultimate vacation for each decade.

In Your 20s: Escape to Costa Rica

Ultimate Vacations for Every Decade of Your Life

Affordable Adventures Await

Costa Rica is the perfect destination for those in their 20s. It offers a balance of budget-friendly travel with exhilarating activities. Flights to Costa Rica are often inexpensive, and the cost of living there means you can indulge without breaking the bank.

What to do: Surf, snorkel, and hike through lush rainforests.
Don’t miss: Centro de Rescate y Santuario Las Pumas, a sanctuary where you can spot sloths, jaguars, and other wildlife.

Budget Tips for Your Costa Rican Getaway

Beer (Imperial) for $1-$2.
Meals for around $10.
Beaches are free, and the adventures are endless.

In Your 30s: Discover Japan’s Wonders

Ultimate Vacations for Every Decade of Your Life

A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

By the time you’re in your 30s, you might be seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Japan offers it all. Tokyo will dazzle you with its blend of futuristic skyscrapers and ancient temples, while the natural beauty of its mountains and hot springs provides the perfect retreat.

Where to go: Explore Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing, shop in Harajuku, and visit Kyoto’s temples and gardens.
Adventure seekers: Ski in Hokkaido during the winter or visit Okinawa’s pristine beaches for a tropical experience.

Unique Experiences in Japan

Take a dip in natural hot springs (onsen).
Ski the Japanese Alps or visit the famous snow monkeys in Jigokudani.

In Your 40s: Hike Machu Picchu, Peru

A Bucket-List Adventure

Your 40s are ideal for ticking off those big, adventure-packed trips, and Machu Picchu in Peru is the perfect choice. With its towering mountain views, agricultural terraces, and historic Incan citadels, this is a trip that requires careful planning — but the rewards are immense.

How to get there: Take the iconic Inca Trail or opt for the lesser-known Salkantay route for fewer crowds.
Other highlights: Visit the vibrant city of Cusco and spend time in Lima before or after your hike.

Tips for Exploring Machu Picchu

Add a trip to the Lares region for more secluded trekking.
Choose between hiking, driving, or taking the train.

In Your 50s: Explore the Galápagos Islands

Ultimate Vacations for Every Decade of Your Life

Nature’s Best Kept Secret

The Galápagos Islands are a dream destination for nature lovers. In your 50s, you can fully appreciate the islands’ pristine beauty and their unique wildlife. Thanks to conservation efforts, these islands remain untouched by mass tourism, offering a rare chance to experience unspoiled nature.

What you’ll see: Blue-footed boobies, sea lions, iguanas, and Galápagos penguins.
Travel tip: Book a luxury yacht tour with an onboard naturalist for a deeper understanding of the ecosystem.

The Luxury of Galápagos Tours

Enjoy small group tours with a personal touch.
Indulge in extras like Wi-Fi and rooftop hot tubs on some vessels.

In Your 60s: Unwind in France

A Journey of Sophistication

In your 60s, France beckons with its rich culture, history, and fine dining. Start with the classics in Paris — admire the Eiffel Tower, tour the Palace of Versailles, and indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine. From there, venture to lesser-known gems along the French coastline and countryside.

Key destinations: Paris, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, the French Riviera, and Provence.
Must-do activities: Explore medieval architecture in La Rochelle, sip wine in Bordeaux, and stroll the lavender fields of Provence.