Why Midlife is the Perfect Time to Explore the World

(Even if your knees don’t agree)

There’s a lot to love about hitting midlife: the kids are grown and left the nest (or at least independent enough to stop needing the permanent taxi drive), you’ve survived the chaos of building a career, and more than likely at the point in your life with the highest earning potential. So now, finally, you have the time and financial freedom to explore the world on your terms. But if we’re being honest, midlife also comes with a few “perks” we didn’t exactly sign up for, like creaky joints, the beginnings of some dodgy hips and that nagging back pain that seems to appear whenever we have a really good time.

But let me tell you: midlife is still the BEST time to travel. You’ve earned it. Sure, your knees might protest that steep hike, and you may be trading late-night bar hopping for early mornings with a cup of coffee and a beautiful view, but that’s all part of the charm. We are different people now. We know what we want now, and we’re not afraid to take it: comfort and all.

Embracing adventure whilst adjusting for reality

I remember a trip a few years ago, just my partner and I and no kids. It was a trip to the beautiful mountains of Cape Town, and I was all set for adventure. I had big plans to conquer what in my mind might be a challenging hike up Lions Head, the kind that makes you feel like you’ve truly “earned” your cocktail at the end of the day. I had visions of triumphantly reaching the summit, arms raised in victory, with an Instagram-worthy sunset behind me. Spoiler alert: that didn’t quite happen.

About halfway up the trail, the risk aversion I seemed to have developed later in life kicked in. My body and mind were all, “We didn’t sign up for this!”. I had visions of sliding off one of the ladders over the steep rock face and plummeting to my death.  So, I had a choice: turn around and head back down, adjust my expectations and accept that I am just not as adventurous as I used to be, or press on and accept whatever fate was going to throw at me. I could easily have found a lovely little spot, settled in with a snack, and admired the view, which would have been as beautiful and the air as fresh. But I pushed on. Reached the top where I practically leopard crawled and refused to stand up straight. But let me tell you that evening, upon reflecting that I had conquered the fear, the cocktail at the end of the day just tasted so much sweeter.

That’s the beauty of midlife travel: you know when to push yourself, but you also know when to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. No pressure to check every bucket item off the list anymore, we’re in it for the experience, not the bragging rights.

Travelling smarter, not harder

One of the best parts about travelling in midlife is that we’ve learned to travel smarter. Gone are the days of cramming into economy flights with a carry-on that barely zips. I’m all about direct flights, extra legroom or a lie-flat seat, and packing outfits that are both stylish and comfortable (because I refuse to choose between looking good and feeling good these days).

I also know how to pace myself. I’m more inclined to take things slow instead of running from one tourist attraction to the next. You won’t catch me in those whirlwind 24-hour city tours anymore. These days, it’s all about soaking up the atmosphere, finding hidden gems, and making time for those spontaneous moments you just can’t plan. Trust me, midlife has taught me that some of the best memories happen when you’re not rushing.

Finding freedom in midlife

For so long, we’ve put others’ needs ahead of our own. From raising kids to managing careers, the “me time” always seemed to get pushed to the bottom of the priority list. But here’s the thing: midlife is the time to reclaim that freedom. Whether it’s planning a solo trip, jetting off for a romantic weekend, or just exploring somewhere new with a good friend, it’s about indulging in those experiences we’ve earned.

And can we talk about the joy of travelling without having to organise around an entire family’s schedule? No “Are we there yet?” coming from the backseat. It’s just you, and maybe your partner or best friend deciding what you want to do and when you want to do it. Bliss.

The bottom line: You’ve earned this

So here’s to midlife travel, where you don’t have to prove anything to anyone. You don’t have to scale the highest mountain or squeeze the entire city into one day. You’ve earned the right to travel at your own pace, on your own terms, and enjoy the heck out of it. Sure, your knees might protest occasionally, but a little adjustment (and maybe a well-placed bench) is all you need to keep the adventure going.

So pack those comfy shoes, don’t forget the good sunscreen (because midlife skin needs extra care, let’s be real), and get out there. The world is waiting, and so is your next adventure. Just maybe with a few more scenic stops along the way.

Now it’s your turn: What midlife travel adventures are on your list? Let’s embrace the freedom of this stage together. Whether your dream climbing lions head. is sipping wine in Tuscany, strolling through the streets of Rome, or lounging on a beach with a good book, midlife is the perfect time to make it happen. Share your stories below, and let’s inspire each other to keep exploring!