Travel easy

Aging, June-July, 1985 by Frances Nelson Connor

Intended as a "practical guide for people over 50," TRAVEL EASY offers a wealth of information useful for anyone with a desire for travel. Well researched and documented, and thoroughly indexed, useful appendices include tourist information offices, maps of key tourist sites, and a suggested guide for additional reading.

In targeting the over 50 traveler, the book dismisses the stereotype of mature or elder citizens happily consigned to inactivity and proposes that today's seniors, who enjoy better health care, longevity and usually a certain level of income assurance, are on the go as never before.

Recognizing this market, the travel industry has geared up to cater to it with an explosion of glittering and alluring offerings and a variety of off-season discounts for retired persons. This very bounty can be bewildering. TRAVEL EASY strips away the chaff to offer readers pure kernels of information and advice, making it a useful reference not only as to what and where, but also how. In well organized, readable, simple style, the book discusses every aspect of travel, and planning for travel, that one might want or need to know. And soft cover makes it easy to tuck into luggage and take along.

Global in scope, it is not a treatment in depth of any single place or experience. Instead it leans toward a tempting kaleidoscope of opportunities, allowing the reader to select according to his or her preference, taste and pocketbook. With this broad approach, the book serves both as a primer for the novice and a refresher for the experienced.

Of particular value to even the most seasoned traveler is the chapter on rights and redress which lists passenger and patron rights and how to exercise them if necessary. And for seniors with medical or dental problems, chapters on these subjects contributed by qualified practitioners provide guidance for pre-trip check-ups and immunizations, risks to avoid, supplies to pack and tips on first aid in unforeseen emergencies. If you don't plan to travel any farther than a walk around the block, these chapters are worth reading.

Ms. Massow's concluding chapter "Countdown" is appropriately titled. She is as meticulous in launching Mr. and Mrs. Traveler as NASA is in launching its missions into space. Anyone who reads and heeds will depart with an easy and confident mind, ready to explore the delights of new horizons.