News & Opinion/Currents Feature
Seniors Flourish in European Community with Expert Tour Operator’s Guidance
One travel company is revolutionizing solo travel for seniors with its unique approach to European adventures. The Good Life Abroad, founded by Andrew Motiwalla, offers month- to three-month-long stays in one- or two-bedroom apartments, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local life in cities such as Florence, Paris, Barcelona, Palermo, and Lisbon.
According to Motiwalla, “We are much more than accommodations; we are primarily a community experience.” The company targets travelers aged 55 and older who are keen to live like locals while engaging in both community activities and independent exploration. These travelers become part of a community of like-minded individuals participating in the same experience.
Participants can select from a variety of upscale, fully furnished apartments, each equipped with high-speed internet and fully functioning kitchens. Each bedroom boasts a dedicated bathroom. These apartments are ideally situated within walking distance of each other and a central community hub for The Good Life Abroad participants.
The cost of these stays starts at approximately $3,750 per month per person, varying based on the city, time of year, and the number of bedrooms. Solo travelers have the option to request a roommate if desired.
Before leaving the U.S., travelers complete a questionnaire to pinpoint their interests and objectives. On-site community managers use this information to tailor recommendations for local activities and events. These managers, who live in the city, act similarly to concierges, helping to book tickets and hosting regular gatherings.
Events hosted by The Good Life Abroad include language lessons, happy hours, Tuesday lunches, local history lectures, and welcome and farewell parties. City-specific excursions and activities are also part of the itinerary.
The community managers are available at all times, ensuring a safety net for travelers. “This is a worst-case scenario, but a woman once asked, ‘What if I fall?’” Motiwalla recounted. Managers are there to notice if a traveler is absent or hasn’t checked in, providing reassurance and support when needed.
The aim of these services is to offer travelers the chance to fully experience the culture and life of their chosen city. Motiwalla notes that for many, this opportunity arises after years of obligations that prevented extended travel.
Motiwalla compares The Good Life Abroad experience to finally savoring a full glass of wine. In younger years, travelers only had time for brief visits to cities. Now, with both time and financial resources, they can deeply explore and enjoy their destinations.
“Fundamentally, what The Good Life Abroad is a community experience,” stated Motiwalla. This unique setup appeals to both solo travelers and social couples, uniting well-traveled individuals in a shared, enriching journey.
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