Swap slippers for safaris
Britain's over-50s are swapping slippers for safaris when it come to holidays.
Almost half of 55-64 year olds are currently planning a long-haul holiday to a far-flung destination, the survey by over-50s holiday company Saga found.
The survey showed:
- One in 10 of 55-64 year olds would consider travelling to Antarctica, and 45 per cent of over-50s fancy the chance to go scuba diving
- Three in five would consider taking extended time out to travel the world
- Two thirds of the nation's over 50s feel they are living life to the full compared with 57 per cent of those under 50
Saga Holidays managing director Chris Simmonds said: "There are nearly 20 million people aged 50 and over in the UK today and this figure is growing all the time.
"Saga has always been at the forefront of providing holidays for this diverse and discerning group and in recent years we have recognised an increased demand for adventurous and active holidays and opportunities to learn new skills."
Through TV personality Angela Rippon, Saga today launched an endeavour award scheme to find the individual aged 50 or over who best represents the spirit of adventure.
Ms Rippon said: "Being over fifty today means something very different to what it did 15 years ago. Today's over 50s are increasingly confident and we have more time and money to invest in new experiences. Keeping active and seeking out new challenges is key to staying fit, feeling younger and living a longer and more fulfilling life."
When asked which person aged 50 or over was most worthy of an award for their spirit and lust for life, respondents from all age groups plumped for:
- Sir Richard Branson, 54, for his unquenchable thirst for new challenges
- Sir Bob Geldof, 52, for his commitment to charity
- Sir Ranulph Fiennes, 60, for his dedication to exploration
- Joanna Lumley, 58, for her glamour and polished performance
- Sir Mick Jagger, 61, for his eternal youth.
