“Food is how the world says welcome.”

That quote rings especially true when you find yourself enjoying a rich, velvety risotto in a family-run trattoria in Florence, or breaking warm pita with locals in a Jerusalem market. For many retirees I work with — and yes, for myself — travel isn’t just about sightseeing anymore. It’s about tasting life. Literally.

Retirement offers the beautiful gift of time, and for food lovers, that means finally indulging in culinary adventures once left on the bucket list. But how do you balance the dream of globetrotting with the reality of your financial plan?

Let’s talk about how you can eat your way across the world, tastefully and responsibly.

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Why Food-Focused Travel is Perfect for Retirement

You don’t have to be a gourmet chef or a foodie snob to appreciate a plate that tells a story. Food-focused travel offers:

• Cultural connection – A dish can reveal more about a country than a guidebook ever could.
• Slower pace – Culinary travel often encourages you to savor, linger, and enjoy. That aligns well with a retirement mindset.
• Memorable experiences – Whether it's taking a cooking class in Bangkok or shopping at a Provençal market in France, food creates vivid memories.

And let’s face it — after a lifetime of rushing through meals between meetings and juggling responsibilities, you’ve earned the chance to savor every bite.

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My Top Foodie Destinations (and How to Plan for Them)

Here are a few destinations that not only satisfy your taste buds but also offer a manageable financial footprint — if you plan ahead.

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Italy – The Land of Pasta and Passion

Where to go: Florence, Bologna, Amalfi Coast

Why it’s special: Italy welcomes you with open arms — and open kitchens. From handmade pasta to robust Chianti, every meal is an event. And Italians love retirees (and slow eaters).

Budget tip: Travel during the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) when flights and accommodations are more affordable. Skip hotels in favor of agriturismos — farm stays where you’ll enjoy home-cooked meals and authentic local life.

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Vietnam – Where Flavor and Affordability Meet

Where to go: Hanoi, Hoi An, Saigon

Why it’s special: Vietnam is one of my favorite recommendations for retirees looking to stretch their dollar. Street food is legendary — think steaming bowls of pho, fresh spring rolls, and rich Vietnamese coffee — all for a few dollars.

Budget tip: Domestic flights and private tours are extremely affordable, and many retirees are surprised by how comfortable and safe it feels.

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France – Markets, Michelin, and Magic

Where to go: Lyon, Paris, Provence

Why it’s special: France is the birthplace of fine dining, but it’s also where you’ll find the joy of a warm baguette and a wedge of local cheese in a sun-dappled park. Culinary travel here is about pleasure — and planning.

Budget tip: Markets are your friend. Skip restaurant meals once a day and instead create your own charcuterie picnic. Also, consider booking longer stays in Airbnbs to get discounts and enjoy cooking in.

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Mexico – Bold Flavors, Beautiful People

Where to go: Oaxaca, Mexico City, Mérida

Why it’s special: Mexican cuisine is UNESCO-protected for a reason. Beyond tacos and tequila, you’ll find mole sauces with 20+ ingredients and cooking traditions passed down through generations.

Budget tip: Mexico is close, inexpensive to fly to, and easy on the wallet. You can eat like royalty for under $20/day in many regions.

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Financial Planning Tips for Retirees Who Want to Travel (and Taste)

Culinary travel can be as luxe or as laid-back as you want it to be. Here’s how to keep your finances as satisfying as your meals:

1. Set a “Fun Fund” for Travel

Just like you have a budget for household expenses and healthcare, you can (and should) create a dedicated travel fund. I encourage retirees to allocate a portion of their discretionary spending toward travel — especially in the early years of retirement when energy and curiosity are highest.

2. Work With Your Financial Advisor to Forecast Travel Spending

If you’ve worked with a planner like me, your retirement projections should already include some travel. But culinary travel can be a little more spontaneous (and deliciously indulgent), so revisit your budget yearly to account for upcoming trips.

3. Use Travel as a Way to Downsize Expenses

Here’s something most people don’t realize: Sometimes, traveling lowers your expenses. Renting your home while abroad, avoiding utility costs, and staying in lower-cost countries can actually help you spend less than staying home.

4. Take Advantage of Senior Travel Discounts

Don’t be shy about your age — many tours, museums, and even airlines offer discounts for retirees or travelers over 60. Every saved dollar can go toward your next meal.

5. Plan for Healthcare Access While Abroad

Food is joy, but health is wealth. Make sure you have coverage that travels with you. This could be through Medicare supplement plans, private travel insurance, or international policies if you're staying longer term.

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Final Thoughts: Say Yes to That Plate

Retirement is your time to say “yes.” Yes to new experiences. Yes to adventure. Yes to that second helping of gelato.

And no — you don’t have to choose between financial security and flavorful living. With thoughtful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can eat your way across the world without taking a bite out of your savings.

As your financial advisor (and fellow food lover), I’m here to help you create a plan that lets you savor every delicious moment.

Bon appétit. Buen provecho. Buon viaggio.

Where will your taste buds take you next?

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