Do you think you’re too old to travel? Worried your travel lifestyle will have to end in your golden years? Well, drop those misconceptions right now. Today’s guests are straight-talking about what it means to travel and live life after 40.
Could you start by giving introducing yourselves?
My name is Darlene Christianson, my hubby is Thomas Christianson. After a long career in the log home industry, I switched gears and began a new career in the television business. During this time I co hosted a live television show daily and also assisted my husband in our touring business. We conduced military history, wine and cultural tours overseas. Thomas is a retired LTC in the USA army where he learned 5 languages, and was based all over Europe and the USA during his career. After retiring from the Army Thomas began a career working with the Governor of Wisconsin and Veteran Affairs. Myself at 44 and Thomas at 58 we never dreamed in a million years that we would both be starting new careers. After all this is a time that most are thinking of retiring from it all.
Was happened that triggered this insatiable wanderlust so late in life?
If someone told me ten years ago that in ten years we would be conducting military history tours , wine and culinary tours across Europe- I would have laughed- but life throws you twists and turns and it just so happen that is what we are doing seven months of the year. With Toms vast array of experience he was initially asked to conduct a military history for friends overseas. This quickly grew into two friends telling two friends and so on and so on…
Then these friends wanted to go other places with us, this lead to creating new tours- i.e wine & cultural- With the business growing I eventually decided to leave the television business and work full time with my husband.
With both my kids in University and Toms children all grown up we decided to get rid of our home, put our things in storage and head out on the road full time. Our tours usually run April to July, Sept to Nov. We lease a place over the winter. Living hotel to hotel and out of a suitcase can have it challenges but it certainly is a great adventure…..
What has been your most inspirational experience as of late?
We have shared so many moments with our clients overseas. We recently travelled with some veterans overseas for the 65th anniversary of D-day. Walking on the beach with the veterans on June 6th- 65 years after they had landed and hearing them share their stories of what went on was really life changing. They were so young and innocent and did not know what was ahead of them- great heroes!
We have also enjoyed moments with clients enjoying a delicious picnic of italian cheeses, salamis, antipastas and of course wine, sitting in the mountains admiring the spectacular views before us- breath in, breath out.. it was incredible!
Watching the sunsets in the Amalfi coast while dining by the water, hearing the waves crashing on the rocks, dining on succulent seafood and sipping on a refreshing glass of white wine- ahhhh heaven….
Andy’s Note: Any Italian sunset is heaven to me! Above Amalfi sunset by robbie jim.
You mention your wine and culinary tours. Where are your favourite places for these types of experiences?
Thomas lived in Italy for seven years in his military career and knows Italy like the back of his hand… We love love love it! Although the Chianti region is one of our destinations , we also love the Veneto and the lovely amarones it offers. What can we say about Italy? The food is always fresh, simple and always satisfying!
Croatia is another country we adore, its crystal clear waters, and incredible scenery always draws you in and keeps you wanting to return to explore.
The glorious landscapes, culinary treats and wines of the French countryside offer also an array of delights.
Andy’s Note: Fish in Croatia… yum! Photo by doublep
What do you have to say people who feel they’re “too old to travel?”
We always say IF you have your health- “Travel“!!! Life goes by wayyyy tooo fast sooo just do it! Travel is a great way to explore, learn and create new adventures. A way to meet new friends and build new relationships. It helps you grow and stretch. We have many clients travel with us who are in their 40′s up to late 80′s . In fact the last tour we just took included three veterans, one gentleman was 86 and the two others were 88, and they all had a ball overseas. It really comes down to your health. If you got it go for it!
I concur – absolutely! If you want to learn more about Darlene & Thomas’s tours, visit their website, Venture Bound Tours for military tours and food/wine experiences. And thanks to Darlene & Thomas for sharing their joie de vivre !
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Great inspirational story!
Those are very interesting and unusual looking fish.
@Deb Something a little fishy?
@Amy, Anil – Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed the story. (And Anil – not planning is ok. We’ll forgive you!)