My husband and I, both retired, enjoyed your book tremendously. You suggest many great ideas. Do you have any specific recommendations for senior citizens?

Becky,

Being around for a few extra years certainly has its advantages. One of these advantages includes a vast array of travel discounts. The first place to start is by signing up with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). Membership in the AARP costs $8, and you can join starting at age 50. AARP membership gets you up to a 50% discount at many hotels, up to a 10% discount on car rentals, and special rates from airlines and cruise companies. Investigate the "Senior Club" memberships offered by many airlines. Membership in American Airlines' club is $40 and includes round-trip, domestic tickets from $98 to $298. Additionally, companions of any age can join the club for $30 and fly for the same fare. Membership in Continental's club is $75 for domestic and $125 for international membership. Continental club members can take advantage of discounts up to 20% off their lowest published fares. United and Delta airlines have similar programs.

Most of the major airlines also offer senior coupon booklets. These booklets are usually sold in groups of four and generally cost $150 per coupon or $600 per booklet. One coupon is good for a one-way trip. It is my recommendation to have a few of these coupons around for those times when you are unable to take advantage of the fare wars between airlines. A more concealed fare offered by the airlines is known as the "Special Senior Fare." According to Tom Parsons, editor of bestfares.com, this fare is little known and most travel agents are unaware of it. When asking for this fare, you need to specify that your travel agent or airline representative look under "Fare Codes for Seniors." These fares can save you over 75% on the lowest published fares.

Hotels offer a broad range of discounts for seniors. The best technique is to simply ask for their best senior special; many of them start at age 50. The Hilton hotels offer a $55 membership fee for those 60 and above; it allows members to book up to 2 rooms with a 50% savings on the usual rate.

Cruise companies and Amtrak offer special senior fares for the asking as well.

Keep in mind that the senior rates are often the best fares or rates available. However, due to an airfare war or other special circumstances, you might find better discounts available. Remember to always seek out the best available fare or rate, and don't forget to ask for that upgrade.

Enjoy!
Joel