Local Retirees Explore New England & Beyond page 2 Summer Events Calendar page 4
Retirees capitalize on the beauty of the Northeast, while also planning to explore the world.
TBY CHRISTINE LAVOSKY
ravel tops the list of retirees’ desires once they enter post-work life — 60 percent of people, according to a Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies survey. Where are they planning to go? The bulk of these retirees will opt to travel domestically (63 percent), while 37 percent say they will take at least one international trip, according to a poll conducted by AARP. Weekend getaways, family vacations, and — no surprise — summer trips are the most common ways older adults plan to travel.
While “revenge travel” surged in 2021 and 2022, it might’ve just been a buzzword until last year. In 2023, intended travel actually matched the amount of trips taken for the first year since I - , signaling that retirees’ travel is on the upswing and it’s not stopping. Today’s retirees continue to be serious about taking all the trips they lost to the pandemic — an average of 3.6 trips per person are planned in 2024, according to data collected by AARP.
hile pre-retirement life is filled with work and caregiving, retirees have the luxury of time, opening doors for travel and exploration, both near and far.
Karen Cintra, a 65-year-old former special needs aid currently living in Jamestown R.I., is one of many who is using newfound leisure time to explore the nooks and crannies of New England, visiting undiscovered places and experiencing familiar locales in New England through a different lens.
Cintra imparts her knowledge of New England to fellow retired friends who come to visit. “We share the fabulous restaurants… local wineries, sailboat tours, and sunsets at Castle Hill with them,” she says.
This generation is extremely savvy about balancing travel dreams with the realities of retirement finances. lder adults are embarking on culturally rich, horizon-broadening adventures by capitalizing on travel rewards and credit card points to cut down travel costs — in fact, this is the No. 1 way they save money on trips. Additional clever saving strategies include booking flights and car rentals far in advance (another luxury of not having calendars dictated by yet-to-be-determined work or school schedules), using travel websites, and staying with friends. They’re not letting money, or anything else, stop them, either. isabled retirees account for about 14 percent of travelers, and they’re largely undeterred from traveling by their physical challenges. Research published by AARP shows that they plan on taking about as many trips as their non-disabled counterparts (3.5 on average). Looking for hotels and rental properties that offer -compliant rooms and attractions with ramps and other accommodations is key — thankfully wheelchairtravel.org publishes guides listing accessible travel destinations.
My bucket list is extensive and gets longer, I think, due to social media showing me amazing locations.
Karen CintraShe also relishes the opportunity to explore New England’s quaint towns, seascapes, and picturesque nature through frequent road trips — as do her peers.
Many retirees prefer car travel (48 percent), followed closely by air travel (41 percent), according to a survey conducted by 451 Alliance. A prime reason for this is cost — with 33 percent of survey respondents saying they choose driving instead of flying because it is easier on the wallet.
For Cintra and myriad other retirees, retirement represents an opportunity to bring their travel goals to fruition. “My bucket list is extensive and gets longer, I think, due to social media showing me amazing locations,” she says. Her passion for exploring the world and dedication to manifesting her dream trips into reality reflects the zeal for travel shared by most modern retirees.
And, just like curating their bucket lists, these trips are a labor of love for today’s retirees. They are actively involved in planning each element of their travel itinerary, handpicking lodging to match their unique style and flights to fit their schedules and budgets.
Cintra herself has already logged some major passion-point trips — both domestic and global — a handful of golf-related trips to the asters, he pen in cotland, and he yder up. hile ortugal is a favorite destination of Cintra’s, she’s now eyeing the Alsace region of France, alongside other European locations.
With New England and the world as local retirees’ oyster, the possibilities to broaden their horizons, experience cultures different from their own, and make lasting memories are endless.
In theheart of Brookl ine, Ma ss achu se tt s, lies as eniorl iv ingc om mu nity th at re defi ne swel lness:TheNew bu ry of Brook li ne Farf romat ypic al re ti re me nt re sidence, TheNew bu ry embod iesTheA rt of Livi ng Well ®, aphilos ophy cu rate dbyKis co Se ni or Livi ng th at embr aces then ined imensions of well ne ss th roug hc re at ivepro gr am ming. He re,reside nt sd on’t ju st fi ll their ca lendars with ac tiviti es; they engage inex pe ri ence s desig ne dtoe nr icht he irlive shol isti ca lly.
Maintainingana ct iveand engage dm ind is cruci al re gard lessofage,apri nc ipleThe Ne wbur yuphol ds by of fe ri ng re sidents accesstoad iverse range of intellec tu ally st imul at ingcla ss es anda ct iv it ies. Whet he r it’s le ar ninganew sk il l, delv ingi ntoad is -
cu ss ionofc ur re nt events, or maste ri ng a ne wl angu age, there’sa lw ay ss omethingto pi qu et he re sidents’i ntel le ctua lc uriosity
At TheNew bu ry,phy si ca lwel l-being ta ke spre cedence,supported by anar ray of ameniti esdesig ne dtosupport re side nt s in maintaininga ct iveand he althyl ifesty les. Thei nd oora qu at iccente roffersopp or tu niti es forl ow -impa ct exerci se th roug ha qu a aerobics or lei su rely lapsin theheate dp ool.
Fort ho se whopre fe rl and-b as ed ac tiviti es, opt ions ab ou nd,f romyoga cl asse stobri sk wa lk si nnearbyF ishe rHill Re se rvoi rPark. Ad diti on al ly,t he fitnessc ente rb oa st s st ate-of-t he -art equipmentt ai lore dspe ci fica llyfor se niors ,e nsurings afeand ef fe ct ive workouts. Pe rs on al ize df it ne ss pl ansand one-on-one se ss ions with professi on altr ai nersare al so av ai labl e, cate ri ng to re sidents indivi du al ne ed sand go al s.
TheNew bu ry underst ands thei mp ortanc eofc on ne ct ionw it hn aturefor over al l well -being. Outd oorterraces andc ou rt yard s prov ide se re ne sp aces forreside nt stos oak up thesun ande nj oy freshair.Whe ther it’s amor ningyog as essionorastrol lt hrou gh thel ands cape dg arde ns ,residents canrejuve nate thei rspi rits am id st theb eaut yof theoutdo ors.
TheNew bu ry of Brookl inei sn’t ju st a pl ace to re side; it’s av ibrant community whereresidentsembr aceTheA rt of Livi ng Well in ever ya sp ec toft he irlive s.Throu gh holi st ic programmingand an unwave ri ng commitmenttowel lness,TheNew bu ry fo stersane nv iron me nt whereresidents can thrive ande xperience fu lf ill me nt in their golden ye ars.
Vi sitl ifeatt hene wbur y. comorc al l 617.380.4334 form orei nfor mati on
Provincetown International Film Festival (PIFF)
Where:
237 Commercial St.
Provincetown, MA 02657
When:
June 12 – 16
Admission: Tickets and passes available at provincetownfilm.org
Immerse yourself in over 100 American and international films, engage in stimulating panel discussions, and participate in other film-lover activities. Make it a one-day excursion by taking the ferry out of Boston or stay for the full five-day cinematic celebration on Cape Cod.
Les Misérables
Where:
Citizens Opera House
539 Washington St. Boston, MA 02111
When: Aug 13 – 25
Admission: Tickets available at boston.broadway. com/shows/les-miserables-2
No matter how many times you’ve seen it, “Les Misérables” never fails to take your breath away. Prepare to be swept off your feet by the hauntingly beautiful melodies in this timeless tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
Boston Harborfest
Where: Locations vary by event
When: July 1 – July 4
Admission: Free, more information at bostonharborfest.com
Celebrate Independence Day with a week full of fun and patriotic activities to enjoy — including a lively opening ceremony in Downtown Crossing, historical reenactments, an arts market, Chowderfest, live music, and a dazzling fireworks display.
James Taylor at Tanglewood
Where: Koussevitzky Music Shed
297 West St. Lenox, MA 01240
When:
July 3 – 4
Admission: Tickets available at bso.org/tanglewood
Make your Fourth of July extra special this year with tickets to Tanglewood, where the legendary James Taylor himself will captivate the stage with timeless tunes followed by a fireworks show.
Maine Lobster Festival
Where: Harbor Park
271 Main St. Rockland, ME 04841
When:
July 31 – August 4
Admission: Free, more information at mainelobsterfestival.com
Indulge in five days of fun and feasting at the annual Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, where visitors from around the globe flock every year for fresh lobster dinners, entertainment, cooking contests, and activities for all ages.
Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment, outdoor exploration, or simply a chance to connect with your community, New England’s summer months offer an endless supply of events. Make the most of it with our curated list of 20 events. So pack your sunscreen, take the grandkids (or don’t!), and enjoy the weather while you can.
Newport Jazz Festival
Where:
Fort Adams State Park Newport, RI 02840
When:
August 2 – 4
Admission:
Tickets available at newportjazz.org
While “jazz” may be in the title of this popular Rhode Island festival, you can expect a wide range of music genres and performances including those from headliners like André 3000, Laufey, Elvis Costello, and more. Hot tip: Book your accommodations as soon as possible, as prices will rise closer to the event date.
Nantucket Race Week
Where:
Locations vary around Nantucket Harbor
When: August 14 – 18
Admission:
Free for spectators, more information at nantucketcommunitysailing.org
Summer in New England wouldn’t be complete without a classic regatta, and this one promises to be unforgettable as visitors come from around the world to watch sailboat races and soak in the festive atmosphere at Nantucket Harbor. Book your ferry ticket now!
NH Highland Games & Festival
Where:
25 Triangle Park Drive, Suite 4 Concord, NH 03301
When: September 20 – 22
Admission:
Tickets available at nhscot.org/buy-tickets
Have Scottish blood running through your veins? Tap into your heritage at this cultural festival in New Hampshire complete with everything from Scottish music, dance, and food, to sheep dog trials, massed bands, and other activities.
Greenway Artisan Market
Where:
Rings Fountain, Milk St. Boston, MA 02109
When:
Every Saturday, May – October
Admission:
Free, more information at rosekennedygreenway.org
Nothing says summer quite like a Saturday stroll through this vibrant open-air market, featuring food trucks and work from talented area artists, crafters, and independent designers.
Summer in the City at the Boston Harbor Hotel
Where: Boston Harbor Hotel 70 Rowes Wharf Boston, MA 02110
When:
Every Tuesday through Friday, June – August
Admission: Free, more information at bostonharborhotel.com/events/ summer-in-the-city
Enjoy stunning ocean views as you dine and groove to live music at the Boston Harbor Hotel, where free outdoor concerts (including jazz, soul, country, R&B, DJs, and more) will be held all summer long.
Waterfire Providence Where:
4 North Main St. Providence, RI 02903
When:
Select dates from April 18 – November 2
Admission:
Free, more information at waterfire.org
Witness the city of Providence come alive as thousands of residents and visitors gather to watch flames dance along the Providence River, with partial and full lightings taking place summer through fall.
Free yoga in the Boston Common Where:
The Boston Common Frog Pond
38 Beacon St. Boston, MA 02108
When:
Every Thursday, May – August
Admission:
Free, more information at bostonfrogpond.com/springsummer/free-summer-yoga
Experience the joy of community and the beauty of nature in the heart of the city. Come stretch, strengthen, and relax with your neighbors against the stunning backdrop of the Boston Common — no tickets or online registration required.
An evening at Trapp Family Lodge
Where:
700 Trapp Hill Rd. Stowe, VT 05672
When:
Select dates from July 7 – August 18
Admission:
Tickets available at trappfamily.com
Need an escape from the bustling city? Head to the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe for a night of live music under the stars, featuring performances from Grammy Award-winner Catherine Russell, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, the Sound of Music in Concert, and more.
Boston Harbor Now’s Spectacle Summer Nights
Where: Spectacle Island Boston, MA 02110
When:
Select dates from July 20 – August 24
Admission:
Tickets available at bostonharbornow.org/spectaclesummer-nights
Enjoy an evening of relaxation, live music, lawn games, and breathtaking sunset views on Spectacle Island, complete with snacks from ZaZ Restaurant and drinks from Night Shift Brewing. Your ticket includes round-trip ferry rides, making this event the perfect after-hours getaway.
Parks Movie Nights
Where:
Locations around Boston vary by date
When: Select dates from August 6– 29
Admission:
Free, more information at boston.gov/departments/ parks-and-recreation/parksmovie-nights
This outdoor movie series, presented by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department’s ParkARTS program, is a go-to you can always rely on for a fun night. Grab a free bag of popcorn (while supplies last) and catch a flick in a different Boston neighborhood every night.
Shakespeare in the Park
Where:
Boston Common
When:
Select dates from July 16 – August 4
Admission: Free, more information at boston-discovery-guide.com/ shakespeare-on-thecommon.html
Shakespeare takes the stage once again this summer at the Boston Common’s Parkman Bandstand. No tickets required — but you may want to bring snacks and a picnic blanket — to watch Commonwealth Shakespeare Company bring to life “The Winter’s Tale” under the stars. Coastal hiking at Coolidge Reservation Where: Summer Street (Rt. 127)
Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944
When:
All summer long
Admission: Free, more information at thetrustees.org/place/coolidgereservation
Soak up the sun and ocean breeze at the Coolidge Reservation hiking spot. Whether it be recreational or for sport, an independent or group endeavor, take advantage of the warmer weather to explore this scenic trail.
Cliff Walk Where: 34 Ocean Ave. Newport, RI 02840
When: All summer long
Admission: Free, more information at discovernewport.org/things-to-do/ cliff-walk
Ditch Boston for a day and take a quick trip to the City-by-the-Sea. While you’re there, enjoy the Cliff Walk. Trek the entire 3.5 miles or find a quiet lookout point to enjoy the scenic ocean views and Gilded Age mansions.
Acadia National Park Where: State Rte. 233 Bar Harbor, ME
When:
All summer long
Admission: Free, more information at nps.gov/acad/index.htm
This “Crown Jewel of the Atlantic Coast” is a must-visit in New England, offering 158 miles of hiking trails and 60 miles of stunning coastline. Pack your hiking boots and explore the diverse landscapes, from rugged shorelines to lush forests.
HarborFit: Tai Chi at Castle Island Where: Castle Island 2010 William J Day Blvd. Boston, MA 02127
When: Every Saturday from July 13 – August 24
Admission: Free, more information at bostonharbornow.org/harborfit Start your summer days off right with a guided Yang Style Tai Chi class overlooking the Boston Harbor. Led by Huan Zhang, an experienced Chinese martial arts practitioner, register for your free ticket today to exercise your mind and body.
Here,lifeislived throughconnections.
At Benchmarkcommunities,residents experience countlessopportunities to participateand engage.
Discover our 32 Massachusetts communitieswith locationsin:
Acton| Agawam |Billerica
Brighton |Centerville
Chelmsford |Danvers
Framingham |Franklin
Hanover| Haverhill
Leominster |Lincoln
Mansfield |Marlboro
Newton |NorthAndover
NorthAttleboro
NorthChelmsford| Norwood
Plymouth |Quincy
Shrewsbury |Walpole
Waltham| Wilbraham
Woburn |Worcester
Leavestressbehind! NestledintheheartofMaine’sscenicbeauty,our resortofferswarmhospitality, avarietyof affordableaccommodations, 2restaurants,andan arrayoffunactivities.Teeoffonouraward-winning 18-holeDonaldRossGolfCourse. Yourdreamgetawaystartshere.
stayMidweekSunday -Friday 3-5daysincludesdailybuffetBreakfastandDinner
Community living is allabout meaning fulmoments -a caring hand to hold,favoritepastimes, or aglass of wine with anew friend.Embrace theseason-livewelland love life at NorthbridgeCommunities
Limite dAvailability-B ookaPrivate Visit
Andover, Burlington,Dartmouth, Mashpee,Needham, Newbur yport, Plymouth, Tewksbur y&Wayland NowOpen: Marblehead Aloc ationnearyou Scan to seemore:
Treat yourself to a complimentarynightplusa$50diningcreditwhen youstay two at Omni Mount Washington Resortin New Hampshire’s White Mountains,where everyseasonisunforgettable. Spend warmer days perfecting yourgameontwo golf coursessurrounded by the White Mountains. Whentheleavesbegin to turn,enjoy Mother Nature’stapestryasitunfolds to stunninggrandeur. Gondolarides with360°views,thrillingzipline toursthroughthetrees,anda relaxing 25,000square foot spamake formemorablemomentsanytime of year.
Startyoursummerwithanewlifestylethatempowersyouto connect,grow,andcelebratemeaningfulmoments! Forone monthlyprice,ourprofessionalteamhandleseverything, fromfreshlypreparedmealstoweeklyhousekeeping, allowingyoutoenjoyfive-starlivingwithpeaceofmind. Startyouradventurewithusandgetmorefromyour retirement!
