I Visited the South of France with My Parents in Their 70s
Traveling internationally with my parents, who are in their 70s, brought a mix of memorable experiences, helpful tips, and a few mistakes. My parents love the French Riviera and invited me to explore their favorite places alongside them.
Though we're close, I was nervous about the trip—not because it’s uncool to travel with parents at our age, but because I worried my camera and chronic illness might make me a difficult companion. As a travel photographer and writer, I feared losing personal creative time or frustrating my parents by frequently stopping to take pictures.
Living with chronic pain and digestive issues sensitive to routine changes, I hesitated about sharing accommodations and making food choices that might cause discomfort. However, I had longed to see the dazzling blue sea, pastel villages, lively markets, and fragrant lemon trees of the Côte d'Azur.
We based ourselves in Nice and visited nearby towns including Menton, Èze, Saint Paul de Vence, Antibes, Cannes, and Monaco. This journey was largely successful, though there are some things I wish we'd handled differently.
My parents love the French Riviera and invited me to experience their favorite spots together.
As a travel photographer and writer, I was afraid I wouldn't have alone time to tap into creative inspiration, or that I'd irritate my parents by constantly stopping for pictures.
Author’s summary: Traveling through the South of France with older parents was a rewarding experience that balanced cherished moments with challenges linked to health and creative needs.