As always when I travel, I’m amazed at the stamina,  determination, and excitement of others who are 70 and beyond. This time it was a trip to Greece and following it, a Rhine River Cruise. 

To me the outstanding person on the trip to Greece was a 75 year old gentleman. He was tireless and nothing seem to slow him down-even after a nasty fall. He was energetic and always had the sweetest smile. At Olympia, where the Olympics originated in 776 BC, he ran twice around the original Olympic stadium. His enthusiasm for his trip to Greece was inspiring and fun. I can still see the sparkle in his eyes. 

As for the Rhine River Cruise, kudos goes to Ann. I believe she was 84 years old or thereabouts. I met her towards the end of the cruise, but I had noticed her earlier. The first time was on a tour through the medieval town of Colmer, France, where one could ride on a little tour train or do a walking tour around the town. I kept looking at her, wondering why she wasn’t on the train. But then, she took off and she never slowed down, even though she had a cane. I was impressed. 

Later, I had lunch with her and my friend, Sue, and I learned that this was the first time she had a passport. Wow! And after our cruise, she was going to Germany to visit a relative. During our time with her, I learned that she had literally climbed though a castle and  gone up and down wet, slippery slopes in the rain. I watched her step easily on marble staircases with everyone saying, “Don’t you want to use the elevator?”  The answer was always no. Ann was a dynamo. There was no slowing her down. 

I am so lucky to get to know people such as these two hardy travelers. Neither trip was laid back and easy. Of course, the cruise could have been, but some always avail themselves of every opportunity. I find inspiration in all whom I travel with, especially those older than me. They give me hope that I’ll be traveling when I’m 80 or 90.