If you’ve passed the age of 65, you’ve entered one of the most enjoyable and peaceful periods of life. You likely have a home, a car to take you wherever you want to go, some savings, and a steady income to cover your monthly needs. Your children have grown up, established their own lives, and moved out. When your grandchildren visit, you can enjoy spending quality time with them. You can teach them games like backgammon, chess, or bezique, providing both fun and new skills. Together, you can explore the world on maps and learn geography. Your grandchildren might even play the role of little doctors, checking your blood pressure and pulse, developing their awareness of health.
Don’t forget to celebrate the important days! Birthdays, New Year’s Eve, graduation ceremonies, and holidays are precious moments to share with your loved ones. Coming together as a family to create memories is one of the greatest joys of this stage of life.
Make the most of the advantages available to those over 65. With a free public transportation card offered by the municipality, you can explore the scenic Bosphorus or the beauty of the Princes’ Islands in Istanbul. Plan trips abroad; in many European cities, there are discounted opera and concert tickets for seniors. A night at the Rome or Paris Opera, or a concert at the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, is now more accessible and affordable than ever.
In Turkey, discounted train tickets are also available. You can plan trips on the High-Speed Train (YHT) to historic cities like Sivas, Konya, or Eskişehir. When heading to popular holiday destinations like İzmir, Bodrum, or Antalya, take your time and savor the journey. You can stop for a night in Burdur, Denizli, or Isparta, and visit the archaeological museums these cities have to offer.
While owning a summer house may no longer be on your agenda, you can still gather your friends and go on a week-long boat tour in the south. Visit secluded coves, watch the moonlight from the deck, and start your day with a refreshing swim in the clear sea. These are the kinds of activities that can make life more enjoyable.
If you’re interested in a historical adventure, consider visiting Göbeklitepe and Karahan Tepe in Urfa. These fascinating stone structures, dating back 10,000 years, offer a profound experience into the depths of human history. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to explore culturally rich cities like Sivas, Erzurum, and Kars in Anatolia.
Try not to spend too much time on politics or let everyday worries cloud your mind. However, be sure to cast your vote during elections. Remember that things have a way of settling down with time, and life’s ups and downs are part of the process. The key is to enjoy this phase of life with peace and joy.
You may have another 10 or 20 years ahead of you. Use this time to fully embrace life, without the pressures of career goals or earning money. The world is waiting for you to explore—travel, discover, and experience it to the fullest!