Hi, I’m a 47-year-old nurse, single, no kids — and as of a few years ago, finally living life on my own terms.

I didn’t start nursing until later in life. In fact, I’ve only been doing it for four years. But it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. It’s given me the skills (and flexibility) to dream bigger — like becoming a travel nurse. My goal is to work 9 or 10 months a year and use the rest of the time to travel. Not a quick vacation, but actually be somewhere — live a little. Maybe settle into a cozy apartment in Portugal for a month. Maybe hop between cities like Budapest, Prague, and Rome.

But there’s one thing I keep coming back to: I’m not in my 20s. I like my space. I own a home. I like soft sheets. And I really don’t want to share a bathroom with six backpackers named Josh.

So this blog is for all of us who are a little older, a little wiser, and still curious about the world — just with better luggage.

The Reality of Traveling in Your 40s

Let’s be real: I’m not interested in the party hostels, and I’ve aged out of sleeping on airport floors (on purpose, anyway). I’m at the point in life where I can admit I like a glass of wine in a real glass, and that yes — I will Google “Is this AirBnB quiet at night?” before booking.

But that doesn’t mean I want a luxury resort, either. I want to explore, walk, eat my way through new cities, learn something. And maybe take a nap at 3 p.m. if I feel like it.

Hostels? Maybe. But With Boundaries.

Here’s the truth: Hostels aren’t just for 20-somethings anymore. There are boutique hostels with private rooms and en-suite bathrooms — think “budget hotel with better social vibes.” Some even have rooftop lounges, coworking spaces, and yoga classes.

So if you’re curious but not keen on sharing a bunk bed with a stranger who snores? Look for terms like “private room,” “ensuite,” or “adult-only hostel.” (Yes, that’s a thing — and no, not that kind of adult.)

House Swapping? Great Idea… With a Catch

Owning a home means I’ve looked into house swapping. I’ll admit — I live in Baltimore. Not exactly the top of every European traveler’s bucket list. But maybe there’s a French cat lover who’s been dying to visit Charm City? I’ll keep dreaming.

Also: I have cats. Two of them. And no, they’re not emotional support animals, they’re emotional chaos engineers. They don’t travel well. They judge me enough already for leaving the house, let alone the country. So I’ll need to plan for pet care while I’m away — whether that’s a sitter, a trusted friend, or a really cozy cat hotel.

Packing for Europe When You’re Not 22 and Invincible

Let me just say this: If your shoes aren’t waterproof, you’re going to have a bad time. Boots > ballet flats. Wool coat > trendy Instagram jackets. And if you haven’t tried Uniqlo’s ultra-light down layers? Game changer.

And yes, you will look cute — but you’ll also be warm, dry, and smug when everyone else is shivering in thin denim jackets.

Final Thoughts: Travel Isn’t Just for the Young

People love to say “travel while you’re young!” but here’s the truth — traveling when you’re older can be even better. You know yourself more. You have more resources. You appreciate the little things, like quiet cafes and clean sheets. And you don’t feel pressure to “see everything.” Sometimes, the perfect travel day is coffee, a museum, and a long walk with a podcast.

So here’s to slow mornings, comfortable beds, and the kind of travel that feeds your soul (and keeps your feet warm).

This is just the beginning of my journey — and if you’re a fellow 40+ woman wondering if it’s “too late” to travel, let me say this loud and clear:

It’s not too late. It’s just the beginning.