The over 50s holiday market is one of the fastest growing travel trends, and if are one of the many tired out grandparents who have done more than your fair share of babysitting over the school summer holidays, you will be pleased to know that this weekend sees the start of the mature traveller season!

Research carried out by Saga Travel Insurance found that this Saturday, September 8th, is going to be the most popular day of travel for holidaymakers aged 50 and over, and whether you are looking for a short break to Italy, or a long-haul trip to New Zealand, there are numerous different travel options available.

The coastlines of southern Europe remain warm and dry throughout the month of September, and with the children safely tucked-up at school, there is an abundance of hotel rooms available at reasonable prices.  If you want to dip your toes in the sea, you may need to travel a little further south to the Canaries, but that chilled Sangria is well worth the four-hour flight time!

Escorted tours remain popular with 50 something solo travellers and couples, and if you fancy a little excitement and adventure with a group of like-minded holidaymakers, this might be the perfect solution for your autumn break. Small group escorted tours are generally more comfortable and personal than the larger group options, and if you chose a tour with quality hotels and a flexible itinerary, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

During the month of September the countries that sit below the equator start to warm up nicely, and if you enjoy fine wines, beautiful landscapes, and world-class dining options, you will struggle to find anywhere better than Argentina.

Alternatively, if animal encounters, whale watching, and luxury hotels are more ‘your thing’, then why not head on down to South Africa this weekend, and enjoy an over 50s holiday quite unlike any other.

The world really is your oyster, and you have earned the right to travel it!