A day trip can be a wonderful time of fellowship and growth for Boomers and Seniors!
The opportunity to learn, share new experiences and fellowship together may strengthen and encourage Boomers and Builders and give them a great opportunity to reach out to unchurched friends. Ron Wilburn, a senior travel consultant, offers the following simple steps to planning safe and successful day trips:
- Set date for trip and plan three to four weeks ahead with promotion and announcements in newsletter, bulletin, etc.
- Have a “Sign Up Sheet” in a room or on a bulletin board.
- Consult the Kentucky Travel Guide for phone numbers and detailed information on the event or attraction. If specific information is not available, ask about what is required, such as reservations, advanced deposits, and discounts for seniors.
- Ask about the times for openings and closings, and whether they are in the Central or Eastern Time zone. Outside of Kentucky, ask about Daylight Savings time.
- Be sure to indicate that your group is a group of senior citizens and not high school seniors.
- Give the name of your attendees, name of your church, address and phone numbers. This should also include the office and home phone of the ministry director.
- Ask for the name of the person with whom you are speaking and ask if they will be present the day of your arrival. If not, get the name of the person who will be in charge of the tickets, tour guide, etc.
- Let them know the approximate number of seniors in your group. If there are last minute cancellations, it may be necessary to call the day before your arrival or the morning of the trip, to indicate the total number arriving for the trip or tour.
- Inquire about how much walking is involved for the tour or event, and if their facilities are accessible for those with handicaps.
- In cases where there is no set time required for your arrival, let them know the approximate time they can expect you.
- Take photos of each trip, either by prints for an album collection, or slides for a presentation to the church.
- Be sure the van/bus is thoroughly inspected before the start of the trip, with a checklist including: gas, oil, tires, transmission, etc. Standard equipment should include: cell phone, first-aid kit, toolbox, flashlight and paper towels. Also, an updated official Kentucky Highway Map, and city maps of major metropolitan areas such as Louisville, Lexington or Cincinnati, should you schedule trips to these areas. In addition, be sure there is always a backup driver for all trips.
- Note: Much of the above may also apply when making reservations for dining in restaurants, cafeterias, etc.
- Don’t forget to pray at the start of each trip, asking God’s blessings and protection on you all day, and for a safe return home!