I Visited the South of France with My Parents in Their 70s
Traveling internationally with my parents, who are in their 70s, brought a mix of rewarding moments and some challenges. My parents have always loved the French Riviera and invited me to explore their favorite places with them.
Though we're close, I felt nervous before the trip—not because I believe traveling with parents in their 70s is uncool, but because I worried my chronic illness and camera might complicate things. As a travel photographer and writer, I feared missing solo creative moments or annoying my parents by frequently stopping to take photos.
Living with chronic pain and a sensitive digestive system, I was also hesitant about sharing accommodation and worrying about food choices. Still, I longed for the vibrant blue sea, pastel villages, lively local markets, and fragrant lemon trees of the Côte d'Azur.
Our Itinerary
- Nice (home base)
- Menton
- Èze
- Saint Paul de Vence
- Antibes
- Cannes
- Monaco
Reflections on the Trip
The trip was a success in many ways, but there are some things I wish we had done differently.
"My parents love the French Riviera and invited me to experience their favorite spots together."
"It's not because I'm 40 and I think it's unchic to travel with parents once they've hit their 70s — it's that I worry that my camera and my chronic illness make me a less-than-ideal travel companion."
"Living with chronic pain and a digestive system that flares as soon as routine is broken, I was hesitant to share an accommodation and to make food choices I'd regret."
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Author's Summary
Traveling to the South of France with elderly parents revealed both joyful experiences and challenges shaped by health and personal dynamics.