Discover how this Aussie couple transformed their lives with an $80,000 cruise adventure - and how you can too!
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Embarking on a journey that many of us might only dream of, Sue Ann and Tom Thorogood from Southern Highlands in NSW, have shared their extraordinary tale of a life-altering 110-day cruise that came with an $80,000 price tag. Their story is not just one of luxury and leisure, but also of healing and rejuvenation, proving that sometimes the most significant investments we make are in our experiences and well-being.
The Thorogoods, like many of us in the over 60s bracket, have faced their share of life's trials. With the loss of family members, health scares, and the daunting challenge of recovery from major surgery, the couple found themselves yearning for an escape—a chance to step away from the stress and find solace in the serenity of the sea. And what better way to do that than a cruise that promised to cater to their every need?
Their previous six-week stints at sea paled in comparison to the epic 110-day voyage aboard Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess ship. The decision to spend roughly $80,000 on this experience was not taken lightly, but as Sue, 75, put it, the trip was the big break they needed. 'It has been a very stressful time and we just wanted to get away and heal,' she explained.
The cruise took them to 47 destinations across 32 countries and six continents. This kind of extensive travel would have been daunting, if not impossible, by air, especially considering the logistics of navigating airports, security, and the physical strain of travel. The convenience of a world cruise, where one can explore a plethora of destinations while unpacking only once, cannot be overstated. It's a luxury that becomes increasingly appealing as we seek comfort and ease in our travel plans.
The Thorogoods' adventure was not just about the places they visited but also about the life on board the ship. With activities ranging from carpet bowls to tai chi, line dancing to ukulele lessons, there was never a dull moment. The social aspect of cruising is a huge draw for many, providing opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and form lasting friendships.
For Tom, the simple pleasure of enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunrise or sunset from their balcony was a highlight, encapsulating the dreamlike quality of their days at sea. The couple's experience is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the restorative nature of taking time for oneself.
Their story is particularly inspiring for our community here at the Seniors Discount Club. It's a reminder that age should not be a barrier to adventure and that the golden years can be a time of exploration and discovery. The Thorogoods have already planned their next cruise, a testament to the profound impact this journey had on their lives.
The cruising industry is indeed booming, with Australians among the most avid cruisers per capita in the world. According to the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), the sector has seen a remarkable rebound post-pandemic, with 1.25 million Aussies having cruised in 2023. The demographic of cruisers is also shifting, with the average age now at 46 and a significant portion under the age of 40.
For those of us in the over 60s demographic, the appeal of cruising is clear. It offers a chance to indulge in luxury, to be pampered and looked after, and to experience the world in a way that is both accessible and extraordinary. As Sue Ann Thorogood put it, they feel they have earned the right to these beautiful, luxurious cruises.
If you're considering a cruise, whether it's a short getaway or a world-spanning voyage, let the Thorogoods' story inspire you. It's never too late to embark on a life-changing adventure, to create new memories, and to invest in experiences that will bring joy and rejuvenation. So why not explore the possibilities and see where the tides could take you?
We'd love to hear from you, our readers. Have you been on a cruise that changed your life? Are you considering taking one in the future? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below, and let's navigate the waters of travel together.
The Thorogoods, like many of us in the over 60s bracket, have faced their share of life's trials. With the loss of family members, health scares, and the daunting challenge of recovery from major surgery, the couple found themselves yearning for an escape—a chance to step away from the stress and find solace in the serenity of the sea. And what better way to do that than a cruise that promised to cater to their every need?
Their previous six-week stints at sea paled in comparison to the epic 110-day voyage aboard Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess ship. The decision to spend roughly $80,000 on this experience was not taken lightly, but as Sue, 75, put it, the trip was the big break they needed. 'It has been a very stressful time and we just wanted to get away and heal,' she explained.
The Thorogoods enjoyed a three-month cruise holiday in the Coral Princess, where they spent $80,000. Image Credit: Shutterstock/Just Dance
The cruise took them to 47 destinations across 32 countries and six continents. This kind of extensive travel would have been daunting, if not impossible, by air, especially considering the logistics of navigating airports, security, and the physical strain of travel. The convenience of a world cruise, where one can explore a plethora of destinations while unpacking only once, cannot be overstated. It's a luxury that becomes increasingly appealing as we seek comfort and ease in our travel plans.
The Thorogoods' adventure was not just about the places they visited but also about the life on board the ship. With activities ranging from carpet bowls to tai chi, line dancing to ukulele lessons, there was never a dull moment. The social aspect of cruising is a huge draw for many, providing opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and form lasting friendships.
For Tom, the simple pleasure of enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunrise or sunset from their balcony was a highlight, encapsulating the dreamlike quality of their days at sea. The couple's experience is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the restorative nature of taking time for oneself.
Their story is particularly inspiring for our community here at the Seniors Discount Club. It's a reminder that age should not be a barrier to adventure and that the golden years can be a time of exploration and discovery. The Thorogoods have already planned their next cruise, a testament to the profound impact this journey had on their lives.
The cruising industry is indeed booming, with Australians among the most avid cruisers per capita in the world. According to the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), the sector has seen a remarkable rebound post-pandemic, with 1.25 million Aussies having cruised in 2023. The demographic of cruisers is also shifting, with the average age now at 46 and a significant portion under the age of 40.
For those of us in the over 60s demographic, the appeal of cruising is clear. It offers a chance to indulge in luxury, to be pampered and looked after, and to experience the world in a way that is both accessible and extraordinary. As Sue Ann Thorogood put it, they feel they have earned the right to these beautiful, luxurious cruises.
If you're considering a cruise, whether it's a short getaway or a world-spanning voyage, let the Thorogoods' story inspire you. It's never too late to embark on a life-changing adventure, to create new memories, and to invest in experiences that will bring joy and rejuvenation. So why not explore the possibilities and see where the tides could take you?
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