Leveraging its membership of nearly 40 million, AARP has long provided members with travel discounts, and it has now teamed with a travel website to expand its travel services.
Founded in 1958 as the American Association of Retired Persons, and later renamed simply AARP, the organization dedicates its resources to people 50 and older. It promotes the well-being of older persons through advocacy, education and service.
Members receive discounts from car rental companies (up to 25 percent) and hotels (up to 10 percent), plus special cruise pricing. Members provide a discount code at the time of reservation and must produce a membership card upon arrival to receive the discount.
AARP has joined forces with the online travel service Expedia, enabling members to receive full travel services. This includes airfare, special tours and travel packages, as well as the traditional discounts at hotels and car rental agencies. The service also offers last-minute deals, a feature that fits the lifestyle of many retired people.
To receive AARP travel benefits, you must be a member of the organization. A one-year membership costs $16 and can be purchased online at http://www.aarp.org.
Through its website and its monthly publication, AARP: The Magazine, the organization features travel articles of special interest to those over 50, including articles on destinations, special activities and companies that offer special rates for seniors traveling alone.
