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Interrailing in Europe becomes top travel choice for Gen X and Boomers

New research suggests that scenic rail journeys are a huge draw for older generations - despite the trip being more commonly linked with young backpackers

[Senior couple checking train schedule at railway station]

Holidaymakers like the idea of avoiding the stress at airports(Image: Getty Images)

A quarter of Gen X and Boomers are keen to go interrailing across Europe having missed out on travelling during their teens and early 20s. The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that scenic rail journeys are a massive attraction for 46% of the older generations, for a variety of reasons.

While 31% like the idea of avoiding the stress of airports, over a third fancy the opportunity to tick off multiple countries in one go. Meanwhile, 30% are tempted by the flexibility of travelling at their own pace. In fact, many are eager to explore locations further off the beaten path.

[elderly sweet woman admires the view outside the window, traveling solo by train, self-realization and travel in retirement, thirst for new experiences]

A third enjoy the idea of travelling at their own pace(Image: Getty Images)

Adrija Biswas, head of HSBC UK's Global Money account, which allows customers to convert, spend and send multiple currencies worldwide and commissioned the research, said: Its never too late to chase new experiences and rail travel is proving the perfect way for older generations to finally live out the adventures they may have missed in their youth.

"From coastal pathways to wooded wonderlands, through some of the most famous cities in the world, a rail trip around Europe is a sure-fire way to make lifetime memories.

The global money account has been designed to support just that - borderless travel with a card that is as flexible as your travel itinerary.

Among all respondents, nearly a third would consider embarking on a multi-destination trip this year, ranging from multiple stops across Europe to far-flung, long-haul destinations.

Over half cited a change of scenery from beaches to mountains as a top reason, while 47% are excited by different cultures and cuisines.

However, 34% said having to pack and unpack multiple times might put them off, and 32% would worry about potential travel delays or missed connections.

When quizzed on what they desire from a holiday, 47% of those polled, via OnePoll, always aim to see famous landmarks, and 46% seek to experience different cultures. Moreover, 38% use the time to bond with their partner, while 37% always hope to meet new people during their travels.

Adrija Biswas, from HSBC UK, added: Far from being the preserve of the young, its great to see older adults also exploring what Europe has to offer.

Its incredible to think how much there is, relatively, on the UKs doorstep that so many people havent taken the time to experience.

Modern technology can also make the trip much easier, from being able to move and access money more simply across different currencies using the global money account, to language translation.

If its something youve been thinking about, whether youre in your 20s or your 60s, youre sure to make memories to treasure forever.

TOP 10 EURO HOTSPOTS PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO VISIT BY TRAIN:

1. Lucca, Italy
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
3. Lecce, Italy
4. Bolzano, Italy
5. San Sebastin, Spain
6. Braga, Portugal
7. Annecy, France
8. Ronda, Spain
9. Lake Bled, Slovenia
10. Nafplion, Greece

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