Smart Traveler riding on a bus is a good way to watch the countryside roll by at a leisurely pace. Wouldn’t it be great if you could avoid the hassles of deciphering maps and fighting traffic and let chauffeur drive you to interesting destinations? You can, and you don’t have to win the lottery. Millions of vacationing center senior citizens have discovered the answer stress-free economical travel by taking a bus trip.

The mature traveler newsletter and the traveling retiree, recently researched the group bus tour industry for an special senior consumer report “Motor Coaching It “The conclusion. Group bus trips are, for the most part, great ways for seniors to travel. They offer excellent value and you see more than you could on your own, with a whole lot less stress.. Retired people find travel by bus not only convenient but also a very friendly way to travel as well.” Primary advantages of bus tours, are comfort, safety, instant knowledge of your destination and white-glove treatment. Group bus trips are particularly good choices for older solo travelers.

“People on motor-coach tours usually get great treatment all along the way because tour operators have booked everything in advance, adding that jour guide takes care of any glitches when you arrive. “At sightseeing stops, you’re escorted past long waiting lines through special entrances, usually to front-row seats. ‘And you have a built-in group of buddies to enjoy everything with.” If you’re an older adult, chances are those traveling buddies will be peers, says Ginger Croce, director of communications for the American Bus Association. Industry surveys show the majority of motor-coachers are older than 50 and enjoy taking in shows, sightseeing, gaming and shopping.

As appealing as bus trips sound, however, travel experts caution they are not the right choice for everyone. While participants may not experience any of the hassles of traveling, they don’t have the control, either. well-organized trips do offer travelers some flexibility, and seat assignments are rotated so that no one person gets ‘ Chartered bus tours are popular with senior citizens who enjoy socializing. stuck with the resident talker. But, bus travel is best suited for those who enjoy a social experience. “Usually, a real camaraderie develops among the group. “To really enjoy group travel, you’ve got to be a people person.”

Not. all bus trips are created equal. To avoid a hell-on-wheels experience, consumers should do their homework. travelers should figure on adding $200 a week to their traveling budget for such hidden expenses as tips for drivers and guides, optional side trips, admissions and meals, even on an “all-inclusive” trip. “The phrase, ‘we’ll see’ can mean exactly that – you’ll ‘see’ an attraction from the bus, If you want to go in, there may be an extra charge. The more informed you are in advance about what is and isn’t included, the more likely you are to choose the right trip for you.” To make bus travel more comfortable, travel experts suggest: If you have any medical conditions, bring a copy of your medical history and physicians’ phone numbers. Refill prescriptions before you go. Keep medications, credit cards and glasses in your carry-on bag. Carry a driver’s license or photo identification. Wear comfortable clothes. Buses are air conditioned, so keep a sweater or light jacket with you. A small neck pillow can make catnapping more comfortable. Ask about scheduled rest stops and whether snacks are provided.

If you have special dietary needs, make arrangements before you leave. For information on the Mature Traveler Newsletter, write P.O. Box 50400, Reno, Nev. 89513. You can order the “Motor coaching It” report for $5 through this address.