What to get parents for 50th anniversary?

Question

My parents' 50th wedding anniversary is coming up next May, and I am having trouble thinking of what to get them. My current plan is to arrange to have them go on a week long cruise.

But here's my dilemna... My mom hates to fly. She's done it only once and refuses to go again. So I have to look at cruises that start and end near where I live, namely Canada and New England.

And with a cruise, my dad is not the type to use the pool, or go to the spa, or stuff like that. His outings are mainly shopping and food.

So here's my two questions:

1) Do you think that a cruise for two seniors would be enjoyable and they would have enough things to do on and off the ship? I'm reluctant to spend $3K-5K on the cruise if they may get bored and not enjoy after 2-3 days. Are there other retirees that have taken the Holland America cruises between Montreal and Boston who can give some insight?

2) If not a cruise, what else? What are some things you might consider doing for your parents on such a significant anniversary?

oldprof · Accepted Answer

Holland America has a great cruise that goes up and down the St. Lawrence. Starts/ends in Montreal, Canada (depending on which way you're going) and ends in NYC. [See source.] There are several ports of call including Quebec City, which is lovely, especially Old Town. And some others in New England, I think Gloucester is one but it's been a while since I did this cruise. And of course the Big Apple, NYC.

This is a perfect 50th celebration. My wife and I did a similar thing but from San Diego to Vancouver, BC. Had the whole family with us, including grand kids, for our 50th.

This is a perfect 50th celebration.  My wife and I did a similar thing but from San Diego to Vancouver, BC.  Had the whole family with us, including grand kids, for our 50th.

OC1999 · Answer

Figuring you are talking about them taking a trip out of Florida or the South.  I had pretty much this exact same issue, and yes Holland America would be a good choice for them, as would Cunard.  They may also like Princess or Celebrity.  Carnival and Royal Caribbean may have a bit too young demographic for them.

As for the length.  It is unlikely that they would get "bored" even on a week long cruise.  But if they have never cruised before you may want to opt for a 5-Day cruise just in case.

If they don't want to fly and have the time, the train is a good option.  You could pick up Amtrak from Boston(or other station in NE), and be in Orlando or Miami the next day.  Most trains will have a Sleeper Car option for more comfort.  But because of the distance involved, I would suggest making sure they are there AT LEAST 24 hours in advance, 48 would be better and just let them hang out for a day.

Another option is to have them fly anyways.  Your mom can see her doctor that could give her something to relax her during the flight.

Den B7 · Answer

A cruise sounds like a great idea! Travel by air could be offered just to see how mom feels (maybe she'd change her mind), but also consider ground travel by train. Your options are increased if you can start from Boston of New York City. I've been on several cruises and have never used a spa and only rarely use a pool. Shopping and food opportunities are unlimited on a cruise as well.

Also consider this: At their age, you should consider spending more time with them while you still can. You should consider taking the cruise with them! If you have siblings, invite them to go too (they'd pay their own way). My wife and I just took a river cruise in France with her parents and we had a wonderful time.

Anonymous · Answer

A cruise is a great idea, and there are some very nice cruises out of the northeast.  There's lots to do on cruises, and Holland America is perfect for older couples. How does your father feel about casinos?

? · Answer

BUS Tour.
Train trip.
If it has to be between just these two places do not need to take Cruise.
https://www.tauck.ca/tours/canada-tours/eastern-canada-tours/nova-scotia-cruise-cm-2017.aspx?
https://comforttour.com/holiday/boston-bus-tours-from-toronto/

Some reason they must stay just in the North east?

Would Mom consider a Ferry ride of few hours?

How about a Trip to France?  http://www.st-pierre-et-miquelon.com/en/

http://www.viarail.ca/en
https://www.amtrak.com/travel-boston-to-maine-coast-by-train

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What to get parents for 50th anniversary?

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