Discover how this octogenarian learned how to be open to everything
Beatrice Karmazine, a 7-time traveler from Randolph, Massachusetts, and her husband have always loved to travel, but when he was diagnosed with a heart condition six years ago, he was no longer able to do so. Soon after his diagnosis, he began showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease. So, for the next four years, Beatrice stayed home to care for him.
When he passed away, Beatrice realized that she hadn’t traveled in six years. Her daughter turned to her one day and said, “Mom, you’ve been mourning for four years now. I think it’s time for you to get back out there.” Beatrice realized her daughter was right—she was ready to pack up and go.
Beatrice’s OAT adventures give her an opportunity to interact with the locals—including these young girls in Peru.
Her daughter reminded Beartice that her husband had always wanted to go to Australia, so she thought, “What better way to begin traveling again than by exploring Australia?” And so she joined OAT’s sister company, Grand Circle, on a vacation to Australia, New Zealand & Fiji. As Beatrice explored the beautiful sights of these fascinating destinations, she knew her husband would have loved exploring them, too. And in many ways, that first trip was her tribute to him.
It was during this trip that Beatrice realized if she wanted to truly enjoy herself as she explored the world without her husband, she needed to let herself go. It was time to stop dwelling on the bad things. She realized that the secret was simple: You need to be open to everything.
Since that first trip in 2005, Beatrice has continued exploring the world with OAT and Grand Circle, and she’s discovered fascinating destinations including the Galapágos, Egypt, China, and Costa Rica.
Here, Beatrice shares some of her favorite memories from these OAT (and Grand Circle) adventures …
“After returning from my trip to Australia, I decided to visit Machu Picchu and the Galápagos. I’ve read Darwin, and I thought I understood everything he was trying to describe, but I didn’t fully understand until I went on this trip. I walked Machu Picchu—which was amazing. It was so different, and it was as if the Incas just left the ruins there and they’ve remained intact for thousands of years. It was so fascinating.”
Her trip to Peru provided Beatrice with many opportunities to interact with the local wildlife, like this llama.
“I’ve always loved history, so I was really excited to explore Egypt with Grand Circle. I never realized how many temples the country had to offer! Our Program Director and all of the local guides were wonderful. But what impressed me the most were the desert caves dug into the sand dunes. The paintings and drawings we saw looked as though they were created yesterday. It was so amazing.
One of my most memorable experiences was a visit to a local market with two couples from my group. We were escorted by two Egyptian guards, which was a little scary at first, but we soon realized that there was no reason to be nervous. The market was bustling—and there was little space between each vendor. As we began perusing the stalls, our guards led us off the path to a group of antiques stores. We entered one store and I came across a piece that had a striking resemblance to Aladdin’s lamp. One of the guards held it up to me and said, ‘Well, what are you waiting for? You need to make a wish.’ I don’t know much about wishes coming true, but I know it’s a moment I’ll never forget.”
Beatrice enjoyed exploring the souks (markets) and meeting local artisans—like the one pictured here—in Egypt.
“I absolutely loved my trip to China. I really appreciated that the locals don’t worry about what others think about their appearances. They dress how they want to dress. I was taken by how beautiful the Chinese children were. And the women were always so well put together!
But what I really loved was that there was a culinary adventure everywhere I went. During my second day of the trip, I picked up my first set of chopsticks and attempted to use them to eat. By the second day, I had mastered them! I tried many different foods I wouldn’t normally eat, including a variety of vegetables and sauces. Everything was delicious!”
Beatrice enjoyed her martial arts lesson from these young Chinese boys.
“I can honestly say that Costa Rica was one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever been to. Everything about the country captivated me: the trees, flowers, and animals (especially the monkeys—and even the crocodiles!) And there is no coffee in the world like the coffee I enjoyed during this trip.
I love adventure—and it’s not something you might expect from me since I’m an octogenarian. (And I’m proud to say that my doctor says I look far younger than my actual age!) Although I was a little nervous to attempt zip-lining for the first time, my fellow group members talked me into it. So, I took my own advice and decided to be open to the challenge. And I really enjoyed myself!”
Costa Rica was full of wonder and excitement for Beatrice—including her first zip-line ride through the jungle.
I’ve had many amazing adventures—and I always remember what I learned on that very first trip: to be open to everything. I’m truly grateful for every experience I’ve been able to enjoy and I thank God for what he’s given me each and every day.
Traveling alone for the first time? Enjoy exploring destinations with your friends? Read more stories like these from our solo travelers.