Imagine harbouring a deep love for travel, but as age advances, the responsibilities and challenges of daily life increasingly hinder your ability to embark on new adventures. The longing for exploration and the excitement of discovering new places may feel increasingly out of reach.
Now, picture finding a community that not only understands this desire but actively supports and facilitates such experiences. This is the reality for the residents of Berwick Retirement Communities.
In May 2024, 18 Berwick Retirement Communities residents set sail from Vancouver on the first Berwick Travel Experience. Accompanied by Berwick team members, the group set sail on a seven-day excursion to Alaska. The trip, filled with scenic views and enriching activities, was more than just a vacation—it was a chance to build lasting friendships and strengthen bonds among residents and their families.
Margaret Halvorson, a resident of Berwick Royal Oak in Victoria, was thrilled to share this adventure with her daughter, Lynn Murden.
"A few of us were joined by our adult children. My daughter, Lynn, travelled from Ontario to join me. I got to spend a week with her, and she had a wonderful time! The 'kids' quickly became friends, and we mothers delighted in dancing with them in the evenings," Margaret shares.
Lynn, reflecting on her time aboard, notes how the trip fostered connections among participants. "It was a lovely opportunity to meet others, learn about their respective homes and make new friends. It was also a great opportunity for us daughters (and one son!) to see our parents in a new, adventurous light," she remarks.
For Mike and Carol Fothergill from Berwick Parksville, the attention to detail and considerate planning of the Berwick team stood out to them most.
"We're so grateful to Berwick for their wonderful idea and organization of the cruise. We were very impressed by the coordination and assistance provided to the residents, enabling all of them to truly thrive and enjoy themselves," Mike says.
The cruise featured various activities, including sailing under the Lions Gate Bridge, educational presentations, evening dances, entertainment, meals, wildlife watching and witnessing the calving of ice shards from the Margerie Glacier.
Among the trip's highlights was the Skagway excursion, featuring a journey on the White Pass Train that allowed residents to enjoy the Alaskan scenery.
"The train trip in Skagway was magic!" recalls Berwick team member Maggie Raw. "After the train trip, some of us stayed behind in Skagway to walk around. We then enjoyed dinner on the Lido deck, watched another musical performance in the theatre and took in a beautiful sunset from the back deck of the ship,"
Returning home, the stories of the trip quickly spread throughout the Berwick communities. Residents eagerly shared their experiences, sparking excitement and anticipation for future adventures. Plans for the next Berwick Travel Experience are already underway, promising even more opportunities for exploration and connection.
For more information about Berwick Retirement Communities, visit berwickretirement.com. To book a tour of Berwick House in Gordon Head, contact Linda McDonald at 250-853-5492 or book online. For a tour of Berwick Royal Oak, contact Kathy McAree at 250-419-4012.
